The art of creating and caring for a bonsai It is an enriching experience that combines patience, dedication and practical knowledge. Although in many cases you start by acquiring an already formed bonsai, the true satisfaction lies in grow your own bonsai from scratch, guiding each stage of its development and learning from each step. Here you will find Essential tips, detailed steps, necessary tools, and key recommendations to become a true bonsai enthusiast.
What is a bonsai and why grow it?
A bonsai is a tree grown in a tray or small pot, subjected to specific modeling and care techniques. Its objective is not only to miniaturize, but recreate the majesty of a full-grown tree on a smaller scale, imitating nature in miniature. Beyond its beauty, bonsai represents harmony, balance and connection with nature.
Choosing the ideal bonsai species
The first essential step is choosing the right species for your climate and experienceThere are species especially recommended for beginners due to their resistance and ease of cultivation:
- Rubber plant: : Durable, ideal for indoor and beginner use.
- Juniper (Juniperus): Perfect for outdoors, easy modeling.
- Wild olive tree and olive tree: Very grateful in Mediterranean climates.
- Maple and elm: Suitable for different propagation methods.
- Cheflera and jade plant: Easy to adapt and maintain.
Choose plants with woody trunks Start with young specimens that are easy to handle and shape. Also consider the location: tropical and subtropical trees generally thrive indoors, while most bonsai prefer outdoor environments with filtered sunlight.
Ways to start a bonsai: methods and techniques
There are several techniques for starting your own bonsai. Each presents its own challenges, advantages, and development times:
- From cutting: It involves cutting a young branch with at least two nodes, defoliating it to prevent moisture loss, and planting it in a well-draining substrate. It's rewarding, although it requires patience and dedication. Recommended species: Juniperus, olive, wild olive, and ficus.
- From seedAlthough it's the slowest method, it allows you to shape the tree from the ground up. You can collect seeds from the wild or purchase them; some require stratification. This method is ideal for creating a completely customized bonsai. Recommended species: maples, pyracanthas, ginkgos, and elms.
- From nursery plantThis is the fastest method. Select plants with strong trunks and healthy branches. Prune strategically and transplant them into a suitable pot.
- Aerial layering: An advanced technique that allows you to obtain roots from a selected branch. It involves wrapping the incised portion in sphagnum moss and maintaining moisture.
- Yamadori Technique: This involves recovering trees from nature that already have bonsai characteristics. It requires legal permits and a great deal of experience.
Regardless of the method chosen, patience and constant observation They are essential allies in the process.
The perfect place and the right container
The location of the bonsai largely determines its health and development. It must receive direct or filtered sunlight, depending on the species, and protect yourself from strong winds or severe frostBonsai thrive outdoors, on patios, terraces, or balconies, where conditions are stable.
Choose a shallow, well-draining potThe holes prevent waterlogging that could rot the roots. Before placing the plant in the pot, place a mesh net over the drainage holes and, if necessary, anchor the tree with wire to keep it firm.
Substrate preparation and transplantation
A suitable substrate is key to good growth. Ideally, use a mixture of akadama, coarse sand or gravel and organic matterThis substrate provides excellent drainage, aeration, and retention of essential nutrients. For more information on how to prepare an ideal substrate, please consult How to prepare the best substrate for your plants.
Before planting, prune the roots extending downwards or to the sides, and place the plant in the center of the pot (or slightly offset, following the Eastern tradition). Cover the roots with substrate without pressing too hard to avoid damaging the root system.
Fundamental shaping techniques: pruning and wiring
Modeling and designing are the creative and delicate part of bonsai cultivation. Pruning is essential to keep the size small and define the structure.:
- Remove branches that grow in unnatural positions, branches that are too thick in the canopy, and those that grow at the same height.
- Use concave scissors for clean cuts and slits conducive to healing.
- Observe the tree's response and adjust the pruning intensity according to the species and season.
El wiring Allows you to bend and direct branches. Use anodized aluminum or annealed copper wire. Wrap it carefully, without damaging the bark, and remove it before it sinks into the branch. Branch flexibility varies depending on the season and tree type.
Irrigation, fertilization and maintenance
Irrigation is the most frequent and delicate task: Water when the substrate is slightly dry, never soakedToo much water rots the roots, and too little water dries out the plant. Submerge the pot occasionally to ensure water reaches the entire root ball. Use dechlorinated water if possible.
La regular fertilization This is vital due to the small volume of substrate. Apply specific fertilizers for bonsai in smaller doses than with conventional plants, especially during the growing season. For a more in-depth look at the appropriate fertilizers, we recommend how to fertilize a bonsai.
Essential tools for bonsai cultivation
- Tweezers: Precision for small shoots and shape touch-ups.
- Straight and concave pruning shears: To cut thick branches and achieve good healing.
- Jin pliers and root rake: For transplanting and loosening soil.
- Wire cutters: Safely cut the wire used in modeling.
- Wire of different thicknesses: To shape branches and trunk.
If you want to learn more about care techniques, do not hesitate to visit how to make a plant grow wide.
