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How To Grow Japanese Wisteria Bonsai

August 11, 2020

Many bonsai enthusiasts love shrubs and vines that highlight flowers rather than branches or foliage of the plant. The wisteria or the Wisteria frutescens grows in the United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zone 6 to 9. Furthermore, it is considered the most popular vine when it comes to growing bonsai. The Japanese wisteria bonsai displays some beautiful purple flowers which tend to bloom up to 12’’. This means that it is best to grow wisteria as large plants (2 to 3 feet tall for a perfect visual balance). In this article, we shall be discussing how to grow Japanese wisteria bonsai.

How to Grow Japanese Wisteria Bonsai

· Create softwood cutting from the wisteria plant during summer when growing a new bonsai. It is highly recommended to cut the softwood root when the temperature is above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Once that is done, you will take the shoot and plant it in a bigger container. By doing so, you will be giving the roots ample space to extend as time progresses. You will then place your container in partial shade; this will allow the branches and trunk to thicken. You will move it to a bonsai pot once the plant has aged and thickened.

· If you desire a new shape, you will start styling your bonsai’s trunk using a wire; you should perform this process with utmost care. It is best to start training it when its root system is well established. It would be best if you shaped the branches by pruning it only. When not cared for, the branches can snap easily despite having a pliable feeling.

· You will transfer your wisteria bonsai tree to a larger container. Use the soil that was used in growing the bonsai when it has grown to 2 feet tall. Your bonsai should have an older tree resemblance despite it being a miniature.

· As you repot your bonsai tree, you should consider pruning the old dead roots along with some live new roots for it to fit perfectly in your pot. By doing so, you will be putting it in a mature, growing phase, which tends to encourage more flowering and produce less vegetation.

· Once the flowering has finished, you should consider repotting your bonsai each year. Most bonsai trees are repotted in early spring prior to new growth. However, when you repot wisteria earlier, it will suffer significantly.

Where to Position Your Japanese Wisteria

It would be best if you considered placing your Japanese wisteria in the shade. However, ensure that it has access to sunlight, especially during morning and evening hours.

Watering Your Japanese Wisteria

Japanese wisteria bonsai requires an excellent water supply when growing, particularly before and after the blooming cycle. Consider setting the pot in a tray of water; this will allow the tree to take the amount of water it requires. Once the topsoil becomes wet, the tray should be removed.

Fertilizing Your Japanese Wisteria 

Japanese wisterias are considered some of the greatest feeders when it comes to bonsai. However, it would be best if you feed your tree with a low nitrogen fertilizer since they trap their nitrogen from the atmosphere. You will promote foliar growth when you feed it nitrogen-rich fertilizer. 

Training Your Japanese Wisteria 

You can train your Japanese wisteria to come up with a shape that will best suit your needs. To do this, you will require performance wiring. By doing so, you will be able to create the desired style and shape; however, this should be done before the blooming phase is complete.

Common Japanese Wisteria Pests and Diseases

There is no doubt that wisteria is a hardy and fast-growing tree; however, it is prone to root rot. Usually, this occurs when the tree is exposed to excess moisture. To prevent this from occurring, you should consider watering your plant when the soil is dry. In addition to that, Japanese wisteria tends to suffer fungal infections such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent this, you should consider removing the affected leaves early enough. 

Conclusion

Growing a Japanese wisteria bonsai tree is relatively easy; by following the above-discussed tips, you will be able to grow one with the utmost ease. As we conclude this article, we hope that it has been of great help to grow the Japanese wisteria bonsai tree.

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Juniper Bonsai Sun Requirements

August 11, 2020
juniper bonsai

Juniper bonsai is by far the most popular evergreen miniature tree in the United States. This is because the tree features one of the most beautiful designs. Juniper bonsai includes more than 50 different species, with Needle juniper and Chinese juniper bonsai trees being some of the most popular. In addition to their popularity, taking care of these bonsai trees is relatively easy.

Light is an essential requirement in plants’ life, and bonsai are no different. As a result, in this article, we shall be discussing Juniper bonsai sun requirements.

Juniper Bonsai Sun Requirements

Juniper bonsai requires more than four hours of sunlight a day. Therefore, you should consider placing it in a location where it has ample access to sunlight. It is highly advisable to place your juniper bonsai outside throughout the year. However, during the winter season, you should consider protecting your juniper bonsai once the temperature drops below -10 degrees Celsius or 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Some juniper bonsai species tend to change foliage color in frosty seasons to purple-brown; this is said to be its frost protection mechanism. Their foliage will turn back to green during the spring season. It would be best if you always kept in mind that juniper bonsai require an ample supply of sunlight (not less than four hours a day).

Juniper Bonsai: Indoor or Outdoor? 

