The art of bonsai trees care is widely attributed to have developed in China more than a thousand years ago. Its true roots lie in antiquity as Archaeologists have found evidence of trees grown in containers in ancient Egypt, the Middle East and Mediterranean.
One of the bonsai legends from China concerns an emperor who used bonsais to create a miniature model of his entire kingdom, complete with rivers, lakes, hills and trees, so he could view the world he ruled over from his palace window. He would, of course, have had servants did all the bonsai trees care for him – and woe betide them if they should die.
The Japanese have, in the centuries since, refined the growing and care for bonsai trees and it’s now become a hobby practiced widely throughout the world. The word bonsai is itself Japanese. It is in fact two words – bon, meaning tray and sai meaning growing.
Many bonsai growers use wire to help twist their tree’s trunk into gnarled and windswept shapes, sometimes giving them the appearance of dragons or birds. The shape speaks of tranquility, endurance and a timelessness that evokes an emotional response.
The tree, despite being miniaturized, behaves like its full grown relatives and experiences the rhythm of the season, losing its leaves in winter and, if it’s a flowering shrub, producing buds in spring. As the creator, and those tasked with the bonsai trees care, this gives a rewarding sense of creativity and hopefully inner peace.
When creating a bonsai, almost any woody stemmed tree or shrub can be used. Firstly you must decide whether you want your bonsai tree inside or outside. Outside trees do not thrive inside and generally the same goes for inside trees placed outdoors. Two trees often recommended for beginners are the Japanese red maple and the juniper. You can of course choose to start with seeds, but they do take a little more time and effort.
In order to make the right choice, you must decide what style you are looking for. They range from a full cascading shape, to windswept and upright and a number of in-between variations . One of the easiest for beginners is what’s known as the “formal upright”. This type of bonsai has a straight trunk with the widest branches at the bottom. The branches get smaller as they proceed up the trunk so that you end up with a shape rather like a triangle. Trees easy to cultivate in this manner include the juniper, spruce, larch and pine – all of which are again relatively easy and popular varieties for a beginner.
One of the most popular styles is the windswept look, where a gnarled, ancient looking tree appears to have survived centuries of wintry blasts. Many of these specimens can live for centuries with proper bonsai trees care, others are nowhere near as old as they look. Bonsai masters have, over the years, perfected the art of creating that tortured, aged appearance.
A very important thing consider, when selecting your tree, is to ensure that it has a good root spread and balance. You should also look carefully at the leaves. Small leaves, close together, help create a plentiful illusion when in fact the branch is so small, there is limited space for abundance.
Look at the trunk. Does it have an interesting shape? Is there a curve or sweep that can be encouraged through binding? What sort of texture does the bark have? Selecting a tree with the right qualities in the first instance can help quicken and enhance your end result and this will help to make you successful with bonsai trees care.
Choose the pot to complement your tree and get some expert advice on how to prune the top of your tree. Consider carefully which branches to remove and which to keep in order to create the desired effect. Never remove more than a third of the foliage in one go. It generally takes three to five years of growth and bonsai trees care to obtain the shape you are seeking.
At some stage your bonsai will need repotting and its roots trimming. That’s generally done anywhere between one and five years after purchase of your tree and something you can take time to learn. As you don’t want to end up killing your tree, it’s vitally important though to get the proper know how first.
Another vital aspect for bonsai trees care is watering. You should check the soil at least once every two weeks. Not enough water and your tree could be very quickly fighting drought conditions. Too much water and it will be at risk from fungal infections and root rot.
Just like any other plant, bonsais need light – but some more than others. Leafy trees for instance prefer semi-shade and tough-needled pines like full sun. Feeding will also help keep your bonsai healthy, especially as their small pots can easily get drained of nutrients. There are a variety of different fertilizers you can use and again it is best to seek out specialist knowledge to find the right type to suit your particular tree.
While all this may seem like a lot to take in, bonsai trees care is really simply a matter of following a few basic, time tested rules and you can become successful with the cultivation of beautiful bonsai trees.
