Gardening: Bonsai World

BTV National News 26-06-2003

THE BASICS OF BONSAI

Some people think growing bonsai is impossibly difficult and it could be. It depends upon what you consider "bonsai." It's extremely difficult if you're set on growing only Japanese outdoor trees styled in the Japanese bonsai manner. The Japanese are amongst the most disciplined and meticulous in the world; and unless you are totally dedicated to learn it their way in Japan in a lengthy full emergence effort, it's very likely you'll fail. There are no short-cuts!
Most Japanese bonsai are trained using the single apex - tier branched "pine tree" shape. The tapering trunk emerges from strong surface roots and continues to the top in a single line. Flattened branches come off the trunk in a variety of ways and the overall appearance is an irregular triangle. This favorite structural form is even utilized to create Azalea or Elm bonsai. Much of Japanese bonsai are highly codified and it's possible for the masses to study for a lifetime and still not master all fine points.
In contrast, aristocratic Chinese penjing was practiced only by the elite. They were well-educated, sufficiently wealthy, and casually enjoyed artistic pot plants as just one of numerous cultural pastimes. The plants were grown for personal pleasure and not for competitions or commercial activity. As a pure hobby without concern for anyone else's opinion, it was art. If you like it, leave it alone. If something is wrong, keep studying it until you've identified the problem. Then fix it! Be very direct and confident and don't worry about details.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

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THE BASICS OF BONSAI