Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree
– How easy are they to grow?
If you are considering
embarking upon Bonsai as a new hobby, a Japanese Maple
Bonsai Tree would be a perfect first choice.
The Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree comes in a few different
varieties, being the red leaved, the dwarf and the rough
barked. By the far the most popular would be the red leaved,
because of its stunning color display. In the spring and
summer you can expect this bonsai tree to produce brilliant
red colored leaves, which become brighter and change color
again in the fall. Even the trunk and branches will change
color. In winter the tree will lose its leaves completely.
The Japanese Maple Bonsai tree is a preferred choice amongst
beginners because of the ease in caring for this hardy
robust tree, and the brilliant display it will reward you
with. It is sure to stand out in any area of your home,
giving you many hours of pleasure.
So what should you look for when choosing a new Japanese
Maple Bonsai Tree ?
The first thing is whether you are going to choose a
seedling or grow the tree from seed. If you are a beginner
it may be a wise choice to begin with a seedling. Look for
one that looks strong and healthy, and is approximately 4
inches in diameter. This will allow you to train the tree
into the shape you desire.
Caring for you new Japanese Maple Bonsai tree is very simple
too. You will need to fertilize your tree regularly. As far
as watering goes, bonsai’s grow in very little soil and have
exposed roots, so they are prone to drying out quickly.
Water regularly, however be sure not to over water your tree
as it could result in rotting roots. A good indication that
your bonsai needs watering is to touch the soil. If it feels
dry it will require some moisture. However if the soil still
feels moist, refrain from watering.
You will need to position your Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree so
that it receives some shade from the harsh summer sun,
however during the rest of the year it will require full
sun. Be careful to keep it protected from the harsh wind.
These trees are tolerant of colder climates, but will not
tolerate frosty weather which could result in leaf burn.
Position your bonsai in a protected area and you won’t have
these problems.
Training your Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree into the desired
shape is done easily with the aid of wire. Do not use just
any wire however. The wire needs to be non corrosive, so
anodized aluminum or brown copper wire should be the choice
of wire you use. This will also help strengthen the trunk
and branches while they grow. The most popular shape chosen
by bonsai enthusiasts is the natural state of this
magnificent tree.
Proper care of your Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree is not
difficult with a few quick and simple steps and the reward
you will receive in the way of a beautifully colored display
come spring and summer will be worth the effort.
I wish you all the best on your
japanese maple bonsai tree adventure!
Best wishes,
Thomas T :)
|