A
bonsai tree is a miniature tree. It requires constant care that demands an
ever evolving process. A bonsai tree is often referred to as a living miniature tree.
A common misconception related
to bonsai trees is that they are actually dwarf trees. Not so. It is only through careful
manipulation and planning that a bonsai gardener can cause a normal tree to stay
a tiny tree.
In ancient times, the shaping of bonsai trees was more about sculpting these small
tree trunks into the forms of animals or mystic figures. Originating in
China, the practice of cultivating
bonsai trees quickly spread to Japan. Today, Japan is most responsible for
the increased popularity of Bonsai. Note that in earlier years, the containers they used
were quite large in comparison to modern day bonsai tree containers.
As stated earlier, bonsai trees are not inherently miniaturized; in
other words, you cannot find a seed that will produce a dwarfed tree.
But herein lies the challenge of bonsai. If you are clever enough and patient
enough, you can take almost any tree and create a bonsai tree. This artistic miracle
is achieved by manipulating the tree’s habitat through pot
confinement and pruning. Which tree you choose to use is dependant on
what you are looking for in a bonsai tree. Some species of trees are more sought
after than others because of their natural characteristics that make them
better suited to particular design arrangements.
A quick clarification is needed now. To say "Bonsai" often conjures up an image of a tree in a
tray, but shrubs are included as well. Many an interesting variation in beauty
displayed by bonsai is accomplished by species of shrubs as well as trees.
It takes much time, care and pruning to create a bonsai tree.
Techniques can be as simple as pruning the leaves and roots and using wires to direct the
trunk in forming a shape and keeping it small. Caring for a bonsai tree is
a concentrated art form which demands
great sensitivity. The confined space alone can make it difficult to
care for your miniature tree. Sometimes bonsai gardeners rate their
challenges the same as someone building a ship in a bottle.
Bonsai trees are a great novelty item because of their size. They make
unusual conversation pieces. They can be shaped to your own design. Usually a
well-crafted bonsai tree will increase in value with age.
So, with a
little research on their care and how to assure the miniaturization and
shaping process, you can have your own bonsai tree. As with many other forms of
horticulture, it does require attention to thrive. To master bonsai can mean
mastering yourself.
Local bonsai community losing places to buy trees San Jose Mercury News, USA - Jun 29, 2008 By Kristina Peterson These days, the ivy is creeping over the "K" in Ken's Bonsai Garden - Palo Alto's last dwarf tree shop to close its doors. ...
Betty Morris, 88, swam, golfed, skied Hillsboro Argus - OregonLive.com, OR - 12 hours ago A member of an astrology group and the Bonsai Society, she also enjoyed swimming, golfing and skiing. She was preceded in death by her parents, ... Betty Rose MorrisThe Oregonian - OregonLive.com all 2 news articles
Fast Facts: Bonsai Newsdurhamregion.com, Canada - Jun 30, 2008 Bonsai plants are not genetically dwarfed but remain small through containment in small pots and pruning of both branches and roots. ...
GARDEN NOTES Tampa Tribune, FL - Jul 2, 2008 BONSAI: Eve's Garden, 5602 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land O' Lakes, offers free bonsai tree demonstrations from 11 am to 4 pm Saturday. ...