It was a terrible sight. The leaves on my once gorgeous dwarf juniper were turning brown and the beautiful bonsai tree which I had hoped to pass on to my daughter was starting to die. What was I doing wrong with my care of bonsai trees?
Given proper care, bonsai trees can live for hundreds of years. In fact a properly maintained bonsai should outlive a full sized tree of the same species. Not only that, caring for bonsai trees is supposed to be a relaxing hobby and one that invokes a sense of calm and tranquility. But this was raising my blood pressure. I was in tears as I contemplated the near death of this symbol of timeless endurance.
I’m known as quite a gardener and my flower beds are flourishing – so why was my bonsai dying?
Like any plant, the secret in the care of bonsai trees is in providing the right amount of water, air, light and nutrients. However, bonsais come in a huge number of varieties and each species has different requirements in terms of these vital ingredients.
Different varieties of bonsais demand different amounts of light,water and fertiliser. Mine is a a dwarf juniper and I grow it indoors. I have now discovered it is crucial this tree gets at least two hours of direct sunlight a day. I am also careful not to place it near air-conditioning or a heater and to protect its roots from extremes of heat or cold. These were vital points for me to discover on my path to learning about the care of bonsai trees.
Proper care of bonsai trees involves a careful watch on the soil every day to make sure it hasn’t dried out; but overwatering is also a definite no-no and is probably the “root”cause of my problem. Most trees die through deyhdration but over-watering can damage plants nearly as quickly. The trick is finding the right balance. The Japanese, who mastered the art of bonsai many centuries ago, have an old adage – water thrice – once each for the pot, the soil and the tree.
Different soil types dry out at varying speeds and the shape of your pot can also influence the rate of water loss. It’s important to take into account such variations when planning your care of bonsai trees. In order to develop a healthly root system to keep your entire plant strong and flourising you must provide just the right amount of water. Bonsai can be developed from seeds or cuttings or from naturally occurring stunted trees transplanted into containers. They can range in height from a tiny five centimetres to over a metre tall.
Expert care is needed to pinch off new growth and encourage branches and trunk to grow into the desired shape, usually by wiring them into your chosen style. However this must be done carefully so that the wire does not bite into the flesh of the tree. Bonsai tree wiring is a reasonably advanced skill and it is a cruicial element in the care of bonsai trees. It is crucial you don’t remove too much of the root system at any one time – thirty percent a year is plenty.
You will also need to know how to prune the branches and roots and how and when to repot your bonsai. Pruning is seasonal, with most being done in spring or occasionally autumn. This is where an artistic eye produces the most pleasing results.
Bonsai is more a sculptural art form than straight gardening. The origin of bonsai trees can be traced back over 2000 years. The evocative beauty of a well-shaped tree can inspire feelings of calm and humility and a sense of timeless endurance as well as provide a focal point either inside your home or out on a patio. But who wants visitors to see a disaster?
As you can see, the basic care of bonsai trees, while not particularly difficult, does require some knowledge and skills. I arrogantly assumed I could do it on my own, but learnt the hard way – killing off my first attempt. In order to avoid making the same mistakes, I recommend that you seek out some advice on the proper care of bonsai trees.
Good luck – and may you find great joy in your care of bonsai trees.
Stop subjecting your bonsai to a slow death and instead learn the proper care of bonsai trees here: http://www.bonsai-trees-care.com Also, here’s another ‘must see’ article about bonsai trees care”
Kahi Ching, Hawaii-born and raised, award winning artist in the 2nd & 3rd dimension exhibited a selection of bonsai trees from his very own collection at Kahi Gallery. Most of his trees (which are very large scale) have been saved from construction sites and dumping grounds and at times have been resuscitated. A few have dubbed him a plant doctor and others consider his efforts as helping the earth and going Green. Since Kahi also draws and paints, he also shows new bonsai portraits of select trees.
Kahi Ching, Hawaii-born and raised, award winning artist in the 2nd & 3rd dimension exhibited a selection of bonsai trees from his very own collection at Kahi Gallery. Most of his trees (which are very large scale) have been saved from construction sites and dumping grounds and at times have been resuscitated. A few have dubbed him a plant doctor and others consider his efforts as helping the earth and going Green. Since Kahi also draws and paints, he also shows new bonsai portraits of select trees.
www.easybonsaigarden.com is Where you Will Find The Very Best Bonsai Tree Care – Learn How to Grow, Prune, and Care for Bonsai Trees, how to grow superb healthy bonsai. Download your free Bonsai Tree Care guides!
