Caring For the Chinese Elm Bonsai

The Chinese elm bonsai tree is one of the most popular varieties of Asian trees around the world. The tree itself has several uses and is usually presented as a gift to guests in countries of Asian descent.

The Chinese elm is a deciduous tree though this can change if the tree is kept indoors. If indoors, it then becomes a semi-evergreen. As such, the Chinese elm is able to survive both indoors and outdoors. This, in addition to its predictable growth pattern, enables it to be the perfect start to those who are new to the art of bonsai. The tree can survive harsh pruning, often exhibited by those just begining to this art.

The Chinese elm is capable of growing to heights of about 18 feet. As it is native to East Asia, one would expect it to be vulnerable to frost. However, it is quite the opposite. Most varieties of the Chinese elm bonsai prove to be quite frost hardy, resisting the harshest of winters. Some less hardy varieties are able to survive by simply shedding all of their leaves and lying dormant for the rest of the cold season. When spring returns, the trees grow their leaves once again.

General care of the tree involves regular pruning shortly after the growth period which in most cases would be early spring. Pruning involves identifying and plucking the first two nodes closest to the main trunk. The Chinese elm requires regular watering on a daily basis all year round especially during the early times of spring and summer. All varieties of the tree require a healthy amount of exposure to sunlight to ensure proper growth. However, during hotter months, one should ensure that the plant is well sheltered in a shady location so as to ensure the plant does not dry out.

Repotting of the tree is quite essential to facilitate its proper growth. One should strive to ensure that the tree is repotted at least once every two years. To ensure that the repotting process does not accord any type of shock to the tree, this should be carried out at least one month before or after the pruning process.

Perhaps the most interesting feature about the Chinese elm bonsai is its bark. In some varieties the bark tends to be quite smooth. However, in other varieties the bark is rather rough with deep cracks that mature as the tree ages. This serves to add more intriguing aspects to the tree’s appearance. A smooth bark also means that the variety of tree one has is less hardy than the rough textured variety. This may mean that the tree is more vulnerable and thus care should be taken when handling the tree.

The Chinese elm bonsai tree is a great gift and in some traditions in North East Asia, the tree is presented as a gift to distinguished guests. The tree is a great addition to anyone’s garden and gives a serene look to the interior of the home as well.

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