The Japanese Art of Growing Miniature Trees

Bonsai Propagation

• Grow bonsai trees from seed or cuttings. While seed packets labeled "bonsai seeds" are nothing more than regular tree seeds, it's better to purchase these seeds than to gather seeds straight from the source. Seeds straight from the source are more likely to be diseased or damaged. For quicker results, start the bonsai tree from a cutting, or a short section from an already mature tree. Check to ensure the tree is healthy and disease- and pest-free. Snip a small branch from the parent tree using clean cutters. Remove the leaves from the lower third and plant the cutting in a pot. Mist the cutting with clean water regularly and place in filtered light. Within a week or two it should sprout roots.

Bonsai Styles

• The bonsai tree's style reflects its natural growing characteristics and shape. A broom-style bonsai tree's trunk doesn't serve as the main axis of the tree. Instead, the trunk spreads out into several branches that are more or less equal to the trunk's width, forming a spherical canopy. Upright style has a trunk for the main axis, and there is a clear distinction between the tree's back and front. The branches shoot out from the front in an alternating left and right pattern. Slanting bonsai trees are similar to upright bonsai except they slant to one side. Twin trunks have two trees that grow from one root, and one is larger and sturdier. The branches from the two trees form one canopy. Multiple style is similar to twin except there are more than two trees growing from the same root. Cascade bonsai trees have downward growth because the tip of the trunk extends beyond the container's base. Literati-style bonsai has a slim, tall trunk with few branches that are confined to the upper third of the trunk.

Bonsai Growing Conditions

• Plant bonsai trees in fertile, well-drained soil. Lighting requirements depend on the species, but most trees require full to partial light. Judge whether the plant is receiving sufficient light by the distance between the leaves on new shoots. Long distances indicate the bonsai tree isn't receiving enough light. Indoor bonsai trees need supplemental humidity to counteract the dry indoor air. Set the bonsai's container on a tray of pebbles with water poured over the pebbles. As the water evaporates, a curtain of humidity surrounds the bonsai tree. The bonsai tree's water requirements also depend on the tree species. However, shallower containers and warmer areas cause the bonsai to need more water.

Suggested Bonsai Trees

• While it's possible to grow any tree in miniature form, some species are more suitable than others. Japanese maple has bright scarlet foliage and prefers full, indirect light. Bamboo prefers multiple trunk style and is a good choice for shady areas. Satsuki azalea is a popular bonsai for its profuse flush of showy, warm-season flowers. Scots pine trees are ideal for literati style and need protection from cold. Flowering cherry grows in a natural cascade style and blooms bright pink blossoms.