Bonsai trees (miniature replicas of larger trees) have been a source of beauty and awe in private gardens and public arboretums for decades. You will be able to choose any perennial tree or shrub species that will complement any décor and/or setting in the size and style you want for your bonsai tree. There are also bonsai trees that are available for both indoor and outdoor settings. There are sizes and styles and varieties of bonsai trees that will add a special touch to your current décor.
History
Although the term Bonsai tree is used as a broad sweeping term for all miniature trees, several other cultures have similar traditions. China has a similar tradition in penjing and Vietnam has the tradition of miniature living landscapes known as hòn non bộ. Bonsai is the Japanese term and loosely translates has tray (bon) growing or planting (sai). The intent of Bonsai is for contemplation and decoration and finished products are considered a form of art. There is a long history of container (tray) grown Bonsai trees. Learning provides a prospective on what Bonsai tree tradition and how you can apply it to your own décorcor or life style.
Plant Selection
Where you get your source material for your Bonsai tree is important. Growing your tree from seed (not the normal practice) is seldom due to the time it takes to reach a mature or aged look to the plant. Knowing the environment (cold, warm, dry, raining, etc…) the plant will live in is essential to source material selection. Ideally, any source material used will be indigenous to the location where the tree will be displayed. This applies mostly to trees intended for outdoor display but should be kept in mind for indoor display. However, Bonsai tree can be created from any woody plants the final selection has to fit the creative palette of the grower. Go to your local nursery for starter material until you are comfortable finding your our source material.
Containers Style and Size
The container is an essential aspect for the display of the final Bonsai Tree. Any container used should have holes in the bottom to allow water to flow through. The size of the final display container should match the aesthetics of what you see in the final product. In addition, training containers should be used while growing or training the plants to attain the final desired form. Training containers hold several plants and require a large volume of soil. The larger volume of soil allows the roots to grow more freely during the training phase and creates as healthier root system for the tree. If you are only growing one Bonsai tree, the final display container and training container can be the same.
Pruning Tools and Training/Pruning the Trees
Generally come in sets and can be found locally. Buy a starter kit and add the tools you need as your knowledge and skill increase. Pruning or training/shaping of any Bonsai tree is essential in the care and development of the tree. The basic pruning techniques are leave trimming, pruning of the roots, trunk and branches, wiring and clamping. Root prunning and repotting are essential skills necessary to the overall appearance of the Bonsai tree. The tools you will eventually use are important to make each technique as productive and easy as possible.
Buying vs. Growing your Own Bonsai Tree
The biggest, single drawback to buying a ready for display Bonsai tree is the care. If you buy a completed Bonsai tree, you will not have developed the skill set (pruning, trimming, replanting, etc…) to maintain the tree. You can always pay to have the tree maintained, but the enjoyment for me was always in the work and sense of accomplishment. Growing/training a Bonsai tree requires patience and commitment to a long term goal. Years can be spent training and eventually maintaining your Bonsai tree, but it is time well spent.
So, learn everything you can and you may find that growing Bonsai Trees is hobby for life.
The term Bonsai tree is used as a broad sweeping term for all miniature trees withseveral other cultures have similar traditions. China has a similar tradition in penjing and Vietnam has the tradition known as h
Bonsai’s are a fantastic hobby to take up and can be enjoyed by young and old alike. You do not need to be a gardener to take up bonsai but to make sure that your bonsai will last for many years, you do need to know about bonsai trees care.
The origin of Bonsai trees care can be traced back over 2000 years, and the bonsai tree remains an object of fascination. It is an interesting technique of growing adult trees in a miniature form.
Caring for your bonsai trees can give you some relaxing time out. Bonsai trees care is well known for the calming effects that is has on those that participate in this hobby that you can enjoy for a lifetime.
