Growing Bonsai Trees

Here are some of the things you will discover:

- What is Bonsai
- An in-depth look at the origin and types of Bonsai.
- Get the right bonsai plant to suit your needs and styles.
- How to take care of your bonsai to make them look attractive all times.

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And get these 2 reports about bonsai tools and care

If you are a beginner or looking to get started with you own bonsai tree. Then pick up a bonsai starter kit, it has everything you need for your first bonsai.

See everything you get with your bonsai starter kit.

To understand bonsai history better, it is necessary to have a clear definition of what a bonsai is. "Bonsai" is a Japanese word, which when translated literally means "planted in a pot or container".

Bonsai refers to a set of methods and techniques in growing, shaping and caring for a tree with the intention of forming it into a miniaturized tree that bears a natural image of an ancient tree. Bonsai history shows that this horticultural practice has survived many centuries evolving into an art form.

While the word "bonsai" itself is Japanese, according to bonsai history China was the birthplace of this art and that bonsai was derived from the Chinese word "pun-sai".

The Chinese started pun-sai around 1000 BC, utilizing unique methods to cultivate trees in containers. During these ancient times, only the upper class in the society practice pun-sai and the miniature trees were given as luxurious presents.

Some historians think that the Chinese got the technique of miniaturizing trees and planting them in containers from Chinese healers who used the practice to transport medicinal plants. The earliest bonsai styles displayed trunks shaped like animals and mystical figures.

In bonsai history, it was at the time of the Kamakura period when Japan was adopting many Chinese cultural practices that pun-sai was brought to Japan. The Japanese then developed this practice of growing of trees in containers extensively, which is why the art of bonsai is usually credited to them. It was during the Heian period that the art of Bonsai spread around Japan.

During the Tokugawa era, landscape gardening was very popular in Japan and held a status symbol. It was the elite's pastime to grow plants such as azaleas and maple trees. Then, bonsai or the cultivation of dwarf trees and plants in containers became popular but these small plants are actually quite large when compared to the bonsai we know today.

Additionally, the Japanese did not refer to the miniature plants as "bonsai" until the late 1800s during the Meiji era. Before that, the Japanese called the dwarf trees in a pot "hachi-no-ki."

The Japanese popularized bonsai and they were responsible for developing the techniques and styles that are still popular today. It was only during the 1900s that bonsai was introduced to the West.

Today, bonsai is a widely popular hobby and art form from Asia to the Western countries. There are shows, exhibits and auctions for bonsai. Aside from bonsai nurseries and bonsai specialty stores, there are also many bonsai internet resources where anyone interested can learn everything about bonsai from bonsai history to plant selection to styles, caring and many other topics. Indeed, this art form has never ceased to fascinate people all over the world and will continue to be passed on for more generations to come.

How many people know that bonsai can be grown from seeds? Although there are no magic bonsai seeds which can turn into the perfect-looking bonsai tree after being planted, the bonsai seeds can still grow into the "dwarfed trees" that we have all come to love. That is, with certain growing procedures and every bit of your patience.

Most people will probably tell you that growing a bonsai tree from bonsai seeds is a clear waste of your time. But even if this is known to be the most time-consuming among all methods, this is also the one that will give you the most rewarding experience.

The Japanese has a term to define the cultivation of bonsai from bonsai seeds - misho. This process may take a lot of time, but it allows one total control of the tree's growth right from the start.

Initially, you need to gather the "right" kinds of seeds according to the type of bonsai tree that you like to grow. Various horticultural shops have plenty of these available.

Once you have gathered the bonsai seeds, it is necessary to place them in water for the night in order to differentiate which seeds are potentially viable and which ones are not. Those that will float are not usable, but the ones that will sink are those that you will be working with.

Before sowing your bonsai seeds, make sure that you have chosen a pot that is about has a depth of 15 cm or 6" and features a drainage hole. The lowest portion of the pot, or a quarter of the pot's total volume should contain an earth mix, a mixture of akadama and fine gravel in equal proportions.

On top of that layer, you need to put a mixture of fine akadama, potting compost, and fine gravel in ½, 1/4, and ¼ ratios respectively. This particular layer should be about 1" below the pot's rim. Place the bonsai seeds on top of this layer, making sure that they are about 1" to 2" inch apart from.

Finally, put in the last layer which is composed of a mixture of potting compost and akadama in equal ratios. Spray water on top of the seedbed using a nozzle with fine spray.

It may take years before you can finally see a nice bonsai tree. However, what can be more fulfilling than knowing that you grew it from "scratch" yourself?

Using the right bonsai soil mix can be very beneficial for a bonsai tree. There are a lot of enthusiasts who use ready-mix bonsai soil from nurseries and garden shops but it is quite expensive. Because of frequent repotting during spring, most bonsai hobbyists or gardeners learn mixing soils on their own.

There is a wide variety of soil ingredients to use. For starters, choosing which type of soil to use can be very difficult. It is important that the bonsai soil can hold moisture and nutrients needed by the plant because the health and beauty of the bonsai tree heavily depends on the quality of soil.

The soil should have good hold of water but excess water should also be drained quickly to avoid build up of salts. Good air intake of the soil is also vital. The soil mix should have small-sized gaps so that the roots can have enough air. A well-mixed inorganic soil allows air to continually flow into the soil while a packed down organic soil can hinder water and air flow that can cause damage to the roots.

An organic bonsai soil is comprised of dead plant substances like peat, dead leaves and barks. An inorganic bonsai soil is composed of fired clays and volcanic lava. This type of soil can be found in garden centers and nurseries.

