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Propagating Cuttings at Bonsai Direct: Nurturing the Growth of Beautiful Bonsai

Introduction to Propagating Bonsai Cuttings:

Propagating Bonsai Cuttings. At Bonsai Direct, we take pride in our meticulous propagation process, ensuring the healthy development of our bonsai trees. In this blog post, we will delve into the art of propagating cuttings. As well as the importance of timing, and the sustainable practices we employ. Join us as we explore the journey from cutting to flourishing bonsai.

The bonsai mother 'stock' plant from which cuttings are taken

Taking Cuttings: Harnessing the Power of ‘Natural’ Growth Hormones

To initiate the propagation process, we carefully select stock plants during the correct season. By pruning off the new tips where growth hormones are surging, we capitalise on their potential. This strategic approach allows us to capture the vitality and essence of the parent plant. This ensures the propagation of healthy and robust bonsai trees.

We use a sharp pair of bonsai pruning scissors to prune the young spring growing tips.

Cherry blossom bonsai cuttings
Removing the lower leaves of the cutting

Foam Discs and Sterilisation: Ensuring Clean and Nurturing Conditions

Firstly, we remove the lower leaves on the bonsai cuttings.

To provide the cuttings with a stable foundation, we delicately place them into pre-sterilised foam discs. This process guarantees a clean and hygienic environment, minimising the risk of pathogens or diseases. By implementing these strict protocols, we prioritise the well-being and success of the cuttings as they embark on their journey towards becoming bonsai trees.

Position the cutting carefully into the sterilised foam block
Cherry Blossom Bonsai Cutting - Prunus for a hardy outdoor flowering bonsai tree
Japanese Red Maple bonsai cutting in foam disc
Chinese Elm Indoor Bonsai Cutting

Setting the Stage for Growth: The Importance of Support Trays in Bonsai Cutting Propagation

We take the extra step of transferring them into support trays specifically designed to fit into our propagator. We do this after the pruned cuttings have been placed into the pre-sterilised foam discs. These support trays provide stability and facilitate optimal growth conditions for the cuttings. By securely housing the foam discs, we ensure that each cutting receives consistent misting, proper air circulation, and gentle nurturing within the propagator. This attention to detail and precision further enhances the success rate of root development, setting the stage for the future growth and training of these remarkable bonsai trees.

The foam discs are placed into a tray for be added to the hydroponics propagator unit
One tray is filled with cuttings
This tray is added to the propagator unit
More trays are added until the propagator is full

Hydroponic Misting Propagating Tanks: Creating the Perfect Environment

Within our hydroponic misting propagating tanks, we recreate an optimal environment for the cuttings to thrive. These tanks, powered by our off-grid sustainable solar panels, maintain precise temperature and humidity levels. This eco-friendly approach aligns with our commitment to producing bonsai and gifts in an environmentally conscious manner.

The Significance of Propagation:

The propagation of cuttings is a vital aspect of our bonsai cultivation practices. By propagating our own stock, we can carefully control and preserve the unique characteristics of each bonsai species. This approach allows us to offer a diverse range of bonsai trees, each with its distinct charm and attributes. Additionally, propagating cuttings ensures the sustainability and continuity of our bonsai collection. This enables us to provide bonsai enthusiasts with exquisite trees for years to come.

Nurturing the Cuttings: Root Development and Bonsai Training

Over a span of 4-16 weeks, the cuttings gradually develop tiny white roots, signifying their readiness for the next stage. During this time, they are carefully potted into small flower pots. For this, we use a fine ‘peat-free’ compost for environmental and sustainability reasons. Regular misting and meticulous care allow the cuttings to develop healthy root balls, establishing a strong foundation for future bonsai training.

 Japanese red maple bonsai cutting
 Chinese Elm indoor bonsai cutting with tiny white roots
Cutting ready for being potted

Conclusion:

The propagation of cuttings at Bonsai Direct is a labour of love. It is rooted in our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the artistry of bonsai cultivation. By harnessing the power of growth hormones, providing optimal environmental conditions, and employing eco-friendly practices, we ensure the successful development of our bonsai trees. Through this careful process, we are able to share the beauty and serenity of bonsai with enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication behind each creation.

Potting the bonsai cutting into 'peat free' compost for sustainability and environmental reasons

From Cuttings to Masterpieces: The Art of Bonsai Transformation

Once the bonsai cuttings have taken root and established themselves, a new chapter begins in their journey towards becoming magnificent bonsai trees. This stage involves the skilled practice of pruning, wiring, and nurturing over many years, where careful craftsmanship and artistic vision transform these beautiful little cuttings into breathtaking bonsai creations.

Our experienced bonsai growers dedicate themselves to the art of bonsai cultivation, meticulously shaping and refining each tree with precision and care. Through strategic pruning, they guide the growth and create the desired aesthetic form, ensuring balance, harmony, and a natural appearance.

Wiring plays a crucial role in some species of bonsai training, allowing for the careful manipulation of branches and trunks to achieve graceful curves, gentle twists, and captivating shapes. This technique enhances the overall artistic expression of the bonsai, accentuating its unique character and personality.

Throughout the years of cultivation, our bonsai experts provide the necessary nurturing and maintenance to ensure the health and vitality of each tree. They meticulously monitor watering, nutrient balance, and environmental conditions to create an optimal growing environment for the bonsai to flourish.

Once these bonsai trees have undergone years of patient cultivation and artistic refinement, they are made available for you to enjoy on our website. Each bonsai is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our growers, showcasing the beauty and elegance that can be achieved through the art of bonsai.

Discover our curated collection of bonsai trees, carefully cultivated and transformed from humble cuttings into breathtaking masterpieces. Own a piece of living art and experience the serenity and beauty that bonsai brings to your home or garden.

Bonsai Ramification

The world of bonsai can seem more complicated than it is due to complex names for techniques, growth and features. This series of blog posts will be pointed towards explaining different bonsai wording to make things a little bit easier to understand. Starting with bonsai ramification.

This is when you divide a stem or limbs of a bonsai into smaller branches. The aim of ramification is to create a dense, inward growth of branches rather than an outward growth; making the foliage canopy thicker. This process also allows the bonsai leaves to receive more light, consequently, more energy and growth.

The ramification process includes pinching, pruning and tapering. When done correctly, the bonsai’s design will look much cleaner and it will look like a miniature tree. A bonsai with lots of ramification will be easier to shape and the natural taper gives the bonsai a more natural appearance.

Taper” refers to the thickness becoming thinner from one end to the other; whether that’s the trunk or branches. The main branch should be thinner than the trunk with thinner secondary branches coming from it. The main branch grows out of the trunk, the secondary branches then grow out of the main branch. Lastly, the tertiary branches grow from the secondary branches.

When trying to create a neater look to your bonsai, it may be beneficial to wire the branches too. Wiring and shaping them into the correct position first will allow you to see the natural shape of the foliage which will help you to see where ramification would be needed. If you are considering wiring your tree, take a look at our wiring kits.

I have found a few really helpful images from a website called bonsaibark which perfectly demonstrates ramification.

Check out these premium trees which display excellent ramification.

