Bonsai Class Master Article

Cultivating bonsai trees

Cultivating bonsai trees has been a Japanese tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years. Literally translating to “tray planting,” cultivating a bonsai tree involves actively working to shape a tree into a dwarfed, artistic version of itself. Bonsai trees are not special hybrids or dwarf species of common trees; they’re genetically the same as their taller brothers and sisters. It’s the careful cultivation that keeps these trees small. However, the trees are not sick or damaged. In fact, given the proper care, the dwarfed version of a tree can live longer than the same tree if it was allowed to grow in the wild.

Bonsai trees can either be grown from seeds or from cuttings of trees, and they usually range in height from two inches to three feet. They are kept small through pruning both branches and roots. They’re also repotted periodically, and new growth is often pinched off.

Cultivating bonsai trees is actually as much about art as it is about horticulture. Bonsai trees are not only kept small, they are also formed into pleasing shapes. They often follow a number of different growth patterns, from simple triangles to waterfall shapes cascading down over their pots. The shapes are usually a product of both the pruning of the tree and through the use of wrapping the trunk and branches with wire, pushing the tree into its desired shape. The pots themselves are part of the art as well, chosen to compliment the shape and color of the tree itself. Mosses and rocks are often added to the base for aesthetic appeal.

Taking care of a bonsai tree is more complicated than taking care of most houseplants. Since the bonsai, by definition, has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs water and fertilizer more often than most garden-variety houseplants. Occasional pruning is also essential, since without pruning the bonsai tree would grow into just a normal big tree. Also, if wire is used to help mold and form the tree, it is important to take care that the wire doesn’t dig into the bark of the tree, scarring the branches permanently. Depending on the type of bonsai tree and your climate, you may be able to keep some bonsai trees outside year round, while others will need to be kept inside for at least part of the year. Moisture is also important, not only in the soil but in the leaves and branches of the bonsai. They need to be misted occasionally for the bonsai to develop healthily.

Bonsai trees

It's no secret that gardening activities are an enjoyable and relaxing way to forget about your worries for a while and just concentrate on the serenity of your surroundings. If you are ready for a change of pace from the typical flowers and vegetables that most people tend to grow, I recommend that you try cultivating a bonsai tree. Caring for a bonsai tree is a timeless art that is sure to bring you many years of fulfillment and pleasure.

Since the cultivation of a bonsai tree requires more attention than other types of plants, I suggest that you read a few reference books on the subject before you start buying supplies. That way, you can get a better idea of how much of a time commitment caring for a bonsai tree will require on your end and you can determine whether or not this is the right hobby for you. The best place to get books about raising bonsai trees is your local library. Another good place to check is the Internet. There are a lot of hobbyist websites out there that offer a tremendous amount of free (and accurate) information about getting started with your own bonsai tree.

If, after learning a bit more about what goes into caring for a bonsai tree, you decide that this is definitely something you want to pursue, then it's time to turn your attention to purchasing some tools and supplies that can help make things easier on you. Although it might be possible to get everything you need from nurseries and gardening centers in your area, I recommend checking online first. There are several advantages to buying from the Internet rather than from local stores. First of all, most websites that offer bonsai tree supplies are run by people who know and love the craft. These people often have many years of experience and are usually very happy to answer any questions you might have about specific products. If you go to a nursery in your town, you're not likely to get the same kind of service.

Another advantage to shopping for bonsai tree supplies online is the convenience. If one website doesn't have the particular item you're looking for, it only takes a few seconds to surf right one to the next site. This means you can buy exactly what you want without having to make compromises just because one store happens to be out of stock.

Finally, you can save a lot of money by purchasing bonsai tree supplies online. Most websites that specialize in these products offer the same seeds, pots, containers, fertilizers, pruning shears, and starter kits that you would find in retail stores, but for a much lower price. This is due to the fact that "virtual" stores cost a lot less to operate than regular stores, and most website owners are perfectly happy to pass these savings on to their customers.

Raising a bonsai tree is one of the most rewarding and positive experiences I've ever had. Get in on the fun today; I'm sure you won't be disappointed!