Although most bonsai plants require soils good for water retention and draining excess water, there are species that have their own requirements for intake of nutrients and water. For example, Pine trees and Juniper trees need lesser water intake meaning they require less-water-retention type of soil. However, flowering and fruit-bearing species require soil mixes with high level of water retention.

In mixing your own bonsai potting soil, the percentage of water-holding material should depend on the specie of the tree that will be planted. For a free-draining soil, high ration of grit should be added making the soil drain all excess water while increasing the quantity of water-holding material, which also increases the retention of water in the soil.

Proper knowledge on what soil to use is very essential for a healthy and beautiful bonsai tree. It is fine for starters to use a ready-mixed bonsai soil from a nursery or garden center for the first few times. However, the use of inorganic soil is the most recommended.

The Hori-Hori Digging Tool was originally designed for excavating aged stock high in the mountains of Japan, where enthusiasts still find prized specimens for Bonsai.

The black blade is concave, thick and strong for digging and prying in rocky terrain, with semi-sharp, beveled and serrated edges for cutting anchored roots.

Provided with a thick, natural wood handle for a strong grip, and a black, heavy vinyl sheath with leather belt loop. 6 1/2 blade, 11 3/4 overall length.

There are a lot of different bonsai pots to choose from. The shapes, sizes, and colors are so varied that choosing a particular pot can be very challenging. Although aesthetics is important, it should not be overly so as the bonsai plant deserves more attention than its pot.

But finding the right kind of pot is not that easy. A bad choice of pot can actually lessen the tree's impact. However, a pot that is chosen well will also work to emphasize the beauty of the bonsai plant and will allow it to achieve its maximum potential as such.

There are several factors to consider in order to end up with the right bonsai pots. First, the pots' sizes are a major consideration. The appropriate dimensions are determined by using some guidelines based on the dimensions of the bonsai plant itself. Generally, the depth of the pot should be the same as the diameter of the bonsai's trunk above the soil level.

The style and shape of the bonsai pots should match your bonsai plants. Thus, you have to take a good look at your plants and assess their characteristics. There is such thing as masculine plant and feminine plant, or a plant that is a mixture of both but where one characteristic is more dominant. However, such assessment is fairly subjective. But then you should keep in mind that a very masculine plant will not look nice in a feminine pot, and vice versa. But the owner of the plant should be capable of making a good assessment.

Bonsai pots have a widely varied selection of colors. The plant's distinctive feature may be used as basis for pot color selection. Thus, the bonsai plant and the color of its pot will be able to blend well together. The plant's feature which may serve as guideline is its bark. For flower-bearing plants, the color of the chosen pot should complement that of the flowers'.

There are numerous textures of bonsai pots to choose from, and each is supposed to enhance the plant. For example, feminine plants are better off when they're placed in pots with smooth finishes. Pots with heavier textures will complement masculine plants more.

While choosing from among the different bonsai pots can be confusing, it can still be learned nevertheless. But with ample knowledge and experience with bonsai, and with a good sense of personal taste, picking out the right one should be a piece of cake

Living things need more than just water to grow and live - plants included. Bonsai, regardless if they are merely the "dwarf" versions of normal trees still require some sort of food to keep them healthy and alive.

Fertilizer is considered as the plant food. And since bonsai does not differ much from other plants, they need fertilizer as well. As with any plant specie, natural bonsai plant food include sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water. These are converted into sugar and carbohydrate and will serve as food for the plants.

Fertilizer is a bonsai plant food that is capable of providing the bonsai trees with necessary vitamins and minerals. For example, in order to help with the various enzyme processes and cell division, the fertilizer supplies three elements: potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorous.

Nitrogen is an important element in the bonsai plant food. It is responsible for the tree's green color and the elongation of its leaves. It is known to assist in the bonsai's growth, is proven to influence internodes growth, and is vital for the production of protein.

Phosphorous is likewise necessary for the division of cells. But on top of that, this element is also required for fatty substances, DNA, and RNA, and contributes to giving the leaves a darker shade of green. Potassium works to develop cell enzymes and is responsible for making cell activities healthy.

Fertilizer is taken in by the tree through absorption via the roots. This process called osmosis points out that the bonsai plant food being absorbed has less concentration. The resulting solution consists of water and fertilizer which has the ability to move farther within the plant. Although fertilizer can be absorbed via the foliage as well, it is a given fact that major absorption happens through the plant's roots.

Due to this fact, it is recommended that bonsai plant food be in liquid form as it is easier to absorb, and is proven to provide direct results. If you intend to use fertilizer often, diluting the solution will benefit the plant more as this lessens the salt content.

You now know that the three elements in bonsai plant food are necessary for its optimum health. So, don't just buy the first fertilizer you see on the shelf. Before you make a purchase, ensure that it contains potassium, phosphorous, and nitrogen. Otherwise, the chosen bonsai plant food will not be of much use to the plant.

Few subjects in bonsai care are as complicated as watering. What should be the simplest task is actually the most complex. Improper watering is the most common cause of death of bonsai trees. In fact, apprentices in Japan will perform many other duties during their first few years before being trusted to water the trees.

Bonsai soil is unlike regular potting material. It is porous and allows very rapid drainage. As a result, frequent and generous watering is necessary. However, over watering is just as dangerous to the bonsai's health. Too much water can promote the growth of harmful fungi and lead to root rot.

Both of these damaging extremes can be avoided, though. By following these tips, the complex art of bonsai watering can be converted to a healthy practice that anyone can accomplish.

The first step is testing the soil moisture content to determine how much water your bonsai needs. As a quick check, touch the surface with your thumb. If the surface feels dry, it is. Gently scrape back any ground cover, gravel, or surface dirt to better assess the soils requirements.

