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Introduction To
Growing & Caring For A Bonsai Tree
The art of shaping bonsai trees in a tiny pot first arose around a thousand
years ago in China, where this fascinating art form was known as pun-sai.
Ever since this time growing Bonsai trees has been a favourite hobby and
past time for many people around the world. The thought of being able to
grow a Bonzi from within the comfort of your own home is extremely popular.
Growing a Bonsai tree, even for a beginner is relatively simple process.
It's the time, dedication, patience and commitment needed to mature and
care for a Bonsai that
distinguishes a bonsai master to an enthusiast or person just starting out
in this worthwhile hobby. However, no matter on skill set, the bonsai
techniques used, or advice and tips followed, the rewards are obvious if you
invest the time and effort into caring for your Bonsai tree.
There is a common
misconception that Bonsai Trees are a special type of tree that are somehow
manufactured to be miniature. This simply isn't true. A Bonsai tree is the
same as any other tree, the only thing different is the way the Bonsai has
been shaped and pruned to obtain the dwarf effect.
Most people will try to
grow their Bonsai tree on a windowsill or a popular room inside their home.
The trouble is, by nature trees are not best suited to life indoors, and
therefore these are likely to be less than ideal conditions for growing a
Bonsai tree.
Don't get me wrong it's still possible to grow and care for your Bonsai
indoors, just be aware that not all trees are suitable for being miniature
and for life on your mantelpiece, especially if your are unable to simulate
the trees natural habitat. Therefore it's easier and advisable initially
anyway to think about growing your Bonsai tree outdoors.
The art of Bonzi can last a
lifetime. However, the costs associated with this hobby are very small
indeed. Considering if you are growing your Bonsai tree from a seed or
sapling, the only expense you are likely to encounter is if you decide to
buy any Bonsai tools.
While specific Bonsai tools
are not necessarily required, you should certainly consider investing in a
decent pair of secateurs. Also, recommended, but again not essential, is a
ceramic bonsai pot. However, if it's your intention to grow you own Bonsai
plant or tree then you will only need some bonsai tree seeds or a sapling
which you may be able to get for free?
The art of Bonsai is to
mimic nature as closely as possible. Meaning your bonsai tree should
replicate it's naturally growing big brother but in miniature. Don't be
tempted to sculpt your Bonzi tree into something weird or wacky, these
designs seldom turn out to be long lasting and may end up damaging your
tree. Instead, stick to the basic bonsai styles that have been tried and
tested throughout the centuries.
If all this sounds
unfamiliar, don't panic we will discuss the various Bonsai styles later.
So here we go, the following pages will show you exactly what you should and
shouldn't do when growing a Bonsai tree... |