Fukien Tea Bonsai – The
ideal Indoor Bonsai Tree
A Fukien Tea Bonsai is an
ideal choice as an indoor bonsai plant. The care of this
particular tree requires a bit more skill than other bonsai
plants, so it may not be the best choice if you are a
beginner. Experienced bonsai enthusiasts will enjoy the
challenge that comes with the Fukien Tea Bonsai.
Also called the Fujian Tea , the Fukien Tea is an evergreen
tree that is native to the Fujian Province in China. Its
scientific name is Ehretia Microphylla.
The tree produces shiny dark green leaves, which are perfect
for bonsai. It produces miniature flowers in the summer
which eventually turn to small black berries.
The Fukien Tea Bonsai prefers a warmer humid climate, and
can tolerate some cooler areas, however make sure it is
protected from extreme cold, frost and snow.
If you plan to place your Fukien Tea Bonsai indoors, you
will need to select a bight well lit area and preferably a
nice warm spot. Underneath a skylight or near a large window
facing east or west, would be an ideal location and will
give you positive results.
The Fukien Tea Bonsai has some requirements in regards to
care and maintenance.
When it comes to watering your bonsai, make sure you keep
your tree moist but be careful not to overwater. Standing
the pot in water is not recommended. Use a good well
draining soil, produced especially for bonsai’s for best
results.
Your Fukien tea prefers a humid environment. It will not
tolerate extreme cold. To create a perfect humid environment
for your bonsai, place a tray filled with very small stones
or gravel and fill with water. Then simply place your pot on
top of the stones. There has been a bit of controversy as to
whether this method is effective however, some bonsai
enthusiasts are adamant that it gives them good results. It
won’t hurt to try it.
When training your Fukien Tea Bonsai, the most popular
styles are broom, literati and cascade. Wiring isn’t
necessary, however if you decide to wire your Fukien Tea, be
sure to check the wire every 3 months or so, as the wire can
cut into the branches which results in unsightly scarring of
your bonsai.
If your Fukien Tea Bonsai is located indoors, be sure to
check regularly for pests. These trees are susceptible to
scale, aphids and mealy bugs. Unfortunately indoors there
are no natural predators, like lady bugs to keep pests under
control, so it will be up to you to deal with the pests
yourself. A diluted pesticide should do the trick, however
be sure that it’s not too strong as your Fukien Tea is
sensitive to pesticides.
If you are well educated and take proper care of your Fukien
Tea Bonsai, by placing it in a well lit area, keep it moist
and give it adequate care and attention, I have no doubt it
will repay you with beautiful foliage and sweet delicate
flowers in the summer, giving you lots of pleasure for many
many years.
I wish you all the best on your
fukien tea bonsai adventure!
Best wishes,
Thomas T :)
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