A more accurate test can be completed easily by using a standard moisture gauge. Appearing like an ordinary thermometer, analog or digital displays will provide an accurate reading of soil moisture content.

Moisture gauges only detect water near the tip; so as a result, only tell part of the story. Dry spots can be present within the pot. Dry spots are especially dangerous if they are near the roots. As roots spread throughout the pot over time that can be a lot of places.

To ensure that all of the soil is adequately moistened, once a month dip the pot up to the base of the tree into a container of water for a few minutes. Carefully remove by lifting by the pot, never by the tree. If the soil is correct, and the plant is not root bound, any excess water will drain out the bottom of the pot into the tray under the pot.

Only permit a small amount of water to remain in the tray. Draining excess water from the tray will ensure that any extra water in the pot has a place to go, and doesn't collect around the roots.

Water daily, making sure that water runs all the way to the bottom, but doesn't pool to the extent of filling up the tray. Water left standing in the tray makes it impossible for the pot to drain and encourages mold growth.

More than daily watering may be required depending on the type of soil in the pot and your climate. The amount of water necessary also varies from one species to another.

Pines and other conifers need less water and they do well with moderate drying periods. Deciduous and flowering trees require more moisture than conifers. Curled leaves on deciduous trees indicate dryness. Make sure that flowers are not wilting when they should be blooming.

Some experimentation, accompanied by careful monitoring, will be necessary to adjust to your specific tree and circumstances.

A helpful, illustrated manual for bonsai enthusiasts provides complete, step-by-step instructions for creating twenty-five different bonsai landscapes, accompanied by clear advice on how to select suitable plants, position and cultivate them, and care for them.

With additional information on pruning, common problems and diseases, and a directory of popular bonsai species.
Creating Bonsai Landscapes

Bonsai wire is used to hold the branches of a Bonsai tree in place in order to shape them. The bonsai wire remains wrapped around the trunks and branches until the tree is able to maintain the desired shape, during which the bonsai wire is removed.

Our aluminum wire has copper color anodized coating, and is designed for shaping and holding branches and small trunks inconspicuously. Re-usable and easy to apply, it is softer than copper wire and less likely to damage the tree. 2.0 mm dia wire in a 150 gm size coil.

You can get bonsai wire from any supplier of bonsai tools and accessories. The types that they will have are plain silver aluminum and a copper-colored anodized aluminum wire.

You can choose either bonsai wire. The advantage of a plain silver bonsai wire is it will be easier to see under developed branches than the anodized one when you need to check your wiring later. On the other hand, the copper or brown color of the anodized wire will blend well with the tree branches so they would be more pleasing to the eye.

If you cannot obtain bonsai wire, you can substitute a wire any type of wire that is easily bendable and removable. Bonsai wire comes in different sizes from 1 mm to 7mm, usually weighing 100 to 150 grams and can be over 100 feet long.

Choosing the right size of bonsai wire can be tricky. Some find it easier to buy coils in different sizes but still, you do not want to waste money buying wires that you will not be able to use. One way to determine the size of bonsai wire that you need is to find a wire that you can bend with the same effort as you would bending your tree's trunk or branch.

If it is easier for you to bend the wire than the wood, then you would need a thicker bonsai wire. Alternatively, if you find that the wire you bought will not be strong enough to do job properly, then you can try double wrapping the wire by applying two wire pieces.

When you are growing a bonsai tree, you may have observed that the bottom does not grow as fast as the top, a "phenomenon" known as apical dominance. This makes pruning a bonsai a necessary process in order to enhance its growth and maintain its shape.

Not all plants respond well to pruning, especially when it is done at an inappropriate time. Pruning a bonsai properly entails knowing the type of plant it is and which time of the year is best to prune it. Usually though, pruning of new growth is done within the growing season, while pruning of old growth is carried out during mid-autumn.

A bonsai which is remained unpruned for sometime will eventually look like a typical tree, and creating a bonsai means starting the whole process all over again. Thus, to prevent this from happening, pruning a bonsai should be done habitually.

Pruning a bonsai can be done in two manners: finger pruning and leaf pruning. Finger pruning is pinching the new growth that sprouted at the top or does not complement the shape of the bonsai. Pinching is done by removing the growth using your forefinger and thumb. Your other hand should be holding the branch where the growth is attached to. This pruning method for coniferous bonsai is better than using scissors because it does not create an unnatural impression on the foliage.

Leaf pruning a bonsai is mostly done during the summer. Deciduous bonsai and tropical plants are pruned by cutting around 60% to 90% of their leaves using fine scissors. The remaining leaves should be enough to supply energy to the tree.

The previously discussed pruning techniques are those which can be done above the ground. Pruning a bonsai can also be accomplished by trimming below the ground. Root pruning becomes essential when the root has grown too much to be in the same pot. Thus, you need to thin it down to make it fit more comfortably inside the pot. However, when trimming the roots, make sure that you do not cut off more than what is necessary that you will deprive the tree of enough feeding roots. Watering should be done after this process.

Pruning a bonsai is basically like giving a person a nice haircut. There are various styles and methods of achieving a particular look to choose from.

Everything you need to care for your Bonsai in the
Bonsai Tool Kit

* Traditional Japanese Canvas Tool Holder - Holds all your stuff in 10 spaces. Then it rolls up and ties with a cotton cord.

* Bonsai Shear - An all purpose bonsai tool that has the traditional butterfly shape that most Bonsai shears/scissors do. This is the most popular bonsai style scissors in Japan.

* A Japanese forged steel tool.

* 3-piece Japanese Bonsai Tool Set - Made in Japan by the Saboten company, the hallmark of quality in garden tools. These are sturdy chrome tools not stamped metal with lacquered wood handles. The right size for the small job of bonsai maintenance.

