Bonsai are dwarf ornamental trees that grow in a variety of shallow pots. Trees are pruned and managed in ways that encourage patterns within the branches and trunks of the tree. To the casual grower, bonsai trees are simple, just small trees that are stunted by the edges of their pots. For the professional bonsai tree grower, trees are works of art that can last for hundreds of years if properly cared for.
If you are interested in growing bonsai, there are several things to keep in mind. Many of the types of trees suitable for growing in the bonsai style do not do well indoors. This is due to the fact that many of the species used in bonsai require a dormant period which is normally interrupted by indoor temperature and climate. By not allowing the bonsai to go dormant, the tree will not be able to thrive for as long.
There are seven techniques used to handle and care for bonsai. These include leaf trimming, pruning, wiring, pinning, grafting, defoliation, and dead wood. Each of these methods serves a different purpose when caring for bonsai trees. Leaf trimming and pruning are typically used to maintain the appearance and health of the tree, while wiring, bracing, grafting, defoliation, and deadwood are methods used to improve the overall style and design. of bonsai. Each of these methods must be done with care, as your bonsai trees can die if you overprune, overcut, or severely damage the root and structure of the bonsai trees.
Unlike other styles of potted plants, bonsai trees require careful watering in order to survive. Each species of bonsai tree is different and has different watering needs. Over or under watering of bonsai is among the most common causes of death in these plants.
An important part of caring for bonsai is maintaining the pots in which they grow. There are many types of pots available, both glazed and unglazed, that are designed to accentuate the bonsai growing within them. Pots will be changed throughout the life of the bonsai, so growers will need to learn the best way to select and change pots. Due to the size of the bonsai, the pots are often an important part of the bonsai’s appearance.
Most bonsai will be grown in pots with drainage holes that allow excess moisture to collect inside the pot and lead to root rot. Many growers will use mesh over these holes to prevent pests from entering the pot from the bottom and to keep loose soil in the pot.
If you are interested in growing bonsai, you should make sure you live in a good region for the types of trees you want to grow, or you should focus on buying an indoor bonsai variety.