Planning a Water Garden...

Planning a Water Garden...
By Gordon Goh

A water garden is the area of your landscape that will provide you with relaxing sounds of the water, while adding to the overall details of your landscape. The water garden is a project that you must 'plan' for continued success. If you are lucky enough to have the room in your lawn for a water garden, you are already one step ahead of many gardeners! Let's talk a little about how to plan for your water garden. A few important factors about placement of a water garden that often are forgotten are:

Do you have children in the neighborhood? If you have or live near children, you will want to keep your water garden in an area that will be close to your home. You will want to be able to see what is 'going on' by the water. Children are curious and they love water! Being able to see your water garden will save you worry later after the creation of your water garden even if the children are in the yard.

Do you have a natural spring in your lawn area? When planning a waterfall in the water garden, the use of a natural spring or water source is going to make the continued success of your water garden much easier. A water garden is possible with a waterfall even if you do not have a natural spring or water source, but it is a little more 'work' to create that special effect. You can find more information about this in another article on this site.

The lay of your land is important. While we will discuss this in other articles as well, planning your water garden around the lay of your land is important. If you are lucky enough to have a flat lawn, you can plan your water garden in various areas. The landscape that includes hills and slopes are a little tricky but using the slope in your lawn, you can create the water garden that takes care of that little 'wet patch' at the bottom of the yard!

Most water gardens are an addition or extension of the natural landscape. To encourage and invite your guests to the water garden for picnics, for chats, and for just sitting in pleasure: Plan the water garden so it's visible from the walkway to your home. The water garden that your visitors and guests see while entering your home adds value to your home and to your conversation!

In planning your water garden, use a sheet of paper to write down what you want to gain from your water garden. Start your list by using personal reasons, value reasoning, enhancing, or changing the overall look of your landscape. Alternately, you may simply want a place for solitude. These are the desires you'll write on your list. From this list, you can better plan 'where' your water garden will suit you and your ideas.

Gordon Goh is author of the free, informative website Simply Flower Garden offering quality useful tips for flower garden lovers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gordon_Goh

Garden Landscape Design - 10 Tips To Design A Beautiful Garden Landscape

Garden Landscape Design - 10 Tips To Design A Beautiful Garden Landscape
By Richard Titmas

1. When coming up with a garden landscape design, you should consider the size, shape, and style of your home during the landscape design phase. The landscape design of your garden should blend with the house, not distract from it. You should be trying to enhance the property as well as the existing structures with your landscape design A good garden landscape design should flow smoothly with your home by creating repeat design details, textures, colors and smooth transitions.

2. When designing your garden landscape, make sure you have a plan in mind. A garden design should incorporate height and width restrictions of the area you plan on planting your garden, especially when dealing with trees. The garden may become unmanageable blocking views or pathways.

3. A successful garden landscape design will include proper soil requirements for the types of plants that you choose within your garden. Drainage requirements have to be taken into consideration when designing you garden. Poor drainage will doom your garden from the start

4. When designing your garden landscape, make sure that you plan for future growth. Your landscape design at maturity may change how the garden receives sun and shade throughout the day. Garden plants bought with the sun in mind may end up in the shade.

5. A vital key to a great garden landscape design is to create a focal point. Whether your focal point is a tree or an oddly shaped plant or garden color, create a garden landscape around it.

6. Consider the curb appeal that your garden landscape design will bring. The backyard garden may be where you hang out, but the rest of the world will see the garden design in the front yard. A good landscape design technique is to plan curves into the garden design; nature does not work in just straight lines. This type of landscape design will increase the look and curbside appeal of your garden, adding value to your house.

7. The future needs of the family should be taken into consideration when designing your garden landscape. If you have children, design your garden with them in mind. Each member of the family will use the garden design differently.

8. One of the most overlooked elements of the landscape design is lighting, both natural and artificial. Lighting plays a very important role in any good garden landscape design. Garden lighting sets the tone for how the garden will be used during the day as well as at night.

9. Your garden landscape design does not have to be expensive, but make sure that you are being realistic about costs. It's very easy to misjudge landscaping design costs, especially if you hire contractors.

