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Ulmus ‘Chinese Elm’ (Bonsai Starter) 8″ Pot
$89.99
Ulmus parvifolia
The bark of the Chinese Elm is a real stand out feature, as the tree sheds it in patches, creating the effect of a tapestry of varying browns and greys. Foliage is lush, shiny and green, and the tree is semi deciduous, turning golden in autumn, and keeping its leaves in warmer areas. It has also been noted by many Aussie gardeners in recent years that native birds enjoy the fruit of the Chinese Elm.
8”/20cm pot
This is a Bonsai starter – create your own Bonsai (images are examples only)
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How to create your own bonsai tree
To transform the plant into a bonsai you need a shallow bonsai pot, a free-draining potting mix, scissors or sharp secateurs, wire to secure the plant in the container, and a small piece of mesh to cover the drainage hole to prevent loss of potting mix.
Brush/Hose off the potting mix from the selected plant to reveal the base of the stem and the root structure. Trim the roots to fit into the new container.
Sit the plant in place, adjusting its position so it is appealing and suits the shape of the container. Revealing the base of the trunk and the top of the root system by planting the specimen higher than it was growing originally may add to the aged look of the plant.
Secure the root ball in place by inserting wire through the base of the container and through the root system. Twist the wire so the plant is firm and secure. Top up the potting mix, firming it around the root system to remove air pockets.
Use secateurs or sharp scissors to prune and shape the plant to accentuate its branch shape and imperfections. Some bonsai gardeners use wire to twist or manipulate the trunk and branches into new shapes and positions. Roots may also be trained over rocks. The trunk or branches may be deliberately wounded to give a plant an aged, gnarled appearance.
To finish off, cover the surface of the potting mix with gravel, moss or artfully arranged stones and water well. As the plant grows, it will need regular pruning and from time to time will require root pruning and repotting.
