Growing Bonsai Trees

Bonsai tree cultivation is 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 larger brothers and sisters.  It’s the careful cultivation and shaping techniques that keeps these trees small.  However, the trees are not sick or damaged.  In fact, given the correct attention, the bonsai version of a tree can live longer than the same tree if it was allowed to grow in the wild.

Grown from seeds or cuttings, Bonsai trees normally range in height from two inches to three feet.  They are kept miniture through pruning both branches and roots.  Additionally, new growth is frequently removed when they are repotted periodically. 

There is a much about art as there is about horticulture in the cultivating of bonsai trees.  Bonsai trees are not only kept miniture, they are also shaped into pleasing forms.  They frequently 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 branches and trunk with wire, pushing the tree into its desired shape.  Chosen to compliment the color and shape of the tree itself, the pots are also part of the art of bonsai.  Rocks and mosses are frequently added to the base for aesthetic appeal. 

Cultivating a bonsai tree is more complicated than the growing of most houseplants.  Since the bonsai, by definition, has has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs fertilizer and water more often than the majority of 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 branches and leaves of the bonsai.  They need to be misted occasionally for the bonsai to remain healthy.