| Bonsai trees are dwarf trees that can be a fun and | | | | against pests and disease. As with any bonsai, the |
| creative hobby. These miniature trees are grown in | | | | soil quality for the Hawaiian umbrella tree is key to |
| containers and training and nurturing them is an | | | | key to it's successful growth. Plant in a mix of acidic |
| artistic endeavor that can be enjoyed by most | | | | and mildly alkaline soil for best results. |
| anyone. | | | | Water is also important and your umbrella tree should |
| One favorite type of bonsai is the Hawaiian umbrella | | | | be misted and watered about every other day. Don't |
| tree. This tree has thick leaves that form a lush | | | | let the soil dry out as this can have adverse affects |
| canopy. In spring it blooms with red flowers in a | | | | on the health of your plant. On the other hand, you |
| wonderful show of color. This bonsai is very hardy | | | | don't want to water it too much either! You should |
| and adaptable, and therefore quite easy to maintain. | | | | soak the soil and allow the water to drain - no |
| You can propogate the Hawaiian umbrella tree | | | | standing water and do not let the soil become overly |
| through both cuttings and seeds. When starting out a | | | | dry. If you see the leaves turning black, this is in |
| plant, you should provide it with full sun so that it can | | | | indication that you are watering too much, if they |
| grow a thick dense foliage. Once this is accomplished, | | | | tips turn up then you are not watering enough. |
| you can bring it inside and put it in a sunny window | | | | Bonsai trees can last a very long time if properly |
| or brightly lit spot. You may find that the tree tends | | | | cared for. Many people don't stop at one tree and |
| to drop leaves after you move it indoors - don't be | | | | you can collect and grow several different varieties |
| alarmed as this is just it's way of getting used to the | | | | for your own miniature garden. There are many |
| new environment. Once it is acclimated, it will grow | | | | groups devoted to this hobby where you can share |
| it's lush canopy of leaves again. | | | | your experience and learn from others. |
| While the umbrella tree does not need pinching or | | | | Although it is fun to share your hobby with others, |
| training like some other bonsai, it does need regular | | | | always keep your umbrella tree away from children |
| pruning as the shoots do sprout rapidly. While rather | | | | and pets because it can be poisonous! |
| easy to maintain, you must keep a constant vigil | | | | |