Bonsai is an art which entails growing small trees that look like full grown mature trees. They are grown just for the enjoyment and beauty of the experience. Prior to World War II there was not a great deal of information available in the West about this art form, but shortly after it became widely available and exhibitions are still common. Literature published in English regarding bonsai trees was also not available initially, but became much easier to locate.

Chinese penjing which means tray scenery is where the bonsai originally comes from. Penzai is the word used by the Japanese meaning bonsai coming from penjing. Three categories make up penjing including trees, landscape and water and land.

As an indoor plant it is more likely to find tropical and subtropical types, while most are grown outdoors. In some ways it may be like a house plant, but it needs additional care and more water. The difference between the inside and outside bonsai is that indoors it can maintain leaves all year however, it will never develop moss that a lot of growers desire.

Seeds are very seldom used to grow these trees and those that are partially grown are preferred. A partially developed plant is known as mature stock and it gives the desired aged appearance necessary. One very important aspect is to choose the type of tree that will grow well in the particular surroundings it is to be placed in.

There are a couple of different techniques used for collecting the mature stock. One technique is known as cutting and these are placed in what is called a medium for development until the roots can grow. The other technique is layering and allows the roots to develop next to the live branch and it is then removed.

A good option especially for the beginner may be nursery stock which can provide good starting time of a couple seasons. There are things to consider with nursery stock; the shape may be predefined and difficult to alter which will limit the trunk direction. An advantage is that the tree can be worked with right away.

For tending trees it is a good idea to purchase the special tools available. Plan to spend a great deal of time watering as these trees need to be kept moist a lot of the time. It is also important not to over water them as they may develop what is known as root rot. They will need to be repotted frequently to promote new root growth and to prevent them from becoming bound to a particular pot until completely mature.

There are several techniques that are used in developing these trees which include trimming, pruning, wiring, clamping, deadwood, grafting and defoliation. All of these are acceptable, but keep in mind that particular aesthetic characteristics should be considered because of tradition. The key principles are miniaturization, proportion amount elements, expression of wabi and sabi, asymmetry and no trace of artist. Practice, technique development and care will allow any home to experience the tranquility of bonsai trees.

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