  • The perfect feature bonsai for home or office
    Majestic Specimen Chinese Elm with Impressive Styling – 26 years old
    £1,000.00

Caring for a Bonsai

Caring for a bonsai can seem daunting at first. There is so much conflicting information on the internet and it can make the art of bonsai seem much more complicated than it really is.
Your first tree is exciting, it’s a new experience which will hopefully turn into a passion. We have put together this quick guide to help you grow a healthy bonsai.

Watering, Feeding and Misting

Bonsai soil should be kept damp to the touch at all times; varieties such as the Oriental Tea Tree and Serissa like to be kept on the drier side of damp. You should check the soil multiple times a day, we usually say morning and evening to get yourself into the routine. You should also feed your bonsai once a week with a bonsai feed/fertiliser.

The leaves should be misted regularly to increase the humidity. You can mist with plain water, or our bonsai mist which helps to condition the leaves and deter pests.

Pruning, Weeding and Scraping

When the shoots start to look straggly and out of place, it is time to prune. Using a pair of bonsai scissors, trim the shoots back; the foliage “pads” should look neat and well defined. If you find that you have a few dead branches, trim them back to where they are still alive. Pruning the tree encourages back budding and helps the tree to grow.

It is important to weed your bonsai soil as and when needed. You can simply remove them with your hands or a tweezer tool does a fantastic job.

Scraping moss and algae from the soil surface is also incredibly important. A layer of moss/algae will affect sufficient water reaching the roots of the bonsai; you also cannot correctly judge if the soil is damp or not. Using a spatula or a blunt knife, scrape the layer off and top up the soil if necessary (you can use any good-quality soil).

We hope this post helps you in the future when caring for a bonsai, whether it is your own tree or a a tree you are looking after.
For more guidance and troubleshooting, check out our Bonsai Direct Care Handbook.

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Bonsai Tools – Essential for the Art of Bonsai

A guide to your essential bonsai tools.

Are you new to the art of Bonsai? Are you struggling to figure out which tools are essential for you and your trees? Or do you already have a beginners tool kit and you are looking to invest in some higher quality tools?
We have a great selection of beginners tools and higher quality tools to suit all levels of bonsai enthusiast.

We recommend you have our Bonsai Direct care handbook, a watering can, soil scoop, mesh, our bonsai mist (or spray bottle of water), wire, an insecticide and our bonsai feed.

Let’s start with the basic tools:

Pruning Scissors – possibly the most important tool for a bonsai. These scissors can be used to cut shoots, fine roots and tiny branches, ensure they are kept sharp for a neat cut.

Heavy duty Chinese Shears – ideal for larger hands when pruning! They are also extremely useful for root pruning.

Concave Branch Cutters (180mm) – these cutters are perfect for cutting branches that are up to 10cm in diameter.

Knob Cutters (180mm) – this tool is great for cutting lumps and bumps up to 10mm thick.

Root Rake / Spatula – a fantastic double ended tool. It is perfect for repotting your bonsai or scraping moss from the soil.

Root Rake / Tweezers – another excellent tool for repotting, the tweezers are great for removing small things and needle removal.

Wire Cutters – a tool everyone needs in their kit. Very self explanatory, cuts bonsai wire whether you are repotting a bonsai or styling the branches.

Pliers – ideal for stripping bark and tightening or removing wire.

Looking for something more? Let’s have a look at some higher quality tools:

Root Cutters (210mm / 270mm) – these cutters are ideal for pruning the roots of large bonsai, especially if the bonsai has been growing on in the ground. They will cut roots that are up to 15cmm thick easily.

Trunk Splitter – this tool is perfect for creating characteristic features through the trunk.

Coir Brush – this brush is brilliant for arranging soil on a newly potted bonsai. They are also good for gently tamping soil surface.

Turntable – these are very useful to have so that you can turn your tree around easily when working on it.

Rotary Tool – these are used for carving and cutting deadwood.

Chopstick – whilst not essential, these are so handy when it comes to repotting.

Wound Sealant – this helps to prevent diseases and infections on part of the tree which has been carved or wounded.

The list goes on but these are tools we recommend when starting out bonsai and when learning more about the art & styling side of the bonsai world.

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    Bonsai Mist – 300ml spray
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    Liquid Bonsai Fertiliser (T92)
    £8.99£10.99
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    Beginners Bonsai Care Kit – The Essentials
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    Beginners Bonsai Basics – Great Care Essentials for all Bonsai Varieties
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    Chinese Long- Handled Bonsai Pruning Scissors
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  • sb plant invigorator suitable for all bonsai species
    Plant Invigorator – 500ml [Suitable for all bonsai]
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    Coir Bonsai Brush (T74)
    £8.99
  • Bonsai Tree Wiring Kit
    Bonsai Tree Wiring Kit
    £23.99

The Perfect All Year Round Bonsai

Evergreen bonsai creating all year round interest.

One of the many reasons that one may choose to purchase a bonsai as an interior house plant is that most of them are evergreen. This means that they grow leaves all year round and do not enter a dormancy period. Evergreen bonsai create an all year round interest, they will bring a small part of nature into your home even through the winter months. A bonsai tree is a relaxing and artistic addition to ones home. It not only only brings some fresh life into your room, it also brings some creativity and air purifying qualities. Evergreen bonsai grow faster during spring and early summer months. During this period it is fun to prune and style your little tree.

Indoor Varieties.

The Chinese Elm is a very hardy variety and perfect for beginners. These trees can actually live inside or outside and can cope with temperatures down to around -5oc; they will become deciduous (lose their leaves) if kept outdoors. They display rich green serrated leaves on beautifully shaped trunks.

The Miniature Jade is an extremely easy to care for variety. The leaves are distinctive and shaped like little gems; they are fresh and vibrant in colour. These trees are fantastic for children and beginners as they require minimal watering.

The Aromatic Pepper is a fragrant variety. These trees release a fresh, zesty fragrance when pruned; it can fill a room! The leaves are incredibly rich in colour and they are uniquely shaped.

The Ficus Retusa is a captivating variety. The leaves are rich and multi-toned, they are typically large in size. The twisty trunks display beautiful striations and aerial roots.

All year round Evergreen bonsai tree for sale

Indoor Fruiting and Flowering Varieties.

The Oriental Tea Tree is an elegant variety. They display glossy, rich green leaves which grow dainty white flowers in the summer months. The trunks are a cream colour with lovely texture throughout and there are often exposed roots at the base.

The Chinese Sweet Plum is a wonderful variety. The fresh foliage will grow tips with red/tan colours in warmer months; the purple plum-like fruits will grow in summer too . These trees are recognisable by their characteristic, flaky trunks.

The Tree of a Thousand Stars / Snowrose is a lovely variety with unique leaf shape. The vibrant leaves are pointy and shaped like clusters of stars; the foliage canopy will display an abundance of delicate white flowers throughout summer. These trees have creamy bark and highly artistic root structure.

The Roseapple / Myrtle is a delightful variety with red-toned bark. In warmer months, the canopy will display cream flowers and blush red tips followed by cherry-like fruits in Autumn.