Should juniper bonsai be kept indoors or outdoors? This is a question most individuals with juniper bonsai tend to ask themselves. Since juniper bonsai require ample supply of sunlight, it is highly recommended to place your bonsai outside; this will allow it to have the maximum supply needed for sunlight per day. However, you might consider bringing your bonsai indoors during special occasions so you can display it in a prominent place. Ensure that your bonsai does not remain indoors for over a few days at a time. This is because the atmosphere is one of the greatest detriments to your bonsai’s health. 

Where to Place the Juniper Bonsai in Your Yard

How To Care For a Juniper Bonsai Tree

By now, you probably have understood that juniper is an incredible miniature tree, and it is best grown outdoors. Therefore, you should consider placing your miniature tree in your yard, and it has to be maintained during cold winter seasons. To do this, you might consider burying your miniature tree in the ground (best done without a pot) until to its rim and then mulch it up to the first branch. You might also consider placing your juniper bonsai in a shed or unheated garage. Usually, during the winter season, juniper bonsai do not require sunlight since they are in a dormant state. You will, however, continue watering the tree for two weeks.

During summer, spring and fall, the juniper bonsai should be placed in your yard; ensure that it is in a location where it can access sunlight in the morning and evening and shade during the afternoon. 

How Many Hours of Light do Juniper Bonsai Need?

Juniper bonsai requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight per day; this aids in improving its development and enhances photosynthesis significantly. To achieve ample sunlight, it is best to have your juniper bonsai in your yard. Place it in an open location where it can get both morning and evening sunlight. Nevertheless, you should consider shading it in the afternoon, especially during summer times, when the temperatures are high.

In addition to four hours of sunlight a day, ensure that the soil used in growing your juniper bonsai is relatively dry. Ensure your tree is outside and in the brightest spot where it will receive ample supply of sunlight throughout the day. 

Conclusion

Despite it being a great idea to have your juniper bonsai placed in a place with ample supply of sunlight, it is highly advisable to place it in a place where it will enjoy the afternoon shade. This is highly essential, especially during summer seasons. By doing so, you will significantly increase its chances of survival and improve its health. Therefore, ensure that it gets exposed to sunlight as early as possible and allow it to enjoy both morning and evening sunlight when the temperatures are not that high. As we conclude, we hope that this article has been of great benefit when it comes to juniper bonsai sun requirements.

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Cotoneaster Bonsai Leaves Turning Brown

August 10, 2020

Proper care is vital in bonsai tree cultivation because it ensures healthy and beautiful growth. When your Cotoneaster bonsai leaves start turning brown, then you must be doing something wrong. Brown leaves are a clear indication that your Cotoneaster bonsai is having a hard time.

Your bonsai tree needs immediate attention whenever you notice the stem or leaves turning brown. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the reasons behind the brown leaves and the steps you need to take to revive your precious Cotoneaster bonsai.

Causes of Browning Leaves in Cotoneaster Bonsai

Before we start reviving your Cotoneaster bonsai tree, we need to take a look at the common causes of browning leaves. 

Cotoneaster trees are a deciduous plant with dark green leaves that turn yellow, red, and orange during the autumn season. With adequate care, your bonsai should remain beautiful and healthy for many years. The beauty of Cotoneaster bonsai increases as your tree matures. It can, therefore, be stressful when you start noticing the beauty of your bonsai fading. Let us take a look at some of the reasons why your bonsai leaves might be turning brown.

Over-watering Causing Browning Leaves in Cotoneaster Bonsai

Most beginners in bonsai tree cultivation make the colossal mistake of over-watering. In some cases, individuals tend to think that a lot of water is essential in the healthy growth of bonsai trees. Yes, your bonsai tree needs water, but not excessive amounts.

Why does over-watering cause browning leaves in Cotoneaster bonsai? Well, the water gets trapped, thereby leading to the rotting of the roots. You have probably learned by now that you need a healthy root system when it comes to bonsai tree cultivation.

When the roots start rotting, your cotoneaster bonsai will begin to wilt and eventually die if something is not done. The browning of the leaves is among the first indications of a dying tree. Not enough water and nutrients are getting to your steam and leaves due to the rotting roots.

Under-watering Causing Browning Leaves in Cotoneaster Bonsai

Under-watering will also result in browning of your Cotoneaster bonsai leaves. This scenario usually happens when individuals forget to water their trees over prolonged periods. You should not let your Cotoneaster bonsai soil dry out for extended periods.

You need to evaluate your bonsai tree’s water requirement and adjust the watering schedule appropriately. Take your time to determine how often your Cotoneaster bonsai needs watering and the amount of water required.

Lack of sufficient water will lead to a dried-up trunk and browning of the leaves. Ensure that you monitor the water requirement of your Cotoneaster bonsai to help you make a consistent watering schedule. Understand that a watering schedule that works for another individual might not work for you.

Low Light Causing Browning Leaves in Cotoneaster Bonsai

Bonsai trees need sufficient light, just like all other trees. The fact that you have your bonsai tree indoors does not mean that you shouldn’t provide enough light. Browning of Cotoneaster bonsai leaves will start when there is insufficient sunlight.

