The Japanese holly is ideal as a bonsai, ideally even as an outdoor bonsai. Rain and wind then harden their leaves, giving them enough energy to form a proper trunk. This keeps it he althy and resistant to diseases and pests.
How do I grow and care for a Japanese holly as a bonsai?
To grow a bonsai from a Japanese holly, ideally cultivate it as an outdoor bonsai. It is important to water regularly, prune every 6-8 weeks in summer, cut roots when repotting and fertilize from spring to autumn.
How do I grow a Japanese holly bonsai?
Since the Japanese holly grows quite slowly, it can be easily shaped into different shapes, depending on your preference in an upright style or cloud or spherical. Please note, however, that the red or black berries of this plant are poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children if possible.
In the summer, the Japanese holly should be pruned about every six to eight weeks using well-sharpened tools. When repotting, also trim the roots so that your holly has a balanced appearance.
In the winter months you can shape the holly into the desired shape using wire. As soon as the branches and trunk begin to grow thicker again in May, remove the wire so that it does not leave unsightly marks in the bark.
How do I care for the Japanese holly as a bonsai?
As a thirsty plant, the Japanese holly should definitely be watered regularly. If the fine roots dry, they will die quickly. Therefore, avoid the soil from drying out, which is especially important in the warm season. Since the Japanese holly is an evergreen plant, it needs to be watered well even in winter.
If you forget to water, dipping the plant pot in water or rinsing the plant will help. It's best to use rainwater for this so that your holly doesn't get limescale spots on its leaves. You should fertilize the Japanese holly from spring to autumn with organic fertilizer or a special bonsai fertilizer.
The most important things in brief:
- Best grown as an outdoor bonsai
- water regularly
- prune about every 6 to 8 weeks in summer
- Root cutting when repotting
- fertilize regularly from spring to autumn
Tip
It is best to cultivate the Japanese holly as an outdoor bonsai. Sun, wind and rain make the plant resilient and strong in growth.
