Growth characteristics
Flame trees are tropical plants that can grow up to ten meters high. Its crown is naturally umbrella-like, which is also the focus of the bonsai design. In tropical conditions the tree is evergreen. Cooler conditions cause the wood to shed leaves. It survives the Central European winter months in a district with temperatures between ten and 20 degrees Celsius.
also read
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- Grow a conifer as a bonsai
- Can I grow a pagoda tree as a bonsai?
Advice on growing bonsai
These specimens are not typical objects to create a mini-tree. If you want to turn the species into a bonsai, you need to be very patient. Delonix regia is slowly lignifying. Similar to other bird of paradise shrubs from the same genus, the leaves can be kept to a maximum size of ten centimeters through targeted design measures.
How to cut properly
Despite its delicate appearance, a flame tree can handle more radical pruning measures very well. These take place in spring so that the tree can put all of its energy into the growth of the existing parts of the plant in the subsequent vegetation period. Take away any excess shoots that disrupt the overall look. In order for an umbrella-shaped crown to develop over time, regular trimming is necessary during the summer. The tree develops beautiful branches through constant pruning.
Tips for a balanced overall picture
Keep an eye on the bigger picture as you cut. Flame trees look aesthetic with an odd number of branches. They add tension and interest. Ideally, the deciduous tree has three branches on different levels so that the flowers and leaves have enough space to develop. When cutting leaves, you should make sure that the branches are never completely defoliated.
Wires
The tropical plants have very soft and elastic wood. In addition, the young branches slowly lignify, which is why stabilizing wires are well suited for the design. Aluminum wires are wrapped in a spiral around the shoots so that they can then be bent into the desired shape. Make sure that it is snug but not too tight. Check the bonsai weekly for growth and remove the wires when the secondary growth begins.
Tips
If you want to move older branches into a different orientation, anchoring is a good option.
care
These specimens prove to be sensitive to maintenance measures. They do not tolerate mistakes and are quick to die in suboptimal conditions. A permeable and mineral substrate is just as essential as a planter with drainage holes.
How to properly care:
- Let the soil dry off before watering
- Avoid dry periods and soil that is too moist
- Fertilize organically every four weeks during the growth phase
