The 8 most cold-resistant bonsai

When growing bonsai in cold climates, it is essential to choose resistant species, able to withstand low temperatures. In this blog, we will introduce the 8 most cold-resistant bonsai species, which makes them ideal choices for bonsai lovers who face cold winters.

More cold-resistant bonsai

Olea europaea (Olive tree)

The Olea europaea, u olivo, stands out for its small green leaves and its small fruits, the olives, which, together with the twisted shape of its trunk, give it a unique appearance.

Although it is a typically Mediterranean tree, olive trees are able to withstand temperatures as low as -10°C, which can be even lower in some varieties. In addition to their cold-resistance, olive trees are valued for their longevity and their adaptability to different pruning styles.

Find out everything you need to know about olive tree cultivation in the blog, Olive Bonsai Care Guide – The secret to take care of your Olea bonsai step by step.

Pinus pentaphylla y Pinus thunbergii (five needle-pine and Japanese black pine)

These two species of pine bonsai withstand freezing temperatures well and are able to keep their beauty even during the coldest winter months. Both have soft needle-shaped leaves, needles, and a very distinctive aesthetic appearance.

Winter is also the ideal time for pruning and wiring. We must remember to leave needles and buds on the branches to prevent them from drying out.

Did you know that not all pine trees develop in the same way and this affects their care? We tell you more on the blog How to choose the right pine bonsai for you.

Juniperus (Juniper)

The Juniperus bonsai are a bonsai species outstanding for their scaly leaves and old-appearing trunk that allows a lot of works. They prefer a sunny exposure and a well- draining soil.

Among the different varieties of Junipers, one of the most appreciated in bonsai world is the Juniperus chinensis Itoigawa with its small, bright yellow-green leaves and the hardness of its wood, ideal for Jin and Shari works.

As we have already said, Juniperus is a tree that allows many different kinds of work. As you already know, the best way to create a bonsai with your personal touch, is by working on a prebonsai, but in the blog How to reshape a Juniperus bonsai? We show you how to personalise a finished bonsai, are you ready?

Acer (Maple)

The Acer bonsai, also known as Maples, are a wide variety of deciduous species that are among the most cold-resistant bonsai trees. Among others, the Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) and the trident maple (Acer buergerianum) are part of this species. These bonsai are noted for their beautiful foliage, with vibrant and changing colours from spring to autumn. Are you uncertain in your choice? We help you with this blog: How to choose your maple bonsai?

They all have unique characteristics, such as the colour of their trunk, twisted branches and palm-shaped leaves. The maples like to be exposed to partial sunlight, especially in summer. In Japan they are one of the most characteristic bonsai species and one of the most popular worldwide.

Malus (Apple tree)

The  Malus bonsai, or Apple tree, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree with beautiful flowering in spring and coloured fruits in autumn.

Cold winter temperatures are essential for their abundant flowering and fruiting. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded exposure and a well-draining soil.

Would you like to increase the density of leaves on your apple tree? We tell you how to do it in this blog.

Ficus carica (Fig tree) 

Among the most cold-resistant bonsai, we also find the Fig tree, a deciduous specie that can withstand cold temperatures up to a certain degree. It produces abundant edible fruits, figs, which need temperature contrast to thrive.

The fig tree is noted for its strong trunk and dense foliage. It prefers a sunny exposure and should be pruned in late winter before spring budding.

Quercus (Oak)

Their rough bark and characteristic foliage give the Oaks a strong and elegant appearance. The Quercus bonsai prefers a sunny or partially shaded position. Oak trees should be watered moderately, as they do not require much water. Winter is the ideal time for structural pruning.

Among its varieties, Quercus suber has typically been used for cork extraction. Click here for the Quercus suber technical sheet.

Taxus (European or Japanese Yew)

The Taxus bonsai (Taxus baccata), European or Japanese Yew, is known for its high adaptability to very harsh climates. Under the right conditions, they can withstand extreme temperatures down to -30°C.

With slow growth and great longevity, it stands out for its dense foliage, adding a distinctive touch to any bonsai collection. We can find specimens of more than 1,000 years old. Its wood is very hard and compact, but at the same time elastic and flexible. It was used in the past to make bows.

Do you decide on a Taxus? Find out what options we offer you in our online shop.

How to protect your bonsai from frost

Now that we know which bonsai are the most resistant to cold, we should take watering into account. At this time of the year, it is necessary to reduce and adjust watering, while avoiding waterlogging of the soil, as this could be bad for the health of the roots.

Here are some TIPS on protective measures you can use to protect your bonsai from the freezing:

1. Place the bonsai in a safe and protected place such as a greenhouse, porch or covered terrace.

2. Cover the pot with insulating material, foam, straw or blankets, to keep the soil temperature down. You can also plant the bonsai, including its pot, in a larger planter so that the soil itself acts as insulation.

3. Protect the trunk and main branches with protective covers or cloth wraps, to avoid possible damage caused by sudden changes in temperature.

4. Apply a layer of mulch on the surface of the soil, helping to maintain a more stable temperature.

5. Reduce and regulate watering to avoid waterlogging of the soil, ensuring aeration and healthy roots.

Difference between trees in the ground and trees in pots in low temperatures

To face cold temperatures, it is important to understand how they affect our trees, both those planted in the ground and those grown in pots. The way in which trees respond to and are affected by cold will vary significantly depending on their location and growing conditions.

The main difference between trees planted in the ground and those planted in pots with regard to the cold is the level of protection and insulation available to them. Trees in the ground have the advantage of being naturally protected by the surrounding soil, which helps them to maintain a more constant temperature around the roots. Trees in pots, are more exposed, as they do not have this natural insulation from the soil, and therefore require additional protection and care against the cold.

Remember…

Each bonsai specie may have specific care requirements, so it is important to be aware of them and adapt them according to the individual needs of each bonsai.

To ensure that your bonsai collection will thrive, provide a suitable environment on the coldest winter days, protecting them from wind, heavy rain and frost.

We hope that this guide has been helpful in your next bonsai choice and in adapting the care of your bonsai collection.

For more tips, don’t miss the blog: SOS frost!