Morning sunlight and afternoon shade are the ideal conditions for your Cotoneaster bonsai during the spring, fall, and summer. Place your Cotoneaster bonsai on a bench or table to ensure that it receives a sufficient amount of sunlight.

Low light will cause browning leaves in Cotoneaster bonsai within a short period. Most people have the wrong notion that indoor plants don’t need direct sunlight. The Cotoneaster bonsai particularly needs a lot of sunlight, especially during summer and spring.

How to Revive Cotoneaster Bonsai from Browning Leaves

1. Identify the cause

To revive Cotoneaster bonsai from browning leaves, you need to start by identifying the problem. Determining the root cause of the browning leaves will help you find the best solution to the problem. Start by inspecting your bonsai tree to spot any signs of pest infestation.

Look for any signs that might point to under-watering or over-watering. You must also inspect the position of your Cotoneaster bonsai to determine whether there is sufficient lighting.

2. Trim the dead spots

Trim all the dead spots to encourage new growth in your Cotoneaster bonsai tree. Use trimming shears to get rid of all the affected regions.

3. Treat your bonsai

bonsai watering

Once you have determined the cause of the browning leaves, then you need to start treating the problem. In the case of pests and diseases, ensure that you use an organic or gentle insecticide. Change your watering schedule in situations where under-watering or over-watering was the cause of the browning leaves.

4. Give it time

Your Cotoneaster bonsai will need some time to heal. You must exercise patience while maintaining a regular watering schedule. The healing process is slow, but your bonsai will eventually start thriving.

Conclusion

Browning of your Cotoneaster bonsai leaves can be caused by different reasons, including environmental factors, watering schedule, and nutrient issues. This tutorial should help you identify the problem and solve it quickly.

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Why Do My Bonsai Keep Dying?

August 10, 2020

Bonsai trees can be quite challenging to care for, even for experienced gardeners. Being miniature trees, bonsai are prone to all kinds of problems. Many beginners tend to ask why their bonsai trees keep dying.

Bonsai trees need some special attention due to their delicate nature. As a beginner, start by familiarizing yourself with different conditions that affect regular trees. Then it would help if you worked on learning the basic bonsai care guidelines. Understand that it takes years to shape and train a bonsai, but only a few seconds can kill your bonsai tree.

We need to take a long look at some of the common reasons why your bonsai trees might be dying. This article should help you identify common problems that lead to the death of bonsai trees. We will also help you understand how to deal with different situations.

Watering Problems Causing Death in Bonsai

Wilted or dry leaves and the yellowing of the leaves may be as a result of overwatering. When the yellowing of leaves begins, you need to reduce the amount of water you give your bonsai. Most people don’t understand that overwatering will lead to root rot in the long run.

Ensure that you only water your bonsai when required. According to several experts, it is easier to revive a bonsai tree affected by under-watering than overwatering. Yes, your bonsai needs sufficient water, but that doesn’t mean that you should provide too much.

Now, overwatering might also be a result of poor soil or containers. Understand that poor draining soil will have a high water retention rate. Ensure that you repot your bonsai in well-draining soil before adjusting your watering schedule.

How Light Can Cause Death in Bonsai

Most beginners don’t usually grasp the importance of adequate light to their bonsai tree. Typically, your bonsai will start shrinking when placed in low light conditions. When not correctly dealt with, a lack of light will lead to the death of your bonsai.

Your miniature tree needs a minimum of six hours a day of sunlight for proper development. Understand that light will also dictate the amount of moisture in the air. Too much humidity will lead to mold infestation.

With mold infestation, you will start noticing white fuzzy spots on stems and leaves of your bonsai. You must place your bonsai in a location with just the right amount of sunlight and humidity levels.

Lack of Fertilizer Can Kill Bonsai

Imbalance of nutrients will often lead to discolored leaves.  Without the proper nutrients, your bonsai gets weak and slowly dies. Most of the time, individuals don’t notice an imbalance in nutrients until it’s too late.

You need to conduct a soil test immediately when you notice leaves turning dark green or brown. Your soil may also contain toxins, which means that you have to wash them out using water. Toxic soil is a common occurrence, especially for beginners.

To get on the safe side, you might need to repot your bonsai. Once you are done repotting, ensure that you provide sufficient water to your bonsai. Apply a balanced fertilizer once your bonsai is fully recovered and healthy.

Improper Placement Killing Your Bonsai

Location is critical when it comes to the healthy growth of your bonsai tree. However, finding the right spot can prove to be rather challenging, especially when indoors. Understand that your miniature tree needs the same conditions as regular trees.

Improper placement of your bonsai tree will lead to an imbalance in several factors, including light and moisture. When indoors, you might want to consider using artificial lighting.

Sometimes, your outdoor bonsai might be placed in a location infested with pests and diseases. It is useless to treat your bonsai if you leave it in an infested area. Relocating your bonsai is your best option in such situations.

