The Art of Growing Bonsai Trees

Bonsai tree cultivation is a Japanese tradition stretching back 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 bigger relatives.  It’s the careful cultivation that keeps these trees miniture is size.  However, the trees are not sick or damaged.  In fact, given the proper attention, 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.  They are kept miniture through pruning both branches and roots.  Additionally, new growth is frequently pinched off when the bonsai plants are periodically repotted. 

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 formed into pleasing shapes.  They frequently follow a number of different patterns of growth, from elaborate waterfall shapes cascading down over their pots to simple triangular pattens.  The shapes are usually a product of both the pruning of the tree and by the use of wrapping the trunk and branches 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.  Mosses and rocks 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 often than most garden-variety houseplants.  Pruining is also essential occasionally, since the bonsai tree would grow into just a normal large tree without pruning.  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.  Since moisture in the soil, branches, and leaves of the bonsai is important, they need to be misted occasionally to remain healthy.