The Beauty Of Japanese Bonsai

If you are fond of growing plants and have what people call a ‘green thumb,’ but you do not have enough space to do some actual gardening, you may want to look into engaging in the art of Japanese Bonsai. The word Bonsai literally translates to ‘pot plant,’ which immediately tells you that the art form has something to do with growing plants in pots. Specifically, it involves the growing of miniaturized trees over a number of years. Take note that the word used is miniaturized because Bonsai Trees are deliberately kept small, contrary to the belief of some people that this is some kind of special species that is naturally tiny.

Japanese Bonsai Aesthetics

A Bonsai tree comes from the branch of a chosen tree. This branch is pruned and cultivated carefully with the ultimate goal of making it look like a smaller version of naturally-grown trees belonging to the same species. It is then displayed in such a way that its best features are showcased. Japanese Bonsai is all about harmony between the plant, its pot, and its environment as a whole. There are several different styles you can use to create such harmony, and among the most commonly applied are broom style, cascading style, and windswept style.

Wire Bonsai Tree Sculpture – Windswept Style

Made of 22 gauge black steel wire. The interior of the sculpture is composed of heavier wire for strength. The outer layers are created using the 22 gauge wire for a finer texture. The sculphure is mounted onto the base using a bonding agent. The base is a thick, mined, polished granite stone with small circular felt pads glued beneath.
List Price:
Price: 325.00

Blue Moss Cypress Bonsai Tree (chamecyparis glauca minima)

Native to Japan and has very attractive feathery blue foliage. Develops a nice trunk and forms natural broom style.
List Price:
Price: 99.95

Bonsai Boy's Weeping Willow Bonsai Tree salix repens 'boyd's pendula'

• 6 years old, 6"-8" tall
• Outdoor bonsai tree
• May be shipped with no foliage during autumn and winter.

Aka Alpine Willow. This weeping pussy willow originally introduced from China is now found throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Willow is an old world tree, much celebrated in poetry. Twigs and branchlets divide into thin stems that hang in pendulous

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Japanese Bonsai Tree Styles

Broom style reflects a tapered trunk that is topped with symmetrical foliage. With cascading style, the Bonsai pots are placed on top of a platform and then the tree branches are designed to cascade below it. Finally, a Bonsai created using the windswept style typically resembles a full-grown tree found in an area that is exposed to very strong winds. By growing different species in several different styles, you should be able to create your very own miniature garden or landscape. Or even hold your very own Bonsai Sale!

Windswept Cascade (Ponderosa Pine)

Image by cliff1066™
Style: Informal Upright
Natural Habitat: Western US
Estimated Age: 120 years
Time in Training: 13 years
Source of Plant: PBA Workshop
Source of Pot: Sara Rayrer

So, if you are looking for a way to express your reverence for nature even in limited space, Japanese bonsai may be the best option for you.