Choose a sunny spot with good air circulation. Ensure that the moisture levels in the new location are adequate.

Conclusion

Bonsai cultivation can be rather tricky, especially when you are a beginner. Ensure that you conduct regular checkups every month. Getting in front of the problem is always the best solution when taking care of bonsai trees.

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Most Beautiful Bonsai

August 5, 2020

Bonsai trees are beautiful, they fit perfectly in your home, and they aid in encouraging patience and dedication. In addition to improving your interior décor, bonsai trees help purify your air and relieve stress. People have been caring for these miniature trees for more than a thousand years. Usually, bonsai trees are kept small with the use of growth restriction techniques such as wiring the branches, pinching, buds, and pruning and restricting the use of certain fertilizers. There are different bonsai trees available, and in this article, we shall be going through some of the most beautiful bonsai trees.

Apple Bonsai and Its Beauty

There is nothing more beautiful than a miniature apple tree that bears tiny apples on top of your table. Apple bonsai are extremely beautiful and relatively easy to grow and cultivate, making them one of the most remarkable bonsai trees out there. Usually, this tree grows and features a rectangular apple tree look, and it grows flowers and bears some real mini apple fruits.

Apple trees are perfect as bonsai since they feature a dense form, lovely flowers, and numerous green leaves. With an apple bonsai tree, you will enjoy the beautiful white and pink flowers full of fragrance in the summertime. Once the flowers wither, green apple fruit will grow. The best part of having an apple bonsai tree is that it can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

The Beautiful Azalea Bonsai

Azaleas are one of the most popular flowering bonsai trees that are grown today. These bonsai are extremely popular due to their incredible beauty, and some specialist societies and clubs have been dedicated to this particular type of bonsai tree.

Azalea bonsai features some heavy flowering in a multitude of colors; this is what has made it the most popular bonsai among the blooming trees. There are numerous varieties of azalea, and a dwarf size will be the perfect one for a bonsai. Kurume and Satsuki are the two commonly used Azalea in bonsai since they are evergreen and relatively small. They should get ample sunlight throughout the day and should be protected in temperatures below 41 degrees.

The Beauty in Maple Bonsai

Maple bonsai is an extremely beautiful bonsai tree. One example is a Japanese Maple crafted by Walter Pall, which has a height of about one meter, making it one of the biggest bonsai in the world. This bonsai tree is said to be approximately 100 years old, and it is styled and refined by Walter Pall, exposing its hidden beauty. Furthermore, this maple bonsai tree has won several awards, including the Art of Bonsai Photo Contest, due to its incredible beauty.

The Flower-Covered Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a woody and gnarled trunk tree, which makes an incredible choice for a bonsai. However, just like other flowering trees, you should consider going for a dwarf species for a perfect bonsai result; pink pixie is considered as one of the best examples. Bougainvillea features some brightly colored flowers that are bracts and features some vivid shades of red, pink, violet, orange and white.

Its flowering season is often during summer and spring, and it is during these months that this bonsai tree should be kept outdoors in order for it to receive an ample supply of sunlight. When kept indoors, ensure it is positioned next to a bright window. You should note that bougainvilleas are vulnerable during the colder season when temperatures are below 30 degrees; therefore, your tree should be kept indoors for maximum protection.

Beautiful Lilac Bonsai

Lilac bonsai are well-known for making fragrant, graceful, and beautiful bonsai. The plant blooms profusely during spring seasons. There are different species of lilac bonsai with the Korean lilac being one of the most popular and most beautiful of them all. It features an elongated cluster of lavender-pink flowers full of a fragrance that tends to fade to white and stand out against its leaves, and it ranges from dark to lighter shades of green.

Conclusion

Patience and talent are required when it comes to growing and cultivating a bonsai tree. By going through some of these most beautiful bonsai trees, you will be able to get some inspiration for growing and cultivating your bonsai.

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How to Plant Bonsai Lemon Tree

August 5, 2020

Sometimes, you might want to cultivate a bonsai tree with a pleasant aroma and glossy leaves. In such circumstances, your best option would be the lemon tree. It is a citrus tree that can be transformed into bonsai quite easily.

Many bonsai cultivators prefer the lemon tree for its beautiful spring flowers and dark green leaves. You also get a tree variety that can survive under full sunlight, which is incredible. When correctly pruned, your bonsai will produce edible fruit that has similar characteristics to the regular-sized lemon fruit.

Materials Used to Plant Lemon Bonsai

To create the perfect lemon tree bonsai, you will need the following materials:

1. Citrus fruit

You need to pick a citrus fruit that you prefer, including mandarin oranges, Meyer lemons, and limes. However, avoid getting the seedless type because they have been genetically altered. We need to work with an organic fruit to get the best results.

