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The Wonderful Art of Bonsai

By: Jay Smith

Article Word Count: 804 words  [Comments (0)]
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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

http://www.jayspaintings.com

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