Ming Aralia (Polyscias roble) can make a fantastic bonsai tree. This beautiful plant, also known as Ming aralia or Polyscias fruticosa, is native to the Pacific islands and is well-suited to being trained as a bonsai, especially for indoor environments.
One of the great advantages of Ming Aralia as a bonsai is its ability to thrive in relatively low light conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for indoor bonsai enthusiasts who may not have access to abundant natural sunlight. I have personally found that Ming Aralias can do well in a bright, indirect light spot in a room or near a window, making them a great choice for those who live in apartments or have limited outdoor gardening space.
When it comes to pruning and shaping, Ming Aralia is quite adaptable. It has delicate, feathery foliage that responds well to pruning and wiring, allowing for the creation of intricate bonsai designs. I have found that regular pruning helps to maintain the desired shape and size, and wiring can be used to guide the growth of branches and create the desired bonsai form. It is important, however, to be gentle when wiring Ming Aralia, as its branches can be somewhat fragile.
In terms of soil and watering, Ming Aralia prefers a well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture. A mixture of bonsai soil, such as one containing Akadama, pumice, and lava rock, works well. I have found that watering the plant thoroughly and then allowing the soil to dry out slightly before watering again is a good approach. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Like any bonsai, Ming Aralia benefits from regular fertilizing to ensure healthy growth. I have found that a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, applied at half the recommended strength every two weeks during the growing season, provides good results. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and adjust the dosage accordingly.
When it comes to repotting, Ming Aralia should be repotted every two to three years, typically in spring. I have found that gently pruning the roots and replacing the soil with fresh bonsai soil mix promotes healthy growth and prevents the tree from becoming root-bound. It is important to choose an appropriately sized pot that allows for some growth and development of the bonsai.
In terms of pests and diseases, Ming Aralia is generally quite resilient. However, it can occasionally be susceptible to common indoor plant pests such as spider mites or mealybugs. Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of pests and promptly treating them with appropriate insecticides or natural remedies, such as neem oil, can help keep the bonsai healthy.
Ming Aralia is a wonderful choice for bonsai enthusiasts, particularly for those who prefer indoor gardening or have limited access to natural sunlight. Its adaptability to low light conditions, delicate foliage, and relatively easy care make it an excellent candidate for bonsai training. With proper pruning, shaping, and care, a Ming Aralia bonsai can become a stunning addition to any indoor space.