10. When planning your garden landscape design, make sure and create it around your personality, desires and maintenance requirements. If you really like an oriental garden design, why plant a rose garden. The future maintenance of your landscape design should be a major decision during the landscape design. If you do not have the time or the ability to keep up on the maintenance, your landscape design is doomed for failure.

http://www.garden-landscape-design.com is your source for inexpensive products to teach you how to design that perfect garden landscape design. Whether you just want a beautiful lawn, or a garden bursting with flowers, plants, and vegetables let garden-landscape-design show you how.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Titmas

Japanese Garden Benches

Japanese Garden Benches
By Jennifer Bailey

Garden benches are found all over the world and are usually decorative as well as functional. They not just provide a comfortable resting option for walkers but also add to the aesthetic charm of a garden.

The benches in Japanese gardens are seen as an extraordinary piece of work. The most important consideration while choosing Japanese garden benches is to keep in mind the garden styling, as these benches can be adapted according to the garden. In the Japanese concept of gardens the benches are fashioned to suit the ambiance and not vice versa.

Regular wooden benches can be used in different ways in Japanese gardens. The materials used for these benches are quite immaterial, as in fact any type of bench can be converted into a Japanese garden bench by placing it in a suitable Japanese garden. These benches do not necessarily have to be made of stone or have a rustic look. The prime importance while choosing a Japanese garden bench is to pay attention to that the fact that is it comfortable and surrounded by natural beauty, and that it does not look out of place.

To give the Japanese garden benches an authentic look, certain accessories can also be used. Such accessories include garden ornaments, garden supplies, Japanese pond ornaments and garden accents among other things. Some other such garden accessories are granite lanterns, rain chains, bamboo fountains, stone lanterns, iron lanterns and other such items. Japanese garden benches are usually fashioned according to such accessories so that they fall in line with the rest of the pieces in the gardens. Japanese garden benches are usually found easily as anything that is simple and comfortable, and not too exquisite in itself can be classified as one.

Garden Bench provides detailed information on garden benches, discount garden benches, how to build a garden bench, metal garden benches and more. Garden Bench is affiliated with Outdoor Garden Furniture.

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Garden Design

Garden Design
By Elizabeth Morgan

Generally, gardens are the greatest attractions in any landscape. Gardens are maintained in residential as well as in non residential areas like parks, theme parks, amusement parks, and restaurants. Both residential and non residential gardens need good designing to make them look attractive.

Most garden owners wish to design their gardens using expert garden designers. A garden designer must have hands-on experience in gardening. A trained garden designer should have a sound knowledge in horticulture and architecture. Many institutions, colleges, and universities offer courses on garden designing.

The landform, water features, water fountains, garden pools, garden planting, garden buildings, garden lighting, garden statues, garden ornaments, garden furniture, and landscape materials are some of the elements of garden designing. These elements will play a big role in making the garden look fabulous. The important aspect of making a sophisticated garden is the knowledge of how to go about combining these designing elements.

Trying to include all the designing elements won?t be nice for good designing. Have a theme with your garden designing and include only related designing elements in your garden.

The element landscape is the geomorphologic unit. It is classified according to its characteristics like orientation, slope, rock exposure, soil type, and other things. The water feature elements like ponds, pools, fountains, cascades, and splashes are included in the design to make the garden look lively.

Replenishing and pruning the plants to desired sizes and shapes is the latest trend in gardening. By using various plants, you can design the gardens with themes. You can include some miniature models of famous monuments or buildings in your garden?s pavilion to make it look unique.

Fire light and oil light are common garden lighting elements used to illuminate your garden. Garden statues will add a streak of life to your garden. Some of the statues may come with fountains in them.

Design your garden by trained garden designers with sophisticated designing elements to add that touch of elegance and give your garden a sense of uniqueness.

Design provides detailed information on Design, Logo Design, Web Site Design, Interior Design and more. Design is affiliated with Bedroom Decorating.

