Gardening Basics: The Art of Bonsai
by Giano Capersi
http://www.buygardening.com
Bonsai gardening truly is art, but it can be considered
living art. When bonsai are grown by a true master, the
trees and bushes are hauntingly beautiful. There are five
basic categories of bonsai: Chokkan (formal upright),
Moyogi (informal upright), Shakan (slanting), Kengai
(cascade) and Fukinagashi (windswept). To achieve each of
these different characteristics needs a different approach.
Before the process can begin, you must first choose a tree.
If you~ve already chosen the style of bonsai that you~re
attempting to achieve, it~s important that you obtain the
proper tree, and there are a number of things that must be
taken into consideration when doing so. If the foundation
of this art form is flawed, then the entire presentation
will be, as well.
You have to be sure that the roots of your tree are strong
and healthy. You will rely a lot on the foundation of this
tree, so the roots are one of the most important elements
Wiggle the tree to make sure the roots are well founded.
Then, examine carefully for any problems, such as root rot,
insect infestation, withering or fungus. If the roots have
any of these problems, pick a different tree. You will just
be wasting your time on a tree that~s basically unhealthy.
If the roots are the feet of the tree to hold it up well,
then the trunk are the legs. Make sure it is healthy too,
and make sure it suits the specific style of bonsai you are
choosing. The shape of the needs to conform to that style,
because it will determine the shape and bend of the tree.
The best choice is a thick trunk that gradually narrows to
a thin peak. These lines will give you a lovely tree. The
whole style of your tree will depend upon the trunk.
The best trees for bonsai have thick branches on the lower
part of the tree and thin branches on the upper part of the
tree. Just like you look for a certain shape in your annual
Christmas tree hunt, you should seek a certain shape and
pattern when you are choosing a tree that you plan to turn
into bonsai art.
Part of the process of nurturing your bonsai includes
adequate watering of the tree. Ideally, it should be
watered every day or two, but this will depend upon
environmental conditions, such as weather conditions,
humidity, moisture retention of the soil and the size of
pot. It~s best to keep the watering cycle consistent, and
this is best accomplished by watering at the same time each
day ~ either early in the morning or late in the
afternoon. Make sure that the pot allows for adequate
drainage, or the tree may develop root related problems.
Since the bonsai process is slow and delicate, sudden
growth is not encouraged. Therefore, the application of
fertilizer on a frequent basis is not a good idea. It~s in
the tree~s best interests to apply fertilizer once or
twice each month ~ with feedings spaced evenly apart ~
during the growing season. Only the water-soluble type
should be used, and this should be given in half-strength
doses. The only time that you should avoid fertilizing
your bonsai is if it~s in a very dry state ~ and, while you
can still fertilize after the plant~s been repotted, it~s
best to wait for about a month before doing so.
Outside of these routines, the maintenance of your bonsai
will consist of repotting every two or three years and of
course, the trimming and pruning required to achieve the
shape and miniature stature you want to accomplish. Wiring
is done for six months at a time to train a branch to grow
that way on its own.Be very gentle and careful when wiring.
If you break a branch, you will destroy the bonsai form.
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