To summarise, if you are looking for a scented tree to add a calm aroma to your space, or a flowering tree to add a pop of colour; these indoor trees display different characteristics and symbolise beautiful meanings. Every tree we sell will be delivered in a pot, we have a beautiful range of colours. If you are looking for something truly special, we highly recommend you check out our premium range. Our premium indoor bonsai tree collection features our very best in quality bonsai. They are individually photographed and supplied with matching ceramic drip trays.

Our Top Selling All Year Round Evergreen Bonsai Tree Range for Indoors.

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The amazing art of bonsai

We take our inspiration from natural woodlands & full grown trees….

The amazing art of bonsai – A bonsai is a small tree in a pot. The word ‘bonsai’ literally translates to ‘potted tree’. However, a bonsai is also a work of art, one which is never finished. Over many years, each tree is skilfully styled and trained, from the branches, to the trunk, and even the roots. This is a lengthy and delicate process, but is more than worth it! Each little tree is styled of a fully-grown one; when we are out on a walk, we are constantly looking at the mature beauties that can be found everywhere, and we bring the very best bits to our bonsai.

However, buying a bonsai is just the beginning. Once you have received your new house-mate, you can continue to work with it to create your perfect bonsai.

Furthermore, an important point to remember is that the tree is alive! With the right care, they can live for hundreds of years, but they will die if the care is not quite right. Let us consider the attributes of these three beautiful specimen bonsai. We hope this gives you a taste of the artistic design features we are trying to achieve.

These 3 bonsai are mature specimens and many of these features take many many years to establish. However, we we can start to incorporate these details and aim for such beauty in younger bonsai also. Our hope is that by highlighting some of these features you may start to incorporate them into your own bonsai.

Let us know if you liked this “The amazing art of bonsai” blog and we will continue writing about this and create more content surrounding it!

Note-worthy attributes …

What makes a bonsai great!

The first point to note is the root flare (called the nebari in the bonsai world) on each bonsai. This is a lovely feature which literally grounds the tree to the soil. The exposed roots lead the eye up the trunk and give the bonsai a sense of stability and character. The trunk flow and taper are both very important design aspects. In an ideal world you would have a thicker trunk at the base of the tree which gradually tapers as it reaches the top.

These three bonsai are all ‘informal uprights’ and sport wonderful S-shaped trunk flows. However, a formal upright style tree is a more traditional shape with lovely even canopy and straighter trunk – this maybe your personal preference. We find the ‘informal upright style’ such as shown in these examples is most popular.

If you consider our three examples you will note that the all have a clear trunk flow. Try to ensure the main trunk is uncluttered and that there are no branches pointing directly towards the viewer. Space is vitally important when creating a bonsai. Each of these bonsai, although quite different from one another, boasts plenty of space between the branches. The branches are highly refined in design, forming foliage pads of leaves. Over time the branches thicken and become more in proportion with the trunk stature.

Don’t forget the right pot!

When choosing the pot, there is always an element of personal preference. Try to choose a pot which is harmonious with the bonsai. When you view the overall composition the tree and pot should appear well balanced and one element (ie the pot or the tree) should not stand out overly. There are occasions when choosing the best point there may be a compromise – it maybe just the best one you already have or in these strange times of Covid-19 we have found obtaining stock from China extremely difficult & there is a general shortage of pots. Thus the ideal pot colour or shape may not be available to you.

Here are some more beautiful examples of specimen indoor bonsai …

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Bonsai Trouble Shooter

We hope this bonsai trouble shooter helps you identify the issue with your bonsai.

Are you having trouble with your bonsai? Is it not looking in the best of health? Are you searching for ‘my your bonsai looks dead’?
Use our bonsai trouble shooter below, so you can figure out your bonsai problem. It’s easy to use: just click the relevant radio button next to the image which shows the type of symptoms you’re experiencing and press the troubleshoot button below.

Bonsai trouble shooter

Are you having problems with your bonsai?
If you think your bonsai is sick, compare its symptoms with the list of more common problems above.
Leaves are:

turning pale yellow and dropping off.
mottled with yellow, brown and black spots.
green, but crispy.
pale green to yellow and new shoots are long and spindly.
going black or brown, starting at the tips and slowly working down the leaf.

Mottling of the leaves…
…normally means that you have a pest on your bonsai. Spray with a non-systemic insecticide that kills a broad spectrum of pests , especially Red Spider Mite. Make sure you spray under the foliage and around the trunk. Following this, spray after ten days and then repeat after a further ten days. Always follow the instructions.

If the leaves remain green…
…but are dry and crispy, then your bonsai has dried out at some stage. This often results in the death of bonsai. To ascertain whether your tree is still alive, make a small cut at the base of the trunk in a couple of places. If there is green just under the bark then it is still alive, if it is brown, then sadly it is dead. If there are still signs of life, then keep it cool and moist until new shoots appear. Be patient as this may take a long time.

Long spindly shoots…
…with pale leaves usually mean that the bonsai is growing in a position where there is not enough light. Move it in to a brighter position avoiding direct sunlight all day. Prune back spindly shoots to the first pair of leaves on that shoot.

Bonsai Bugs (Including beneficials)

At Bonsai Direct we use Biological Control to control some bonsai bugs in our growing areas.

Some insects (we call them bonsai bugs) are friendlies and should be encouraged. In fact, Biological Control – or biocontrol – has been effectively used against invasive species for over 100 years, and is the use of living organisms such as insects or pathogens to control pest populations. Furthermore, this reduces the need for chemical pesticides, just one way in which we are doing our bit for the environment. We would like to introduce them to you so you know they are beneficial if you see them:

I am a friendly bio control to prevent aphid

Although we use bio-control on our nursery, Bonsai Trees can still get pests which may require treatment.

Firstly, like all plants, bonsai get bugs. However, most of these are harmless. Bugs most often come from infected plants nearby, and come in through windows, doors and vents. However, having bugs on a bonsai is not necessarily a bad thing; some bugs can even be beneficial! We actually use ‘friendly’ bugs in our greenhouse, as they help deter other, more harmful bugs. Furthermore, these ‘friendlies’ allow us to avoid using insecticides which contain nasty chemicals, as these can often be harmful to the environment.

How harmful are bonsai bugs?

Over the last 30 years, we have grown and sold hundreds of thousands of bonsai. Consequently, this means that we have had all sorts of bugs on our bonsai. But in all this time, we have not lost a single bonsai to a bug problem. Therefore, bugs are really not much to worry about! Furthermore, a lot of bugs are completely harmless and can often be beneficial. However, even the not-so-friendly bugs are still a part of nature, and it is completely normal for bonsai to get bugs.

