Cultivating Bonsai Trees

Bonsai tree cultivation is a Japanese tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years.  Bonsai literally translates to "tray planting," and involves actively growing and shaping trees into an artistic dwarfed version of themselves.  A bonsai tree is not a special dwarf or hybrid species of a common tree; they’re genetically identical to their much larger brothers and sisters.  It’s the careful cultivation that keeps these trees small.  Surprisingly, the trees are not damaged by this process, however.  In fact, with the proper care, the dwarfed version of a tree can exceed the life expectancy of the same tree if it were grown in the wild.

Grown from seeds or cuttings, Bonsai trees normally range from two inches to three feet in height.  They are kept small through pruning both branches and roots.  They’re also repotted periodically, and new growth is often pinched off. 

There is a much about art as there is about horticulture in the growing and cultivating of bonsai trees.  Not only are bonsai trees kept small, they are also shaped into pleasing forms.  They often follow a number of different patterns of growth, from elaborate waterfall shapes cascading down over their pots to simple triangular pattens.  The various shapes are normally a result of both the pruning of the tree and by the use of wrapping the trunk and branches with wire, pushing the tree into its desired shape.  The pots themselves are part of the art as well, chosen to compliment the shape and color of the tree itself.  Rocks and mosses are frequently added to the base for aesthetic appeal. 

Cultivating a bonsai tree is more complicated than maintaining most houseplants.  Since the bonsai has has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs fertilizer and water more often than most garden-variety houseplants.  Pruining is also essential occasionally, 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.  Moisture is also important, not only in the soil but in the branches and leaves of the bonsai.  They need to be misted occasionally for the bonsai to develop healthily.