The art of growing Bonsai trees has existed in Japan for centuries, spreading as miniaturized landscapes that were found in the Chinese culture, back in the early 1300s. Since that time, the art of growing healthy Bonsai trees has spread around the world, and secrets to miniaturizing all versions of plants can be learned, for beginners to this form of potted-planter gardening.
Japanese secrets to growing healthy Bonsai trees may include things such as the architecture of the garden itself. Dish-like pots and wooden trays were used in ancient times and in competitions ceramics were often used. In history, Samurai were said to sacrifice their last three dwarf potted trees, which were said to be plum, pine and cherry. Perhaps, those are ideal species to consider for Bonsai gardening in this time.
Over the years, shaping and training, pruning and cutting branches were added, besides the confinement of the roots in smaller containers. It is said that secrets were handed down through generations, being guarded with care. The first American Bonsai nurseries and clubs were said to be started by first and second-generation Japanese immigrants, back in the 1940's.
Leaf trimming includes the selective removal of leaves on deciduous trees and needles on conifers. Pruning, wiring, clamping, grafting and defoliation of branches are techniques used to create unique results. Deadwood Bonsai techniques simulate maturity, but it isn't unusual to find Bonsai trees that grow to be 100 years old.
Japanese secrets for growing Bonsai trees include watering at regular intervals, this needs to be needs-based on the particular species. Re-potting is dictated by the vigor of the tree, but loose, fast-draining soil and regular fertilization will keep your Bonsai trees healthy and free from root rot. The location of your Bonsai planter and the type of winters you have can determine how well your tree survives needed periods of dormancy. Few species of traditional Bonsai trees can survive in the house, but many people attempt to turn them into house plants.
In traditional Japanese secrets to growing healthy Bonsai trees, the majority of their natural life was spent in outdoor growing boxes, being periodically transplanted to containers, during periods of training, pruning and display. While miniaturization allows the tree to be kept small enough to be container-grown, most Japanese households display their Bonsais for a few days, on special occasion. An indoor display is temporary, since long-term survival requires moderate outdoor conditions.
My passion for bonsais came about because some years ago I was given a bonsai tree as a gift. At the time I knew nothing about bonsais, consequently with very little effort and a lot of love I managed to kill it. Then with the advent of the Internet I researched them and decided to try again and my interest grew from there and I am now an avid gardener with a passion for indoor plants. For information on bonsai, please visit me at http://www.whybonsai.net