Use the table below to help you treat your bonsai

Bonsai BugsWhat you can seeHow to treat it (if needed)What it looks like
Aphid (greenfly and blackfly)– These little guys are small green/black insects normally found on leaves
– They can often turn leaves and pots sticky and leave their white skins on leaves
– Don’t worry though! A few greenfly isn’t the end of the world, and a tested insecticide spray will do the job.
Ladybirds will also do the job!
Greenfly
Whitefly– These dainty little white flies are easy to spot– Don’t panic! A tested insecticide spray will sort the problem.
Caterpillar– These little critters like you to know they have visited, by leaving white webs behind.
Curly leaves may be a sign of caterpillar
– Caterpillars will turn into beautiful butterflies or elegant moths in a few weeks, when they will fly away to find a new home!
– However, if you are worried about your resident caterpillar getting a little too hungry, pick caterpillars off or cut off leaves
– If you really don’t like caterpillars, a couple of squirts with a tested insecticide once a week for a month should do the trick!
Caterpillar

More bonsai bugs…

Bonsai BugsWhat you can seeHow to treat it (if needed)What it looks like
Mealy bug– They creepy-crawlies look like tiny, fluffy white ‘woodlice’– An insecticide soil drench should ensure that these little guys do no more damage!
Scale Insect– Tiny small white/brown insects on the trunk and underside of leaves– There are a lot of natural predators of scale insect, including every gardener’s favourite insect: ladybirds!
– However, if you can’t find any little ladybirds around, you will need an insecticide soil drench.
Scale
Scarid Fly and Larvae– These little fellas are completely harmless to bonsai
– They are little black flies around the base of the tree or white worms in the soil
– Being completely harmless to bonsai, there is no need to try and treat these tiny bugs, and they will disappear naturally over a few weeks.
– However, if you don’t want these bug in your house, please stand your bonsai in a container of water for 1 hour so that the water just covers the top of the pot. Then allow to drain.
– If soaking doesn’t work, you will need an insecticide soil drench
Scarid Fly

Continued..

Bonsai BugsWhat you can seeHow to treat it (if needed)What it looks like
Springtail Larvae– These small white insects live in the soil and are completely harmless to bonsai– These tiny fellows are completely harmless, and will naturally disappear.
– Don’t want them in your house? Please stand your bonsai in a container of water for 1 hour so that the water just covers the top of the pot. Then allow to drain.
– If soaking doesn’t work, you will need an insecticide soil drench
Red Spider Mite– These little bugs are too small to see!
– They main symptoms are web-like structures and pale mottling on the upper leaf
– For these guys you will need an insecticide soil drench
Vine Weevil– These creepy-crawlies can be identified by large black beetles on plants or small white larvae in the soil– As the beetles are fairly large, they are easy to pick off and re-home outside! Please stand your bonsai in a container of water for 1 hour so that the water just covers the top of the pot. Then allow to drain.
– Additionally, an insecticide soil drench will also do the trick, but please consider the environment!

And a few diseases…

Bonsai BugsWhat you can seeHow to treat it (if needed)What it looks like
Black Spot– As implied by its name, this disease presents itself in the form of large black/brown spots on leaves!
– PLEASE NOTE: these spots are very distinctive, and a few brown spots on leaves is unlikely to be black spot.
Infected leaves can be removed
– If the dreaded black spot is persistent, a fungicide will do the job!
Rust Fungus– Less common on bonsai, you will find orange, yellow, brown, black or white spore structures on leavesInfected leaves can be removed
– If this doesn’t work, a fungicide will!

Lastly, we would like to thank Bioline AgroSciences for the use of some of their images relating to their products.

Chinese Elm Bonsai Tree – Ulmus parvifolia

Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia) Indoor Bonsai tree
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Fun to prune
  • Great twig structure
  • Easy to care for
  • Fast growing
  • Beautiful leaf proportion
Example of Chinese Elmbonsai tree

Chinese Elm Indoor Bonsai Tree

The Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia) makes a truly beautiful bonsai.
The leaves are small, bright to deep green and are slightly serrated.
The tree has excellent twig structure and has great character throughout, making it the perfect representation of a woodland tree.
In our opinion the Chinese Elm is the most perfectly proportioned, easy to care for and adaptable tree and makes a superb bonsai. Can be grown as an indoor or outdoor bonsai.
A must for anyone and absolutely perfect for beginners. This is a fabulous bonsai to learn pruning, styling & potting techniques because it is fast growing and back buds quickly forming lovely dense foliage pads.

A bonsai tree with a wonderful meaning …

Furthermore, known as ‘The tree of harmony’; the Elm symbolises inner strength, intuition, wisdom & love.  A beautiful bonsai which symbolises love, balance, calm and peaceful energy.
Frequently purchased for the sentiment of love & devotion. We think it would make an astounding birthday or anniversary gift.

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Chinese Elm Meaning

Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
Known as ‘The tree of harmony’, the Elm symbolises inner strength, intuition and wisdom.
A beautiful bonsai which signifies love, balance, calm and a peaceful energy.

Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia) Bonsai Tree Care Summary

Positioning

The Chinese Elm is an easy bonsai to care for. It is not overly fussy about positioning. However, it prefers a position with good natural daylight but out of direct sunlight, especially during the hottest summer months. We recommend a position away from radiators if possible. A window sill would be great but avoid south facing window-sills in mid summer

Temperature

As an indoor bonsai the Chinese Elm is not fussy about temperature. If you are growing your bonsai outside, please place in a sheltered position in the garden. Outside this bonsai is semi-evergreen so you should expect the leaves to drop. For very cold nights (below freezing) we would recommend that you bring the bonsai into a shed, glasshouse or cool room

Watering

Watering is an important part of growing bonsai trees, an indoor bonsai is dependent upon us to check it regularly to ensure it does not dry out. Please check the soil daily whilst you are learning. To touch the soil surface, if the soil is wet or damp then your bonsai does not require water. When the soil is barely damp to the touch please soak the soil. Please view our video for help.

Misting

All indoor bonsai trees benefit from having their foliage misted with water. This is in addition to watering the soil. Misting helps to maintain the humidity around the tree, this is more important during winter months when the central heating is on, as this tends to dry out the air.

Feeding

If you are growing your bonsai indoors, please feed weekly with a liquid bonsai fertiliser. Please avoid using houseplant fertiliser as it can be too strong and scorch the roots. Bonsai Direct fertiliser is ideal for all varieties of bonsai has contains all the nutrients and trace elements your tree requires.

Pruning/Styling

An indoor Chinese Elm will grow all year (only a little more slowly during winter months). It is a fun bonsai to prune and ideal for beginners. We usually recommend allowing 2 new pairs of leaves to form before pruning back to the first pair. Pruning encourages new leaves to form and helps maintain a highly defined shape. New leaves have a fresh lime green colour. You can prune at any time of year.
If you would like to add shape to existing branches you could try wiring your bonsai. This is a technique used to add more character to your tree.

Growing/Propagating your own Chinese Elm bonsai trees

We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that thee kits are rather a disappointed. They frequently don’t germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings.
These are best taken in spring. Allow new shoots to grow 8-10cm and then prune with clean pruning scissors. Pop these cuttings into some fresh multipurpose compost in a small pot. Water them and then keep misting to maintain humidity.

Re-potting your bonsai

Young bonsai will require repotting more regularly that mature specimens. All plants become pot bound over time, and bonsai trees are no exception. We recommend re-potting or root pruning (if the pot is still aesthetically larger enough) usually every 2-3 years.

Bonsai Tip

We recommend a weekly spray with Plant Invigorator to prevent pests and diseases and to keep your bonsai healthy. This really stimulates the Chinese Elm.
Please avoid using air freshener near your bonsai, they are not overly keen!

