Raising the Bacon Tree as a Bonsai

Proper care for the bacon tree

The bacon tree is generally considered to be extremely robust and forgives even minor care mistakes. as succulent plant it doesn't have to be poured too often. The perfect location for the bacon tree should meet the following requirements:

• bright and sunny
• permeable substrate in the pot (otherwise problems with waterlogging may occur)
• Temperatures between 8 and 22 degrees Celsius

The bacon tree can also be moved outside in summer. However, if it comes from a location without direct sunlight in the house, it should be slowly accustomed to the solar radiation. Otherwise the bacon tree can be prone to "sunburn". As soon as the soil in the pot has dried completely, the bacon tree can be poured extensively with a trivet until no more water runs out of the pot. Then ideally wait until the pot has become relatively dry again before watering.

Shape a bonsai tree yourself

Since the bacon tree grows relatively stocky and compact, it offers optimal conditions for growing in bonsai form at a young age. Between May and September, the bacon tree can be cut very easily and thus brought into shape. In order to perfect the typical bonsai look, you can cut out inward-facing and cross-standing branches to gradually achieve one of the following bonsai shapes:

• "Forests" made up of several plants
• Tree shape
• Semi-cascade
• cascade

Since the branches and the trunk of the bacon tree are rather thick and soft due to the water storage in the plant, wiring is usually not necessary. Should it be necessary, the branches of a bonsai tree can be braced with wires.

Propagate the bacon tree yourself for bonsai cultivation

When pruning a bonsai tree into a bonsai tree, there are regularly some branches that can easily be used for propagation. Let the cuttings dry for about two days before moving in Cactus soil and let it take root in a warm and bright location without direct sunlight.