Best Indoor Bonsai Tree For Your Home

Indoor bonsai trees are easy, beautiful, and elegant. They are perfect for adding a zen-like quality to your home. Read to learn more about indoor bonsai trees and which bonsai are the best indoor trees!

 

Bonsai houseplants are incredibly popular among gardening enthusiasts worldwide. These stylish, compact, and sophisticated indoor bonsai trees are easy to grow. One of the reasons why indoor bonsai trees are popular is their ease of care, as you can raise a bonsai even in climates that are adverse for a tree.

 

Moreover, growing an indoor bonsai tree means you will also have complete control over its size and growth and can see the outcomes of your effort as you watch your bonsai grow in front of you. In addition, from a visual perspective, you will also be able to appreciate the exquisiteness of this living sculpture unfolding daily.

But which bonsai are best indoors, and how do you choose an indoor bonsai tree?

Selecting an indoor bonsai tree means there are various factors to consider. Plenty of bonsai varieties are perfect for almost any indoor environment. Bonsai trees are little sculptural trees mimicking the beauty and structure of mature trees. The Asian art of training and pruning a tree to grow in a particular way is centuries old.

 

Before we talk about which bonsai are best indoors, let’s start by clarifying what bonsai trees are and how they differ from other trees.

 

What is Bonsai?

 

It is worth noting that bonsai isn’t the name of a specific tree but a growing method. It is said to be centuries-old horticulture pursuit originating in China. Bonsai planting techniques involve shallow planting, pruning, defoliation, root reduction, and grafting, as well as wiring branches and trunks into desired shapes, creating a mature tree that looks in miniature.

 

These miniature trees also experience light exposure and seasonal temperature fluctuations since they cannot photosynthesize like regular trees. In relation to that, it is also worth noting that all bonsai get energy through their leaves like standard trees. It is just that bonsais tend to have less energy because they contain fewer nutrients and chlorophyll in their leaves than ordinary trees.

 

Beginners-Friendly Indoor Bonsai Trees

 

If you are planning to raise a bonsai, keep in mind that it takes time and patience to master the art. However, it is possible to turn a cumbersome sapling into a work of art with practice. So, choosing the right tree is the most crucial step in this lengthy but rewarding process.

 

So, which bonsai are best indoors? Here are some beginners-friendly indoor bonsai trees:

 

• Ficus

 

While most gardeners link bonsai with indoor displays, some varieties grow well outdoors. That can be challenging for those living in colder climates to try their hand at bonsai. Fortunately, some indoor bonsai trees, such as ficus, can grow well indoors.

 

The two most suitable varieties for indoor growing are ficus ginseng and ficus retusa, both having visually stunning trunks. However, those living in USDA zones 10-11 can also grow these species outdoors.

 

Moreover, their ability to tolerate growing restrictions makes ficus bonsai trees incredibly adaptable. Remember that choosing a small container is critical for restricting plant size. Since ficus trees can happily grow in small containers, they are one of the best indoor bonsai tree contenders.

 

Furthermore, a ficus tree is also tolerant to water lapses and other care types. That said, these plants can still grow well in dry indoor conditions. However, ensure that to keep your focus on bonsai near a sunny window.

 

• Chinese Elm

 

Chinese Elm is also a popular bonsai tree choice for beginners since it can stay pleasant in a variety of growing conditions. The bonsai tree grows well indoors and outdoors and can survive outdoors in USDA zones 4-9. However, just like ficus, ensure to place your Chinese Elm in a sunny location with lots of morning sun.

 

In addition, the Chinese Elm is also a slow grower and easy to prune. These qualities are great for people new to bonsai trees. Moreover, the slow growth of Chinese Elm means shaping your tree should be uncomplicated too.

 

Furthermore, these indoor bonsai trees are also less susceptible to pest infections and diseases, with the exclusion of spider mites. However, using neem oil applications makes these small insects easy to control.

 

• Flowering Tea Tree

 

Flowering tea tree is another popular choice for indoor bonsai trees. The plant is known as the Fukien or Fujian tea tree, featuring leaves and a trunk structure similar to the Chinese Elm. The tree produces small, round, and shiny dark-green leaves as well as small white flowers that bloom year-round.