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Oriental Tea Tree Bonsai – Carmona microphylla

Oriental Tea Tree (Carmona microphylla) indoor bonsai trees
  • Pretty white flowers
  • Very artistic bonsai
  • Beautiful leaf shape
  • Low maintenance
  • For warm environments
  • Infrequent watering
Example of Carmona bonsai tree

Carmona Microphylla Bonsai (Oriental/Fukien Tea Tree)

The Fukien Tea Tree or Oriental Tea Tree (Carmona microphylla) is a simple & elegant flowering bonsai ideal for growing indoors. This bonsai has pretty white flowers during summer months & lovely green, shiny & waxy foliage. The leaves are unusually shaped and well proportioned. The leaves grow in neat clusters allowing the flowers and branch structure to be highly visible.

The Oriental Tea Tree is a stunning, artistic bonsai with beautiful white flowers which symbolises courage and ‘heart’, love & devotion. A truly beautiful indoor bonsai choice with a lovely meaning. A highly recommended flowering variety perfect for your home or office.

I think the Fukien Tea Tree is a truly stunning bonsai, with its dainty white flowers and glossy green leaves. I love that it is slow growing and needs minimal maintenance; it works perfectly with my lifestyle.

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Tree meanings
Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
The Oriental Tea Tree is a stunning, artistic bonsai with beautiful white flowers which symbolises courage and ‘heart’, as well as love and devotion. We think this is such a lovely meaning!

Oriental Tea Tree (Carmona microphylla) Bonsai Care Summary

Positioning & Temperature

The Oriental Tea Tree is an easy bonsai to care for, but it does not like cold or draughty environments. This fabulous bonsai prefers a warm position in your home or office and likes a relatively even temperature without huge fluctuations. A warm lounge or kitchen would be ideal. Please position your bonsai with good daylight but avoid very hot positions in mid-summer so that it does not scorch.

Watering

Watering is an important part of growing bonsai trees, an indoor bonsai is dependent upon us to check it regularly to ensure it does not dry out. Please check the soil daily whilst you are learning. Touch the soil surface, if the soil is wet or damp then your bonsai does not require water. When the soil is barely damp to the touch please soak the soil. The Oriental Tea Tree has a very fine fibrous root system and prefers to be kept slightly on the drier side. We recommend that you keep the soil damp and not too wet.

Misting

Although not essential, misting the leaves of indoor bonsai trees helps maintain the humidity around the bonsai. This is actually more important during winter months when the air is dried out by the central heating. Misting should be in addition to checking the soil for water.

Feeding

Feeding with a bonsai feed will help keep your Oriental Tea Tree healthy, vigorous and encourage flowers to form. Bonsai are dependent upon us for nutrients and our Bonsai Direct Fertiliser has the correct nutrient balance and trace elements that your bonsai requires. We feed weekly throughout the year; your bonsai grows throughout the year, just a little more slowly during the winter months.

Pruning/Styling

This is a relatively slow growing variety of bonsai, so pruning will be mainly limited to the spring/summer growing season. This bonsai has a very neat and compact habit and it is easy to produce the highly defined shape that one expects from a beautiful bonsai. New shoots usually sprout in an upwards direction. Allow a shoot of approx. 5cm to form and then prune back to 2 new leaves with a sharp pair of bonsai pruning scissors. The new leaves are often a lighter green so this is very easy to determine.

Growing/Propagating your own Carmona Microphylla bonsai trees

We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that these kits are rather a disappointment. They often don’t germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings.
These are best taken in spring. Allow new shoots to grow 8-10cm and then prune with clean pruning scissors. Pop these cuttings into some fresh multipurpose compost in a small pot. Water them and then keep misting to maintain humidity.

Re-potting your bonsai

Young bonsai will require repotting more regularly that mature specimens. All plants become pot bound over time, and bonsai trees are no exception. We recommend re-potting or root pruning (if the pot is still aesthetically larger enough) usually every 2-3 years.

When re-potting the Oriental Tea Tree you want to minimise the disturbance of the original root ball. Often you will read about removing a quarter of the root ball when re-potting a bonsai; we recommend that you ignore this advice when re-potting a Carmona. They have particularly fine roots which do not like being disturbed. The root system is not vigorous so you should only re-pot your bonsai when the root ball is pretty solid. When you do come to repot simply remove from its original pot and tease out a few roots around the edge of the root ball, with a chopstick. There is no need to remove much of the soil. Pop into a slightly larger pot and add some fresh bonsai soil around the edge of the pot.

Please remember that re-potting of indoor bonsai is best undertaken during the warmer summer months when the bonsai is growing. You can find our bonsai repotting video here. We have also put together a repotting guide, which is also great for beginners.

Bonsai tip

You can also spray your bonsai with a Plant Invigorator to help deter pest and disease and keep your bonsai trees healthy. We spray our bonsai with an invigorator once a week.
Please avoid using air freshener near your bonsai; they are not overly keen!

We send all of our bonsai with free care instructions which are perfect for beginners; these allow you to get the most out of your bonsai, and keep it healthy and beautiful. We have also put together loads of care and advice pages; don’t forget to take a look!

Gifts for Every Occasion

We think our bonsai make incredible gifts – they’re unique, fun-to-grow, and are different from all other gifts. That’s why we’ve put together a gift range, allowing you to find the perfect gift. We also offer a wide variety of gift wrap, balloons, and personalisation options. You can choose your delivery date in the checkout, so you can have your bonsai gift delivered at the perfect time. We also provide free next working day delivery to most of the UK, and Saturday and Sunday delivery is also available.

Chinese Sweet Plum Bonsai Tree – Sageretia theezans

Chinese Sweet Plum (Sageretia theezans) indoor bonsai tree
  • Pretty purple fruits
  • Easy to care for
  • Quick and fun to grow
  • Easy to style
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Red-tinged new foliage
Example of Chinese Sweet Plum Bonsai

The Chinese Sweet Plum (Sageretia theezans) is a pretty indoor bonsai which has great character at an early age due to the flaky bark revealing tones of red/tan. The stunning foliage has hints of rusty red turning to glossy green. Small white flowers give rise to tiny purple plum-shaped fruits.
A really pretty bonsai. Ideal for beginners with fabulous character.

The striking colours of the Sweet Plum bonsai are one of the key features. It has small, glossy, oval-shaped leaves that vary in shades of green, giving it a fresh and vibrant look. Often the new leaves in spring and autumn months are flush with red tinges. It looks stunning. This is a compact bonsai with very neat habit. The trunk can develop a lovely textured flaky bark and aged appearance over time. It is an elegant species which is highly suitable for growing indoors.

Tree meanings

Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
This bonsai symbolises protection, health and wishes.
Wonderfully signifies new life, renewal and creativity.

A Beautiful Eco Friendly Gift Idea – Sustainable & Natural Gift for Birthday, Anniversaries, Christmas, Thank You’s and Get Well Soon Presents

A your looking for a special gift? Perhaps a gift for your wife’s birthday or anniversary presents for him? Bonsai trees make a cherished gift idea. A natural green gift which is environmental friendly. A joy to nurture and fun to grow. The make a superb feature in your home and it is wonderful to bring a little nature into your kitchen or living room. A Sageretia bonsai is a stylish gift tree which is beautifully proportioned. It would be ideal for those seeking a very special present, maybe something a little different.

