The art of bonsai trees is an ancient & intriguing skill of training & growing trees into completely unique & beautiful miniature versions of the full size plants. There is more. The word bonsai comes from the Japanese words meaning ‘tray landscape’, but the art itself originated in China.

The Chinese were the first to master the art of bonsai trees as a way of growing small versions of medicinal plants that could be easily transported for epidemics & into battle. The Japanese adopted the art in the 8th century after Buddhist monks brought them to the country. The art of bonsai trees was practiced almost exclusively by the upper class for many years before developing into what it’s today. The art of bonsai trees is now practiced around the world by millions of people from all walks of life.

Bonsai are traditionally thought of as trees; howeverbonsai may include plants, mosses, & even rocks known as ’suiseki’. Just about any plant or tree can be trained to become a bonsai. Plants & trees with smaller leaves, flowers, & fruit make the best choices as their proportions are more aesthetically appealing because of their scale.

Some of the most popular choices for bonsai trees are the Chinese elm, Japanese juniper, & azaleas. There is more. There are two categories of bonsai trees to consider. The evergreens include the pines & hemlocks which keep their foliage year-round. The other type of bonsai trees is the deciduous trees like the elms & maples which lose their foliage in the fall.

Other bonsai trees are chosen for their flowers & fruits. There is more. They are grown to highlight their blossoms & fruits. There is more. These types of bonsai trees include the cherry blossom, crabapple, azalea, & the apricot.

Many people consider the art of bonsai trees to be ancient & mysterious. Like any art, these techniques can be learned & mastered by anyone who takes the time to learn & practice this art. The most special & personalized gift a person can give or receive is the gift of a bonsai tree as a piece of art.

Kevin J. Riley has studied & observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He is the host of the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com