 

Your tree may produce white or pink flowers depending on the species you want to grow. Similarly, some species have rounded leaves while other features pointed leaves. While these bonsai trees look just like mature trees, they are elegant and an excellent indoor bonsai tree option.

 

• Rose Apple Myrtle

 

The fascinating Rose Apple Myrtle is native to South Africa and popularly known as Brush Cherry or Myrtle. Their name is tied to the small, bright red fruits having a cherry-like appearance. The indoor bonsai tree also produces elegant soft cream flowers, having beautiful long stamens which give them a star-burst appearance.

 

Moreover, the rose apple myrtle is also considered a symbol of love, affection, and good fortune; hence has become an emblem for marriage. Furthermore, it is also thought to be the flowers of the gods, sacred to the Greek goddess Aphrodite (the goddess of love).

 

• Dwarf Jade

 

One of the most elegant bonsai trees, Dwarf Jade, is among the popular indoor bonsai tree options. It is effortless to grow and a perfect choice for all levels. You can also train your tree to grow in various structures and styles.

 

Since dwarf jade is an extremely slow grower, some species can take up to 40 years to grow. Moreover, the tree is resilient to outdoor environments, meaning it can happily grow in various indoor environments. Furthermore, the bonsai tree is also tolerant to various temperature fluctuations. However, the results would be great when growing your plant in shaded areas.

How to Choose an Indoor Bonsai Tree?

 

• Develop a Purpose

 

Before you get an indoor bonsai tree for your home or office, it is essential to have a clear purpose in your mind. Not only will it help determine which bonsai are best indoors, but also what care it needs and how you can keep it thriving for decades.

 

For instance, if you want a bonsai tree that can help improve the air quality or humidity in your home or office, you should go for bonsai species to help you achieve that goal. Or, you may want a bonsai that can help you promote peace and serenity through its internal beauty.

 

In that case, you should buy a bonsai tree that should be visually attractive. It also should feature colorful leaves or greenish-bluish hues that are great for mental health.

 

• Consider the Growing Environment

 

It is essential to remember that while your indoor bonsai tree can last for decades, it needs a proper environment to survive. So, choosing a bonsai tree according to the environment in your area is critical. A bonsai that prefer hot and humid climates will not do well in places with cold temperatures and low humidity levels.

 

Moreover, when looking for a particular native species, don’t forget to find out where it is from. For instance, Chinese Elm bonsai trees are great for regions with mild temperatures and high humidity. Similarly, Western Elm bonsais are perfect for hot, dry climates.

 

In addition to temperature and humidity levels, an indoor bonsai tree also needs proper care and maintenance to thrive. It includes adequate warmth, nutrients, light exposure, and watering. Considering all these factors before purchasing will ensure your new bonsai thrive in your home or office.

 

• Choose the Right Bonsai

 

In addition to choosing bonsai trees suitable for your region, ensure to choose one that is easy to grow, care for, and according to your needs. While it is impossible to find a bonsai species that is right for everyone, you should try to find bonsai that matches your characteristics, such as origin, shape, size, age bracket, and price.

 

• Buy a Suitable Pot

 

It is worth noting that bonsai trees usually prefer small bonsai pots matching their shape, size, and purpose. So, the pot you buy essentially depends on the bonsai species you want to grow. Since every bonsai features a specific size and variety of shapes, once you have chosen a bonsai tree, it will be easier to know what pot you should buy.

 

While buying a pot, also keep in mind that it should complement your bonsai’s exterior and overall health. There are plenty of bonsai pots that you can choose for your miniature trees, such as rectangular, bucket, oval, square-shaped, etc.

 

Moreover, choose a pot that should last longer while keeping your tree healthy when it comes to pot material. Some popular bonsai pot materials include wood, ceramic, stone, and plastic. However, the potting material you will choose depends on your tree species.

• Buy Your Bonsai Tree from the Right Place

 

Buying your first bonsai tree is probably one of the most underrated bonsai tree tips. Buying your bonsai tree from a trustworthy and reputable retailer or bonsai nursery is essential. It is because they are likelier to sell healthy indoor bonsai trees that will last for decades than bonsai bought from a non-bonsai store or online platforms.

