How to Make an Artificial Bonsai

Choose a real tree twig that is twisted or goes sideways from the trunk.

A bonsai grower is considered to be a proficient gardener who has quite a green thumb. Some people actually love bonsai, but do not have the time or patience to grow them. You can still have the look of a real bonsai by making an artificial one at home. It is a simple craft, and the items you use are everyday items from the yard, garden center and craft department. It is not an expensive craft, either. Upkeep is minimal in that you only have to keep it dusted every week. The presentation also has a "real" look.

Things You'll Need

• Bonsai pot (long and shallow)
• Soil
• 1-inch creek stones (small bag)
• 1 larger 2-inch stone
• Hot glue and glue gun
• Tree twig
• Silk leaves or flowers
• Bonsai copper wire
• Wire cutters
• Peat moss

Instructions

1. Bring your bonsai container, which is approximately 10 to 12 inches long and about 4 to 5 inches tall, to your work table. Put in a container 1/2 full of soil.

2. Place your twig in the center of the dirt and push to the bottom. Lay a few creek stones all around the twig just to the point when it will stand by itself.

3. Get your hot glue gun. As you place stones, glue the bottom of the upper stones to the top of the lower ones. Don't stack them. Be sure to place them in a random pattern, as on a garden bank. Hide the glue as you go under the stones. Carefully glue the center stones to the twig so the glue cannot be seen. The rock will hold up your bonsai tree.

4. Take small pieces of artificial greenery or flowers 2 to 3 inches long and glue the little stems to the real twig stems. Make the artificial pieces thick or sparse in different areas. Try to hide the tiny drops of hot glue under the artificial greenery. Place the greenery to look like it is growing out of the ends of the twig limbs.

5. Wrap tiny pieces (1 to 2 inches) of copper bonsai wire around the spot where you attached the artificial piece to the real twig. Clip these pieces with wire cutters. Do this in about four spots. This gives it the authentic look, besides having a real "tree trunk."

Tips & Warnings

• Place the big 2-inch rock where it needs to go for interest.

• Add a few tiny pieces of peat moss for added interest under some stones.

References

• Bonsai Specialist: Advantages of an Artificial Bonsai Tree
• Growing Bonsai: The Art of Making an Artificial Bonsai