Maintenance Landscaping Design

Zelkova bonsai is a beautiful and popular plant that make lovely bonsai. The zelkova bonsai tree is easy to grow and make great gifts.

Also known as

• Japanese Elm Bonsai
  
• Green Elm Bonsai
  
• Zelkova Bonsai
  
• Broad-leaved Zelkova Bonsai
  
• Saw-leaf Zelkova Bonsai

Good to Know

• The zelkova bonsai is a type of deciduous tree that is native to parts of Asia.
  
• It is closely related to the elm tree and has a similar appearance.
  
• Zelkova bonsai trees are prized for their beautiful, glossy leaves.
  
• These trees prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils.
  
• Zelkova bonsai trees are relatively easy to care for and can be trained into a variety of shapes.
  
• These trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, so regular monitoring and treatment is important.
  
• Zelkova bonsai trees should be watered regularly, but allowed to dry out between waterings.
  
• Fertilize your zelkova bonsai tree every few weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Zelkova bonsai trees can be pruned and shaped as desired.
  
• These trees make beautiful and long-lasting indoor or outdoor bonsai plants.

How to Grow

1. For zelkova bonsai, first step is to find a suitable tree or shrub.
   
2. Once you have found a tree or shrub, the next step is to prepare the soil.
   
3. After the soil is prepared, the next step is to plant the tree or shrub.
   
4. Once the tree or shrub is planted, the next step is to water it.
   
5. The next step is to fertilize the tree or shrub.
   
6. The next step is to prune the tree or shrub.
   
7. The next step is to wire the tree or shrub.
   
8. The next step is to repot the tree or shrub.
   
9. The next step is to maintain the tree or shrub.
   
10. The last step is to enjoy your zelkova bonsai!

Related plant:
Zelkova

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, the zelkova bonsai prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soils. It is essential to have good drainage because the roots of the zelkova bonsai are sensitive to overwatering. The roots will rot if the soil is too wet. It is best to water the zelkova bonsai thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again.

About light

So, like the other bonsai trees, Zelkova bonsai need sunlight to grow and stay healthy. However, because they are native to shady forests, they can tolerate lower light levels than other species. When grown indoors, Zelkova bonsai should be placed near a window where they will receive bright, indirect light. If possible, they should be put outside during the spring and summer months so they can enjoy some time in the sun.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition for a zelkova bonsai is warm. They should be kept in an environment where the temperature does not drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They should also be protected from the hot sun and from drafts.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. This can be provided by using a humidifier or by placing the plant on a pebble tray. The plant should be misted regularly to maintain the humidity level. If the humidity level drops below 50%, the leaves of the plant will start to turn brown and drop off.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, this plant requires a high nitrogen fertilizer in the spring to help it produce new leaves. A low nitrogen fertilizer should be used in the summer to help the plant produce new roots. You should not use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content in the summer as this will encourage the plant to produce new leaves instead of new roots.

About light

Pruning Zelkova bonsai is important to maintain the desired shape of the tree. It is best to prune in the early spring, before new growth begins. To prune, first remove any dead or diseased branches. Next, trim back any long or out-of-place branches. Finally, thin out the foliage to allow light and air to reach the inner branches.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done in early spring when the plant is just beginning to grow. Take a cutting about 6 inches long from a healthy branch and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot of moistened soil. Cover the pot with plastic to create a mini greenhouse and place it in a bright spot out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not wet and in about 6 to 8 weeks, you should see new growth. Once the plant is well-rooted, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the ground.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is between six and twelve inches a year. Zelkova bonsai are deciduous trees that are native to Japan and parts of China. Zelkova bonsai have a moderate growth rate and can tolerate a wide range of climates.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are caterpillars, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Caterpillars can also be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a biological control agent.

Growing Tips

• If you live in an area with cold winters, it's best to grow zelkova bonsai in a container that can be brought indoors.
  
• Zelkova bonsai need full sun to partial shade.
  
• Water your zelkova bonsai regularly, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy.
  
• Fertilize your zelkova bonsai monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Zelkova bonsai can be pruned year-round to shape them as you like.
  
• If you want to create a formal upright style bonsai, choose a zelkova bonsai with a single trunk.
  
• Zelkova bonsai can be trained in a variety of styles, including informal upright, slanting, cascade, and semi-cascade.
  
• To create a more natural look

Alternative Plants

• Zelkova abelicea
  
• Zelkova carpinifolia
  
• Zelkova crenata
  
• Zelkova elata
  
• Zelkova huberi
  
• Zelkova hypoleuca
  
• Zelkova koraiensis
  
• Zelkova koreana
  
• Zelkova longiana
  
• Zelkova multinervis

Source:
From the Collection: Zelkova | Arnold Arboretum
Zelkova, Japanese
Japanese Zelkova | UMD Arboretum & Botanical Garden