 

A few widespread and trusted places that sell healthy, long-lasting bonsai plants include:

 

1.      Bonsai Boy

 

Affordable bonsai plants and quick delivery. Perfect for those new to the bonsai art.

Contact: 1-800-790-2763

 

BonsaiBoy is a leading bonsai plant delivery specialist. The store offers some of the most trendy and beautiful bonsai trees at incredibly affordable prices and the fastest delivery options nationwide. At BonsaiBoy, you will find a vast selection of year-round bonsai trees.

Apart from Japanese Juniper to Ponytail Palm, from Flowering Pink Azalea to Chinese Elm, the store has something for every bonsai lover.

Moreover, each bonsai tree will arrive in a beautiful and stylish potted vessel, along with an appropriate soil mix.

 

2.      Oriental Décor

 

Leading importer of bonsai trees from across Asia.

Contact: 1-561- 777-7358

 

In service since 2003, Oriental Decor has been another trusted supplier of beautiful bonsai trees across the United States. In addition to stunning Asian wall décor, Asian lamps, patio umbrellas, and home furnishing, the store offers an outstanding collection of bonsai trees for sale.

 

It carries a great variety of indoor bonsai trees throughout the year. In addition to a vast array of live trees, they also offer a wide range of life-like artificial plants and trees. Bonsai studio, in particular, is well regarded for having a bonsai selection indigenous to Japan.

Furthermore, all bonsai trees you buy will arrive in beautiful ceramic-glazed containers and a suitable potting mix.

 

3.      Eastern Leaf

A Popular Californian-based bonsai supplier delivering nationwide.

Contact: 888-684-8377

 

Led by Jason Chan, EasternLeaf is another trusted supplier of healthy and beautiful indoor bonsai trees. Their highly respected contributions to the bonsai world are well regarded. They started the operations by selling plants and bonsai at weekly farmer’s markets in 2004.

 

Since then, the business has grown to where it is today. EasternLeaf is also regarded as one of California’s most trusted online bonsai suppliers. Moreover, their studio is decorated with a wide variety of bonsai species. From traditional bonsais like Chinese Elm and Grand Taiwan Ficus to Flowering Quince and Apple Blossom, you will see a world of choice for both indoor and outdoor bonsai trees.

 

4.      Bonsai Outlet

Home to an extensive selection of bonsai trees suitable for all levels.

Contact: sales@bonsaioutlet.com

 

Launching its service in 2001, BonsaiOutlet is another popular provider of bonsai trees. Like many bonsai lovers, the owner started their journey after receiving a bonsai as a gift. Subsequently, after knowing the world of bonsai, there was an immediate realization that the world needs a place for affordable and quality bonsai specimens as well as bonsai-related products.

 

Today, you will see an excellent collection of bonsai trees suitable for all levels. Especially for those new to the bonsai world, BonsaiOutlet is a great place. There, you will find a nice collection of trees ideal for trying your hands at bonsai.

 

5.      Brussel’s Bonsai

 

A dedicated bonsai nursery and home to one of the most comprehensive bonsai collections in the US

Contact: 1-800-582-2593

 

The founder of Brussel’s Bonsai started the journey in his teens by growing and nurturing a vast range of bonsai trees in the backyard of his family home. Brussel was coached by a revered bonsai master, “Ben Oki, and John Nake” helped him hone his bonsai techniques.

 

From small-scale services selling bonsai to neighbors and friends, the owner is now handling a full-fledged business to serve nationwide. Today, Brussel has about 200,000 sq. ft climate-controlled greenhouse, housing a spectacular collection of bonsai trees. These trees include in-house grown plants as well as trees sourced from a network of the best nurseries across Asia.

 

Ready to Choose Your Indoor Bonsai Tree?

 

The art of bonsai is something to be treasured and admired. These miniature plants are so elegant, and as you take on the challenge of raising one in your home or office, they will surprise you with decades of beauty and wonder. Now that you know how to choose an indoor bonsai tree and which bonsai are best indoors, you are ready to buy one and start growing it. However, don’t forget to look at the tips above.

 

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