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Bonsai tree planting is an ancient art of oriental cultures that has become popular in recent years in the western world. Tree and pot selection followed by the proper soil mixing are the three things to be done in preparation for doing a bonsai tree planting. While bonsai tree planting itself is not particularly difficult the art of bonsai is something that can take years to learn, understand and put into practice.
There are four major things to look for when selecting a tree for bonsai. Dwarf tree species are not suitable for most bonsai applications. They do not possess the robust growth cycle required for the training of the stems and branches for a bonsai. The branches near the base of the trunk need to be strong and healthy. The main stem itself must be sturdy. There can be no sign of insect damage, disease on trunk or foliage or root damage on the tree selected. Finally but perhaps most important you must be able to envision the final shape within the original form of the tree you select. Tree species known to be do well as bonsai trees are Beech, Birches, Cedar, Pines, Spruce, Junipers, Maples, Elms, Hawthorn, Privet and Pyracantha.
The most important feature of the bonsai pot is that it has excellent drainage. The pot needs to have sturdy level legs that allow the water to drain away and air to flow beneath the pot. The stoneware pots can be glazed on the outside but not within. Choose one that will be pleasing to you for a long time as bonsai’s do not get transplanted.
The soil composition in your bonsai pot needs to be firm enough to support the tree yet drain well. The recipe for bonsai tree planting soil is one half organic matter such as peat moss, one half grit in the form of sterilized sand or crushed granite with a small amount of bone meal or blood meal mixed in.
Bonsai tree planting begins with covering drainage holes with wire screens in order to retain soil. Add a layer of grit on the bottom of the pot and then add a thin layer of the fresh organic soil. At this time attention goes to the tree selected for bonsai. The decision on what type of bonsai shape you wish to achieve needs to be made at this point. Trim off excess growth and wire the remaining branches in the direction you want. Remove the soil from the root ball, trim sparingly on the roots until the root stock can fit in the bonsai pot. Position the plant to where you want it and wire it in place, Water the planted tree with a spray bottle until water begins to drip out of the bottom holes.
Your bonsai tree planting project is completed but the task of learning the art of bonsai remains. Having selected a suitable tree and provided it with the right support and nutrients the tree will grow and how that growth is pruned, shaped and cultivated will determine the success of your bonsai tree planting.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about trees and shrubs and gardening articles at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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