Elm bonsai are loved by many enthusiasts for their beautiful shapes, tolerance to pruning, and fast growth. Many beginners find that although elms grow rapidly, they often struggle to thicken. Let's analyze in detail how to make elm bonsai thicker, making your bonsai more spectacular.
Choosing the right elm varietySelecting an appropriate elm variety for potting is crucial. Varieties such as golden elm and white elm are more suitable for potting, as they have a moderate growth rate and are easy to manage. When purchasing elms, you should choose seedlings with straight trunks, smooth bark, and evenly distributed branches.
Pruning techniquesPruning is a key step in promoting the thickening of elm bonsai. Here are some pruning techniques:
1. Timely pruning: Prune during the elm's vigorous growth periods, such as spring and autumn. When pruning, retain an appropriate number of main and lateral branches to avoid over-pruning.
2. Pruning method: When pruning, keep branches above the trunk to promote trunk growth. For overly long branches, you can cut them back appropriately to encourage the growth of new branches.
3. Moderate pruning: Pruning should be moderate to avoid weakening the tree. Generally, pruned branches should be retained to 1/3 to 1/2 of their original length.
Fertilization managementProper fertilization is an important means of promoting the thickening of elm bonsai. Here are some fertilization techniques:
1. Choose the right fertilizer: Select compound fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as ternary compound fertilizers. You can also add organic fertilizers like chicken manure or cow dung.
2. Fertilizing time: During the elm's vigorous growth periods, such as spring and autumn, you can increase the frequency of fertilization. Generally, fertilizing once or twice a month is sufficient.
3. Fertilizing method: When fertilizing, spread the fertilizer evenly on the surface of the potting soil and then water to allow it to penetrate, avoiding direct contact with the trunk and leaves.
Water managementWater is essential for the growth of elms. Here are some water management techniques:
1. Timely watering: Keep the potting soil moist but avoid waterlogging. In the hot summer, you should increase the frequency of watering.
2. Control watering: In the low temperatures of winter, reduce the frequency of watering to avoid frostbite.
3. Watering method: When watering, pour the water slowly from the bottom of the pot to allow even penetration.
Sunlight managementElms enjoy sunlight and should be placed in a sunny location. In the high temperatures of summer, you can provide some shade to avoid direct sunlight.
By managing these five aspects, your elm bonsai should be able to thicken. It's important to note that caring for a bonsai is a long-term process that requires patience and attention to detail. I hope this article is helpful to you and makes your elm bonsai more beautiful and spectacular.