Trees that grow relatively quickly and branch well are particularly suitable as bonsai. The African tulip tree can certainly be described as vigorous, but it naturally has few branches and needs to be pruned accordingly.
How to grow an African tulip tree as a bonsai?
To grow an African tulip tree as a bonsai, you need a young plant, regular pruning, root cutting and sufficient water and fertilizer. The plant should be kept bright and warm and overwinter at at least 15 °C in winter.
How do I grow an African tulip tree as a bonsai?
To grow a bonsai from an African tulip tree, you should choose a very young plant or grow the tree yourself from seeds. Start pruning quite early. How to encourage the African tulip tree to branch. However, do this carefully and do not cut too much.
Sowing the African Tulip Tree
You can get the seeds of the African tulip tree online. Sowing is quite easy as these seeds usually germinate well. All you need is an evenly moist substrate and constant warmth. The germination temperature of the African tulip tree is around 20 °C to 25 °C. The seedlings should appear after about two to three weeks.
How do I care for my African Tulip Tree Bonsai?
Like the African tulip tree in its original format, your bonsai needs a warm and bright place. He is not winter hardy. This plant can only tolerate temperatures just above freezing for a very short time. The ideal location is a well-heated greenhouse or a relatively warm winter garden with temperatures around 20 °C.
Since the African tulip tree is a tropical plant, it needs relatively high humidity and regular water. The roots should never dry out, but they also cannot tolerate waterlogging. Regular fertilization is recommended, as is regular topiary, where you should also cut back the roots.
How should I overwinter my bonsai?
The African tulip tree does not necessarily require winter quarters, even as a bonsai. The temperature may be slightly lower than in summer, but not significantly below 15 °C. Limit watering without drying out the root ball. Do not fertilize from October to April.
The most important things in brief:
- prune regularly
- Don’t forget to cut the roots
- warm and bright
- water abundantly and fertilize regularly
Tip
An African tulip tree can be grown into a bonsai with a little patience.
