The art of Bonsai is one that comes with centuries of tradition.  The concept of Bonsai is one that is well established in Japan.  Many see the art of Bonsai as one where dwarf plants are used and maintain their small stature, while they can be used; many prefer using full grown plants in order to capture the Bonsai look.

The entire process of Bonsai is one that many dedicated gardeners can appreciate and strive for.

The Beginning Steps Of The Art Of Bonsai

The art of Bonsai begins with picking out the right container in order to begin growing your Bonsai plant.  The first planter that is used is called a training pot.  This pot can be shaped in the traditional Bonsai shapes including round, oval, and square, hexagonal or even square.  It is important to find the right shape for the plant that you are growing and some cascading plants look better in round or rectangle pots.

Positioning the plant is another import part of the art of Bonsai.  If the plant is a tree, put it so that it is slightly off center in the pot.  Cascading plants need to be positioned so that they can flow over the side of the pot, this can be accomplished if they are positioned in the center of the pot.

The next steps in the art of Bonsai are the developmental ones that will create the final look of the plant.  The first is to shape the plant.  Take a close look at the natural flow of the plant and use that as a guide to shape your Bonsai plant.  By pruning off excessive branches and gently nipping off excessive leaves, the shape of the plant can be created.

Wire can also be used to shape a plant.  A heavy duty wire is used to pull and mold the plant into the shape that is desired.  Using wire in the beginnings stages sets the plant up for growing in the proper direction.

The roots of the plant also need to be trimmed in order to keep the plant from growing to its mature height.  Make sure to trim off roots that aren’t necessary to the main trunks growth.  Surface roots add to the appeal of the Bonsai plant and may be left.

The plant needs plenty of water in order to thrive, and some plants that are usually found outside can be left outside during the summer months.  After August, slow down the amount of watering that is being done in order to simulate winter months.

The art of Bonsai is a captivating hobby and can be enjoyed by anyone with an interest in plants.

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4. Bonsai Wiring Made Easier: Preparation
5. Bonsai – Wiring Made Easier: Preparation

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