Japan has a rich cultural history. One of the practices with a lengthy history is the production of Bonsai trees, which became popular in Japan during the Heian period.
Bonsai is a strictly decorative art form. It is meant to be a contemplative piece for the viewer and an exercise in patience and ingenuity for the grower. Unlike most horticultural projects, there are no food or medicinal purposes for these plants. Since it is not meant for large scale landscapes, it is a very focused effort.
The trees such an important part of Japanese culture that there is one that is a National Treasure. A five hundred year old five-needled pine is considered to be one of these treasures. This potentially oldest know living tree can be seen in the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
They can be made with nearly any material. As long as it is perennial and has woody growth, it can be made into one. It also should branch and remain small in containment with root and crown pruning.
There are some favorites in this form though. These have characteristics that make them visually appealing on the compact scope of these miniature landscapes. These characteristics usually include small leaves or needles. Some favorites include ficus, because it is easy to grow, many of the evergreen trees, because of their unique wood textures and small needles.
To start one, the grower needs source material to train into a Bonsai. This material can come from a number of places. This is one of the few forms of plant propagation that does not succeed well from seed. Since the ultimate goal of Bonsai is a weathered and aged appearance, source material is often partially grown or even mature.
The list of techniques used in creating one is long. These techniques are not necessarily difficult, but they can take a lifetime to master. Pruning the roots, branches and trunk are the first steps. This lays out the general shape of the tree. Leaf trimming further refines this shape. Wiring and clamping use rigid materials to train the growth in the desired shape. If the tree doesn't naturally conform to the desired shape, grafting can be used to insert a piece of growing foliage in a desired spot. Defoliation can be used when leaves are too large, and new small leaves are desired. Removing the bark from a branch or trunk to give the appearance of deadwood is also employed.
Bonsai trees can be beautiful sculpture to contemplate, a lifelong hobby, or both. The rich history and cultural significance make them a lovely addition to any home or garden.