Featured Article:
Bonsai Gardening
A bonsai tree, bonsai literally meaning “tree in a tray”,
has become a serious hobby for some enthusiasts. For others, caring
for a bonsai garden is a reflection of lifestyle.
This mirrors the harmony and connection between the human soul and
the creative power of nature. To maintain this balance and connection
it is important that when you create your bonsai garden that you
also capture this flow of nature. Let’s see what five elements
are essential features within a bonsai garden.
Natural Look
The first critical component in regards to your bonsai
garden should be to emulate the appearance of a natural
look. After all, a bonsai tree is simply a normal tree, only created
in miniature form. No hanging plastic decorations from the branches!
Natural Tree Flow
A bonsai garden consists of a bonsai tree in its natural
habitat. Either the bonsai tree has been sculpted by another
and then purchased, or the present caretaker personally sculpted
the bonsai tree. In either case the tree should reflect a natural
flow of growth. Therefore, a natural tree flow reflects a symmetry
that blends the top tree limbs with the lower foundational limbs.
The pattern should have the largest branches at the base and move
skyward to branches with the least density.
Branch Structure
The branch structure of trees allows the sun’s rays to permeate
the areas among the entire limb structure. By nature’s design
this ensures the health of the tree. The bonsai tree, located
within your bonsai garden, should also follow nature’s plan.
The branches should be properly sculpted to allow the sunlight to
reach all branches, which will allow for the health of the tree
as well as enhancing the natural appeal of your bonsai garden.
Soil
The soil surrounding the trunk of your bonsai tree should enhance
the appearance of a natural look. This natural look can be attained
by adding typical growth naturally found at the base of the tree,
like greenery such as moss and miniature plants. Also, pebbles placed
at the base of the trunk can add interest as you arrange them to
form islands rising from the dirt.
Container
The container selected to nestle the tree should add to the natural
texture of its tree trunk in your bonsai garden. In other words,
a round tree trunk should be placed in a round container; if the
trunk of the tree is smooth then the texture of the bonsai pot should
be smooth as well. Additionally, a good rule of thumb in selecting
your container is that the perimeter of the tree trunk should closely
match the depth of the container holding the bonsai tree.
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