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Home Garden Decor

Home Garden Decor
By Bill Doane

When decorating a garden area, you should first choose a garden theme. There are several garden themes to choose from, some of which include formal, English or cottage, Japanese or oriental, and Mediterranean. After choosing the garden theme, you can then choose the proper flowers and other plants to fit with the theme of the garden. With proper planning and care, your home garden can be a very welcoming outdoor living area. In addition to the plants and flowers in your garden, there are many other home garden décor items, such as ornaments, accessories, fountains, bird feeders, pots, vases, and garden statues that you can add to your garden.

One of the most important additions to a garden is seating. Having a garden bench, swing, and/or comfortable chairs will allow you, your family, and your visitors to relax and enjoy the garden. A decorative garden bench will provide a perfect place to unwind after an especially stressful day. You may also want to consider adding an outdoor eating area to your garden.

Focal points, such as fountains, bird baths, and other water features, can provide beauty along with the calming effects of the trickling water. Water will also cool the air and perhaps bring in some birds or other visitors from nature.

Arches, trellises and arbors will provide support for plants and also add a nice architectural feature to the garden. You may also want to add a garden sculpture or sculptures. There are many to choose from. You may want to choose sculptures that go with your garden theme or maybe some elegant or even some funny or whimsical ones.

Lighting is another thing that you may want to consider for your garden. There are several choices of lighting appropriate for gardens at home improvement stores. Lighting in the garden will allow you and your family to enjoy your garden any time of the day or night. There are also outdoor heaters such as chimineas or outdoor clay fireplaces and outdoor wood burning fire pits.

Creating a home garden does not have to be expensive. There are many garden décor items that you can make yourself, such as fountains and other water features, stepping stones, etc. By comparison shopping, you can find the best deals on garden décor items. With careful planning and care, your home garden can provide the perfect place for you and your family to relax and enjoy nature.

Bill Doane is a regular contributor to modern-japanese-gardens.com and is currently landscaping his gardens. Visit Modern Japanese Gardens, Home Garden Designs, and Garden and Lawn Sprinklers.

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Decorating Your Garden with Wrought Iron

Decorating Your Garden with Wrought Iron
By Amanda Taylor

Home decorating outdoors has never been easier with the help of wrought iron. If you are looking for the perfect garden décor, consider wrought iron. An entire garden can be accessorized solely with wrought iron items including, garden gates and fences, arbors, plant stands and benches.

No garden has a better feel to it than one that is enclosed by a wrought iron fence. This type of fencing gives your garden a simple yet elegant look. What better way to enter your garden than with a complimentary wrought iron gate that has the beautiful curves and designs that are exclusive to wrought iron material. Or, give your garden an inviting look by leaving it without a gate and using a wrought iron arbor instead, providing a beautiful entrance with flowering vine plants.

Smaller accessories for a garden that compliment your wrought iron enclosure and entrance are a must. A wrought iron garden bench located in the midst of your garden provides a comfortable place for relaxing and watching nature around you. Wrought iron plant stands positioned at just the right places in your garden make it possible to raise the height of smaller potted plants to add visual interest.

So if you are looking for garden décor that is simple yet elegant, consider wrought iron. Using wrought iron throughout your garden is an easy way to unify the area and make it more visually interesting.

Get started home decorating with Wrought Iron today. Wrought Iron Depot can help you find the perfect wrought iron for your indoor or outdoor living area including information about wrought iron furniture, wrought iron railing, wrought iron chandelier, wrought iron home decor. Get the facts and info at http://www.wrought-iron-depot.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

A Beginners Guide To Garden Bridges

A Beginners Guide To Garden Bridges
By Charles Truett

Just because you don’t have huge, elaborate gardens does not mean you can’t accentuate what you do have with l garden bridges. Garden bridges could be just what you need to turn those mediocre garden areas into something quite splendid.

Garden bridges can add a touch of country or formal design to a garden. Small garden bridges are easy to find. There are many garden bridges that you can find in garden centers or home improvement centers. One of the best places to find small garden bridges may be online. There are lots of sites that have many ideas for small garden bridges.

If you are good with a hammer and nails you may even be able to make your own garden bridge. Plans are available at building stores and at online sites. You will find many choices for garden bridges at these online sites and you can also see photos of many different bridge styles.