The authentic beauty of a well-shaped miniature tree inspires calm and humility to even the non-initiate, and nothing completes a garden or adds a touch of warmth into your house like a masterfully crafted Bonsai.
If you are have recently been given a Bonsai tree or maybe brought it for your self, your first question will most likely be…”What are the basic differences between caring for a Bonsai tree and an ordinary house plant?”
The answer is simple.
If Bonsai trees don’t receive the proper care, they die…quickly!
You may have heard others say:
“I was given a lovely Bonsai tree which at first looked just wonderful, them within a few weeks, it went brown and brittle and died…just like that!”
There are a few things that are essential when it comes to taking proper care of your Bonsai trees and lack of knowledge can ruin your chance of enjoying the peace and satisfaction that comes from the rewarding pastime of Bonsai trees care. Bonsai trees are very sensitive to their conditions and you need to learn how to look after these beautiful plants.
If you are serious about learning the ropes and unique techniques behind this classic and time honored tradition of Bonsai cultivation then there are 7 simple steps that you need to know about caring for your bonsai trees.
Where should you place your Bonsai tree to keep it as healthy as possible?
How to test if your Bonsai tree needs watering and how often you should water it?
The type of soil a Bonsai needs, how it’s different from ordinary plants
What to ‘feed’ your tree, how often to feed it and what elements must be in the fertilizer you use
How to repot your tree, why to do it, and when to do it
The what, when, why and how to’s of Bonsai pruning, trimming and pinching
The use of wiring to stabilize your tree and begin to influence the direction of its growth.
Of course, this is only the beginning of your journey of loving Bonsai trees. Once you have experienced the joy that Bonsai trees care has brought you, you may want to develop further beyond simply keeping your tree alive….trust me you’ll want to once you’re hooked!
Imagine the pride you will feel once you master this ancient art form and the accomplishment of watching your own Bonsai tree grow with you as months and years pass by.
Ask any true Bonsai enthusiast and they will tell you, there is no hobby in the world that compares to growing and caring for Bonsai trees.
If you can master the art of Bonsai trees care, who knows – maybe your Bonsai will become a family heirloom and be passed from generation to generation.
If you would like to know more about Bonsai trees care that covers the steps mentioned in this article, you can do so here: http://www.bonsai-trees-care.com
Bonsai are miniature trees grown in pots. The goal of bonsai culture is to develop a tiny tree that has all the elements of a large tree growing in a natural setting. A presentable bonsai can be created in a few seasons. Cultivating these miniature potted trees is both an intriguing hobby, and a means of adapting a wide range of plants to specialized and decorative uses.
How Do I Care for My Bonsai 4 Easy Ways to Love and Care for Your Bonsai
1) New bonsai are started in the spring. This is the time for any pruning and training of last season’s bonsai.
2) Cool nights, sunny days and mist (or rain) each day help them thrive in the summer. Place your Bonsai where they receive 3-5 hours of direct sunlight a day. Water the entire bonsai — plant and soil — daily.
3) Be sure to water the trees less frequently, in the fall season, to slow their growth for the approaching winter. Do not prune or cut branches after mid-August. To reduce winter die-back of flowering trees and maples, make a light application of 0-10-0 fertilizer.
4) Bonsai can only be left outdoors where the temperatures drop no lower than 28 F degrees — so you may need a pit or coldframe, if necessary. Winter frosts will seldom bother bonsai that are sheltered under the foliage of a spreading tree.
Bonsai require daily watering during their growing season, and, because the plants are rooted in shallow pots, they need careful pruning. Bonsai are kept outdoors most of the year, but from time to time these miniaturized versions of nature are brought indoors for display.
Indoor Bonsai Concepts
American gardeners have taken bonsai concepts and have applied them to houseplants. You can combine traditional procedures for handling houseplants with bonsai concepts of design. Only certain tropical trees, shrubs, and vines can be continuously kept indoors full time.
Outdoor Bonsai Concept
These are plants that are suitable for traditional bonsai. This is not intended to be a complete list. Specialty nurseries often have a wide selection of dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties of many of these species. Dwarf plants, however, do not always convey the same impression as their full size counterparts Ix-cause their growth habit is quite different.
