If you have decided to try your hand
at growing a bonsai tree, you are in for a real treat. While it takes a little
time and patience to learn how to grow bonsai, the results are truly incredible.
As you begin your search for the perfect tree, you will be faced with all types
of options. For example, bamboo is a nice bonsai option that is reminiscence of
true Japanese gardens. Then, you have the Braided Monkey Tree that is referred
to in many Asian cultures as the “Bringer of Good Fortune”. When it comes to
bonsai, this makes an excellent choice that is easy to care for and tolerant.
Another option for bonsai is Jade tree, which makes an exceptional bonsai.
Coming from South Africa, this plant is hearty and boasts succulent, green
elliptic leaves and a thick trunk.
One of the favorites is the ficus tree. A miniature version of the tropical
Banyan tree, the ficus is exotic and rewarding. Therefore, we suggest you start
with this species and to help you get started, we have provided you with
important ficus bonsai care. Remember, the ficus is ideally suited for indoor
bonsai. You will discover a number of different varieties, each with small
leaves and slow growth habits. Some of the specific species you might consider
growing include the dwarf ficus, narrow-leaf ficus, and the weeping ficus, all
fine choices.
The first thing to remember when it comes to ficus bonsai care is that
this tree needs to be kept indoors all year long, although an occasional trip
outdoors for fresh air and sunshine is acceptable. As with most bonsai trees,
the ficus tree should dry out between watering. To test the soil, simply stick
your finger down about an inch to see if it feels wet or dry. The key with ficus
bonsai care is never allow the tree to go completely dry for any extended time.
To water your tree, soak it and/or the container it sits in, in water for about
10 minutes. Then, allow the soil to drain so no more water leaks from the
bottom.
Repotting is also important for ficus bonsai care. The recommendation is to
repot the tree every two years. Now, keep in mind that while the ficus typically
grows slow, if you notice the tree is having a growth spurt, completely taking
over its container within the first year, do no wait to repot, go ahead and do
the repotting in the first year. The best time to repot a ficus bonsai is during
early spring months. Once the tree has been placed in its new container (larger
of course), be sure you water it thoroughly, using the same process as described
above. Then, you want to keep your ficus bonsai some place shade for two to
three weeks, allowing the new root system to take hold. With this, you will
enjoy a much healthier and stronger plant that when it comes time to trim and
prune, handles the process better.
Finally, ficus bonsai care means understanding your tree during the cold,
winter months. This particular tree should always be kept indoors, especially in
the winter. Even then, make sure you keep them on display in a sunny area that
never goes below 60 to 65 degrees. Now, you may notice some minor leaf drop if
the temperatures are too cool for the tree or if the ficus is getting too much
of a draft. In this case, you can simply choose a different location, again in
the sun but warmer and without the draft. With ficus bonsai care, it is not
rocket science, but consistency and understanding the ficus. As you begin to
trim back the tree during its growing season and using wire to create the shape
you have chosen and the one that works best with this species, you will begin to
notice things changing from a simple tree in a container to an actual bonsai.
Chances are you will be so proud of your accomplishments, you will be eager to
try another ficus bonsai or perhaps one of the other mentioned species.
