The millennia-old art form, still going strongly
today!
In Japanese, bonsai can be literally translated as 'tray planting'
but since originating in Asia, so many centuries ago - it has developed
into a whole new form. To begin with, the tree and the pot form a single
harmonious unit where the shape, texture and colour of one, compliments
the other. Then the tree must be shaped. It is not enough just to plant
a tree in a pot and allow nature to take its course - the result would
look nothing like a tree and would look very short-lived. Every branch
and twig of a bonsai is shaped or eliminated until the chosen image
is achieved. From then on, the image is maintained and improved by a
constant regime of pruning and trimming.
It is the art of dwarfing trees or plants and developing them into
an aesthetically appealing shape by growing, pruning and training them
in containers according to prescribed techniques.
Overall, bonsai is a great interest, hobby or even profession to undertake.
Although famous theologians have claimed that it is actually 90% art
to a meager 10% of horticulture, it has to be said that a successful
bonsai is most definitely a horticultural masterpiece.
Once arriving in the Western World, this enjoyable and rewarding pastime
has never turned back, and has gained a magnificently diverse range
of plant material and techniques.
Whatever you need to know - you will be sure to find it here - at
The Bonsai Site.
An
Introduction to Bonsai
An in-depth introduction to Bonsai, discussing what it is, what it represents
and the philosophies that surround it.
The
History of Bonsai
A detailed history of the bonsai, looking at its origins and its influences
and emergence in the Western world.
Basic Bonsai Styles
Basic bonsai styles and techniques for the beginner, providing help
on how to create or at least start the process of creating a bonsai.
Advanced techniques
Articles introducing enthusiasts to some of the more advanced bonsai
techniques. Interested in more of a challenge?
Bonsai Galleries
Bonsai galleries showcasing both advanced and developing bonsai. Currently
featured are mini-bonsai, penjing, bonsai from the National Arboretum
and bonsai case studies.
Additional Bonsai Features
This section focuses on the use of other features, besides the actual
tree, in bonsai. It covers the use of moss, accent plants, containers
and rocks in bonsai - describing their purpose and how they should be
placed.
Bonsai
Maintenance
All you need to know about taking care of your bonsai, ranging from
repotting, general bonsai knowledge and techniques. Also examines basic
types of plants for bonsai and gives a crash course on wiring your bonsai.
Recommended
Bonsai Books
Buy or just browse through popular and helpful bonsai books recommended
by The Bonsai Site. Also reviewed are books on suiseki, Japanese gardens and general horticulture.
Plant
Profiles
A series of plant profiles on suitable plants for bonsai - with tips
on general care, watering, repotting, fertilizing and more. New profiles
added each month.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Have a question you can't find the answer to? Have a look here to find
frequently asked questions by bonsai enthusiasts.
The BonsaiSite.com Network Whatever your bonsai needs, you'll find it here. This network includes a listing of general bonsai resources, personal bonsai collections,
bonsai clubs and online bonsai nurseries.
Bonsai Tools
Even the bonsai novice, who knows relatively little about this ancient artform, needs at least a few basic tools to practice it successfully.
Featured here are a collection of relatively inexpensive tools ranging from tool kits to wire cutters to shears.
Bonsai Stands
Stands are great to use to show off your bonsai to all of your friends.
View a selection of bonsai display stands and bonsai turntables here.