Bonsai Advice?

Question

I have recently got an 18 year old Chinese Elm bonzai tree, can it live inside full time? or does it need to go outside. what would be your top tips for bonsai success?

Answer 1

You can pretty much bet that any tree or plant that normally lives outside will have to spend most of its time outside as a bonsai too. I have quite a few bonsai, both indoor and outdoor plants, and put all of them outside during the spring, summer, and fall. The tropical plants like ficus have to come indoors for the winter, but I'll leave the ones like juniper, azalea, and maples outside, albeit in a protected spot, all winter. The only time those come inside is if I want to show them off for a short time. Indoors is usually way too dry and dark for most outdoor type plants.

Answer 2

A lot of this depends on where you live. You need to contact a local bonsai club/garden and ask the experts. It would be good if you put where you lived so people from your area could answer.

I know usually Chinese Elm are not kept indoors for long periods. But I don't know how they react to say a Wisconsin winter.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Gee, how did you get such an old tree without experience in bonsai?

First thing I recommend is that you join a local club, to make sure you maintain it alive! Good luck

Answer 4

You can go to BonsaiSite.com and check with them on your location and compatibility of your Elm.

Answer 5

Keep it outside. It needs full sun and the winter for its dormancy.