Bonsai trees  

The bonsai is a Japanese miniature tree, bonsai literally means “tree in tray” and hence there are usually found in small pots or trays. They have a very strong Japanese tradition that dates back over 1000 years and is seen as a very relaxing and rewarding hobby. Bonsai trees are mainly used for decorative purposes and have no real functional value. 

However, bonsai trees are usually considered high maintenance as they require trimming, cutting, shaping and watering fairly often. And although it is quite a complex and complicated past time it is easily picked up and there is generally lots of help available in books and on the internet.  

There are many techniques that must be used in order to grow healthy bonsai tree, here are some of the most popular that you will need to incorporate; 

Leaf trimming 

This involves cutting back leaves that have grown too much and shaping the tree into its most aesthetic form possible. This is what you will spend the majority of your time doing when maintaining your bonsai tree.  

Pruning 

Pruning is when you remove bark or branches in specific spots on the tree, this will assist and help with growth of new branches on the tree. 

Wiring 

This involves using a wire mesh material to help shape the tree into how you want it to look. Many bonsai tree owners favour a wider base and a narrower top, therefore why is used to restrict growth at the top while encouraging growth at the bottom. 

Clamping 

Although not always necessary, clamping can be used to shape more stubborn branches when wiring doesn't work. 

Grafting 

This involves adding new routes or branches to add more mass or thickness to the tree where it is needed. This is one of the most complicated procedures involved the bonsai tree.  

As I mentioned earlier the bonsai tree is quite high maintenance and therefore requires a fair amount of care. 

When watering you must ensure to not water too much as this will often drown the plant however you must strike a balance by not watering too little either. This is one of the main issues with on-site plant as it is very delicate. 

As well as watering you must re-plot after the dormancy period which usually occurs in spring for many species of bonsai. This is done so growth will not be inhibited by having too small a pot and is absolutely crucial to having a healthy bonsai tree. 

To conclude, opening the bonsai tree is definitely a rewarding and liberating experience, however the task should not be taken lightly it requires time, patience and effort on your part.