2. Potting soil

With lemon tree bonsai, the regular garden soil in your yard will do just fine. You could, however, go for the prepackaged potting soil if you need to see good results. The prepackaged potting soil contains the right amount of nutrients and doesn’t have any weed seedlings.

3. Container

Ensure that you get a shallow tray or container that is 6 to 12 inches deep.

4. Plant pot

Get a large size plant pot to accommodate your lemon tree bonsai adequately. Ensure that you find a design that suits your indoor environment.

5. Location

Identify a warm location that is close to a window or use your garden. This will depend on whether you want an indoor or outdoor bonsai.

Creating a Lemon Tree Bonsai – Step by Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the planter

Start by watering your potting soil adequately, ensuring that it is moist when you touch it. You can then proceed to pack and place the potting soil into the designated tray. Leave a half-inch space at the trim.

Step 2: Grow the seedlings

Take your chosen lemon fruit and cut it into half to take out the seeds. It would help if you then rinsed the seeds using clean water to get rid of any juice or excess fruit pulp. Doing this ensures that fungi or mold do not fester and destroy your plant.

The seeds need to be wet and moist when you plant them in the pre-moistened soil. Place the seeds about half-inch deep in the soil, leaving a space of about 2 inches between them. Cover the area with plastic to ensure that the seeds are kept moist and warm.

Step 3: Select seedling

In about two weeks, you will start noticing sprouts. Remove your plastic cover and take your tray to a spot with sufficient sunlight. The soil needs to be kept moist, but you need to avoid flooding it. In a month, uproot the weak seedlings to leave enough nutrients for the remaining.

After about two months, your seedlings should be fully grown, and you can proceed to select the best for your bonsai.

Step 4: Start planting

Put 2 inches of pebbles at the bottom of your ornamental pot before you start the planting procedure. These small pebbles ensure that your pot has proper drainage. Fill the pot with suitable potting soil and leave a one-inch space at the trim.

Dig up your selected seedling appropriately while avoiding any damages to the roots. Re-plant it in the larger pot and add a few pieces of wood or rocks for artistic purposes.

Step 5: Begin training

Begin training after one year when your seedling is strong enough. This step needs extra care if you want to get all the desired shapes right. Use a metal wire to bend the branch and trunk to the desired positions carefully. You could also use a string to weigh down the trunk and branches.

Step 6: Pruning

You can start pruning six months after training your lemon tree bonsai. Pruning encourages branches to grow out instead of growing up.

Conclusion

A lemon bonsai will keep all the characteristics of a regular lemon tree but in a smaller version. Using the above procedure, you will get a beautiful lemon tree bonsai that is worth the effort. Ensure that you create a watering schedule and carry out regular checkups.

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Where Do Bonsai Trees Come From?

July 1, 2020

Although the art of bonsai is usually associated with Japan, it originated in China before spreading eastwards to Korea and finally Japan. By 700 AD, the Chinese had started using the art of Penjing, a technique used in growing miniature trees. There is no doubt that the art of bonsai is very fascinating; it combines horticultural techniques and Asian aesthetic in a unique way. The name bonsai literally means “planted in a container.”

Before Bonsai, There Was Penjing

Prior to bonsai, there was Penjing, also referred to as penzai. This is an ancient Chinese art of designing artistically formed trees, landscapes, and other plants in a miniature form. Penjing features three different categories;

·        Shanshui penjing. This is a miniature plant scene that depicts a landscape by shaping and selecting rocks carefully.

·        Shumu penjing. This is a tree penjing which depicts one or more trees and other plants in a container.

·        Shuihan penjing. This is a land and water penjing, and it combines both miniature figures and trees to portray a landscape.

Bonsai Tradition in Japan

budo and bonsai

Over 2000 years ago, Chinese people started designing miniature landscapes. The smaller the plant was from its original size, the more magically potent it was. Students used to focus on gaining access to the magical properties in these miniature landscapes. The Japanese then copied the tradition 700 years ago during the Kamakura period; however, a distinctively Japanese style soon developed. Instead of designing miniature landscapes like the Chinese, the Japanese started growing individual miniature trees. The trees are what we refer to as bonsai in today’s world.

When the Japanese Imperial and Buddhist students went to China, they came back with goods which included plant-filled containers. Zen Buddhism from Japan started shaping the containers by getting rid of some added figurines and items that were not vital to a minimalist technique. Bonsai art then started entering the mainstream in the 14th century, and it is well cherished and preserved in Japan. As a result, bonsai are considered a National Treasure of Japan, and they are featured in the collections of Tokyo Imperial Palace, which is over 500 years old

Western Take on Bonsai

In 1604, there was a Spanish description of how Chinese immigrants from the Philippines were growing miniature trees. In 1673, English artisans took note of these miniature trees. With several centuries of practice, Japanese bonsai art is encoded with some amazing techniques and designs guidelines. After the 2nd World War, Japanese ideas and culture became more accessible, which led to the art of bonsai becoming increasingly popular across the globe. As of today, there are more than 1,200 books about the art of bonsai in 90 countries and 26 different languages.

