The Art of Bonsai

The Japanese word bonsai is pronounced “bone-sigh,” and is made up of two characters:

• bon means “pot”
• sai means “plant”

Together this means plant in a pot. The Japanese art of bonsai is intended to produce plants that appear fully mature, but are miniature in size. The art form originated from a similar art known as “P’en Tsai” in approximately 2,000 years ago in China. The art has evolved from being esoteric, to widely known and available to all.

Bonsai masters use their craft to tell stories through the intricate physical forms of their trees. Complex structures can be grown and shaped to tell their stories or personal thoughts in a highly creative process. The cultivation of bonsai takes great patience. The advanced artist must be concerned with balancing many elements in harmony:

• Sun
• Soil
• Water
• Nutrients
• Pruning
• Altitude
• Pruning

Bonsai can be enjoyed simply or by taking interest in the more advanced aspects described above. It can be rewarding to see your patience and attention manifest itself before your eyes. In the simplest sense, it only takes patience and minor attention each day. Nature will take care of the rest.