* Genuine Japanese Hemp Broom - These hemp brooms are used for ground maintenance and for manicuring the grounds around the root structure. And it also make quick cleanup of your pruning job.

* 1 Year Supply of Premium Bonsai Fertilizer and Vitamins - Imported from Japan. This is good stuff... The fertilizer is a 5-10-5 formulation with micro-nutrients important, IBA and B-1. The Vitamins contains IBA, NAA & Vitamin B- Formulated to stimulate root growth.

* The "Bonsai Basics" book by Christian Pessey and Remy Samson - It's a simple guide for first-time bonsai growers, with easy instructions with over 200 full-color photos and drawings. A step-by-step guide to growing, training & general care.

The most crucial factor in growing a bonsai plant is the art of styling it. While styling a bonsai is a very subjective process, there are actually some principles and techniques to follow which will help you come up with the perfect "look" for your bonsai.

Styling a bonsai can be done in any of the five basic techniques: "chokkan" or formal upright; "moyogi" or informal upright; "shankkan" or slanting; "kengi" or cascade; and semi-cascade.

Before styling a bonsai, figure out which side is front and which one is back. Take a look at all the styling techniques, and figure out which one you would like your bonsai to have. Remove surface soil to know where the root starts and how large the trunk is before the first branch.

Get rid of dead leaves and wood using a pointed pair of scissors. Also, remove any leaf that may have grown at the lower end of the branches.

Make sure that the side you consider as the bonsai's front should have its first major branch standing around 1/3 towards the top of your tree, either to the right or left side. When styling a bonsai, it is important that you can see much of the trunk from the front. There should be no branches or roots that will come straight at you.

The branches are special elements in styling a bonsai. Thus, it is advisable that you choose which ones are best to use in your design. Most beginners tend to preserve more foliage than necessary. Since you are styling a tree, not a shrub, keep in mind that the gaps found in between the foliage serve as much importance as the foliage.

Since the first major branch should be about 1/3 towards the top of the tree, the next one should be a little bit above the first, but on the other side. If possible, branches should not be in the same height and opposite each other, a characteristic known as bar branch and which is not considered ideal.

The third branch should again be higher than the previous one and should be located at the back of the tree. This pattern should be followed as much as possible until you reach the top of the tree. Unwanted branches should be removed and your tree should achieve a somewhat triangular shape.

Styling a bonsai does not really let you conform to strict rules. After all, art does not mean adhering to standards.

The cascade is on the most basic a style patterned from plants and trees that grow above and on the sides of mountains and steep cliffs. These trees are noted for their downward bending position, which by nature is caused by a number of factors, including falling rocks and snow.

The challenging part about the cascade is that bonsai, knowing that they only are grown in pots, are a bit harder to be shaped in a way that their branches and trunks are going downward. The tip of the cascades are even directed to reach the bottom of the pot's base, for it to give an impression of a natural tree growing above a cliff that is pulled against the forces of nature and gravity.

In this way, it is typical for a cascade bonsai to appear with branches that seem to be seeking for light. The winding of its trunks are also viewed by many as somewhat similar to that of a stream that flows down the edge of a mountain.

The cascade style available for bonsai is divided into two types. The first division is known as the full cascade, while the other is the semi-cascade.

In full cascade, the miniature tree grows with its trunk rising upward from the earth. It turns downward in an abrupt manner once it reaches its maximum height until it touches the bottom of the pot base. If this happens to your bonsai, it is recommended by several experts that the pot should be transferred into an area where the cascading form will further continue. Placing it at the side of a table, or on a small stand could be perfect for such aim.

The semi-cascade, on the other hand, is noted particularly for its trunk that grows upright for a particular distance. From that distance, it cascades down less abrupt than that of the full form. So what you can notice in this type is its trunk that curves, but in a way that it does not reach the base of the pot. It should only be grown just beneath the surface of the soil.

Recommended Species of Bonsai: For the cascade, you can take a prostate juniper, star jasmine, wisteria, chrysanthemums, cherries, cidars, and willows. These plants tend to grow in this form if done right.

Techniques Recommended: It is important to note that for the plants or trees to grow cascading, they should be placed in a narrow and tall container. Also, the main trunk should be kept wired for it to grow downward abruptly. Other than that, a close emphasis to the horizontal and uniform shape of the plants should be taken into consideration, and for the plants to grow successfully according to this style, it should be planted or positioned right into the midst of the container. This is applicable for both the full and semi-cascade forms.

The formal upright style is by far the most basic in the bonsai forms. Being the most basic, it is expected for this style to be done easily and quickly. This is true specifically for the reason that formal upright requires only in the least experimentation possible. It does not even employ most of the selective pruning methods, and what's further nice to know is that it holds the most displayable nature of bonsai.

But what exactly is evident for the formal upright in terms of form? This is what basically you can notice: In formal upright, you can find your tree or plant growing rounded or in a conical shape. It's branches are erect and horizontal in growth, but one is positioned lower and extending a bit farther from the rest of the branches and trunks. Other than that, it is typical for the upright form to feature two branches of the lowest position.

These branches are trained to grow forward on the frontal side of the miniature plant, with one branch a bit lengthy than the other. The third branch then is what extends out through the back of the tree right in the middle of the two side branches. It is this part which offers the bonsai a sense of depth.

One thing that must be noted with the formal upright style of bonsai is that the trunk of the tree should be kept straight, while the branches should be
maintained in a symmetrical way, giving the plant a sense of depth and balance.