During the 19th century, it spread in the West at an incredible rate; in the United States, the Japanese introduced bonsai trees while immigrating. In addition, Chinese immigrants brought their unique version of miniature arts. Unlike the Japanese, the Chinese refrained from sharing their skills and art techniques until the end of World War II. The westerners were denied extensive instruction and knowledge about bonsai development and growth till the late 1960s. A group of Americans went to Japan, studied the art of bonsai in their nurseries, and returned to the United States to found the American Bonsai Society. Afterward, people from different nationalities travelled to Asia in the hope of learning horticultural art. Likewise, Japanese masters travelled across the globe, giving essential knowledge to those who were interested.

Miniature trees grew in popularity as well as demand, a fact which influenced mass production of bonsai trees. Several manufacturers trained their workers in the art of bonsai and the techniques involved in bonsai training and growing. Nowadays, people use various techniques of growing bonsai trees, from cutting from other trees to using bonsai seeds and the use of grafting techniques, among others.

Conclusion

If you are a bonsai enthusiast, understanding the history of bonsai trees is vital. This will help you understand their development better. We hope that this article has been of great benefit when it comes to understanding the origin of bonsai trees.

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How to Care For Bahama Berry Bonsai

May 17, 2020

Bonsai trees are well known for being beautiful, elegant trees. The Bahama Berry bonsai is no exception to this, though as a regular, non-bonsai tree, it is plain and unattractive. Bahama bonsai trees go by many names, such as Pineapple Verbena, Moujean Tea, Nashia inaguensis, and “I Dry, I Die.” Indigenous to the Bahamas, it is a member of the Vervain family. These trees are well known for their strong, lovely aroma and their rather lanky limbs that are transformed into beautiful shapes. While this tree is high maintenance, it makes up for it in aroma and appearance.

How to Care for the Bahama Berry Bonsai Tree

Caring for the Bahama Berry bonsai is hard, but rewarding. You can place these trees indoors or outdoors, depending on your local climate. Watering is an aspect that should never be overlooked, as it is crucial to the health and survival of these trees. Fertilizing is important, and should be done fairly regularly. These trees respond to pruning and wiring well.

Positioning Your Bahama Bonsai

The Bahama bonsai is a tropical tree. This means that it needs constant sunlight and high humidity. Tropical trees are almost always indoor trees because the conditions these trees prefer are best replicated indoors.

Indoors, place the tree directly in front of a south facing window or in front of a window where it will receive the best light. Artificial lighting is likely needed in order for your tree to survive, as well as a humidity tray filled with water or wet gravel underneath the pot.

Placing the Bahama Berry outdoors is a bad idea in most climates, but in tropical climates or climates with constant sunlight all year, they may be grown outdoors.

Watering Your Bahama Bonsai

There is a reason why these trees are called “I Dry, I Die.” These trees will die very quickly if they are not watered regularly. Part of the reason the Bahama Berry bonsai is so high maintenance is that it must never dry out, but it doesn’t like being over-watered either. As soon as the tree shows signs of being dry or wilted, water generously immediately. Very few of these trees will survive after drying out.

Fertilizing Your Bahama Bonsai

As with every bonsai tree, use a fertilizer with Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. The fertilizer may also include other micro nutrients, but the main elements of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium must be the main ingredients. As an indoor tropical tree, they like a balanced fertilizer every week in the spring and summer. In the autumn and winter months, feed monthly rather than weekly.

Training Techniques for Your Bahama Bonsai

Pruning is a crucial part of the bonsai growing process. In order to maintain the health and shape of the tree, you must prune regularly. From mid-April to mid-August you can prune the tree’s roots using a kitchen knife or small saw. Rather than attempting to comb out the tangled roots, experts recommend cutting them right off instead. Additionally, rather than cutting or snipping off branches like you would with other bonsai trees, it is recommended that you carefully break off the branch and tear it off.

Bahama Berry bonsai also take wiring quite well. Typically, wiring is used to change the straight-limbed tree into a curvier, more interesting shape.

Common Bahama Bonsai Pests and Diseases

When properly cared for, the Bahama Berry bonsai isn’t typically infested with any diseases or pests. However, when poorly cared for, it will become susceptible to several different pests. Bahama Berry trees that are not receiving enough light will be prone to mealy bugs. Rarer, but still dangerous, pests that may occur are pit scales. Pyrethrin-based insecticide sprays will rid the pests, but in order for the tree to really recover, its living conditions must improve. Regularly check for pest infestations on the leaves.

