The Art of Bonsai

The word “Bon-sai” is a Japanese term which, literally translated, means “planted in a container”. This art form is derived from an ancient Chinese horticultural practice, part of which was then redeveloped under the influence of Japanese Zen Buddhism. It has been around for well over a thousand years.

The ultimate goal of growing a bonsai is to create a miniaturised but realistic representation of nature in the form of a tree. Bonsai trees are not genetically dwarfed plants. In fact, most tree species can be used to grow a bonsai tree.

Techniques such as pinching buds, pruning and wiring branches and carefully feeding with fertilizers are used to limit and redirect healthy growth.

Bonsai is a blend of horticultural knowledge and art. The best, ideal , masterpiece compositions seems natural, subtly accentuated by human intervention but not spoiled by stark evidence of human interaction.

Bonsai trees are living growing organisms, never complete or finished.

The oldest and longest-containerised Bonsai can undergo several different styles throughout their long lives. These trees can live longer than their artists because of increased attention to their health, water and nutritional needs, protection from weather extremes or pest infestations.

In Japan and China the trees are inherited from one generation to the next  generation . There are trees older than 800 years alive that are still being cared for by newer generations of artists.

Bonsai is such a great hobby for every age group. The peace and tranquility working with your trees and seeing them transform into a beautiful creation is worth every second spent attending to them.