Bonsai is an art that originated in China and Japan hundreds of years ago. A bonsai is a miniature tree that grows in small containers that is trained to look like full-sized trees. Bonsai is a delicate art, and constant care and attention are required to maintain its beauty. As a beginner, choosing the right tree species is crucial to the success of your bonsai journey. In this article, we will discuss the best bonsai tree species for beginners.
Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
The first and the most popular bonsai species for beginners is Chinese Elm. It is a hardy tree species and can tolerate different environments. Chinese Elm bonsai requires less maintenance but needs sufficient water and plenty of light. This species responds well to training techniques and can be shaped according to your preference.
Juniper (Juniperus)
Juniper is a forgiving bonsai tree that can thrive in different environments. It has several varieties, but the most common is the Chinese Juniper. Juniper bonsai requires proper watering and is better when exposed to sunlight for at least four hours a day. This species is ideal for people who want to experiment with shaping and styling bonsai trees.
Ficus (Ficus retusa)
Ficus is a popular bonsai species due to its ability to adapt to different environments. It is a forgiving tree and can grow in different conditions. It is also a good choice for beginners due to its tolerance to overwatering and underwatering. Ficus bonsai requires bright light and warm temperatures. It can be shaped to your liking and is the perfect tree for indoor environments.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
Japanese Maple is a beautiful and elegant bonsai species. It requires a more experienced touch but can be grown by beginners. It prefers filtered light and needs to be protected from extreme heat and cold. Japanese Maple bonsai requires frequent pruning and shaping to maintain its elegance and beauty.
Bonsai is a delicate art, and choosing the right tree species is crucial for beginners. Chinese Elm, Juniper, Ficus, and Japanese Maple are the best bonsai tree species for beginners. These species require less maintenance, are forgiving, and can adapt to different environments. Remember, bonsai requires constant attention and care, but the rewards are worth it when you see your tree thriving and looking beautiful.
