Bonsai is an art which entails growing small trees that look like full grown mature trees. They are grown just for the enjoyment and beauty of the experience. Prior to World War II there was not a great deal of information available in the West about this art form, but shortly after it became widely available and exhibitions are still common. Literature published in English regarding bonsai trees was also not available initially, but became much easier to locate.
Chinese penjing which means tray scenery is where the bonsai originally comes from. Penzai is the word used by the Japanese meaning bonsai coming from penjing. Three categories make up penjing including trees, landscape and water and land.
Tropical and subtropical types are sometimes grown inside; however they are generally grown outside. It is not the same as a general plant around the house and will need more care and watering. It will have benefits as compared to the outside bonsai because it can maintain leaves year round. It can never have the moss covering that an outdoor bonsai grower highly seeks.
When gathering materials for growing; seeds are rarely used as it is much better to start with partially grown specimen. The aged appearance is important and in order to get this it must come from a partially grown plant or what is called mature stock. When making a selection it is wise to choose a particular type that will grow well in the particular area in which it will be cultivated in.
There are a couple of different techniques used for collecting the mature stock. One technique is known as cutting and these are placed in what is called a medium for development until the roots can grow. The other technique is layering and allows the roots to develop next to the live branch and it is then removed.
Another available option is to purchase nursery stock which will allow the tree a couple of good seasons of starting time. There are advantages and disadvantages to going this direction. The shape may already be developed and altering it may be difficult, which will limit the direction in which the trunk has the ability to grow. It can however; be developed immediately.
For tending trees it is a good idea to purchase the special tools available. Plan to spend a great deal of time watering as these trees need to be kept moist a lot of the time. It is also important not to over water them as they may develop what is known as root rot. They will need to be repotted frequently to promote new root growth and to prevent them from becoming bound to a particular pot until completely mature.
Many different techniques are used when developing a bonsai which include pruning, trimming, clamping, wiring, defoliation, deadwood and grafting. Any of these techniques is acceptable, but particular aesthetic characteristics need to be considered to comply with tradition. There are some principles that are key including miniaturization, asymmetry, proportion among elements, expression of wabi or sabi and no trace of artist. With developing technique and patience it can be possible for anyone to experience the tranquility of caring for bonsai trees at home.
Doc Number: 38573026583
If you want to know more about bonsai trees, then visit Gabriel Meriwether’s site and find out more ficus.