Bonsai Trees: The Art of Making Bonsai

In the practices of horticulture, exists a unique art form called Bonsai. It originated in Ancient China and was then refined in Japan, Bonsai is the practice of growing miniature-sized trees through various methods.

This article will cover the world of bonsai trees, how they are created, and some common trees that can be transformed into beautiful bonsai to add to your bonsai tree garden.

What is Bonsai?

The art of bonsai originated in China thousands of years ago and was refined in Japan. The word bonsai was derived from the Japanese words “bon” (tray or pot) and “sai” (planting).

Bonsai trees are not merely decorative plants but a result of harmony, patience, and balance between humans and nature. Bonsai captures the aura of nature and present it in a compact form.

Techniques like pruning, wiring, and shaping are used to create a desirable size for the plant. Creating bonsai trees involves extensive plant care and attention to detail.

While creating bonsai tree gardens factors such as watering, fertilizing, pruning, and repotting are performed and monitored carefully to ensure steady and healthy plant growth. The art of bonsai is a very deep meditative practice that creates a strong bond with nature.

Benefits of Bonsai

A bonsai tree is a true wonder of nature. Its cultivation goes beyond its aesthetic appeal and beautiful appearance. Bonsai creates a connection with nature as one observes and responds to the growth of these plants.

Cultivating a bonsai tree garden has a therapeutic effect on the mind and body. The technique of delicate pruning and shaping bonsai trees can be meditative and provide relaxation and stress relief. The daily caring of bonsai trees creates strict discipline and boosts productivity in life.

Apart from bringing peace with their presence, bonsai also purifies indoor air, removes air pollutants, and can reduce volatile organic compounds. By growing a bonsai plant you will be a lot more relaxed, positive, and productive in your life.

How to grow Bonsai Trees?

Every tree is unique and requires different needs, therefore creating a bonsai garden is a continuous learning process. Only through practice, attention, and careful experimentation one can develop the skills to create bonsai trees.

Here are some important and common factors to keep in mind while creating bonsai trees:

Selecting Trees:

Trees with small leaves, proportional branches, interesting bark, and great adaptability are suitable for bonsai cultivation. Also, research the requirements of the chosen specimen.

Styling & Design:

Research various bonsai styles and select one suitable for your chosen tree before starting the cultivation. Several styles such as cascade, formal and informal upright, and windswept have different guidelines for branch placement and trunk inclination.

Pruning & Wiring:

Repotting:

Repotting should be done periodically, every two to three years. The purpose of this is to remove excess roots and encourage new root growth. Repotting also ensures that your tree can thrive within a small pot.

Water Requirements:

Water needs depend on the weather and temperature. Check the state of the soil by putting your finger in the soil, if it is dry water it, otherwise, spray it with a light mist. In general indoor bonsai, trees need water every 3 to 4 days, and water bonsai tree gardens outdoors once every two days. Do not over-water the soil but keep it moist.

Soil & Fertilizers:

All bonsai trees prefer well-drained soil. Potting materials such as – river sand, fine gravel, and cocopeat are ideal for bonsai. It is essential to add fertilizers rich with NPK compounds during the growing season. You can also add organic manure such as cow dung in the soil.

Sunlight Requirements:

The light requirements for bonsai depend on the species of the plant. Fruit-bearing bonsai trees need 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight. Research the sunlight needs of the plant you selected.

Pest & Disease management:

A variety of plants can be transformed into bonsai, therefore hundreds of plant diseases and pests can affect them. So it is important to research the plant diseases and pest infections for the species you have chosen. Always look out for any insects or eggs on the plant and remove any leaves with spots.

Common Trees for Bonsai Cultivation

Juniper (Juniperus spp.)

Juniper is the best choice for beginners because of its adaptability and hardiness. Juniper’s small foliage fits perfectly with the concept of bonsai trees. Although it should be noted that Junipers don’t do well indoors.

How to grow a Juniper bonsai?

• Select a young plant.
• Also, prune the branches to the desired shape and style.
• Repot the plant using a well-draining pot mix.
• Use copper or aluminum wires to gently shape the branches.
• Water regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not over-saturated.
• Provide ample sunlight.

Pine (Pinus spp.)

Pine is famous as a bonsai tree because it can survive hard training and pruning. It can be a great addition to your bonsai tree garden as it can be pruned into any bonsai style. Their evergreen foliage creates a timeless beauty.

How to grow a Pine bonsai?

• Select a young sapling with a thick trunk.
• Prune branches and remove any weak or unwanted foliage.
• Water the tree deeply. The soil should be completely dry before watering again.
• Use a well-draining pot mixture for repotting the plant.
• Pine requires full sun for healthy growth.
• Additionally, use wires to carefully shape the branches.

Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

Japanese maple is definitely the star of the bonsai show. But these plants are not for those who can’t provide a lot of time to plant care. Japanese maples are famous for their attractive red-burgundy leaves.

How to grow Japanese Maple bonsai?

• Water consistently every day.
• Prune the foliage when needed.
• Japanese Maple are frost-loving plants so move them to a more sheltered spot when the temperature rises above 30 degrees Celcius to avoid damage.

Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)

Chinese Elm can survive a wide range of conditions, they have small leaves with fast growth. It has a multi-colored bark with the shade of brown, gray, green, and orange therefore they are perfect for any bonsai tree garden. They can thrive both indoors and outdoors.

How to grow a Chinese Elm bonsai?

• Select a young sapling with a promising trunk.
• Prune the branches to create an appealing visual and remove any unwanted growth.
• Chinese Elm requires less frequent and deep watering.
• They are preferred as indoor plants but can be grown outside over the summer under full sun.

Japanese Flowering Cherry (Prunus serrulata)

Japanese Flowering Cherry is a deciduous tree it is a beautiful ornamental tree that is easy to transform into a bonsai tree. This tree goes through remarkable changes all year. In Spring, the tree displays vibrant blooms, in summer it gets lushed with dense foliage. In autumn the leaves may transcend into hues of yellow, red, or orange.

How to grow a Japanese Flowering Cherry?

• Select a healthy young sapling. Look for a straight trunk and well-placed branches if buying a nursery-grown tree.
• Prune any unwanted branches and ensure a balanced structure. Do not prune the main trunk or any well-placed branches.
• Repot the plant every 2 to 3 years in the early spring.
• The soil should be kept consistently moist but avoid over-watering.
• Also, provide full and direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Therefore bonsai trees are living art forms that can be enjoyed for generations. Bonsai cultivation is a hobby that brings joy, fulfillment, and a deeper understanding and appreciation for the amazing natural world.

Though Bonsai’s cultivation requires utmost discipline and patience the reward is a stunning masterpiece that is worth all the effort. Bonsai cultivation is a timeless art form that inspires and captivates many people around the world.