Recommended Species: There are a number of plant species applicable for this specific form. Included in the list are the junipers, larches, pines, as well as spruces. The other alternative may include the maples, redwood, Japanese cedar, and cypress.

Recommended Techniques: For a beginner to succeed in developing a formal upright style of bonsai, he or she should make sure that about one third of the trunks that grow upright should be noticeable from the front. Other than that, the branches should be kept in a pattern that goes like this: the bottom branches should be trimmed the longest and proportionate.

The width of the branches decreases when it comes to those that are growing up the bottom branch and through the tip of the plant. Just think about a cone-like form. That's how the formal upright bonsai is grown.

To achieve the upright and proportionate position of trunks and branches, one should start cutting the growing apex of the branches and trunks off regularly. A new branch should be wired into a position for it for form as the plant's tip.

Another easiest style to incorporate, the informal upright or Moyogi in Japanese is known specifically for its trunk that grows upward but bends to the right and left, forming an "S". Yes, it has pronounced twists and bends, allowing the plant to emerge somewhat in motion, which in turn gives the bonsai the informality it deserves.

Aside from the bending trunk of the informal upright bonsai, it is also noted specifically for its branches that grow from the outer side of the curves or bends.

It may appear triangular in shape, especially if you'll its silhouette, but this does not hold true at all times. One of the reasons for this is that there are informal uprights that grow a bit slanted.

But one thing that sets this style apart from the others is that it never bends toward the viewer, especially when viewed in front.

Recommended Species: For this style, you can take a Japanese maple, beech, trident maple, and all kinds of conifers. Some ornamental plants such as cotoneaster, crab apple, and pomegranate can also be used for this aim.

Recommended Techniques: As with the case of formal uprights, the informal upright form of bonsai also requires tapering on the trunks. The main difference occurs though as with the direction of the trunk and branches in this style is positioned in an informal way, something similar to that of a tree that grows naturally exposed to all types of elements in nature at an early age.

With this, the trunks curve and bend, while the branches grow in a way that they balance this bending effect. The tip of the tree must also be located up the bottom of the plant and should be filled with foliage.

Known as shakkan in Japanese, the slanting style of bonsai is noted specifically for its acute angles. The trunk and branches of the tree appears to be somewhat blown by the wind, similar to that that grows in nature.

However, what's interesting to know about this style is that the trunk leans exactly on a definite angle, while the roots emerge right away from the side where the trunk leans, so to support the mass or weight of its body. Other than that, the branches of the slanting bonsai spread in a direction opposite to that of the slanting angle.

The tip of the plant is even noted to be bending forward on a slight manner. You can also see a miniature tree designed in this way with branches on the lower part arranged in groups composed of three. The first branch in this group grows one-third the way up to the trunk.

The slanting style is often addressed by many bonsai masters as the "leaners". It is also viewed as the style designed to feature an attitude that falls between what the cascades and the upright forms may offer. And, it's worth knowing that this style has been valued and appreciated by thousands of bonsai planters or growers simply for its being capable of presenting an appearance that defines age and strength.

Recommended Species: The good news about the slanting form is that it works perfect for almost all species of bonsai. Those that grow successfully with the informal upright form are also appropriate with this style, but conifers are deemed as the best.

Recommended Techniques: In terms of techniques, one can train his or her bonsai to appear slanted by incorporating the wiring method applied to the trunks. The trunk should be wired until it slants. Aside from that, the slanting form can also be achieved by simply putting the pot also slanted. This method will definitely allow your bonsai to grow oddly.

The broom style is specifically the form that replicates the way a number of deciduous plants or trees thrive in nature. This style offers you an image of a tree that grows without any competitors around.

There are two forms available in broom style. The first is the formal, while the other is the informal. In the formal division, you can see a broom bonsai featuring a trunk that separates at a particular angle and point. The division allows three or more branches to grow, each holding a thickness similar to each other. These branches emerge and grow upwards from the trunk where they originate. The most important thing to note about this type is that its branches grow diagonally to form a shape similar to that of a fan.

The informal broom, on the other hand, has a trunk that boasts bends and twists, resembling a tree blown by a harsh wind, or the one that is in movement. The branches of this type also grow upward to imitate the shape of a fan.

Recommended Species: For the broom style, species of fine branching trees like zelkova and ulmus can create a perfect shape. You can also take some species of broadleaf and deciduous plants. Just make sure not to use some coniferous species like junipers and pines since they won't allow you to obtain your aim.

Recommended Techniques: The broom styled bonsai will develop and grow successfully once treated with proper pruning. The trunk should be kept growing upward, as well as the branches by cutting some upward divisions of the trunk, allowing the branches to grow horizontally.

Just imagine a tree being swept by a harsh wind and you'll see the exact appearance of a windswept-styled bonsai. Yes, this form basically simulates the appearance of a tree being exposed to strong winds. So for this style, expect to see your bonsai with branches that appear swept to one particular angle and side.

Note that of the styles available for bonsai, this is the most difficult to portray, though several beginners have started developing it simply for one main reason - the windswept form is dramatic.

One important thing to note about this form is that the tree should be kept growing with all the branches facing at a particular angle. They should never be upright, but they may cascade.

Recommended Species: As claimed by most experts, almost all types of plant species can be appropriate for this form.

Recommended Techniques: Note that pruning, tapering, and wiring will help make your bonsai to imitate a windswept image.

The Juniper bonsai tree (Juniper Procumbens Nana) is a very small plant that originated in Japan. This bonsai tree was also made famous because of the movie "The Karate Kid" and every time people think of a bonsai tree the Juniper bonsai tree comes into mind. In Japan, because of the very cold climate, it is all right to leave the plant under direct sunlight. However, in other countries it is kept indoors because of the changing seasons.