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Chinese Sweet Plum (Sageretia theezans) Bonsai Care Summary

Positioning & Temperature

The Chinese Sweet Plum is an easy indoor bonsai species to care for. It likes a bright position, with good natural daylight, but as with all bonsai, should not be placed in a very hot position in mid-summer. It is not fussy about temperature, but it is not frost hardy so would not be suitable to grow as an outdoor bonsai during the winter months.

Watering

Watering is a lovely and essential part of bonsai tree care. It is a simple, yet vital part of growing bonsai and only takes a few seconds. We recommend whilst you are learning to check the soil daily. If the soil is wet or very damp, please do not water your bonsai. When the soil starts to firm and feels barely damp to the touch, water well by either standing the bonsai in water for a few minutes or by pouring water over the soil surface to re-wet the root ball evenly.

Misting

Misting the leaves of your Chinese Sweet Plum is not essential, but does enhance the growth during winter months in particular. In the winter, when the central heating is on, the air can get very dry and misting will simply replace some of the lost humidity and encourage new foliage growth.

Feeding

Feeding bonsai trees is good practice. The bonsai rely on us to provide the nutrients and trace elements they need. A well balanced bonsai feed, such as Bonsai Direct Fertiliser, will maintain healthy and beautiful trees and promote growth, fruiting and flowering.

Pruning/Styling

The Sweet Plum Bonsai is a relatively fast growing bonsai variety and is fun to prune and style. The new shoots are often flecked with russet tones which really does make it look very pretty. To maintain the lovely highly defined foliage pads and pretty canopy it is important not to let the shoots grow too long and straggly. By keeping the shoots trimmed, you will be encouraging back budding and new leaves to grow. Most new growth will appear during spring or summer. Allow a shoot to grow approx. 4cm and then prune back to the first two new leaves. Use a sharp pair of bonsai pruning scissors to do this. Within 4-6 weeks you can usually see signs of new shoots emerging further back down the branches, it is very rewarding.
If you would like to try some re-styling you could try some wiring techniques. Generally, wiring is used to give a branch or slender trunk more character and shape.

Growing/Propagating your own Chinese Sweet Plum bonsai trees

We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that thee kits are rather a disappointed. They frequently don’t germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings.
These are best taken in spring. Allow new shoots to grow 8-10cm and then prune with clean pruning scissors. Pop these cuttings into some fresh multipurpose compost in a small pot. Water them and then keep misting to maintain humidity.

Re-potting your bonsai

If a bonsai becomes pot bound the roots cannot grow. Consequently, the tree cannot grow. The younger the tree the quicker it is growing and the more frequently it will require root pruning or re-potting. As a general rule you are looking at approximately every 2-3 years, and older specimens every 4-5 years. If the pot that your bonsai is in is aesthetically large enough, you may simply be able to root prune your bonsai and it may not require a larger pot at all.

Re-potting is best done when the bonsai is actively growing during the warmer summer months. If the bonsai requires a larger pot, simply lift the root ball out of the current pot, tease out approximately one quarter of the root ball with a chop stick to loosen the roots around the edge and position into its new, slightly larger, pot. Use good quality, free draining soil, such as Akadama, and work around the edge of the pot. Stand your re-potted bonsai in water, so that the water covers the whole pot, for approximately 5 mins and then allow to drain.

Akadama is a high quality Japanese bonsai soil made from dried loam. It is granular, so is free flowing and easy and clean to work with. The small balls also encourage the growth of lovely fibrous feeder roots, which is what we want when growing bonsai trees.

Bonsai tips

Please avoid using air freshener near your bonsai, they are not overly keen!
Sweet Plum (Sageretia theezans) bonsai trees respond well to the use of a Plant Invigorator to help keep the free from pests and help promote new growth. We use this weekly as a preventive measure.

Indoor Fig Bonsai – Ficus retusa

Fig (Ficus retusa) beginners indoor bonsai tree
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Very easy to care for
  • Develops character aerial roots
  • Suitable for darker rooms
  • Deep green glossy leaves
  • Resistant to most pests/diseases
Example of Ficus retusa beginners bonsai

The Ficus Bonsai Tree – A Very Easy Beginners ‘Fruiting‘ Indoor Bonsai Variety

The fig (Ficus retusa) indoor bonsai tree has dark green glossy leaves and is unusual in that it will tolerate lower light levels. The Ficus makes a fantastic indoor bonsai and should be protected from the frost. There are several types of ficus which are extremely popular to grow as bonsai – Ficus ginseng, Ficus retusa and Ficus mircocarpa.
It buds back very quickly after pruning and has an immense amount of character in the truck and aerial root system. A very powerful bonsai, fun and easy to care for. It is also less susceptible to pest attack. Protect from cold (min 10oC). Fabulous bonsai for beginners and ideal for the home or office.
Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
The Fig symbolises fertility and love. The Bible indicates that the Fig tree has spiritual meaning. The tree that signifies health both spiritually and physically.
A tree with superb movement and a positive energy.

The Beauty & Attributes of the Ficus retusa bonsai tree – The Chinese ‘Banyan’ Tree

Bonsai Tree Size & Proportions

The leaves of the Ficus bonsai are slightly larger than some of the other renowned species. However on a larger or mid sized tree they look truly spectacular. The are the glossiest green and rich in colour. This is an evergreen indoor bonsai with all year round beauty.

Features and Characteristics

The Ficus retusa is one of the few bonsai that displays the most sensational aerial roots as the bonsai matures. These roots often start from the trunk or branches and can create an interesting and eye-catching visual effect. As they thicken they frequently wrap around the trunk, forming artistic tendrils which add character and interest. The have great movement and give the appearance of a tree from the Florida Everglades. Aerial roots on a Ficus bonsai tree can be quite fascinating to observe.

The ‘aerial’ roots often appear as thin, rope-like structures that extend from the branches or the trunk of the tree. These roots might be light brown or grey in colour, and they have a slightly textured surface. As they grow downwards they meet the soil and root into the soil. A wonderful feature of this unique bonsai tree. Sometimes the roots even appear to be braided with the trunk – a sort of wrap around effect.

Perfect Bonsai Tree for Indoor Gardening

The Ficus is extremely well adapted to living in our homes. It thrives in most environments and will even tolerate rooms with lower light levels. This is not a demanding bonsai. It is easy to care for. Keep the soil just damp to the touch and possible, mist the leaves daily with water. This helps to maintain the humidity which is more important when the central heating is on and the air is drier. We feed them once a week with bonsai fertiliser to keep the foliage lush and healthy.

This indoor bonsai plant type is very easy to prune and can also be styled by wiring techniques. When you prune a Ficus it will produce a white milky sap. This is perfectly normal. Essentially this is the way the plant has evolved to seal the wound from pruning. The white milky substance is latex and this crystallises to seal the cut and heal. It’s a remarkably clever plant adaption.

