The elm is ideal for keeping bonsai
A bonsai requires regular topiary pruning. In contrast to other deciduous trees, the elm tolerates this very well. It sprouts again after a short time, thickens quickly and has dense branching. The Chinese elm in particular is often used for growing bonsai. No wonder, after all, the plant comes from Asia, the home of bonsai art. The most common forms are
- the free upright form
- and the strictly upright form
also read
- Instructions for caring for a bonsai elm
- How to properly overwinter a Chinese elm
- Cut the Chinese elm
After the purchase
You can get elms not only in the nursery, but also for little money at the discounter. However, in this case the bale is surrounded by a thick layer of clay. Although this proves to be very useful for transport, if the clay dries, your elm will die. Therefore, immediately after purchase, free the bale of clay and place the deciduous tree in a species-appropriate substrate.
Point of time
The elm grows about six inches per month in summer, which is why it may need to be pruned up to three times a year to maintain its shape. Basically suitable times are:
- for topiary: in spring
- for removing thick branches: in autumn
- for wire: in the spring after the shape cut
The technology
You should always use sharp tools for both shaping and pruning to keep the wounds as small as possible.
The cut back
- let young shoots grow to 6-8 leaves
- then cut back to two leaves
The wire
You can either wire or stretch an elm. The latter is particularly recommended for young, tender branches that are still mobile and flexible.
Don't be afraid of making mistakes
Due to the rapid growth, irregularities can be compensated for in a short time by means of a shaped cut.