Raising a rubber tree as a bonsai

It is better to choose a small-leaved species or one similar plant like the oleander-leaved rubber tree (lat. Ficus neriifolia) or a fig. Make sure that the leaf size and habit form a harmonious picture.

How do I shape a bonsai?

By Cut and wires you can give your bonsai the shape and size you want. Regular pruning is necessary to avoid balding of the bonsai. Keep shortening the shoots to two to four leaves. You can also influence the thickness of the trunk in this way. To do this, only cut off new shoots when the trunk is as thick as you would like it to be.

When it comes to wire, you have a wide range of design options. The best time to do this is in July and August. Remove the wire after six months at the latest, otherwise it will grow into the trunk. Sometimes this is also desirable, because it makes the wired branch or trunk thicker.

How do I care for a bonsai?

Give your oleander-leaved rubber tree good bonsai soil, which you can get from specialist shops. In principle, the requirements for the Location and the care the same as with a normally growing rubber tree. He likes it warm and bright and does not tolerate waterlogging or drafts.

to water Do not use too much of your rubber tree, it also only needs small amounts of fertilizer. You should get yours every two to three years or so Repot the rubber tree, ideally do this in the spring. At the Cutting bonsai Take this opportunity to get the roots back slightly.

The essentials in brief:

• Use small-leaved varieties or related plants
• shape by wire and cutting
• use good bonsai soil
• Repot about every two to three years
• Slightly cut back the roots