A Beautiful Fruiting Bonsai Plant with Sensational Tree Meaning

The ficus is a fruiting species of bonsai. The fruits of the Ficus retusa bonsai, also known as the Chinese Banyan Tree, are small and well proportions. These fruits are often referred to as figs, although they might not resemble the typical figs you find in your local green grocer or supermarket.

The figs on the Ficus retusa bonsai are usually tiny and round, often measuring just a few millimeters in diameter. They have a greenish colour when they’re young, and as they mature, they might turn a shade of yellow or reddish-brown. A stylish bonsai which symbolises health, fertility and love.

A sensational Eco Friendly Gift Idea

This variety of bonsai would make an exquisite birthday gift or bonsai plant for an anniversary or Christmas. It is easy to care to for and supplied with care instructions unique to this type of bonsai tree. Thus, it is highly recommended for complete beginners. Like other indoor plants, this bonsai contributes to air purification, helping create a healthier indoor environment. Growing a bonsai tree is also associated with relaxation and lowering stress levels.

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Aromatic Pepper Tree Bonsai – Zanthoxylum pipertum

Aromatic Pepper Tree indoor bonsai
  • Aromatic foliage
  • Easy to care for
  • Interesting glossy leaves
  • Unusual feathery foliage
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Something a little different

Zanthoxylum Bonsai – Zesty Pepper Tree Bonsai for Indoors

The Pepper Tree (Zanthoxylum pipertum) is an outstanding indoor bonsai and has a sweet aromatic peppery fragrance and bright green glossy foliage. Small clusters of tiny white flowers develop from January onwards. The bark is fissured and adds character & age to this very elegant & exciting bonsai. The Pepper Tree is easy to care for and makes an ideal bonsai for beginners. If you want something a little unusual then this would be my personal recommendation. I love it.
Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.

Zesty Fragrant Leaves when Pruned – Symbolises Peace & Harmony

The Pepper Tree is an outstanding bonsai with a fresh, fruity fragrance which symbolises purification, healing and protection. It also signifies peace and harmony making it an exclusive bonsai tree gift for all occasions such as family birthdays, wedding anniversary gifts and Christmas bonsai tree presents.

Small & Wonderful Mini Indoor Bonsai Tree

Zanthoxylum bonsai are naturally petite, with dainty miniature leaves. The leaves emit a delightful fragrance reminiscent of citrus or pepper when touched, pruned or brushed against. Some more mature Zanthoxylum bonsai produce small, berry-like fruits that turn from green to red or purple as they mature. This is an extremely attractive variety of indoor bonsai; its great for beginners as easy to care for.

Wondrous Vibrant Mini Leaflets – Zesty Clean Fragrance

The leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple leaflets arranged along a central stem, resembling a feather-like arrangement. This form is very distinctive and quite unusual. Each leaf is made up of several leaflets, usually between 5 to 11. These leaflets are elongated and have an oval shaped appearance. The leaflets have a smooth and glossy texture on the upper surface, which adds to their distinctive design. The colour of the leaves can vary, typically ranging from bright green to a deeper, darker shade, depending on the maturity of the foliage. The leaflets are arranged alternately along the stem, giving the foliage a balanced and attractive appearance. One of the most best features of Zanthoxylum piperitum is that when you prune, touch or brush against its leaves, they release a pleasant and distinctive citrus or peppery fragrance. This aromatic quality is one of the unique characteristics that sets this bonsai apart. It is a fresh and zesty clean smell which is rather attractive.

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Ligustrum sinense – A Beautiful Indoor Bonsai for Beginners

Ligustrum sinense indoor bonsai tree
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Fun to prune
  • Easy to care for
  • Low maintenance
  • Fast growing
  • Strong and vigorous
Ligustrum sinense beginners bonsai for sale

A most fabulous fast growing indoor bonsai which is fun to grow, easy to care for and ideal for practising wiring & styling techniques. This vigorous bonsai is ideal for beginners and displays a strong structure and highly defined shape. Soft bright green leaves for a pretty canopy.

Buy ligustrum indoor bonsai trees
Buy Ligustrum Indoor Bonsai (Ligustrum sinense) with free delivery to most areas.

The Ligustrum sinense is a fabulous indoor bonsai variety and a relative of the Olive tree (Oleaceae Family). This is without doubt an all-time favourite beginners indoor bonsai and has so much to offer. It is very fast growing, making it fun to prune and style. They are very easy to care for and not fussy about where it should be positioned. It has a strong and vigorous trunk and shoots, resulting in bonsai with a powerful and artistic structure.

A beautiful indoor bonsai!

The leaves of this beautiful indoor bonsai have great proportions with smooth edges and a wonderful fresh spring green in colour. This results in a very pretty and full canopy of leaves.
As the bonsai matures it also displays pretty white/creamy coloured flowers.
Grown as an indoor bonsai variety the Ligustrum is evergreen and keeps its leaves all year round. In our experience leaf drop is absolutely minimal.
As a fast growing bonsai species this bonsai is a hungry tree which likes to be frequently fed with bonsai food, but is very rewarding.
A great variety to practice bonsai skills such as pruning and wiring. It is easy to style and will produce a well structured and highly artistic bonsai. It will form beautiful informal upright or broom style bonsai trees.

We believe this to be an exceptional bonsai that does not receive the credit that it deserves.
An under-rated indoor bonsai variety in our opinion but one we highly recommend.

Tree meanings


Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
The Ligustrum sinense symbolises peace and friendship.

Ligustrum Indoor Bonsai Care Summary

Positioning & Temperature


The Ligustrum is an easy indoor bonsai species to care for. It likes a bright position, with good natural daylight, but as with all bonsai, should not be placed in a very hot position in mid-summer. It is not fussy about temperature, but it is not frost hardy so would not be suitable to grow as an outdoor bonsai during the winter months.

Watering


Watering is a lovely and essential part of bonsai tree care. It is a simple, yet vital part of growing bonsai and only takes a few seconds. We recommend whilst you are learning to check the soil daily. If the soil is wet or very damp, please do not water your bonsai. When the soil starts to firm and feels barely damp to the touch, water well by either standing the bonsai in water for a few minutes or by pouring water over the soil surface to re-wet the root ball evenly.

Misting


Misting the leaves of your Ligustrum bonsai is not essential, but does enhance the growth during winter months in particular. In the winter, when the central heating is on, the air can get very dry and misting will simply replace some of the lost humidity and encourage new foliage growth.

Feeding


Feeding bonsai trees is good practice. The bonsai rely on us to provide the nutrients and trace elements they need. A well balanced bonsai feed, such as Bonsai Direct Fertiliser, will maintain healthy and beautiful trees and promote growth, fruiting and flowering.

Pruning/Styling


The Ligustrum Bonsai is a relatively fast growing bonsai variety and is fun to prune and style. The new shoots are often flecked with russet tones which really does make it look very pretty. To maintain the lovely highly defined foliage pads and pretty canopy it is important not to let the shoots grow too long and straggly. By keeping the shoots trimmed, you will be encouraging back budding and new leaves to grow. Most new growth will appear during spring or summer. Allow a shoot to grow approx. 4cm and then prune back to the first two new leaves. Use a sharp pair of bonsai pruning scissors to do this. Within 4-6 weeks you can usually see signs of new shoots emerging further back down the branches, it is very rewarding.
If you would like to try some re-styling you could try some wiring techniques. Generally, wiring is used to give a branch or slender trunk more character and shape.