The Juniper Bonsai Trees has a very hard trunk that does not flower and because of these features it is considered very easy to trim and train. This specie of bonsai also grows fast and with long branches they can be trained in a variety of styles except the broom style. The branches are easy to train and shape because of their good response to wiring. Other species of bonsai trees are very hard to reshape because of their stiffness although it is still possible. In other words, the Juniper bonsai tree is the perfect plant to design according to your style.

Another advantage of culturing a Juniper bonsai tree is that it can be placed indoors or outdoors even during the winter season although the temperature should not go below 59 degrees. During winter it is very important to protect the wiring from frost.

Some guidelines when growing Juniper bonsai tree:

Temperature and lighting:
If you plan on placing the Juniper bonsai tree indoors, make sure that it will receive at least two hours of direct sunlight everyday. To avoid the plant from drying out, place it far from an air conditioner. Also, make sure that the roots are protected from heat and cold. Always check the soil of the plant and make sure that it is not dry. If the plant is placed outdoors, water it every two days. The plant should be placed in direct sunlight during winter to survive the freezing cold.

Soil feeding:
Do not use rapid-growth fertilizers and application of fertilizers should be done moderately. They should only be applied on the soil and not on the plant because it could die.

Trimming and sculpting:
The new growth of the plant should be removed during spring and fall. The trimming should be carefully and artistically performed for a beautiful result. The roots of the Juniper bonsai tree should also be trimmed every two years.

Culturing a Juniper bonsai tree is a great hobby because it is a good stress reliever.

Culturing a bonsai tree is a very good hobby. However, it will require proper knowledge and patience to grow it with very incredible results.

Choosing the best bonsai tree to grow can be a bit difficult since they have several different species. The Bamboo tree, for instance, reminds one of an authentic Japanese garden. Asians consider the Braided Monkey tree a bringer of good luck. Among different bonsai species, the Ficus bonsai tree is considered among the favorites.

The Ficus bonsai tree is a small version of the Banyan tree. This type of bonsai tree is ideal for indoors. They also come in different varieties all suitable for indoor placement. The most popular specie of the Ficus bonsai tree are the narrow-leaf Ficus, dwarf Ficus and the weeping Ficus.

The most important thing to remember when growing a Ficus bonsai tree is that the plant should be placed indoors through the entire year although fresh air and sunlight is also beneficial. Like most bonsai trees, the Ficus tree should never completely dry out for a long period of time and regular checking of the soil is recommended. To water the Ficus bonsai tree, you need to let it soak in water for at least ten minutes and then completely drain it. This will be enough to keep the soil wet for a certain amount of time.

Bonsai care also requires repotting the plant. It is advisable to repot the bonsai tree every couple of years. Trimming the roots is also needed. The Ficus tree naturally grows very slow and if you see small growths that are covering the container, do not wait for the next year but instead immediately repot the plant. The perfect time to repot a Ficus bonsai tree is during spring. Once the tree is transferred to a bigger pot, water the plant meticulously the same way as instructed above.

In feeding the soil, it is not advisable to use rapid-growth fertilizers. You only need to feed the Ficus plant when it is needed and in very moderate amounts because over use of fertilizers can also kill the plant. For pruning and trimming the branches, you need to remove most of the plant's new growth during spring and in the first weeks of fall. Remember to be artistic enough in trimming the branches so that the shape and style of the plant will be beautiful.

The purpose for wiring ficus bonsai is to hold the branches in place in order to shape them. The bonsai wire remains around the trunk and branches until the tree can hold it's desired shape, then the bonsai wire is removed.

The Japanese style garden is so unlike the Western style. For one, most people would say that the Japanese gardens offers a more soothing and meditative ambiance. This style of gardening utilizes shrubs, trees, sand, ponds, artificial hills, flowing water, and rocks which allow it to artistically mimic nature.

Most people associate Japanese garden with bonsai trees. And surely, this art of "dwarfing" trees can be traced back as a part of Japanese culture. The cultivation of bonsai trees have now become more than just a horticultural trend. As a unique form of art, bonsai trees have captured the hearts of those who never even consider themselves as "green thumb".

A Japanese bonsai garden should be the perfect sanctuary for your bonsai tree collection. Bonsai, like Zen, are two of the most distinguishing features of a Japanese garden. Thus, creating a Japanese bonsai garden shouldn't be hard at all. Your miniature trees will give the kind of atmosphere required in a Japanese bonsai garden.

Before you can successfully make your own Japanese bonsai garden, you need to know a lot about bonsai first. Since these serve as the highlight of the place, it would be best if trees are healthy and they are cared for appropriately.

A nice bonsai tree is one that gets a balanced of the essentials. That is, it should have the right amount of water, plant food, light, and attention. Since this kind of tree requires more of your time than any other trees in nature, make sure that you can provide such time before you even attempt to "build" a Japanese bonsai garden. If you bought your bonsai trees pre-shaped, your collection may just go into permanent dormancy with lack of proper care.

People who have grown one or more bonsai trees may want to create a Japanese bonsai garden where they can display their trees in. Although some people may simply want to put trees in significant areas in the house, there are those who would want to place them in one special location.

A Japanese bonsai garden does not merely serve as a showcase of your artistry, but it can also serve as a place where you can unwind, meditate, and un-stress. It is not a surprise why Japanese gardens are always thought of to have something to do with Zen and bonsai trees. After all, these are the very characteristics which make them standout from all the other styles of garden.

Bonsai-growing is fast becoming a top hobby for a lot of people. It is not surprising to know that there are a lot of nurseries and gardens that sprung up in support for this worthwhile endeavor.

The Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden is a must-see for avid bonsai fans. It is home to the Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection which features 60 excellent bonsai from six of the nations on the Pacific Rim.

The Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden has its vast bonsai collection in some kind of a woodland setting. This incredible place will certainly awe even those who are not so fond of the miniature trees.

The Weyerhaeuser Company is among the world's biggest companies which deal with forest products. The Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden is within the company's territory. The various bonsai in the garden are "shaped' by different bonsai artists to mimic the normal trees present in nature. Visitors will definitely enjoy each bonsai tree as they truly capture the natural appeal of the "regular" trees.

The outstanding bonsai collection at the Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden is composed of "dwarf" trees where one is uniquely different from the other. Some trees define solitude and deep serenity, while others portray real life drama where trees hang from mountainsides or rugged shores.

The Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden provides bonsai viewing opportunity for everyone the whole year round, closing only on the following days: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Thanksgiving Day. The garden does not have admission charges. Moreover, it is handicapped accessible, and has guided tours available as well.

There are several guidelines to follow when visiting the Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden. One, smoking is strictly prohibited as the garden maintains a smoke-free environment. Electronic gadgets like cell phones and games are discouraged from being use while inside the garden premises.

Picnicking is not allowed within the Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden, but there are maps available that will guide you towards the nearby restaurants and parks. Also, service dogs are the only pets that are permitted to go inside the garden, for as long as they have their identifying blankets on.

When inside the Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Garden, you will undoubtedly be tempted to take home a few photos for souvenirs. After all, it's not everyday that you get to see man and nature work together to create such masterpieces. And before long, you'll be among the bonsai enthusiasts who dedicate a good deal of their time

Bonsai is not only a popular home décor and garden highlight but is also a good reason to get into a horticultural hobby. Since more and more people are engaged in the cultivation of bonsai, the need for bonsai suppliers has risen.

The Royal Bonsai Garden is paradise to bonsai enthusiasts. This nursery located in Stoughton, Massachusetts is proud of its extensive bonsai collection that came from all parts of the globe. At the Royal Bonsai Garden, you can find a wide array of bonsai, of which some are considered to be among the oldest and smallest in the Northeast.

Suthin (Su Tin) Sukosolvisit started being a bonsai artist in 1970. He runs the Royal Bonsai Garden, a full-service bonsai nursery. Suthin is a famous bonsai artist and has earned numerous awards as such.

The Royal Bonsai Garden makes bonsai growing more than just a hobby. It does not only offer you all the supplies involved in the cultivation of bonsai, but it also hosts workshops to provide bonsai pros and amateurs alike, with everything there is to know about bonsai.

Beginners will find all the things they need "under one roof" - from tree species, to pots, to tools, and more.

While bonsai abounds at the Royal Bonsai Garden, it is not the only thing that people can find. Those who are looking for fountains and bird baths will discover that this bonsai nursery offers the widest selection of these. The Royal Bonsai Garden also has vast nursery supplies for different types of trees and flowers.

As if bonsai is not enough to attract anyone's interest, human creativity comes up with yet another enhancement to this miniature tree's appeal. The bonsai waterfall garden is a great art piece which is uniquely perfect for just about any place - tables, decks, patios, and even gardens.

Most bonsai waterfall gardens available are self-contained. Not all of these come with a bonsai tree, although there are others that have two or more bonsai trees already added to the waterfall garden.

If you're interested to buy a bonsai waterfall garden, you can choose from the various options available online. It is best to get an idea of your choices so that you will know what type you are getting.

Majority of these bonsai waterfall gardens only need you to add water and they'll ready to work as soon as you plug them in. These provide the perfect accent for any tabletop, counter, or any site indoor or outdoor since they are great art pieces.

Each bonsai waterfall garden is sculptured in a way that it matches the trees and the flow of water as well. It has a re-circulating pump submerged at the back which is generally adjustable, controlling the water's flow either to a trickle or an intense waterfall.

Regardless what type of bonsai waterfall garden you intend to buy, it will definitely be a nice touch to the place. The waterfall garden is carefully and artistically sculpted, and the bonsai tree is grown with creative flair as well. Put these together and you have an outstanding work of art in your hands. Picture this in your most favorite place, and it will surely offer you more rewards than you anticipated.

If you browse the various options of bonsai waterfall garden online, you can see that they are barely 20" tall. Those who adore bonsai trees but who simply do not have the time and skill to grow one may opt for the ones that come with pre-grown bonsai trees.

If you have grown your very own bonsai tree and you want to accentuate it with a bonsai waterfall garden, these are available without pre-grown bonsai trees. Thus, you'll have room for you precious "handmade".

A bonsai waterfall garden serves to bring a nature-like ambiance into people's homes. Thus, it can be said that the mesmerizing sight of the bonsai tree and the sounds of the cascading waters are truly food for the soul.

Ligustrum - Straight Trunk (ligustrum lucidum)

Native to China and Eastern Asia and now grown ornamentally in the United States. The berries are employed as a "yin" tonic in traditional Chinese medicine for a wide variety of conditions, including premature aging, ringing in the ears and chronic toxicity. White flowers are attractive during late spring and early summer. Does well indoors. 5 years old. 6" tall.

