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Bonsai Magnolia

December 11th, 2011 | Author: admin

The Bonsai Tree

A bonsai tree isnt ‘yet another houseplant’ and fans of Bonsai tradition have qualities of enormous patience and care because it might take many years for a bonsai to really come into its own. One thing is certain, though, given the time and attention, the end result is a great joy.

Bonsai history

The word ‘bonsai’ is is the merging of two Japanese words, the word ‘bon’, which translates as ‘shallow container’, and ‘sai’ which translates as ‘planting’ or ‘plant’

China is the country where the art of bonsai actually originated, but it is japan that has really devloped the art of bonsai for over a thousand years. There is also some debate as to whether transferring trees to containers for aesthetic purposes may have started in the indian sub-continent.

In an case, it would appear that the dramatic increase in popularity of Bonsai is linked with buddhism as zen buddhism encourages creating works of art as an essential extension of the self, and one’s own spirituality. In fact, the care and growth of a bonsai is seen as a type of meditation.

These days, the development and care of Bonsai trees is a very popular hobby that is practised worldwide, and brings enjoyment to millions.

How to start – the essentials

When you practice bonsai you are actually miniaturising a tree. This is done by cutting back the roots of a sapling..

It is technically possible to grow bonsai trees from seeds, but that is usually quite hard and it could be a better idea for the absolute beginner to buy a ‘ready made’ bonsai tree from a bonsai grower and carry on the artisitic work that has already started.

There are a selection of vital tools and equipment that are needed to look after a bonsai tree.

Bonsai tools for trimming foliage and roots are obviously important. These tools are small, sharp and often expensive, so think twice before making any rash purchases and it would be worthwhile to consult a good book on bonsai tree cultivation before making any expensive purchases.

Copper wire is also necessary. It is wound around the trunk of a sapling, so that the trunk can be bent into the required shape and style ( and there are many different styles). Copper wire is also usually used around the roots of a tree to anchor it into a shallow pot.

The choice of pot or container is also needed as it must reflect the type of tree or plant you have chosen as well as the style of tree you want to cultivate. Whatever you choose, the pot must not be glazed on the inside and should have good drainage.

Some popular choices of Bonsai are the Japanese Maple, Junipers, the Japanese Black Pine and Star Magnolias.

About the Author

Ekaterina Wakefield is a staff writer at: Kyoto Bonsai Trees, offering a range of Bonsai Trees and Bonsai pots and Bonsai tools.