How Tall Does a Bonsai Tree Grow?

The art of bonsai involves growing aesthetically pleasing trees in containers that mirror their full-sized counterparts. There are no height requirements. Bonsai trees can be any size, from very small to quite large. Heights of the bonsai are dependent upon the bonsai’s natural growth rate, as well as the growers’ desires.

Variations

Trees that grow naturally upright and tall will do so as bonsais. The types of trees that you select for bonsai will greatly determine its growth characteristics. The Japanese maple, for instance, reaches natural heights up to 30 feet and will attempt to grow as vigorously for the bonsai grower.

Container

Potting containers also help to determine the size of your bonsai. Trees such as Japanese maple tree require deeper, narrow pots to accommodate their height and downward growth of the root system. However, conifer bonsais, such as the Japanese black pine require wider, slimmer containers to accommodate the natural spread of the root system. Adjusting the depth or width of these containers helps to control height.

Pruning

The pruning process helps to keep the bonsai healthy while allowing you control its height and shape. Hard pruning involves removing stems, branches and foliage from throughout the tree, as well as trimming back the central leader, if so desired. Hard pruning also includes root pruning which involves pruning down the root system so that the system is balanced with the bonsai tree.

Grow Bonsai Trees Fast

Keeping plants in the house, such as a bonsai tree, can be an inexpensive yet productive and rewarding hobby. If you are aiming for speed in growing your bonsai tree, however, there are certain precautions and maintenance measures you can take in order to get your tree sprouting at the fastest rate it can. Place the planted bonsai tree in an area that receives direct sunlight for at least four hours each day. Water the bonsai tree every day, until the soil is most to the touch. Bonsai trees grow fastest in soil that is kept moist at all times. Fertilize the bonsai plant every three weeks during the growing season, from early spring to later fall. Because of the constant watering the plant needs, it easily attracts insects. Treat any signs of infestation with a small dose of pesticide.