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The cultivation of a bonsai tree begins with taking a cutting from a tree, as this process is quicker than starting from seed. The cutting is then placed in an appropriate container or pot to allow new roots to form.
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Once the roots are formed, the cutting is placed into a small pot for the formation of the wood to appear. The tree is pruned to expose the individual branches within the center area of the leaves or needles depending on the type.
- Once the wood has formed on the prospective bonsai, it is usual practice to wrap the bonsai with wiring. This enables the bonsai to grow within the design of the wiring.
- A bonsai tree must be watered correctly in order to survive and needs to be repotted periodically. Individual ways of caring for a bonsai tree depend on the type and actual location of the bonsai tree.
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Caring for a bonsai tree can be considered an artistic endeavor, but special tools are required for accurate growth and training. The concave cutter is the most common tool.
- Currently, one of the oldest living bonsai tree is located within the Tokyo Imperial Palace collection. It is a type of pine tree known as Sandai-Shogun-No Matsu. The tree is currently estimated to be 500 years old or more.