Bahama Berry bonsai trees are a must have tree. If you have the time and patience to care for these trees, investing in this joyous journey is highly recommended. The tree starts out as small and lanky, but the trunk can be thickened by being placed in a larger container. The transformation these trees go through by pruning leaves and wiring branches can be extraordinary to watch. These trees can be difficult to care for because of their watering needs. Lack of water and overabundance of water are big Bahama Berry killers. Since bonsai trees are planted in such shallow containers, they are unable to receive the nutrients they need. Feed with balanced fertilizers weekly in the spring and summer, monthly in the autumn and winter. Pests are relatively common with these trees, but only if they are not properly cared for. Caring for a Bahama Berry bonsai is an amazing journey that everyone should experience.

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Bonsai General Info, Uncategorized

Bonsai Culture

April 14, 2020
bonsai culture
bonsai display

Bonsais are tree plants grown in pots or trays with special techniques such that they appear in their very best beauty—even prettier than plants grown commonly. Growing bonsai, however, is an artistic craft. It’s also a great illustration of the placid respect Japanese have for green life and a display of their love for beauty and glow. It goes far beyond growing flowers in pots and entails serious skill and dedication—emotionally and physically.

 What is Bonsai?

The word bonsai was first used in an old Chinese poem in the mid-fourteenth century and was not mentioned again until three centuries later before people began using it regularly. Early bonsai were first cultivated as far back as 1309.

In early times most bonsai lovers were usually elites—priests, aristocrats, and other high-ranked people—not until the seventeenth century, when commoners too delighted the art and began practicing it. Bonsai became popular, and a genre of art after Japan ended her three centuries of isolation in 1868 and availed itself to western countries. Since then growing bonsai is not just done for fun but also as an artistic pursuit. Lots of scholarly books on growing bonsai techniques have been published, and large scale bonsai exhibitions staged. 

Growing bonsai is no longer an art practiced by only the Japanese. The Bonsai art has gained popularity in thirty-two different countries with over 1200 attendants present in the World Bonsai Convention first held in Omiya city, Saitama Prefecture, 1989. The convention launched the World Bonsai Friendship Federation, which was a shooting star for the art and also helped spread the Bonsai-growing skills globally. The association organizes international conferences once every four years and has successfully held several meetings since the first gathering in Omiya.

Today, growing bonsai continues to be a hobby enjoyed by members of the general public. It’s also regarded as an essential part of Japan’s cultural and artistic tradition, nurtured over the years by the nation’s climate and people’s love of nature

The Philosophy and Spirit of Bonsai

bonsai culture

The love and interest of Bonsai is a call to the love of nature and green life. The philosophy and spirit of this great art are illustrated in the speech of the famous Saburo Kato of Japan at the 1980 International Bonsai Convention in Hawaii. The address reads as follows:

All of you here with interest in bonsai have been “chosen by bonsai.” We are united in the brotherhood of bonsai. Gathering together is wonderful. In Japan bonsai has an ancient history borne of nature. Bonsai is enlightenment and brings peace. It is well known and appreciated. It’s the duty of all of us that love bonsai to keep alive this “torch of peace.”

 People who love bonsai appreciate the beauty of nature and plant trees in small containers. In doing so, they learn from nature and learn a philosophy of life. Even a person who doesn’t understand bonsai can appreciate and be moved by its beauty. The power of Bonsai is in its ability to portray the absolute beauty of nature. This is the goal for all who grow bonsai. There are three essential things to consider:

First, the roots  

When looking at an old tree, the roots form the foundation and gives strength. This is impressive and inspiring. Strong roots of large a tree protect other smaller trees in a flood or a storm. These firmly rooted trees give us a feeling of stability and security. In the case of a Bonsai, this should also be true.

 Second, the trunk and the way it’s formed

 In the case of a solitary tree, it’s especially important as to how the trunk emerges from the roots and the rising taper that it develops. After many years the aged characteristics and bark appear, and you can sense the added character and personality of each tree.

 Third, the branches

These face the sky and are balanced and must have sunlight to flourish. Because branches and leaves are growing actively, beautiful flowers can bloom. Even though growing vigorously and flowers are blooming, you must not be complacent and must be very diligent in the care of your plants. This care is important.

 Everyone here has gathered together from distant places. In each of your countries, you have mountains, rivers, woods, and forests. These are beautiful scenes to inspire you. Choose the most beautiful examples for your Bonsai. Do not just copy anything. Instead, make your Bonsai like the best parts of nature.

 To raise Bonsai, it is vital to learn the strong and weak points of each plant. Growing Bonsai is like raising children. Be a teacher and a guide but with patience and loving care. Treat your plants as you do your family. I’m sure that each of you will also be able to create and grow beautiful Bonsai.

 Bonsai is a living thing in the roots and even in the leaves. Every day that you are attending your bonsai, although the plant cannot speak to you, you’ll sense that the plant is trying to tell you something. You’ll one day know a plant is asking for water or fertilizer. When you come to that stage, you’ll have developed a close bond. Bonsai responds to your love and becomes like honest friends with no human falsehood or betrayals.

