Bonsai -Introduction

Introduction:

Creating a Bonsai tree requires a certain level of effort and ingenuity. It requires constant pruning and shaping, as well as advanced knowledge and insight into how a tree grows and the way to manipulate that growth to mimic the appearance and style of full-size trees.

There has been agrument on the creation of bonsai trees and their existence since early 600's. Since the trees are heavily influenced by both Chinese and Japanese cultures. It was only after World War II that the Bonsai tree became available to wider Western audiences and began to spread throughout the Western world.

Creation of bonsai from source is more rarely, indeed its more acquired through propagation.  After it is successfully replanted, various techniques are used to mold and shape it into the desired end result. The typical Bonsai tree is under 25 centimeters and 2 to 10 liters in volume. In order to achieve this size, Bonsai trees require a specialized level of care, including special watering schedules, repotting, special tools, soil composition, fertilization, and location.

Overview Of Bonsai Trees

Bonsai trees are not specific types of trees, but rather a Japanese art form that involves the cultivation of small trees in containers. The plant will be transferred to different sized pots throughout its lifetime to ensure it reaches and maintains a certain size.

Some refer to the art of Bonsai as dwarfing, but in reality dwarfing involves genetically altering a tree, while cultivating a Bonsai tree is done through crown and rooting pruning. While there are certain trees and shrubs that work best for this type of art form, almost all perennial woody-stemmed plants can be used. Through various techniques, such as pruning, root reduction, potting, defoliation, and grafting, Bonsai artists can actually create a small tree that mimics the style of mature, full-size trees.

The Art of Bonsai

Cultivating a Bonsai tree, it truly is an art form that requires special tools and techniques. Through various crown and root trimming, Bonsai trees can be shaped into unique shapes that reflect the skill level of the artist. Bonsai trees also have a strong symbolic meaning, especially in the Japanese culture, which helps to transform the finished tree into something much larger.

Importance Of Displaying Bonsai

Displaying a Bonsai tree means choosing a position that displays the trees most important features. Its position will dictate what side viewers see as its ‘front’, which will have a huge effect on how the tree is perceived. The tree will also be placed in a special container, which aids in the tree’s overall symbolic meaning.

Bonsai Tree Care

Bonsai trees require special attention in order to achieve the growth and shape that is characteristic of Bonsai trees. Special pruning techniques are used to stunt the trees growth while still mimicking the appearance of full-size trees. Beginners must learn the specific amount and frequency of watering, fertilizing, and pruning for each individual specie.

Bonsai Tools & Accessories

There are specific tools and accessories that are required for growing a Bonsai tree. Some of the tools required include shears, scissors, wire cutters, pliers, root picks, root rakes, and leaf trimmers. Bonsai trees also require specific types of containers and pots, especially during the beginning stages of its growth and pruning. Having the proper tools will help growers to achieve the type of Bonsai tree they desire.

Bonsai Tree Starting Technique

Bonsai trees are not genetically dwarfed plants, but are actually normal plants that are cultivated through various techniques in order to obtain it’s dwarfed appearance. Training a Bonsai tree isn’t impossible for a beginner, but it does require a certain approach and patience, especially when training a Bonsai tree from the time it is a sapling.

Secrets Of Shaping Bonsai Trees

Shaping a Bonsai tree is the key to obtaining a gorgeous Bonsai worthy of display. In order to shape a Bonsai, growers must practice proper pruning. Repotting will also play a role in the shape and size of the plant. In order to achieve the intricate shapes and designs of Bonsai trees, growers can wire the branches of the tree. These are but a few of the techniques available to growers.

Types of Bonsai Trees

There are many different types of plants used when making Bonsai trees. Almost all perennial woody-stemmed trees and shrubs can be used. Chrysanthemums, Lotus Flower, Peony, Pine, and Plum blossoms are some popular choices. Each of these plants carries its own symbolic meaning. There are four different categories of Bonsai trees. Shohaku are evergreens, Zouki are deciduous. Hanamono are grown for the flowers and Mimono are grown for the fruit.

Indoor & Outdoor

In general, most Bonsai trees are cultivated outdoors because it is difficult to properly replicate its growing conditions. However, there are several exceptions. Tropical trees can be grown indoors under specific conditions. When an outdoor Bonsai tree is cultivated and brought indoors, it will require special attention in order to maintain its health and vigor.

Bonsai Styles

There are many different styles and forms of Bonsai trees. The broom style Bonsai and the formal upright Bonsai style are extremely popular, but are just two of the dozen or so styles one can attempt to create. Each style carries its own symbolic meaning and growers should select the style depending on how their tree affects them.