If you've ever wondered whether art and horticulture can exist together, look no further than bonsai. Bonsai is not simply about growing miniature trees; it has now become a full fledged art form. Today, this originally native to Asia art form, has now been adopted by cultures around the world.
Most people suffer from the common misconception that bonsai plants are naturally small. In truth, they are average sized plants or trees that have been trained to retain a smaller size. They are not simply limited to small plants and trees either and tall and bigger sized trees can also be shaped with the art of bonsai.
What's most fascinating is the fact that these miniature trees go through the same stages of growth as their normal sized counterparts each season. They also bear fruits and flowers and shed their leaves as any other tree of normal size.
Pruning and trimming is an integral part of growing Bonsai trees. These two gardening techniques allow you to train the tree into retaining its diminutive size. Without regular pruning though, your tree could grow to its original height and shape. Ideally, you should prune the roots of your Bonsai plants annually to keep it healthy. The final height of your plant may also vary. While some may reach upto only a few centimeters, other can grow as tall as a meter or more.
When it comes to the shape of the Bonsai plants, there are two predominant styles that you can choose from. These basic styles are 'koten' or classic and 'bunjin' or informal or comic. The former styled tree has a trunk that's wider at the base and is tapering towards the top. The latter is just the opposite and is slightly difficult to master.
However, remember that you're working with a living plant when indulging in bonsai as a hobby. You can determine the best style for your tree by analyzing its natural characteristics. Once you are more familiar with the do's and don'ts of this art form, you may even be able to train the plant into a certain style. The five basic Bonsai styles include formal and informal upright, cascade and semi cascade and slanting or windswept. Each of these separate styles is unique and beautiful in their own individual way.
Before beginning with Bonsai though, you must understand that your trees require a certain amount of your time and devotion. Without proper care, they could go into a state of permanent dormancy. However, by providing adequate amount of care, you won't have to spend 24 hours fussing over it. The process of growing these trees can be fairly simple once you know how.
So, with a little understanding and care you should be able to excel at bonsai gardening. Adequate time and attention will help your trees thrive.
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