The most popular bonsai tree, the Chinese Elm can be kept indoors or outdoors all year. This species is deciduous and will lose its leaves in late winter. If kept indoors, the tree will benefit from a rest while it is dormant: move to a cooler place for 4 weeks, either outdoors or a garage or shed. If this is not possible, move to the coolest part of the house. This is important, as trying to fool the tree into thinking it is permanent summer may lead to its death after a couple of years.
CARE
- Position: Chinese Elms need good light.
- Watering: Don’t let the roots dry out. When watering, make sure some drips through the holes in the bottom of the pot; that way you know the roots are wet. Water less when dormant.
- Feeding: Feed every month with a good indoor plantfood.
- Re-potting: move to a larger pot every 4-5 years. Use a free draining soil.
- Pruning: Trim leaves and new shoots at any time to keep the tree’s shape.