The Wonderful Art of Bonsai
By
Jay Smith
The potential for enjoyment of Bonsai trees is enormous.
These are the dwarf-sized trees that have been developed in the Asian countries
of China and Japan for many hundreds of years. Most people have to go out to a
forest to experience the marvelous plants that we call trees.
But in the hands of a master Bonsai creator, the beautiful trees can be
reduced in size to the point where they can be brought indoors to be enjoyed at
any time. And the person who learns this age-old art so that he or she learns
how to create this small piece of beauty experiences even more of a thrill --
something closely akin to producing a child, but with the added advantage of
being able to shape and design it themselves. And these trees grow more
beautiful with age. Some renowned trees are as old as five hundred years or
more.
Naturally, they need nurturing and care, just as any prized possession does,
especially things that are living and developing, in the same way a child
develops. But the care that is needed is not difficult, though it may require
some time and some special equipment (not overly-expensive). And, of course,
these beautiful trees can be purchased at any Bonsai nursery.
Usually it never enters the head of the admirer of Bonsai that they have the
potential of creating them on their own. Becoming a member of any local Bonsai
Club (they're virtually everywhere) will provide all the support and direction a
person might require. It's exciting to sit in front of one of these miniature
trees and realize that this tiny tree in its tiny pot might otherwise be growing
tall in some forest somewhere. And you can pick it up, turn it, and see all
sides of it without leaving your chair.
They truly are a marvel, these Bonsai trees. The word Bonsai itself means
"tree in a pot." And there is not just a single species of tree that is
adaptable to your particular area. There are hundreds -- even species that would
normally not be considered a tree, such as shrubs, bushes and even plants like
roses and many herb species. But, no matter what kind of plant you may have in
your pot, it's always called a "tree" in Bonsai language.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to study with the great master, John
Naka, also addressed as "Sensei" (master teacher). Sadly, Sensei Naka left us a
few years ago, and has been greatly missed by all who knew him and knew of him.
He wrote the consummate manual on the subject of Bonsai, which was his true
passion. He traveled all over the world to teach and judge competitions and he
loved every minute of it. He made his home in Southern California, but the world
was truly his, gaining enormous respect wherever he traveled.
If you're thinking of creating or buying a Bonsai tree, you must bear one
thing in mind at all times -- these are living things, and do require care and
even love. You can't go away on vacation for a week or two and expect to find
your tree alive when you return -- unless you've wisely made arrangements to
have someone take care of your tree for you. And that person must know
intimately the requirements of the tree. A trusted neighbor who, upon seeing the
tree for the first time, says, "Oh, isn't that cute?" is not the person to
entrust your tree with.
The principle tree for a beginner to start with is the Japanese Black Pine (pinus
thunbergii), primarily because it’s the easiest to grow and work with, and also
that it's available in most areas and climates. It can be grown anywhere in the
U.S. and most of North America. It's extremely hardy and adaptable to even
adverse weather conditions and makes a superb-looking Bonsai tree.
If you’re looking for a new adventure and hobby, I believe you’ll be happy
and contented with your own Bonsai trees. It’s an especially good interest for
people who are home-bound, and who need something to make them feel vibrant and
needed, and to give them continuing joy. Yes, a good Bonsai tree is a tru
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