Syzygium

Syzygium is an evergreen tropical plant of the Myrtaceae family. It is popular due to its small leaves, dense crown, beautiful bark, and pleasant aroma. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced bonsai artists.
It is a indoor plant that does not tolerate cold.

Lighting
Very light-loving: 6–8 hours of bright diffused light.
Ideal: east or south window.
In winter, a phytolamp is required for 10–12 hours,
cold or neutral spectrum (see here).

If there is not enough light:
- the leaves grow larger
- the branches stretch out
- the bonsai loses its shape

Temperature and humidity
Temperature:
- Summer: 20–30° C
- Winter: 16–20° C (not lower than 12° C)
- Above +22 °C in low light leads to depletion
Humidity:
- 60–80%
- Regular spraying
- Tray with water and expanded clay (see here)
- Ideally, a humidifier
Dry air attracts spider mites.
Strictly monitor humidity (see here)

Watering
Syzygium likes moisture, but not overwatering
Rules:
- water when the top layer is 1–2 cm dry;
- use soft, warm water;
- water until water comes out of the drainage holes
- overwatering leads to root rot;
- drying out causes instant leaf drop;
How to determine when watering is needed (see here)

Soil
Syzygium does not tolerate stagnant water, but loves moisture.
Ideal composition (see here):
40% akadama (or fine expanded clay/zeolite)
30% pumice or perlite
20% lava or coarse river sand
10% organic matter (see here)
pH: slightly acidic (5.5–6.5)

Fertilization:
- From April to October: balanced fertilizer for bonsai (see here)
- In winter: half dose
- Do not fertilize for 3-4 weeks after repotting.

Repotting
Young trees once every 1-2 years.
Mature trees once every 3-4 years.
In spring (March–April).
Remove up to 30% of the roots.
Shorten long roots.
Keep small feeding roots.
Do not repot in winter.

Pruning and shaping
Shaping pruning:
when the shoot has 6–8 leaves, prune to 2–3 leaves.
Supportive: year-round during active growth.
Wire: use aluminum.
Wrap carefully (the bark is delicate!).
Remove after 2–3 months.
Check often - the wire quickly grows into the bark.

Diseases and pests
Common problems:
- spider mites;
- scale insects;
- root rot.
Prevention:
- high humidity;
- ventilation;
- inspect leaves once a week;
- neem oil preparations (see here)

Common mistakes made by beginners
Not enough light.
Overwatering.
Dry air.
Lack of pruning.
Cold drafts.