New Hobby Alert! 7 Trees That Can Make A Good Bonsai

Did you know that bonsai trees can be aesthetically pleasing, even if your house is small? Moreover, bonsai trees can also be a great gift on any occasion, and can also be a great hobby.

Basically, the art of making bonsai is making a miniature version of a full-grown tree. The leaves of a bonsai tree are so small that they only grow for a few millimetres.

As of today, there are many kinds of trees that you can use for making bonsai. In addition, shrubs and other plant types can also be used for making bonsai.

So whether you want to have your bonsai or if you’re looking for something to give to your family and friends a bonsai tree is a great option. Meanwhile, if you would like to start making bonsai as a hobby then you should ask an arborist first regarding the tips and techniques of making and maintaining bonsai trees.

Are you having trouble with what trees to pick? Then you should check the list below for some of the best options!

1. Jade

If you are a beginner, a jade tree is a great option in making bonsai. Since it belongs to the succulent family, it doesn’t need much of your time and effort. Moreover, it can easily be trimmed whether you want it to grow slanting, upright, or even in a complicated pattern.

However, if it’s too complicated, such as when you need some wire two shape it, you should ask an arborist about the safe ways to shape it. Aside from shaving techniques, an arborist also knows the right way of pruning and other ways to take care of a jade bonsai.

Jade trees have thick leaves and branches so you can just water it once in a while. Unfortunately, if you water it too much, it might die. Meanwhile, you should also place it at a higher temperature even if it’s indoors.

2. Ficus

Nowadays, you can find a lot of different varieties of ficus trees that can be used in making bonsai. However, two have always been on top of the list— Ficus retusa and Ficus religiosa.

Generally, ficus trees have pointed leaves, while their roots can be grown aerial. When you grow aerial roots of a bonsai, it means that their roots are still functioning even above the ground. In fact, you can do this technique at home, but in a safe container like a fish tank or a big transparent jar.

Just like the jade tree, ficus trees can easily adapt to changes in their environment. For instance, if you have a regular watering schedule and you missed a few, they can still make up for it on their own.

3. Juniper

Another good option when it comes to making bonsai is the juniper tree. Similar to ficus, it also has many other varieties, and it can adapt to the environment.

Unfortunately, a bonsai juniper tree can’t live indoors because it requires a high temperature to survive. So be careful when dealing with a juniper bonsai during the winter season, especially when the temperature reaches below 14℉, then you might need help from an arborist to keep it alive.

Meanwhile, another good thing about a bonsai juniper tree is that you can also shape it the way you like it.

4. Cotoneaster

Did you know that small trees can be the best fit in making bonsai? Well, as mentioned before, you can make any plants and trees into bonsai if you want to. However, since small trees like cotoneaster already have tiny genes, then it’ll be easier.

Additionally, cotoneaster can also grow both indoors and outdoors, and they can easily be shaped using wires! So it won’t be hard if you choose this tree as your first trial in making bonsai. Just make sure to ask an arborist first regarding the right ways in shaping a bonsai tree with wires.

5. Pomegranate

Looking for a tree that has the bonsai aesthetic? Then pomegranate is the answer! If you’re familiar with the orange to red blooms of a regular pomegranate tree and its fruit, then it’s as beautiful in a bonsai version, but smaller.

But just like any other bonsai tree for beginners, pomegranate requires a higher temperature than usual. Furthermore, you should protect it once the winter season comes.

However, even if it’s sensitive when it comes to the required temperature, it can grow in many different shapes and styles.

6. Japanese maple

Have you seen a Japanese maple tree before? It has red-orange leaves that turn yellow during Fall. But when it gets old, it turns grey or even brown. It’s a lovely tree that you, fortunately, can turn into bonsai.

A bonsai Japanese maple tree requires a lot of sunlight and water. However, when the heat is too much, you should transfer it in shade. Meanwhile, it should also be protected from very low temperatures as it can freeze and die.

7. Boxwood

Another good choice for people who just started making bonsai trees is boxwood. It’s perfect if you’re not yet confident about your skills since it can’t easily die if you ever did something wrong.

Boxwood has its adaptability in many temperatures and environmental changes, but it can also use a lot of time under the shade. However, if you’re planning to transfer it in a container, it’ll be fine as long as you consult an arborist regarding the tree removal techniques.

Other than those mentioned above, you can find some peaceful time making a bonsai boxwood tree in your free time. Don’t forget to prune and maintain it once in a while, even if it looks like it doesn’t need to be taken care of.

So whether you got the inspiration from Mr. Miyagi in The Karate Kid franchise (1984- 1989), or if you just saw it online, you should go ahead and try it! It’ll be easier if you start with any of the listed options mentioned above. However, if you know any other trees that beginners can try, then don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!