Overview;
| Bonsai is actually two words translated as follows; 'Bon' meaning 'tray and 'sai', "growing" or "planting".
Which put another way reads; 'tray growing' or 'tray planting' which is contrary to many peoples conception of 'miniature tree growing'
In fact one can use many types/species of plants to grow in trays or 'bonsai'
Another misconception is; the art of bonsai originated in China not Japan as many people seem to think.
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What do you need?
The first thing that springs to mind is; 'dedication and patience 'without which, success will be limited.
Add to this; some good information,and a bit of trial and error, then there is no reason why element of expertise should not follow.
Where does one start?
The key is to choose the right, bonsai starter tree!
What is the right starter tree?
The Japanese Red Maple, can be a good choice as it offers a season of interest.
For instance in spring the foliage is a vibrant purple/red followed in the autumn with red/orange foliage.
Plus,during the winter months the bark adopts some very interesting colours.
They are relatively easy to source, they are quite cheap to buy.
In fact; they can even be grown from seed but this would take a little or more time and effort to get to the desired size.
Other factors for this choice are; It is an upright variety, the leaves will reduce in size relative to the overall dimensions of the specimen.
Aftercare;
Bonsai trees are often tropical or sub-tropical in origin, therefore we should try to recreate such conditions indoors, i.e. try and keep the humidity around them quite high.
The ideal minimum temperature should not fall below 50°F (10°C).
Trees indigenous to the UK are generally 'frost hardy' and can therefore be left outdoors.
However, ensure the root system is not allowed to freeze.
Position;
This is probably the first and most important consideration after purchasing your tree.
The Bonsai needs to be in a position so it gets plenty of natural light, but avoiding direct sunlight as this may cause the leaves to scorch and the tree to dry out rapidly.
The area must be well ventilated but free from draughts.
Do not subject your tree to direct heat e.g. on top of the TV, or heater.
Watering;
The immersion method;
Immerse the tree/s in tepid water daily to approximately 1 inch (25mm) above the pot rim, and allow to stand until the air bubbles stop. (Do not use cold water this can shock the tree)
Always keep the compost moist and do not allow it to dry out.
In the event this happens leave the pot standing in water overnight.
Note; In areas where the water has a high lime content it is better to water with distilled water or rain water.
Humidity;
Spray the leaves often with tepid water.
An added advantage is to stand pot and tree on a drip tray filled with pebbles or grit and water this should create the necessary humidity.
Note; Do not leave the pot sitting in water
Feeding;
Liquid feed and spray the foliage once a fortnight during summer and once a month during winter.
Mix the feed with water to the recommended strength as per the manufacturer’s instructions
Pruning;
Allow new shoots to grow 5 or 6 leaves then cut back by 2 leaves growth. If any new growth spoils the overall shape of your tree cut it off!
Re-potting & Root pruning; Check your tree every year (circa Week 11)
If the tree is root bound open the root ball and cut off the bottom 1/3rd of the root and re-pot in fresh compost and water in well.
You may find with some species, this only needs to be carried out every 2 years.
Summary;
This article has been written to give the reader an appreciation of the the 'art form' and not necessarily an in depth insight of it.
If and when this is required, the writer suggests that the reader seeks advanced tuition from the many books written on the subject, and or joining a 'bonsai' club.
Failing that join an internet forum and discuss the subject with like minded people.
