How to Create a Bonsai Tree
The term "bonsai" can mean many things to many people. The most popular definition describes the art of creating a miniature tree that captures the feel of being in the wild. However the true meaning of bonsai lies in its roots, so to speak. While the term generally refers to the actual plant or tree, it actually reflects the philosophy behind the art. Based in the Zen culture, it is a meditative study of the coexistence between nature, the elements and man. Bonsai can grow anywhere from 2 inches to more than 3 feet, and can actually be fashioned outdoors from a full-sized tree. Here are just a few steps to get you on the path of creating your own bonsai. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose your bonsai plant carefully. While almost any plant, shrub or tree can be made into a bonsai, there are some that are recommended because of growth characteristics and hardiness. Before choosing any, the decision should be made whether this will be primarily grown outdoors or inside. A decision should also be made regarding the style of bonsai you wish to try. Each style has different looks and therefore will work best with different plants. For example, the photo above shows a bonsai in the "slanting" style. This style is most recommended for conifers or junipers, or other plants that have a trunk that tends to slant to one side. Styles and recommended plants include:Formal Upright: Junipers, Pines, SprucesInformal Upright: Japanese Maple, Trident Maple, Beech, almost all Conifers, Crab Apple, CotoneasterSlanting: Conifers, JunipersCascade: Ivy, Maple, most species that are not strongly uprightSemi-Cascade: Flowering Cherrys, Cedars, Junipers
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Trim your bonsai. While this may sound backwards, it is extremely helpful to trim your new bonsai before potting. Depending upon the plant and the style you will be working towards, carefully trim off selected branches and buds, removing only those that need to go while keeping the shape and design pleasing and as natural as possible. If necessary, you can do whatever wire training you might need at this time as well - however, this is not recommended for a beginner. Trimming for styles included:Formal Upright: Trunk should be perfectly straight with branches symmetrical and spaced so they balance when seen from all directions.Informal Upright: Trunk can bend slightly to right or left. Branches should be symmetrical but balanced with the trunk.Slanting: Trunk leans at a definite angle, allowing roots to grow from side. Branches grouped in threes should begin a third up the trunk. Branches should be appealing and lend a natural look to the slant.Cascade: The tip of the cascade extends below the base of the pot, appearing as if gravity is forcing it to grow down while the leaves are turning up towards the sun.Semi-Cascade: The tip extends past the rim of the pot but not below it. The trunk will wander and roots may be exposed but should provide balance.
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Pot your trimmed pot. Your container should provide an aesthetically pleasing counter-point to your bonsai. The depth of the pot should be no more than twice the thickness of the trunk, approximately 2 to 3 inches. Before potting, you will need to trim no more than two-thirds of the roots from the main plant, leaving a majority of the thin white roots and just a few of the thicker main roots. Make sure that the plant will sit properly in the pot. It should be placed off center for all. With Slanting, Informal or Semi-Cascade, the heaviest branches should be facing into the pot. Balance is again the key. After deciding the plant placement, place a layer of small rocks over the drainage holes in the bottom of the container. Add soil and place the plant inside, spreading the roots uniformly over the soil layer. Cover with soil to just under the rim of the pot. Tap occasionally to eliminate air pockets. Cover soil with moss and rocks, giving the appearance that the tree is growing in the wild.
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Water carefully, allowing the ground to slowly dampen. Place the newly potted bonsai in a quiet, sheltered location to allow it to recuperate from the trimmings. Water when ground is dry or according to plant directions, be careful not to over-water your bonsai.
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Trim bonsai 2 to 3 times per year, repotting once every 3 years.
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Tips & Warnings
Before beginning a bonsai project, read as much as possible regarding the styles and care/maintenance of the bonsai you wish to create. Visit a plant store to view bonsai live to get a feel for each look.
Resources
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