Zelkova species/ Elm Species Guide
The usual Zelkova species used for bonsai is the Japanese Grey-bark Elm /Zelkova serrata, however there is no reason why any of the smaller leaved Zelkova species such as Zelkova carpinifolia cannot be used.
Ease of Cultivation 8/10 Suitablity and Ease for Bonsai Styling 8/10
Position Outdoor tree only. Full sun. Zelkova's are often sold as indoor trees where they do poorly. Frost hardy to -10°C.
Repotting In Spring as buds extend annually until around 10years old or more and then repot as required.
Pruning Allow shoots to extend 3 or 4 nodes then prune back to 1 or 2 leaves as required Larger-leaved Zelkovas respond well to leaf cutting in Summer
Wiring Care should be taken as bark marks easily.
Propagation Sow seed outdoors in Autumn or Spring. Greenwood cuttings in Summer. Hardwood cuttings in Winter. Air-layering after spring growth has hardened.
Pests and diseases Watch for aphids, leafhoppers, leafspot and gall mites.
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