 Bonsai are loyal if you water and fertilize regularly with loving care. Life is more meaningful when we attend to these little plants. We learn the essence and dignity of life! Even the life of a Bonsai is older than us. So Bonsai must be passed on to the next generation to preserve the life in the tray. This is important.

 Bonsai is a God-given gift to man. This form of nature is closest to man and portrays the drama of life. Bonsai is nature without an end. So those who grow bonsai have a responsibility to be diligent and a duty to continue to carry on. In conclusion, I hope that the art of bonsai will never die and will keep the torch of peace burning throughout the world. I expect closer and deeper friendships will tie us together.

Summary 

The philosophy of bonsai is Peace, and its spirit is togetherness. The love of green life and act of care towards nature is what the Bonsai art teaches and what its disciples practice. When we learn to care for our environment and everything in around us, we unite with nature and embrace the spirit of togetherness.

Hope this article was educating? I’ll love to know your thoughts and be glad to answer your questions. If you have any ideas or questions on the topic, please do not hesitate to add them in the comments sections below. Thanks for reading through. Cheers!

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Bonsai Tree Care Basics, Uncategorized

How Hard Is It To Grow A Bonsai Tree?

April 6, 2020

When you are new to the world of horticulture, you are probably amazed at just how fascinating this pastime can be. There are so many different varieties of plants and trees that it could take several lifetimes just to get through it all.

One particularly fascinating example would be the Bonsai Tree. First of all, the Bonsai tree doesn’t refer to just a plant, but this is an art form that has been cultivated for several centuries. The main purpose of the Bonsai is to create a miniaturized tree that is cultivated to grow in a small container and is designed to appear like a much larger tree.

Bonsai trees were originally called dwarf potted trees, and this is a tradition that dates back to a thousand years or more. Indeed, the earliest known reference to a Bonsai creation was in a Medieval art scroll from the year 1195. If you are interested in this discipline, then there is a lot you need to know about it.

Keep these considerations in mind:

There are many different types of Bonsai trees and they have several different scientific names. Examples such as the Ginseng Ficus, Oriental Ficus, Brush Cherry, Chinese Elm, Norfolk Island and a multitude of others all indicate an endless amount of choices for you to consider. When it comes to scientific names, Bonsai families such as the Vervain family, the Bromeliad family, the Cedar, the “prunus” variety, and the “Succulents”
variety and many others are all categories that have been delineated by scientists.

Appropriately caring for Bonsai trees is a must. One of the things that you will quickly learn is that the Bonsai can be a very delicate plant! However, as long as you know the basics, you will be able to properly maintain the plant and keep it healthy for as long as possible. Here are some things you need to know:

Watering Your Bonsai

There are many factors that go into watering your Bonsai tree appropriately. The first thing you should do as a beginner is to thoroughly observe each of your trees INDIVIDUALLY before you water them. Avoid watering your Bonsai trees at a set routine. Instead, you should only water your Bonsai trees when you notice their soil has a slight dryness to them. Additionally, you should incorporate a soil mixture that holds in more water and use a watering tool that consists of a fine nozzle.

Fertilizing Your Bonsai

When fertilizing your Bonsai tree, it’s all about Nitrogen! The quantity depends on the season and there is a rating that you will need to pay attention to. Generally, a high NPK rating of 10:6:6 should be utilized in the spring, a balanced NPK rating of 6:6:6 should be considered in summer, and a lower NPK rating of 3:6:6 should be used in the fall. Of course, these guidelines only apply to outside Bonsai trees. An inside example will generally only required the balanced NPK fertilizer, but it will be used year-round. Many Bonsai enthusiasts swear by the Biogold brand for their fertilizer.

Pruning Your Bonsai

When it comes to pruning, you must keep the following goals in mind: you want to ensure that your tree always emulates a fully-grown and lifesize version and you want your Bonsai to be healthy and have as much eye appeal as possible. Usually, the best time to prune your Bonsai tree is when it is showing signs of new growth. This is the perfect time to begin styling your bonsai.

Wiring Your Bonsai

Bonsai tree enthusiasts use the wiring method to reposition the branches. This practice can be done on a year-round basis for Bonsai tree species. You can use either annealed copper wire or aluminum wire. You can easily find bonsai wiring supplies on amazon.

Repotting Your Bonsai Tree.

Repotting is important in order to keep your Bonsai growing correctly. Of course, this all begs the question, how frequently do you have to repot your plant? It depends on the size of the pot and the species of the tree. Species that are younger have a tendency to grow faster, thus they will need to be repotted often even once a year. A good rule of thumb is to simply check and see how the roots of the tree are holding up. If they are starting to wrap around the soil, it is time to repBonsai ot your tree.

Bonsai Pests

Finally, there are pests we have to contend with. Aphids are the biggest problem as they can eat away at the underside of the tree. However, simply spraying them off with a hose or placing lacewing larvae will remove all of these aphids.

Keeping all of this information in mind is sure to help you have a Bonsai tree that lives and prospers for a long time.

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