How to Grow Bonsai Trees

The word Bonsai is actually made up of two Japanese words which translate as "tray growing." In other words, Bonsai does not refer to any one specific type of tree or plant, but rather it refers to a style of growing plants. This means that almost any plant can be grown as a Bonsai as long as you have the patience and a bit of luck.Learn the methods of producing a Bonsai version of a Chinese Elm, the type of tree that the majority of people think of when they hear the word "Bonsai." Growing a Bonsai Chineese Elm is a long-term project which can take several years.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A Chinese Elm starter tree
• Growing container
• Bonsai potting mix
• Fertilizer
• Scissors
• Pruning shears

How to Grow Bonsai Trees

1. Choose a health young Chinese Elm at a reputable nursery, preferably a nursery that has some experience in growing Bonsai trees. The tree you purchase should be no more than 7 to 8 inches tall with a healthy trunk and stems. Purchase Bonsai growing soil if available and the proper fertilizer for your tree.

2. Purchase a small but decorative pot in which to grow your Bonsai. Keep in mind that you do not want a pot that is so large that it will encourage root growth. Plant your Bonsai tree in your pot and make certain that it has the proper amount of water and fertilizer as per your nursery's instructions. B-12 may be added sparingly to prevent transplant shock.

3. Trim your tree in the Spring time, just after your tree has put on new growth. Using your scissors, carefully cut away any branches that are crossing other branches, branches that are growing at unsightly angles, branches that are growing from the base of the trunk, and branches that are growing directly out of the buds of other branches. Cut branches that have large leaves, making certain that you do not cut any more than 30 percent of your tree's branches and leaves at any one time.

4. Shaping your Bonsai is a matter of personal taste. When pruning your Bonsai for its artistic shape be certain to leave at least two growing buds on each branch that you cut. Never cut more than 30 percent of the foliage of your tree at any one cutting. Allow your tree several weeks of recuperation time between cuttings. Keep soil moist but do not over water. Add fertilizer sparingly.

5. Trim roots starting in the second year of growth. Turn your Bonsai pot up-side-down carefully with the trunk of your Bonsai between your fingers so you are holding and protecting it when the soil and root ball fall out of the pot. Carefully shakes off about half of the soil that is clinging to the roots. Using your pruning shears, trim approximately one inch off the end of the main tap root that extends down from the trunk of the tree. Using scissors or your pruning shears, carefully trim back all other roots approximately two inches. Replant your tree, adding new soil if necessary. Fertilize and add a small amount of vitamin B-12 for root shock and then water. Each Spring trim your tree's roots in the same manner just after your tree has put on its new growth.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to cut too much at any one time. Remember, growing a Bonsai is a process that will take several years.