So You Want to Make a
Bonsai
By Gene
Neiro
Growing your own bonsai
need not start by being expensive. Plants are free if grown
from seed or cuttings and the rewards to be had in terms of
appreciation of the final result, and the experience gained,
is a joy beyond compare.
Creating a bonsai is a
fairly simple procedure, if you follow the necessary steps
for growing and shaping the selected tree. It is also
important to select a tree for the climatic conditions in
your region â€" some trees will thrive in certain regions
while others may not survive. After deciding on the desired
bonsai material, the next step is to prepare the appropriate
size pot. A pot that is too small, or a pot that is too
large can hamper the growth of the bonsai. In addition the
pot should have an outlet or opening at the bottom to allow
water to drain freely. The amount and type of soil is also
an important consideration, usually a mixture of organic and
inorganic compounds. To allow for proper placement in its
container, you may have to cut some of its roots. By
reducing the mass of roots in the pot, pruning provides
space for young vigorous roots to grow and absorb water and
minerals. Remember, it is the trimming of the roots while
confining the tree to a shallow container that keeps the
tree miniaturized.
After setting the tree in
its container, pruning the leaves, trimming new shoots and
wiring the branches into an aesthetically pleasing form
follows. There are six classic bonsai styles and a growing
list of non-classical styles as bonsai art involves new
cultures and new species. Aesthetics, however is not an end
in itself, but is linked to the physiology and good health
of the bonsai.
Once you have proudly completed your work of art, you should
become familiar with the basic rules for maintaining your
tree in good health so that it can reward you with many
years of pleasure. Method and frequency of watering,
lighting requirements, trimming and repotting, prevention of
diseases and insects, and plant fertilization are just a few
of the topics with which you should become familiar. There
are numerous books on the subject of bonsai which can
provide step-by-step instructions on these subjects . Happy
Growing!
About the
Author:
Gene Neiro is the author of this article on
bonsai . Find more
information relating to
bonsai trees , {a
href="
http://www.bonsaiboy.com"}
indoor bonsai trees and juniper bonsai trees here.
If you're interested in
more bonsai articles, click here -
Bonsai Articles.
Enjoy!
I wish you all the best on your
bonsai adventure!
Best wishes,
Thomas T :)
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