If you are looking for a hobby that is not only artistic, but involves horticultural practice then bonsai is for you. This millennia-old art form is still very popular today. It is a great interest or even profession to undertake.

What is Bonsai?

Bonsai is an outlet for art and horticulture that can provoke your senses and provide a greater understanding of nature. The word bonsai, in both the Chinese and Japanese language, means tree in a pot. Bonsai can be formed from a seed, a cutting from a young sapling, or a naturally stunted tree transplanted into a container. The plant is then shaped,, pruned, and trained into a unique design. Frequent repotting, control of new growth, and pruning of the branches and roots help to create the artist’s desired shape.

History of Bonsai

According to http://www.bonsaitreegardener.net – #1 Guide To Bonsai Trees, the origin of Bonsai came first in China, not in Japan opposed to popular belief. First appearing in China over a thousand years ago, pun-sai was the practice of growing a single tree in a pot. It was a basic form, quite unlike bonsai. Chinese bonsai came about from forming these landscapes into something creative and beautiful. Japan then adopted and refined this art. Buddhist monks and later the Japanese elites practiced bonsai and it became a symbol of their culture. Travelers to Japan loved these miniature trees and in the mid 19th century, word spread to the rest of the world.

Bonsai Styles

There are many styles of bonsai and as you learn more you will develop your own. For beginners, here is a list and basic description of the main five styles. Formal upright or Chokkan- Being the most common and also most difficult style, the tree is near perfect. It has a straight trunk with tapering limbs. Informal upright or Moyogi- This bonsai tree will bend to the left or right and taper to a point at the top. Slanting or Shakkan- Grown at an acute angle relative to the ground, this style can use any species of tree. Broom or Hokidachi- With much symmetry in the branches, this style is easy for beginners. Cascading or Kenjai- The species is planted in a tall pot and trained to grow upward and then to grow in a downward direction and overhang the edge.

Bonsai Techniques and Maintenance

Pruning and regular maintenance are essential in achieving the shape and look that you want your bonsai to have. Using aluminum or copper wires to secure the trunk or branches of your tree for a short period is a great way to manipulate it to your vision.

Learning to water your bonsai properly is an important process. The amount of water it needs depends on its size, species, and temperature. To determine if your bonsai needs water, dig your finger into the soil and see if it is damp. If it is dry, pour water evenly over the entire surface of the soil until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. Wait thirty minutes and repeat. When all the excess water it drained then return your bonsai to its tray. Choosing a pot for your bonsai is also a major part of the creative process. Bonsai trees need to be re-potted every year so that the roots can be pruned and the soil can be recomposted.

For an in-depth introduction to bonsai trees, visit Bonsai Tree Gardener Blog. Bonsai Tree Gardener is the The Best Online Help Guide To Bonsai Trees, where you can learn all about bonsai tree care, techniques and tools required to grow your own bonsai tree.

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