The cultivation of bonsai trees has been a Japanese tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years. Bonsai literally translates to “tray planting,” and involves actively cultivating trees into an artistic dwarfed version of themselves. Bonsai trees are not a special dwarf or hybrid species of a common tree; they’re genetically the same as their much bigger relatives. It’s the careful cultivation and bonsai shaping techniques that keeps these trees miniature in size. However, bonsai trees are not sick or damaged. In fact, given the proper attention, the bonsai version of a tree can exceed the life expectancy of the same tree if it were grown in the wild.
Bonsai trees can either be grown from seeds or from cuttings of trees, and they usually range in height from two inches to three feet. Through pruning both roots and branches bonsai trees are kept small. Additionally, new growth is often removed when they are repotted periodically.
There is a much about art as there is about horticulture in the cultivating of bonsai trees. Bonsai trees are not only kept small, 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 normally a result of both the pruning of the tree and by the 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 frequently added to the base for aesthetic appeal.
Cultivating indoor bonsai trees is more complicated than taking care of most houseplants. Since the bonsai, by definition, has has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs fertilizer and water more frequently than most garden-variety houseplants. Occasional pruning is also essential, since without pruning the bonsai tree would grow into just a normal big tree. 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. You can create a sunny and warm environment indoors by setting up a small greenhouse and equip it with UV lights and a heating system. Since moisture in the soil, branches, and leaves of the bonsai is important, they need to be misted occasionally to remain healthy.
