Bonsai
Bonsai has actually evolved from two words, “Bon” and “Sai” which means “tray” and “planting” respectively. This is an art of dwarfing the tree and developing them into an appealing structure by growing, pruning, roots reduction, potting, defoliation, grafting and trimming them in containers. This is basically or genetically not a dwarfed plant but is a properly maintained bonsai of a full size tree. Initially it is created with a specimen of source material.
History of Bonsai: Container grown plants known as “pun-sai” initially evolved in China. These are related to number of myths and legends and these bonsai are evolved from the imaginative parts of dragons and serpents. These are the wealthy exotics imported from China. This culture was taken up by Japan during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and later it flourished to rest of Asia on a large-scale. It represents a mixture of Eastern philosophies of harmony between man and nature and its deeply rooted ancient beliefs. Several scrolls and paintings depicted these dwarfed trees in order to add scale and theme in Chinese culture. This art reached its peak in 17th and 18th century marking a refinement in nature and higher understanding. Later on, these miniature plants opened themselves to the world through exhibitions in London, Vienna and Paris. They garnish the spirit of Zen Buddhism.
Styles: There are various common and uncommon styles of Bonsai. The common style added is formal upright, informal upright, slanting, semi cascade, cascade, raft and group. The uncommon style added is sweeping, windswept, driftwood and split trunk.
Cultivation and Care: For long-term maintenance and proper growth of trees in small containers special care, techniques and tools are essential. It starts with a specimen of a source material and is an unusual form of plant cultivation. The source material includes propagation through layering, directly from nursery or garden, replanting or collecting suitable bonsai material. It requires special care for its significant growth. For long-term growth of these trees, it should be watered properly. Repotting should be done by their age and vigor, while special fertilization and soil composition must be done for fast mixing of soil components.
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