Article by David Francone
Well they are more than little trees. In order to achieve that “little tree” look it requires careful pruning of branches and roots – yes the roots. In order to achieve the unique shapes that you often see, the grower ties very thin wires to the branches as they are growing, forcing them to grow in a predetermined direction. The grower can achieve very interesting shapes from straight and stately to wind swept and even hanging down below the container. I’ve even seen some that wrap around an object in the center of the pot.
Bonsai make wonderful gifts. This is Valentine season and there are many flowering bonsai. Of course, not all bonsai are producing flowers in February, but some do such as the camellia. Others flower at various time of the year just as their larger relatives do. It is so interesting to see these miniature versions of the flower. It almost seems unreal.
All bonsai need plenty of light, therefore they do best outdoors. However, obviously some areas are just too cold in the winter so some types of bonsai must be brought indoors during that time. It is not my intention to present details about this, just to say that the trees do need to be given as much light as possible. Also, they require a dormant period.
So called “indoor bonsai” include dwarf Eugenia, bougainvillea, rosemary, Fukien tea, ficus, gardenia, Hawaiian umbrellas, podocarpus, pony tail palm, money tree, Brazilian rain tree, sago palm and others. “Outdoor bonsai” include azalea, Chinese elm, crepe myrtle, cotoneaster, cryptomeria, hornbeam, cypress, juniper, maple, pine, redwood, ginkgo, camellia, hibiscus, dwarf holly, and more.
Many people believe that the art of bonsai was first developed by the Japanese, but this is not so. The Chinese were the first to develop bonsai and the Japanese took it up and the art evolved over time.
Bonsai can be found that are hundreds of years old. These trees are, just as you would imagine, beautifully shaped mature specimens. Can you imagine the centuries of dedication to not only keep these alive, but to keep them beautiful!
About the Author
David and his wife Gina love to spend their time developing their bonsai skills and knowledge as much as possible.
The beautiful world of bonsai awaits you at Gina’s bonsai
For more information on the different types of bonsai as well as ideas for gifts for all occasions visit Gina’s Bonsai
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