11.04.08
A Bonsai thats Perfect for Beginners
Most people think that growing a bonsai is a difficult, time consuming and tedious job, but that’s not the right way to look at it. There is no question that a bonsai requires more attention than your standard houseplant rubber tree. They’re quite particular about not being allowed to dry out. You need to pay some attention to shaping them and yes, they can take a long time to achieve a mature bonsai look. But one possible exception to that description is an indoor bonsai that I’ve recommended to many new bonsai converts. It’s commonly called a Mini Jade bonsai tree although the real name is Portulacaria afra.
In their native South Africa, this wonderfully tough plant, also known as the Elephant Bush will reach a height of 12 feet, with an equal spread. They look a lot like that household favorite, the Jade Tree, but the leaves are only about the size of a dime. The growth habit is similar though. But as an indoor bonsai for beginners, the mini jade is an idea choice. Give it the best light you can, without burning it in the direct light of a Southern or Western exposure. Try very hard not to let it dry out completely, feed it every other week in the growing season with a dilute balanced fertilizer and pinch it to keep it compact. It’s easy.