Comments on: Bonsai Gardening: A Short Introduction

By: David Ramos

David Ramos — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:57:53 +0000

I would like to know how to make my own soil to keep bonsais greener and in good condition.

Regards

dave

By: prem

prem — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:32:56 +0000

Bonsai are repotted and root-pruned at intervals dictated by the vigour and age of each tree. In the case of deciduous trees, this is done as the tree is leaving its dormant period, generally around springtime. Bonsai are often repotted while in development, and less often as they become more mature. This prevents them from becoming pot-bound and encourages the growth of new feeder roots, allowing the tree to absorb moisture more efficiently.

Pre-bonsai material are often placed in “growing boxes” which are made from scraps of fenceboard or wood slats. These large boxes allow the roots to grow more freely and increase the vigor of the tree. The second stage, after using a grow box, has been to replant the tree in a “training box;” this is often smaller and helps to create a smaller dense root mass which can be more easily moved into a final presentation pot.

By: abenzio

abenzio — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:31:40 +0000

The small size of the tree and the dwarfing of foliage result from pruning of both the leaves and the roots. Most trees require a dormancy period and do not grow roots or leaves at that time. Improper pruning can weaken or kill trees.[3]

Copper or aluminium wire wrapped around branches and trunks holds the branches in place until they lignify (convert into wood), usually 6-9 months or one growing season. Some species do not lignify strongly, or are already too stiff/brittle to be shaped and are not conducive to wiring, in which case shaping is accomplished primarily through pruning.[3]

Cultivators use Deadwood Bonsai Techniques called jin and shari to simulate age and maturity in a bonsai. Jin is the term used when the bark from an entire branch is removed to create the impression of a snag of deadwood. Shari denotes stripping bark from areas of the trunk to simulate natural scarring from a broken limb or lightning strike.

By: Watering Bonsai

Watering Bonsai — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:48:14 +0000

The pleasurable experience off Bonsai gardening is gaining in popularity increasing numbers of people in all ages and cultures are experimenting and enjoying the art. Bonsai require a warm location with lots of light in order to thrive. Avoid placing them near window sills, due to the varying temperatures that can be present as a result of drafts.