Let's learn broadleaf bonsai, especially those made from deciduous trees!

Broadleaf bonsai, especially those made from deciduous trees such as Zelkova, Maple, Acer, Ilex, Oak, and Beech, captivate many enthusiasts with their beauty and seasonal expressions.

These species show various expressions throughout the year, from the budding of spring, the deep green of summer, the autumn leaves, and the appearance after defoliation. However, to maintain their beauty, proper care is necessary. In particular, these species bud well and have strong tree vigor, so if you neglect to pick buds and prune, the branches will soon stretch out. Also, to make the autumn leaves beautiful, managing sunlight and leaf cutting are important tasks.

For example, Zelkova can enjoy various colors throughout the year, from the new buds and fresh green in early spring to the deep green in summer and the autumn leaves. However, Zelkova grows fast, so if you don't take care of it, it will soon lose its shape. Therefore, pruning and wire hanging are necessary. Also, when repotting, it is important to adjust so that the roots can spread.

Maple prefers an environment with good sunlight and ventilation, but dislikes drying. Therefore, it is important to maintain a certain humidity. Also, pruning, bud picking, and leaf cutting are necessary, and these tasks are performed according to the annual schedule.

Acer is grown in a sunny location, but avoids intense sunlight and heat in the summer, and is managed in semi-shade. Also, watering is important, and in spring, water once or twice a day, in summer, two to three times a day, and in winter, once every two to three days. When the surface soil dries, give plenty of water.

Ilex has thin and weak roots, so be careful not to dry out. Also, fertilize once a month with solid fertilizer such as oil cake between April and June and between September and October.

Oak is placed in a well-ventilated and sunny location. Be careful not to dry out in the summer and give leaf water. Also, when the leaves are curled, it is a sign of water shortage, but if you are properly watering, there is a possibility of root rot, so you adjust the roots.

Beech is placed in a well-ventilated and sunny location, but in the summer, shading is used to avoid drying out. Also, watering is important, and in spring, water once or twice a day, in summer, two to three times a day, and in winter, once every two to three days. When the surface soil dries, give plenty of water.

These species can enjoy beautiful bonsai with proper care and management. Bonsai is an art that captures the beauty of nature in a small pot, and to maximize its charm, appropriate knowledge and techniques are required.