Which outdoor bonsai to choose?

Which outdoor bonsai tree should you choose for your garden or terrace?

Choosing an outdoor bonsai is essential for its long-term success. Contrary to a still widespread misconception, a bonsai is not a decorative houseplant to be placed near the television. It is a tree in its own right, needing sun, wind, rain, and seasonal variations to stay healthy.

Yes, a bonsai lives outdoors. All year round.

A bonsai is first and foremost a tree

A bonsai is neither a specific species nor a genetically modified plant. It is simply a tree or shrub grown in a pot, pruned and cared for to remain miniature.

So-called "indoor" bonsai are actually tropical or subtropical trees, such as the Ficus or the Zamia, which originate from warm, humid climates. These varieties cannot tolerate frost, which explains why they must be protected during the winter in our regions.

However, even a tropical bonsai needs plenty of light. A living room, however bright, will never replace the intensity of the outdoor sun.

To avoid cultivation mistakes and simplify maintenance, the easiest option is to choose local species, naturally adapted to your climate.

Which outdoor bonsai tree should you choose based on your climate?

Choosing an outdoor bonsai tree depends directly on your region. A tree adapted to the Mediterranean climate will not react in the same way in northern France or in a mountainous area.

Bonsai and frost: which species are resistant to the cold ?

Some species are particularly hardy and can withstand negative temperatures as low as -3°C, or even -5°C :

• Pines
• Junipers
• Hornbeams
• Oaks
• Boxwoods
• Cotoneasters

These species can remain outdoors in winter in most regions of France.

However, trees such as olive trees and many Mediterranean species do not tolerate severe frosts well. If temperatures remain below 0°C for an extended period, it is best to place them in a cold frame, that is, a bright space protected from frost but not heated.

Bonsai and extreme heat: beware of heatwaves

Very hot summers can also weaken some bonsai trees.

Japanese maples, for example, can have their leaves scorched during heat waves or hot, dry winds. Southern regions therefore require more attention than oceanic or temperate climates.

Simple solutions :

• Sun exposure only in the morning
• Installation of a shade structure
• Placement in partial shade in the afternoon

Some mountain trees, such as the mountain pine (Pinus uncinata), need a distinct winter to remain vigorous. In a climate that is too mild, they can gradually weaken.

Similarly, the larch is better suited to cool or high-altitude regions than to very hot areas.

Managing excess water and heavy rainfall

An outdoor bonsai tree is naturally exposed to rain. In most cases, this isn't a problem if the substrate is well-draining.

However, some species, such as pines, may develop yellowing needles if overwatered for an extended period.

If you observe this phenomenon :

• Temporarily protect the tree from heavy rain.
• Check the drainage.
• Avoid saucers filled with standing water.

A good substrate remains the key to a successful crop.

Growing an outdoor bonsai: is it complicated ?

Good news: no, it's not complicated.

It's possible to grow an outdoor bonsai almost anywhere in France. You just need to slightly adapt the conditions to your microclimate. And this point is crucial: within the same city, exposure to wind or sun can completely change the situation.

An excellent indicator is to observe what grows naturally around your home. Trees that thrive in the wild are often excellent candidates for bonsai cultivation.

Choosing the right location for your bonsai

To optimize cultivation:

• Analyze the sun's orientation
• Provide a shaded area in the afternoon
• Protect from prevailing winds
• Create several distinct areas according to the needs of each species

Good organization of your outdoor space greatly facilitates maintenance.

Choose an outdoor bonsai tree that you like

Bonsai should remain a pleasure, not a chore.

Some enthusiasts prefer conifers like pines or junipers. Others are drawn to deciduous trees like maples or azaleas.

The most important thing is to choose an outdoor bonsai that inspires you. In most cases, there are ways to adapt its cultivation to your environment.

If you're unsure, research the characteristics of different species: hardiness, light requirements, heat tolerance, watering frequency, etc.

A well-chosen tree, adapted to your climate, will become more beautiful, stronger, and more harmonious year after year.