History of Bonsai

Bonsai means a plant or tree grown in a pot.

The art of bonsai is to create a total composition of both tree and pot. The tree must give the impression of a mature tree in miniature. Shape, colour and style of both tree and pot must be balanced - in harmony with each other. Although it can take many years to achieve, it is all part of the beauty of bonsai.

It is believed that bonsai originated in China abut 3000 years ago. When Chinese and Japanese cultures met about 200BC, the Japanese refined the art to a high degree.

Traditionally, bonsai trees are outdoor plants. Many of today's bonsai come from China and are produced as a pot plant for the home. They are sub-tropical and therefore cannot live outside in temperate climates, although on warm days, even these trees appreciate fresh air and a little rain.

Bonsai from Japan are outdoor plants, and will not live inside. All conifers and broad leaved deciduous are outdoor trees.

Bonsai come in a variety of sizes

• Mame - up to 6" tall
• Shohin - between 6" & 12" tall
• Anything over 12" is just called bonsai, even if it's 8' tall!