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.
They are not meant to serve a purpose beyond art and contemplation. It is a study in balance, restraint and harmony, as they serve no medicinal or culinary purposes. They don't contribute to larger landscapes either. For this reason, Bonsai is a very narrow practice, focusing on one or two plants.
One of the oldest known living examples is a National Treasure of Japan. It is a five needled pine considered to be at least five hundred years old. It can be seen in the Tokyo Imperial Palace collection.
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.
Source material is the first question in any project. This can come from many different sources. Since an aged and weathered appearance is desired, starting from seed is usually not a viable option. Usually source material comes from partially grown and even mature plants.
Many techniques are involved in creating these living sculptures. Pruning is the first step to creating one. This involves cutting small pieces of branch, root, or trunk to achieve the desired effect. Leaf trimming is the most commonly used technique throughout the life of the tree. Wrapping wire around the branches will help hold the desired shape until the wood lignifies and can hold itself up. Clamping is an alternative to wiring when a tree is too tough. Grafting allows the grower to place new growing material in a place without foliage. Defoliation involves removing all the leaves off part of the tree. This forces new, tiny leaves to grow back in their place. Dead wooding is a technique in which all the bark is removed from a branch or the trunk to give the appearance of dead wood.
Bonsai trees are a meditative hobby with deep cultural ties. These beautiful sculptures can bring joy for generations. Any level horticulturalist can take on one of these projects for years or happiness.