Japan has a rich cultural history. One of the practices with a lengthy history is the production of Bonsai trees, which became popular in Japan during the Heian period.

They are not meant to serve a purpose beyond art and contemplation. It is a study in balance, restraint and harmony, as they serve no medicinal or culinary purposes. They don’t contribute to larger landscapes either. For this reason, Bonsai is a very narrow practice, focusing on one or two plants.

This is so important in Japan that one of the oldest known living specimens is considered a National Treasure. It is thought to be at least 500 years old. It is on display in the Tokyo Imperial Palace.

They can be made with nearly any material. As long as it is perennial and has woody growth, it can be made into one. It also should branch and remain small in containment with root and crown pruning.

Some species are better than others. Plants with small leaves or needles are great. These types of plants have characteristics that make them look good on the small scale of the potted landscape. Ficus is a great beginner tree because is adapts easily and grows quickly. Many in the evergreen family are also desirable for their unique wood textures and small needles.

To start one, the grower needs source material to train into a Bonsai. This material can come from a number of places. This is one of the few forms of plant propagation that does not succeed well from seed. Since the ultimate goal of Bonsai is a weathered and aged appearance, source material is often partially grown or even mature.

Many techniques are involved in creating these living sculptures. Pruning is the first step to creating one. This involves cutting small pieces of branch, root, or trunk to achieve the desired effect. Leaf trimming is the most commonly used technique throughout the life of the tree. Wrapping wire around the branches will help hold the desired shape until the wood lignifies and can hold itself up. Clamping is an alternative to wiring when a tree is too tough. Grafting allows the grower to place new growing material in a place without foliage. Defoliation involves removing all the leaves off part of the tree. This forces new, tiny leaves to grow back in their place. Dead wooding is a technique in which all the bark is removed from a branch or the trunk to give the appearance of dead wood.

Bonsai trees are an art, a meditation, and a horticultural practice. There are thousands of years of history and culture behind this art form. They are beautiful living sculptures.

Tags: Bonsai Trees

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