How to Grow Bonsai Plants

Bonsai Plant

About Bonsai Plants Houseplants

Bonsai plants are a work of art, a hobby, and an indoor gardening project, too. However you look at growing and maintaining Bonsai plants, it is fun and rewarding. The “art” of growing a miniature plant or tree into a unique shape, is truly an art form. Some call it a labor of love. For the indoor gardener seeking something new and exciting to grow, you’ve come to the right plant.

The word “Bonsai” means “tray planted”. Its roots go back to ancient Chinese and Japanese cultures. The plants are grown in shallow trays or containers. Choose the container carefully, as it is an important part of the artistic creation you are making. Choosing the shape is also important too. That’s where your artistic skills come into play. 

Trees, shrubs, plants, and bushes are commonly used. The plants are allowed to grow from just a couple of inches to a couple of feet tall. Plants that naturally grow small, and have small leaves, are good candidates for bonsai plants. To most, it’s not the actual growing of the plant that is so much fun. Rather, it’s the trimming, pruning, and shaping of the plant into a unique shape that provides the reward to the grower. 

Bonsai Plant History

Bonsai is floral art at its finest. It has been practiced since the third century B.C. Taoist monks first practiced it. Bonsai trees represent the bridge between heaven and earth. You may be surprised to learn that the roots of these plants do not come from Japan. It originated in ancient China and was brought to Japan over a thousand years ago and became widely popular. In the last century, it has become popular in U.S. homes, blending the joy of indoor gardening, with the artistic rewards of shaping a miniature plant into a true work of art. 

Did You Know? In China, there are Bonsai plants that are over 1,000 years old.

Bonsai Plant Care and Maintenance

Creating a Bonsai plant is not a quick task. It is a slow, methodical form of art. Many people buy bonsai plants already grown and shaped. They then maintain it. Others take up the challenge of growing a bonsai from seedlings, rootings, or cuttings.

Generally speaking, the plants need the same type of care as other houseplants. They need plenty of sunlight or artificial grow lights. The plants need protection from insects and diseases. And they need water and fertilizer. Like other houseplants, fertilize less frequently than outdoor plants. Light and infrequent applications of fertilizer help the plant’s growth and health, but at a slower growth rate.

Trimming, Pruning, and Shaping Bonsai Plants

Your Bonsai plant is a pampered plant. For example, growers often allow water come to room temperature, before giving their plants a drink. Most growers put a lot of effort into creating and maintaining the desired shape. It receives continual shaping and pruning. The leaves are trimmed to keep it’s small shape and appearance. Roots may be trimmed or cut to help keep a small size. Good, sharp bonsai scissors are essential.

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How to Grow Houseplants – Indoor plant care

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