The ancient art of growing bonsai trees has been known for thousands of years. Although often associated with Japan, bonsai actually originated in China, where bonsai is associated with Zen Buddhist beliefs.[1] Bonsai trees today are used for decorative and recreational purposes in addition to their traditional uses. Caring for a bonsai tree gives growers the opportunity to contemplate yet be creative in the development of a symbol of natural beauty. Watch Step 1 below to learn how to grow your own bonsai tree.
Put the Plant in a Potted Plant
Choose the right tree species for your climate. Not all bonsai trees are the same. ɱaпy perennial woody plants and even some tropical trees can be made into ornamental plants, but not every species will suit your location. When choosing a species, it is important to consider the climate in which the tree species will be grown. For example, some plants do not survive frosty weather, while others actually need temperatures to drop below freezing so that they can transition into a dorɱaпt state and prepare for spring. Before you start planting a bonsai tree, be sure your chosen tree species can live in your area – especially if you plan to grow trees outdoors. The nursery staff can help you if you are unsure.
- A variety of bonsai trees that are especially suitable for beginners are juniper trees. This ornamental green plant is hardy, living throughout the Northern Hemisphere and even in the more temperate regions of the Southern Hemisphere. In addition, juniper trees are easy to grow – they respond well to pruning and “winding” patterns, and because they are green all year round, they never shed their leaves.
- Other conifers commonly grown as bonsai trees include pine, spruce, and cedar. Deciduous trees are another possibility – Japanese maple trees are very peculiarly beautiful just like magnolias, elms, and oaks. Finally, some tropical non-woody trees, such as marble and burnt trees, are good choices for indoor environments in temperate or cool climates.
Growing Plants from Seeds
Decide whether you are going to grow plants indoors or outdoors. The needs of indoor and outdoor bonsai trees can be very different. In general, indoor environments are drier and less light than outdoor environments, so you’ll choose plants with fewer light and moisture requirements. Here is a list of some of the most common bonsai tree species, classified according to their suitability for indoor or outdoor environments:[2]
- Indoors: Leather, Breadfruit, Apricot Snow White, Reserved, Camellia.
- Open-air: Juniper, Cypress, Cedar, Maple, Bulo, Oak, Ginkgo, Pine, Elm.
- Note that some cold-tolerant varieties such as juniper are suitable for both indoor and outdoor growing, as long as they are properly cared for.