Growing/Propagating your own Ligustrum bonsai trees


We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that thee kits are rather a disappointed. They frequently don’t germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings.
These are best taken in spring. Allow new shoots to grow 8-10cm and then prune with clean pruning scissors. Pop these cuttings into some fresh multipurpose compost in a small pot. Water them and then keep misting to maintain humidity.

Re-potting your bonsai


If a bonsai becomes pot bound the roots cannot grow. Consequently, the tree cannot grow. The younger the tree the quicker it is growing and the more frequently it will require root pruning or re-potting. As a general rule you are looking at approximately every 2-3 years, and older specimens every 4-5 years. If the pot that your bonsai is in is aesthetically large enough, you may simply be able to root prune your bonsai and it may not require a larger pot at all. Re-potting is best done when the bonsai is actively growing during the warmer summer months. If the bonsai requires a larger pot, simply lift the root ball out of the current pot, tease out approximately one quarter of the root ball with a chop stick to loosen the roots around the edge and position into its new, slightly larger, pot. Use good quality, free draining soil, such as Akadama, and work around the edge of the pot. Stand your re-potted bonsai in water, so that the water covers the whole pot, for approximately 5 mins and then allow to drain.

Akadama is a high quality Japanese bonsai soil made from dried loam. It is granular, so is free flowing and easy and clean to work with. The small balls also encourage the growth of lovely fibrous feeder roots, which is what we want when growing bonsai trees.

Bonsai tips


Please avoid using air freshener near your bonsai, they are not overly keen!
Ligustrum bonsai trees respond well to the use of a Plant Invigorator to help keep the free from pests and help promote new growth. We use this weekly as a preventive measure.

Jade Tree Indoor Bonsai requires minimal watering

Perfect beginners indoor bonsai for sale
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Easy to care for
  • Minimal watering
  • Low maintenance
  • Fast growing
  • Perfect for children
Portulacaria afra/Crassula ovata

The miniature Jade Tree (Portulacaria afra) is an indoor bonsai which has small round pad shaped leaves and a compact habit.
A highly recommended bonsai for complete beginners or children who are starting out – a very forgiving tree! This bonsai requires minimal watering so is perfect for those who forget to water! A tree which originates from warmer climates, hence its adaption to require less water. If you have a particularly warm room this variety will thrive.

The “Money Tree”

Jade trees often feature strongly in feng shui designs and make the perfect gift symbolising luck and prosperity.
This Jade Tree is very similar in appearance to Crassula ovata [the Friendship Tree, Lucky Plant or Money Tree bonsai]; they are frequently mistaken. The Jade Tree (P. afra) has smaller and rounder pads and more compact growth making it far more suitable to grow as a bonsai. It is also hardier and faster growing.
An absolutely fantastic indoor bonsai variety which is incredibly easy to care for. This bonsai does not require regular watering, making it significantly easier to care for. Ideal for complete beginners and highly recommended for children. A wonderful bonsai with character and beautiful proportions.

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This Jade Tree is very similar in appearance to Crassula ovata [the Friendship Tree, Lucky Plant or Money Tree bonsai]; they are frequently mistaken. The Jade Tree (P. afra) has smaller and rounder pads and more compact growth making it far more suitable to grow as a bonsai. It is also hardier and faster growing.
This is a variety of bonsai which is far better to be barely damp. It does not require frequent watering like other varieties. It is not frost hardy but will grow very happily in your home or office.
Another wonderful quality of this tree is that it is very easy to take cuttings from. Cuttings are best taken in spring or summer, then allowed to dry out for a day before potting into a very free draining or gritty compost. Keep the soil moist and in a few weeks you will have a little baby plantlet.

We believe this to be an exceptional bonsai that does not receive the credit that it deserves.
An under-rated indoor bonsai variety in our opinion but one we highly recommend.

Tree meanings


Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance.
The Jade tree makes the perfect gift; symbolising luck and prosperity

Jade Indoor Bonsai Care Summary

Positioning & Temperature


The Jade is an easy indoor bonsai species to care for. It likes a bright position, with good natural daylight, but as with all bonsai, should not be placed in a very hot position in mid-summer. It is not fussy about temperature, but it is not frost hardy so would not be suitable to grow as an outdoor bonsai during the winter months.

Watering


This is very simple for the Jade bonsai. Regular watering is not essential. The soil damp be maintained just damp (i.e. water once a week).

Misting


Misting the leaves of your Jade bonsai is not necessary.

Feeding

Feeding bonsai trees is good practice. The bonsai rely on us to provide the nutrients and trace elements they need. A well balanced bonsai feed, such as Bonsai Direct Fertiliser, will maintain healthy and beautiful trees and promote growth, fruiting and flowering.

Pruning/Styling

The Jade Bonsai is a relatively fast growing bonsai variety and is fun to prune and style.  To maintain the lovely highly defined foliage pads and pretty canopy it is important not to let the shoots grow too long and straggly. By keeping the shoots trimmed, you will be encouraging back budding and new leaves to grow. Most new growth will appear during spring or summer. Allow a shoot to grow approx. 4cm and then prune back to the first two new leaves. Use a sharp pair of bonsai pruning scissors to do this. Within 4-6 weeks you can usually see signs of new shoots emerging further back down the branches, it is very rewarding.

Growing/Propagating your own Jade bonsai trees

We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that thee kits are rather a disappointed. They frequently don’t germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings.
Another wonderful quality of this tree is that it is very easy to take cuttings from. Cuttings are best taken in spring or summer, then allowed to dry out for a day before potting into a very free draining or gritty compost. Keep the soil moist and in a few weeks you will have a little baby plantlet.

Re-potting your bonsai

If a bonsai becomes pot bound the roots cannot grow. Consequently, the tree cannot grow. The younger the tree the quicker it is growing and the more frequently it will require root pruning or re-potting. As a general rule you are looking at approximately every 2-3 years, and older specimens every 4-5 years. If the pot that your bonsai is in is aesthetically large enough, you may simply be able to root prune your bonsai and it may not require a larger pot at all. Re-potting is best done when the bonsai is actively growing during the warmer summer months. If the bonsai requires a larger pot, simply lift the root ball out of the current pot, tease out approximately one quarter of the root ball with a chop stick to loosen the roots around the edge and position into its new, slightly larger, pot. Use good quality, free draining soil, such as Akadama, and work around the edge of the pot. Stand your re-potted bonsai in water, so that the water covers the whole pot, for approximately 5 mins and then allow to drain.

Akadama is a high quality Japanese bonsai soil made from dried loam. It is granular, so is free flowing and easy and clean to work with. The small balls also encourage the growth of lovely fibrous feeder roots, which is what we want when growing bonsai trees.

Bonsai tips

Please avoid using air freshener near your bonsai, they are not overly keen!
Jade bonsai trees respond well to the use of a Plant Invigorator to help keep the free from pests and help promote new growth. We use this weekly as a preventive measure.

FREE DELIVERY to most areas.


Weekend delivery also available.