Okinawa Holly - Small (malphigia coccigera)

This delightful miniature holly which also produces small, pink flowers in spring and summer is native to the northern hemisphere. Its small, glossy, serrated evergreen leaves provide year round interest and make it a good candidate for bonsai treatment. The Okinawa mini holly is a robust and easy-to-care-for indoor tree. 4 years old 5" tall

Shimpaku (juniperus chinensis)

Also known as the Chinese Juniper. This needled evergreen is tolerant of a wide variety of soils and is dioecious which means that there are separate male and female plants. Shimpaku is a naturally irregular vase shaped Juniper which we grow into a mound shape. The Shimpaku has attractive year round foliage and its dark green needles are soft to the touch. Very popular and easy to care for bonsai. 5 years old. 7"-8" tall

Plum - Medium Flowering Tree(Carissa Macrocarpa)

The Natal Plum is a semi-tropical evergreen, bearing fragrant, star-shaped white flowers and, following pollination, dark red edible plum-shaped fruit. Easy indoor care. 6 years old 9" - 10" tall

Chinese Flowering White Serissa S-Shape - Large Tree of a Thousand Stars (Serissa Japonica)

Tree of a Thousand Stars. The Japonica has somewhat elongated spoon shaped, shiny green leaves. It is a twiggy tree that grows tighter with shearing. This northern Chinese Serissa has small white trumpet shaped blossoms and is trained into pleasing shapes with a full upright canopy. 12 years old 7" - 10" tall

Many people would like to have a bonsai tree but some people just don't have the time or patience to take care for their bonsai tree.

Do you want to buy an artifical bonsai tree?
Here you can choose from a variety of Artifical Bonsai Trees

Having an artificial bonsai tree makes it available for anyone to have a bonsai tree whether it's real or artificial.

Artificial bonsai trees look so real that you can barely tell the difference from a live one. Making it perfect for anyone who does not have a green thumb.

Another good point about having an artificial bonsai tree is you are not limited to one style. Artificial trees are available for a wide range of different styles and species. So if you like a specific type of bonsia tree, there is a good chance you will be able to find the same type of artificial bonsia tree.

For those people who decide to go with an artificial bonsai tree, you will not have to worry about doing the regular maintenance such as watering, feeding,
trimming or repotting.

The artificial bonsai is perfect for displaying in your home. You can place it in your living room table, by the window, in your bedroom or on a desk in your office. It is all up to you where placed it since it can easily blend with almost any environment.

In cleaning an artificial bonsai, you only need to use a duster or take a clean piece of moistened cloth.

If you would like to have an artificial bonsai tree that bears flowers, then you have the option to go with a cherry or Azalea bonsai tree.

The cherry or Azalea bonsai tree is made from Luna clay which makes it flexible. Because of its flexibility, you can easily twist the branches or bend the trunk according to your desired shape and style. All of the buds are colorfully hand-painted to obtain a real appearance.

An artificial bonsai tree is very ideal as a replacement for the real plant. All you need is to keep the plant clean to retain it realistic appearance. Compared to a real bonsai tree, the maintenance is very simple and easy.

To have a better idea about an artificial bonsai tree, it is best to visit an ornamental plant shop near your area or there are a few links below to check out.

Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) is probably the best tree to start with for a new bonsai gardener. These trees are excellent bonsai material because it is a hardy tree which doesn't require a lot of attention and is easy to take care for it. Bald cypresses grow in USA from Delaware to Texas all the way by Mississippi and in north in state of Missouri.

These trees can reach up to 40m in nature, but bonsai is usually about 160 times smaller reaching the height of 25cm. The diameter of the trunk is around 2m and sometimes up to 5, but usually not more than 3. Bark can be a bit gray to red-brown.

Leaves grow on small branches (branchlets), which grow in spiral in two horizontal lines from 1-2cm long and about 2mm apart. Despite the fact that most of the species from this family don not loose their leaves in winter bald cypress does, and that is where it's got its name from Bald cypress.

Bald cypresses grow on alluvial soil usually near waters, but they can tolerate some salinity but are unable to grow in brackish coastal waters. Bald cypress's best climate is warm climate where it grows pretty fast, but it can also grows more to the north where the only problem is ice that damages the seeds.

So if you are beginner in bonsai area, get yourself a bald cypress to start and when you will know how to handle this tree you will be able to take care of some more exotic and sensitive trees.

To get seeds of Bald cypress and learn more about bonsai visit My Bonsai

Japanese Hornbeam Forest Bonsai Tree (carpinus japonica)

Native to Japan the Japanese Hornbeam has elliptical, heavily veined leaves with a pointed tip that looks like a delicate painting. It is similar to the Korean Hornbeam but with longer narrower leaves and less twiggy growth. Has nice flowers in spring and smooth pink-grey fluted bark.

Juniper (juniper procumbens nana)

This dwarf Juniper from Japan is the most popular bonsai in the U.S. When we think of a traditional bonsai and what it should look like we think of a "Juniper Procumbens Nana". It is very hardy, long-lived, and tolerates many adverse conditions. This is an excellent tree for the beginner.

Japanese Boxwood Bonsai Tree (buxus microphylla)

Densly branched evergreen tree native to Europe and Asia. One of the few woods heavier than water, and is thus used for making woodcuts and precision instruments. Boxwood is very popular for bonsai due to its tiny leaves and flowers and its tolerance for extensive pruning and shaping. Sun or shade both work well. Keep outdoors and protect from frost.

Chinese Elm Bonsai Tree (ulmus parvifolia)

Has small evergreen serrated leaves with excellent branching characteristics. Trained in the traditional curved trunk style. 27 years old, 23"x18"x23". Outdoor deciduous

Ginseng Ficus Bonsai Tree (ficus retusa)

Also known as Banyan Fig and Taiwan Ficus. The Retusa has small dark green leaves that alternate up the stem and which are more oval than the Benjamina. Grey to reddish bark dotted with small horizontal flecks, similar to tiger-like markings. Has a heavy exposed bulbous roots. Among the most tolerant, versatile and trouble-free bonsai trees for indoor use.