The bonsai elm is one of the most popular species for beginners. It is very tolerant and slow growing, which gives the beginner a lot of time to get used to the care of a bonsai tree. It is also a good species for semi outdoor and indoor use, as it is very adaptable to different conditions.
The elm is native to China and Southeast Asia. It can grow into a mighty tree in its natural environment, with a height of up to 80 feet. Its most distinguishing feature is the beautiful bark which is gnarled and often has orange patches. The leaves are small and serrated. The Chinese elm is also very hardy, making it an ideal species for a bonsai.
To keep your elm healthy, you should make sure it is placed in a bright place (in winter) and as cool as possible (in the apartment this is easy to do). In the summer an outdoor place is even better. This helps the tree to preserve its leaves.
When watering a Chinese elm, it is important not to overwater. You should check the soil regularly and water it only when it feels dry. If you overwater, it will cause the roots to rot and the tree will not thrive.
Regular repotting is crucial for the health of your Chinese elm bonsai. It is best to repot a fast-growing Chinese elm every two years, and older trees can be repotted every three to five years. When repotting, you should make sure the roots are not pruned too far back, as this can cause the tree to stop growing. You should always use a sharp bonsai pruning tool to avoid bruising the roots.