Bonsai is an ancient Chinese (and later, Korean and Japanese) method of maintaining shrubs, trees, and other plants in a miniaturized form mimicking full sized trees. Often they are created using slow-growing species such as juniper, pine, maple, elm and willow. They are grown in containers and can be shaped with the use of wire or pruning shears. If you’re looking to try something new in your garden, use our guides below to get started. Happy gardening!
Japanese maple bonsai trees are striking with their unique foliage and dramatic forms. Plus, each season brings a change as they transition from spring into winter. This guide demystifies the process of planting and caring for one of your own. Don’t worry, while they aren’t the easiest species to grow, it isn’t hard.
Apple bonsai are dramatic, striking trees in a small package. They produce full-sized fruits on a teeny-tiny tree. Oue guide explains how to grow your own bonsai apple trees, from selecting a specimen to potting, pruning, and shaping them for the most impact. We’ll also help you manage problems that might pop up.
The ponytail palm makes a unique visual statement thanks to its strap-like foliage, scaly trunk, and bulbous base. When grown as a bonsai, it stands out even more. Plus, it can be grown indoors and can withstand some neglect. That’s why it has become a popular option for beginners and more advanced artists alike!
A cascade bonsai is a dramatic work of art that evokes the windswept trees that cling to life on the edges of a cliff. Creating one requires skill and patience, but you don’t need decades of practice to master making a cascade, or shaping your tree without leaving a mark. Get started now with this guide. Read more.
Want a truly stunning bonsai that offers a challenge with an incredibly fulfilling reward? Consider growing a fruit tree species as a bonsai. It takes a little extra work beyond that required by your average bonsai, but the results are absolutely worth it. A miniature tree with full-sized fruit is a sight to behold!
Pruning a bonsai well requires equal parts technical skill and artistic vision. You need to know how to prune the plant without damaging it so you can bring the living piece of art that you dream of to life. In this guide, we’ll help you to achieve both goals with a little bit of technical and creative guidance.
It’s hard to overstate how important having healthy soil is to raising robust bonsai. Without a good foundation, bonsai can’t thrive. Creating your own bonsai substrate isn’t difficult or expensive, but it can make all the difference to your plant. Learn what comprises a healthy substrate and how to create your own.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-grow beginner bonsai plant that can stay indoors all year long, dracaenas fit the bill. That’s because they’re simple to care for and undemanding when it comes to light, food, and water, even inside your home – perfect if you’re just dipping your toe into the art of bonsai. Read more.
Considering dipping your toe into the world of bonsai, or maybe you just picked up your first one at the store? You probably know there’s lots to do to keep your plant healthy, but growing your first bonsai doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning display with these basics.
Bonsai is where horticulture meets art, and practitioners strive to capture nature in a miniature display. If you’re new to bonsai, you might be curious about where it came from and what it takes to create your own. This guide will fill you in on everything a beginner needs to know to get started. Read more.