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Bonsai Tree Cultivation
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The art of cultivating bonsai trees is a Japanese tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years. Bonsai literally translates to “tray planting,” and involves actively growing and shaping trees into an artistic dwarfed version of themselves. Bonsai trees are not special hybrids or dwarf species of common trees; they’re genetically identical to their much taller relatives. It’s the careful cultivation that keeps these trees small. However, the trees are not sick or damaged. In fact, with the proper attention, the dwarfed version of a tree can live longer than the same tree if it was allowed to grow in the wild.
Bonsai trees can either be grown from seeds or from cuttings of trees, and they usually grow from two inches to three feet in height. Through pruning both roots and branches bonsai trees are kept miniture in size. They’re also repotted periodically, and new growth is frequently pinched off.
Cultivating bonsai trees is actually as much about art as it is about horticulture. Not only are bonsai trees kept small, they are also shaped into pleasing forms. They frequently follow a number of different growth patterns, from simple triangles to waterfall shapes cascading down over their pots. The various shapes are normally a result of both the pruning of the tree and by the use of wrapping the branches and trunk with wire, pushing the tree into its desired shape. The pots themselves are part of the art as well, chosen to compliment the shape and color of the tree itself. Rocks and mosses are frequently added to the base for aesthetic appeal.
Cultivating a bonsai tree is more complicated than the growing of most houseplants. Since the bonsai, by definition, has has a smaller root system than most plants, it needs fertilizer and water more often than most garden-variety houseplants. Occasional pruning is also essential, since without pruning the bonsai tree would grow into just a normal large tree. Also, if wire is used to help mold and form the tree, it is important to take care that the wire doesn’t dig into the bark of the tree, scarring the branches permanently. Depending on the type of bonsai tree and your climate, you may be able to keep some bonsai trees outside year round, while others will need to be kept inside for at least part of the year. Moisture is also important, not only in the soil but in the leaves and branches of the bonsai. They need to be misted occasionally for the bonsai to develop healthily.
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