If you are new to the world of Bonsai, I have created a special page for you. The basics do and dont’s, and more importantly an understanding of what Bonsai is really all about..go here
For the more experienced Bonsai enthusiast, I hope you find some of the content on this site useful – and as always I am glad to hear feedback and comments.
Bonsai Do’s and Don’ts
how long will it take to develop my bonsai ?
Thats a really good question, but the fact is there are too many factors at play. The first and most important point to bear in mind is that the tree will continue to change and develop, and the most important role of a bonsai enthuiast is keeping your trees alive.
Quite a few people I know, say ” I have tried to get into bonsai, but they always seem to die”. This is a common problem that almost everyone goes through. The reason is quite simply the fact that there are so many factors that need to be mastered to keep you bonsai alive.
As with any art, the more you know about bonsai, the better your understanding will be. Spend a good deal of time, going through all the material you can get your hands on, books, videos, etc. If there is a bonsai club in your area – join it.
How much will it cost to start ?
While you can start with a basic mass produced bonsai that will cost you as much as a house plant, it is important to understand that it would be much better initially investing in some classes or doing a good amount of time on “youtube” as the goal should be quite simply just keeping your bonsai alive.
While most of you will have a general idea of bonsai, I would like to elaborate on why it would be considered a “living art” form. While most creations that are considered art, are unique and original works of art by the creator, once they are completed – that’s it. That is so far from the reality with Bonsai.
This is because the tree is constantly growing and evolving into something more wonderful and beautiful with every passing day, although it is a slow process, it is noticeable from one season to another.
Bonsai have shown up in painting from several centuries ago, and although the first known works were in group plantings ( on a rock), and was taken back to Japan and grew in popularity, today it is an rapidly growing hobby.
In it’s purest form there are many rigid forms and guidelines, and while some of these are definately important to the general asthetics and visual appeal, it is truly left up to you to determine what the look and feel should be.
Unless you intend to participate in a bonsai exhibition – then your work will be judged on standards. I believe it should bring you joy and pleasure, and even the most commercial Bonsai growers will tell you that it hurts everytime a tree is sold as there is a connection that is developed with every tree you touch.
Sunlight
Sunlight is one of the more important requirements of a bonsai. While some will need partial shade from the mid-day sun, particularly in summer, most trees can tolerate more that you can imagine, and do need the sun to perform Photosynthesis which is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar.
Soil
There are many combinations of soil that can be used for growing bonsai. Although the best soil for a mature Bonsai tree, that is fully developed may be an inorganic mix, while the tree is in training it will do much better in an organic soil.
Watering
Although this may seem easy for someone who has been watering house plants. Let me assure you – once you master the water needs of your bonsai, throughout the year – you are half way there.
Fertilizer
Knowing how much and how ofter to fertilize your bonsai is a huge part of what will keep you tree healthy through out the year.
In summary, although it may seem like a lot to take in, this is all part of the learning process and the journey. Use the information you come across as a guide, but know that the relationship with your bonsai is unique and individual. The small steps you take towards learning all the fundamentals will set you up for success in the long run.
