Tips for Growing a Fukien
Tea Bonsai Tree
A Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree is
a great tree to grow if you are a bit more of an experienced
bonsai enthusiast. It would not be recommended with the
beginner in mind, as it can be a little more temperamental
that some other varieties.
The Fukien Tea Tree is native to the Fujian Province in
China and is also known as the Fujian Tea Tree. It has small
shiny dark green leaves, making it well suited to the art of
bonsai. In summer it produces small flowers that eventually
become tiny black berries.
It thrives in hot, bright locations, so if you are situated
in a cold chilly climate, you may have a challenge on your
hands.
The Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree is perfect as an indoor bonsai
plant, because it is not tolerant of cold, frosty
conditions. Position you Fukien Tea in a bright area of your
home. Perhaps directly under a skylight, near a window that
faces east or west or even on a window sill, to ensure that
it is receiving as much light as possible. It will not
flourish under dim conditions.
Ideally it prefers humidity, so if you do not live in a
humid climate, then you may have to create the right
environment for it. Place a humidity tray underneath the
pot, this can be done by filling the tray with small stones,
pebbles or even gravel and filling it up with water.
Your Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree does not have to be an indoor
plant; it will tolerate an outdoor position. However once
again, you will have to get the positioning spot on. It
likes about an hour of direct sunlight daily – preferably
either morning or afternoon sun when the sun’s rays are not
as harsh. It’s also not a good idea to take it from an
indoor location and put it out in the full sun immediately.
Gradually introduce your Fukien Tea by placing it under a
verandah or some sort of shelter where it can get used to
the higher temperature without shocking the plant.
The Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree likes to be kept moist, although
do take care not to over water the plant. Yellow leaves are
a good indication you are giving it a little too much water.
If you are unsure, test by touching the soil. If the soil
feels dry then by all means give it a small amount of water.
Never stand the pot in water as your Fukien Tea will not
tolerate this either.
There are some pests that the Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree is
susceptible to, however this need not be a major obstacle.
Check regularly for any aphids, mealy bugs or scale – in its
natural environment, lady bugs will take care of these
pests, but if your bonsai is indoors you will have to take
care of them. Dilute some pesticide and gently spray the
tree. Make sure your solution is not too strong, as the
Fukien Tea Tree is sensitive to strong pesticides.
A good sensible approach to the care and maintenance of your
Fukien Tea Bonsai Tree will have you enjoying your tree for
years to come.
I wish you all the best on your
fukien tea bonsai tree adventure!
Best wishes,
Thomas T :)
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