Indoor/ Outdoor Ulmus parvifolia ‘Chinese Elm’ Bonsai Tree

Ulmus parvifolia ‘Chinese Elm’ are an easy to grow and to care for, deciduous, bonsai. So make a really good tree for a beginner. 

Chinese Elms are one of our most popular varieties of Bonsai as they can be grown either Indoors or Outdoors. The larger the tree the more light it needs so bear this in mind when buying.

Location

The Chinese Elm can be grown in either full sun or partial shade if outdoors, but if possible, will need full sunlight if kept indoors. An indoor Chinese Elm benefits from being placed outside for a spell during the summer.

Temperature

The Chinese Elm is a deciduous tree. Kept outdoors throughout the year it will drop its leaves in winter. If it is to be kept indoors for winter, keep in a cool room away from central heating and it should hold some leaves through the winter. At Herons most of our Chinese Elms are kept in an unheated greenhouse all year. You can also keep the Chinese Elm outdoors all year. 

Watering

How much water your bonsai needs isn't an exact science you will need to observe your trees individually. Chinese Elm should be watered when needed, frequency will depend on the warmth and humidity of the room. Soil should be just moist and never waterlogged. Touch the soil to determine if the tree needs watering.

Pruning

Left to grow the Chinese Elm will thicken rapidly. It responds well to frequent trimming which produces a dense ramification and it also buds well from old wood after pruning. Pruning of large branches can be done in late autumn.

Repotting

Repot when needed. Younger Chinese Elms should be checked every couple of years, however older and larger specimens can have longer intervals between repotting. Spring is the best time for repotting and the soil should be well-drained. 

Feeding 

Feed every two weeks during the growing season  (always read the instructions)

For more advice please visit our FAQ page and YouTube channel.

Please Note: The picture is for guidance only. It is not generally possible to send the tree in the picture. Please note that measurements given are approximate not exact. Measurements given are from the bottom of the pot to the top of the tree, the pot colour may also vary from the picture. Due to their nature trees grow and whilst in our care may need pruning, this means the tree that you receive may differ in size to that given in the description. The appearance of the tree may vary depending on the season.