The elegance and beauty of the hazel tree grown as a bonsai is fascinating. The miniature, graceful leaves and unusual bark are particularly eye-catching.

Temperature

Cold overwintering at a temperature of +10…+14 °C or in a frost protected room. Humidity of the air — not lower than 60%.

Location

Shade-tolerant plant, but does not fruit in the shade. Prefer diffused sunlight with exposure to direct sunlight in the morning and evening. For pollination, a related species of hazel should be planted nearby.

Soil

Neutral or slightly alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5), well-drained, breathable.

Watering

Drying of the topsoil is the signal to water the plant. Watering should be abundant so that moisture penetrates the entire root system.

Fertilization

Feeding with nitrogen fertilizer is necessary in the spring, in the fall minimal doses of phosphorus and potassium. Yellowed leaves and slow growth indicate a lack of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers. Fertilizers are applied once a month. If granules are used, it is better to use special fertilizer baskets, which are inserted into the soil, and then through them watering is carried out. This will help to deliver nutrients to the roots more effectively.

Repotting

Young trees 3–4 years old are transplanted once a year, 5–9-year-olds once every 2 years.

Shaping and pruning

Prune and shape plant in winter or early spring before the beginning of the growing season.
In July or August, young shoots are cut back by half or a third. Wrap the branches with wire to create the desired tree shape for a particular style of bonsai. This is done from June through October.

Diseases and pests

Main pests (aphids, mites), diseases (powdery mildew). When the first signs appear, use the necessary means and techniques. Much attention should be focused on prevention and care — keep the pot with the plant in the clean, in an open, well-lighted space, do not allow thickening of the crown, control the moisture of the soil, etc.