Outdoor Bonsai
Tips for Growing Outdoor Bonsai
When working with actual living trees such as this, it seems only natural that an outdoor bonsai be in that type of environment. It is, after all, the way they were first designed to grow; not as a houseplant but a miniaturized version of its natural self.
Bonsai is an ancient art form that was first practiced by Buddhist monks and then later taken to Japan where it was eagerly embraced. The Japanese are most credited with the development of the process, which involves the cultivation of a tree that grows but in miniature form. The end result should be an identical appearance of a tree in its full maturity albeit in a vastly diminished form. While many people may associate the word “bonsai” with a particular type of tree, the term refers to the way the trees are grown. The word means, quite simply, tray planting; which describes the method of planting that result in the dwarfed tree. There are actually many types of trees and plants that can be groomed as bonsai, although several specific varieties are most often used because of their superb suitability.
Likely due to their small size, people who are not familiar with the background of bonsai mistakenly believe that they are meant to be viewed as houseplants. However, even in the most ancient of days, the trees were revered in their natural settings outdoors. During the Han Dynasty, an emperor was so impressed by the striking beauty of the bonsai that he ordered a detailed replica of his entire empire to be reconstructed in miniature; complete with numerous bonsai plants. This mini monarchy was placed outside of his window so that he could, in one sweeping glance, gaze upon all of his land. The bonsai portrayed the magnificence of nature, and therefore thrived in their natural environment. That is not to say that bonsai are not able to be grown indoors; it is possible for this lovely art form to do quite well in an interior setting, although they will require a good deal more care.
There are some tips that are helpful in successfully growing outdoor bonsai. Trees that are found in the wild depend on the natural elements to supply what is needed in order for them to attain their optimal size, color, bloom and fruits. When bonsai grows outside, it will be necessary to closely monitor their status on a regular basis to ensure they are receiving adequate amounts of sunshine, rain and nutrients. Water is an especially crucial element; any potted plant faces the danger of inappropriate watering. The wind, sun and heat of the outdoors tend to easily dry out the limited space within the pot, which can threaten the good health and growth of the bonsai. Excess water draining from the pot also has another effect; that of washing valuable nutrients from the soil. Fertilizing the bonsai regularly will ensure the plant receives these elements.
Cold temperatures could drastically affect the vitality of the outdoor bonsai. In locations where the temperature threatens to drop under freezing, care must be taken to protect the tiny tree. Even those trees that require a dormant period should not be subjected to long months of freezing weather. Depending on the area, some bonsai can be buried in the ground, pot and all to winter over. The advantage of this is that the bonsai will come out of dormancy in step with nature. When this isn’t possible, allow the bonsai to remain outside as long as possible before placing it in a cold garage or shed until spring.
The natural design for this ancient art form is to grow bonsai outdoors. After all, bonsai is nothing other than a living, natural tree grown in miniature form.