Bonsai, which translates to “planted in a container,” is the Japanese art of growing, caring for, and shaping miniature trees in trays. Their compact, structural appearance is achieved through extensive pruning, which can be done to just about any type of plant. The quintessential bonsai tree looks like a small representation of large trees you would find in nature, which is why they’re typically grown in containers rather than in the ground. While you don’t need a green thumb to cultivate a beautiful Bonsai tree, it does take time to achieve your desired look.
What Is a Bonsai Tree?
Bonsai is an ancient art form that originated in China almost 1,000 years ago. “It involves using container gardening and other horticultural techniques to maintain a plant in miniature size by pruning and shaping,” says Kelly Funk, the president of Jackson & Perkins. “Bonsai trees are not genetically modified to remain small but are rather cultivated that way.”
Best Types of Trees for Bonsai
Many trees can be trained as bonsai, but some varieties are better suited to the art form than others. There are a number of both deciduous and evergreen tree species that do especially well because they have naturally more refined leaves or needles, have more trainable branches, or are adaptable to indoor or outdoor growing. “Some of the best species, especially for new bonsai enthusiasts, include fig trees, Fukien tea trees, Chinese elms, junipers, and Japanese maple trees,” says Ryan McEnany, public relations and communications specialist for Bailey Nurseries.
One of the easiest trees to grow as a bonsai is jade bonsai. “Jade bonsais are suitable for indoors as they have thick, succulent leaves and are relatively low-maintenance,” says Funk. Its thick leaves retain water, so the plant doesn’t require as much hydration as other indoor varieties.
If you want to grow your bonsai tree outdoors, juniper bonsai is a hardy and versatile option known for its unique foliage and ability to withstand different weather conditions, says Funk.
When to Grow a Bonsai Tree Outside vs. Inside
Though growing a bonsai tree outdoors is truer to the art form (bonsai trees are supposed to be planted and maintained outside), depending on where you live, certain varieties might do better indoors. “Consider the local climate, USDA zone, and environmental conditions when selecting outdoor bonsai trees,” says Funk. “In regions with freezing winters or very hot summers, it may be more challenging to maintain an outdoor bonsai year round. In such cases, growing indoors might be a more suitable option.”
Typically, a bonsai plant from a deciduous tree (trees that lose their leaves in fall and winter) are best grown outside, so long as you avoid full sun. “Providing some filtered sun will give you the best results without burning the leaves or needles and not drying out the roots too quickly,” says McEnany. On the other hand, tropical species should be grown indoors.
How to Grow a Bonsai Tree
It is recommended to purchase a bonsai tree already established in a pot, as it gives you the best chance of success. “Established bonsai are pre-trained and styled and they have already undergone years of development,” says Funk. “You can enjoy the beauty of the bonsai immediately.”
With that being said, it is possible to plant your own bonsai tree—a process called bonsai cultivation or bonsai training. To do so, first choose a suitable species such as ficus, juniper, Chinese elm, Japanese maple, jade, rosemary, or azalea. “You can start by planting a young tree, a seedling, or a cutting and then carefully shaping and training it over time to create a bonsai,” says Funk.
- Select a shallow pot with drainage holes slightly larger than the root ball of your tree.
- Carefully place the tree in the pot and fill in the space around the roots with bonsai soil mix.
- Water thoroughly.
- Begin shaping the bonsai by pruning unwanted foliage and branches, while focusing on the basic structure of the tree.
- Over time, continue to prune and shape the bonsai to achieve the desired appearance.
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How to Care for a Bonsai Tree
While the level of care your bonsai tree requires will largely depend on the variety you choose to grow, there are some general care requirements to follow.
Water
Bonsai plants require frequent watering and should never dry out completely. “Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged,” says Funk. “Water when the top layer feels slightly dry to the touch.”
Sun
Keep your bonsai in an area where it receives bright, indirect sunlight. It should get up to three or more hours of direct sunlight daily, says Funk.
Soil
Generally, bonsai trees require a well-draining soil mix that provides adequate aeration and water retention. But keep in mind that the soil mix should vary depending on the tree species and climate, says Funk.
Temperature
The climate your bonsai tree requires will depend on the type of tree you’re growing, as certain varieties need a cold snap. Indoor varieties, however, will do best in a humid, draft-free room with temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 40 to 55 degrees at night.
Fertilizer
Apply a complete liquid fertilizer half strength every six weeks throughout the growing season—typically spring to midsummer—says Funk.
How to Shape a Bonsai Tree
Pruning is essential when it comes to growing a bonsai tree—it’s how the plant achieves its unique shape. “Before you start shaping, determine the style you want for your bonsai,” says Funk. Try to stay patient and remember that it may take years to achieve the desired form. When shaping your bonsai tree, keep the following tips in mind.
- Use clean, sharp bonsai scissors or pruning shears to shape the bonsai by pruning away unwanted foliage and branches.
- Focus on creating the basic structure of the tree, including the main trunk and branches. In dense areas, thin out excess foliage.
- Inspect the bonsai regularly to remove any new growth that interferes with the design.
How to Repot a Bonsai Tree
You should repot your bonsai tree every two to three years to refresh the soil and prevent root-bound conditions, says Funk. Choose a shallow container with drainage holes that is slightly bigger than the old pot.
- Carefully remove the tree from the container.
- Gently prune the roots with clean, sharp pruning shears.
- Place the tree in the new container.
- Fill in the area around the tree with bonsai specific soil.
- Water thoroughly to help it get established.
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