Baobab is a family of trees native to dry regions of Africa, Madagascar, and Australia.
Baobab bonsai is not only an ornamental plant, but also an opportunity to create a miniature tree with a unique appearance in your home.
It is ideal for bonsai because of its ability to adapt to small amounts of soil. The trunk retains its characteristic thickened appearance and the sparse crown looks like a scaled-down replica of a natural one.
Baobab requires a lot of attention and patience, but with the right approach will become the pride of your collection.
Location
This hardy exotic plant likes a warm, sunny and bright location.
Lighting
It is necessary to provide the plant with less than 6 hours of sun exposure per day or use grow lights for at least 16 hours per day. In case of insufficient light, growth slows down, leaves turn yellow and fall off.
Temperature regime
Optimal temperature in summer: +25…+35 °C. During the cold season, the baobab needs a warm room as it is sensitive to low temperatures. It should be brought inside as soon as the temperature drops below +15 °C.
Soil
The baobab requires light and well-drained soil. The ideal composition is:
50% sand;
30% organic component (humus);
20% garden soil.
At the bottom of the pot, be sure to lay a layer of drainage (lava, expanded clay) 2-3 cm thick.
Watering
Water the tree in spring and summer in moderation, allow the soil to dry out fully between waterings. Too frequent watering can lead to overwatering and root rot.
In fall and winter, reduce watering significantly, especially if the tree is losing leaves. During this period, the baobab enters a dormant state.
Fertilizer
Feed young plants during the period of active growth (spring and summer) monthly with a fertilizer high in potassium and low in nitrogen to avoid excessive foliage growth.
Repotting
Baobab should be transplanted every 2–3 years to renew the soil and control root growth. Repotting is done in the spring. Be sure to transplant the baobab when roots begin to appear on the soil surface.
Shaping and pruning
Pruning is an important part of shaping a baobab as a bonsai.
Prune excess branches in the spring to give the crown the desired shape.
Remove weak or damaged shoots.
To thicken the trunk, you can leave more branches and then remove them. Foment pruning of baobab can be done throughout the year, except in winter — remove shoots that are under the main crown. If possible, make a cut above the bud. In this way, its awakening will be ensured.
Diseases and pests
At the first signs of damage to the plant, use the necessary means and techniques. It is necessary to pay great attention to prevention and care — keep the pot with the plant clean, in an open, well-lighted space, do not allow thickening of the crown, control the humidity of the soil, etc.
