The Art of Growing Bonsai Trees

Bonsai tree cultivation has been a Japanese tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years.  Translating literally to “tray planting,” growing a bonsai tree involves actively working to shape a tree into a dwarfed, artistic version of itself.  A bonsai tree is not a special dwarf or hybrid species of a common tree; they’re genetically identical to their much larger relatives.  It’s the careful cultivation that keeps these trees small.  However, the trees are not sick or damaged.  In fact, with the proper care, the bonsai 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 normally range from two inches to three feet in height.  Through pruning both roots and branches bonsai trees are kept miniture in size.  They’re also repotted periodically, and new growth is frequently pinched off. 

Growing and cultivating bonsai trees is actually as much about art as it is about horticulture.  Not only are bonsai trees kept small, they are also formed into pleasing shapes.  They frequently follow a number of different patterns of growth, from simple triangles to waterfall shapes cascading down over their pots.  The various shapes are normally a product of both the pruning of the tree and through the wrapping the branches and trunk with wire, shaping the tree into its desired form.  The pots themselves are part of the art as well, chosen to compliment the shape and color of the tree itself.  Rocks and mosses are often added to the base for aesthetic appeal. 

Cultivating a bonsai tree is more complicated than cultivating most houseplants.  Since the bonsai has has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs fertilizer and water more frequently than most garden-variety houseplants.  Occasional pruning is also essential, since without pruning the bonsai tree would grow into just a normal size 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. 

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