Show Off Your Bonsai
Your indoor bonsai needs to be placed on a raised stand in front of a plain wall. If you bring your outside bonsai inside for a short visit, place it on a raised stand too. Try placing a small Japanese folding screen behind the bonsai.
For your outdoor garden, display bonsai on simple shelf set on concrete blocks. Bonsai in large containers look better displayed alone. Place these on some kind of a stand too.
Where Can I Buy a Bonsai Tree? Here is a Great Web Site
You can look at all the beautiful and graceful Bonsai trees and accessories and select the perfect Bonsai tree for your home or for that special person at Essential Bonsai
Info Lady has a passion for writing and writes articles on a variety of subjects. She enjoys her retirement and is finding her way through the internet maze. Her articles are informative, essential, up-to-date and helpful.
Wes Autio, professor of pomology at UMass, Amherst, is an expert on growing fruit trees. Dave interviewed Wes just before his lecture on “the edible landscape” at the recent New England Grows trade show.
There are five basic styles for bonsai trees: formal upright, informal upright, slanting, cascade, and semi-cascade. These classifications are based on the overall shape of the tree and how much the trunk slants away from an imaginary vertical axis. The numerous Japanese bonsai styles are principally variations of these five basic styles. The single trunk style is the basic design that is simplest to shape because the one trunk determines the overall composition.
Formal Upright
The formal upright style has classic proportions and is the basis of all bonsai. It is the easiest for a beginner bonsai to develop because it requires the least experimentation, avoids the problem of selective bonsai tree pruning, bonsai trimming and should almost immediately become a displayable bonsai plant.
In this style, the form is sometimes rounded and the bonsai tree has an erect leader and horizontal branches. One of the branches is lower and extends a little farther from the trunk than the others .
Bonsai in the formal upright style look best in bonsai pottery that are oval or rectangular. Do not center the plant when placing it in the container. Plant it about a third of the distance from one end.
Informal Upright
The informal upright bonsai style has much the same branch arrangement as the formal upright style, but the top — instead of being erect as in the formal upright style — bends slightly to the front. This bend makes the bonsai tree’s branches appear to be in motion and enhances the look of informality
The informal upright style looks best in an bonsai pottery that is oval or rectangular. It should be planted, not in the center of the container, but a third of the distance form one end.
Many bonsai nurseries trees are naturally slanted. This makes them well suited to the informal upright style.
Slanting
In the slanting bonsai tree style, the trunk has a more acute angle than in the previous styles. The lowest branch should spread in the direction opposite to that in which the tree slants. The top of the tree is bent slightly toward the front. Slanting trees in nature are called “leaners” — trees that have been forced by the wind and gravity into non-vertical growth. The attitude of the slanting style falls between the upright and cascade styles.
Cascade
In the cascade bonsai tree style, the trunk starts by growing upward from the soil, then turns downward abruptly, and reaches a point below the bottom edge of the container. For this reason, the bonsai pottery container should be placed on the edge of the table, or on a small stand. This bonsai style is representative of a natural tree that is growing down the face of an embankment.
Training a tree in the cascade style takes longer than in the slanting style. Choose a low-growing bonsai species instead of forcing a tree that normally grows upright into an unnatural form. The cascade bonsai tree looks best in a round or hexagonal bonsai pottery container that is higher than it is wide. The tree should be planted off-center from the cascading side.
Semi-Cascade
The semi-cascade bonsai style has a trunk that is allowed to grow straight for a certain distance, and then is cascaded down at a less abrupt angle than in the cascade style. The cascading branches are thought of as the front of the tree, and the back branches are trained closer to the trunk than in the other bonsai styles. The semi-cascade bonsai should not reach below the bottom of the container, but should go below the level of the soil surface.
No matter what style you choose — whether single trunk specimens or groups of bonsai trees from single roots — everything depends on your selection of bonsai plant material, and your ability to visualize the bonsai’s final form.
Everything depends on your selection of bonsai plant material, and your ability to visualize the bonsai?s final form. You can see bonsai trees and accessories at Essential Bonsai