A garden bridge can be a big benefit for your garden space. A small garden bridge will look attractive in a smaller garden and draw attention to a specific area.

You can choose the right small garden bridge if you do a little planning ahead of time. If you have a smaller garden you will want a smaller garden bridge. Look at the space you have and decide where a bridge would fit in. Consider more than one area and then choose your favorite.

There are some lovely gardens that are small in size but large in beauty because garden bridges have been added in just the right places.

We have a large number of styles and varieties of garden
bridges available online. For more information and to learn
more about garden bridges, visit:
Garden Bridges Online

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Home and Garden Decor

Home and Garden Decor
By Ken Marlborough

Installing home and garden decor is a great way to make your home and garden attractive, appealing and a relaxing place to stay. Before you enter your home, you see the garden. By creating a welcoming and pleasantly inviting atmosphere in your garden, you are creating a welcoming introduction to your home. Not only that – there are times when you just want to spend time entertaining or relaxing in your garden, so it’s fun to keep it pleasing to everyone’s eyes

In choosing home and garden décor, first you have to know what you want and what style you are looking for. One way of determining which décor to buy is by setting a theme to your garden. Thin about what you would like your garden to look like – what accessories you would like to see, and what plants and trees you’d like to add. Here are some of the theme ideas that you can incorporate with your home and garden décor: butterfly, temple, sundial, Japanese, water, winter, and jungle.

After you choose your theme, you can now make a list of products that are wonderful items to compliment your home garden. Some of these items can be flowers and flowerpots, planter pots, birdhouses, fountains, wind chimes, garden shelves, incense, garden angels, plant stands, flower vases, and statues.

Decorating your home and garden can be very challenging and you have to use your aesthetic ability to come up with a truly pleasing home garden. But before you make any purchase, see to it that your home and garden décor items will be good together so that you will not waste money, time, and effort.

Home Decor provides detailed information on Home Decor, Home and Garden Decor, Home Decor Ideas, Home Decor Stores and more. Home Decor is affiliated with Discount Home Furnishings.

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3 Flower Gardening Tips

3 Flower Gardening Tips
By Ricky Lim

Flower gardening is a simple and rewarding hobby for many people. It does require hard work and dedication but the rewards are far better. Here are a few flower gardening tips that will keep your flower garden in tiptop condition and in the process enjoy yourself.

Flower Gardening Tip #1 : Planting

One of the most important steps in flower gardening is deciding where to do your planting. If you decide to plant it in a container, you can pretty much replicate the soil conditions you wanted. It is easier and much simpler to manage.

If you decide to plant it in your backyard, you should do a soil test first to determine the type of soil in your backyard. You can grab a test soil kit from your neighborhood gardening store which should be readily available.

Ideally, you want the soil to be composed of equal parts clay and sand. Too much of either clay or sand is not suitable for flower gardening. Clay does not drain well and roots cannot get hold easily in clay. Sand does not retain nutrients and elements well and does not hold together easily therefore it is impossible to grow flowers on sand.

Flower Gardening Tip #2 : Gardening Journal

A gardening journal can help you keep track of your flower garden progress and is recommended. With a gardening journal, you can keep track of the success and failure you have with the type of flowers you have grown in your pot or backyard. Doing so can reduce the amount of time you need to grow your next flower garden. You can use any notepad to keep track. There are even professional software available on the market that does this.

Flower Gardening Tip #3 : Organic Materials

All flowers require fertilizers to grow well. A suitable amount of organic matter or fertilizer in the soil makes it fertile and nutrient rich. It would be easier to grow flowers on such soil.

If your soil does not have much organic matter, it is still pretty easy to change the soil by adding compost to it. Compost is the remains of plants and animals and you can get it easily from your gardening supply store.

Compost provides nutrients and can help in drainage and hold moisture, conditions necessary for flower gardening.

There are other flower gardening tips as well but the above 3 flower gardening tips are in my opinion the most important to growing a flower garden.

Ricky is the online editor of a flower gardening site. Visit his site today for more info such as perennial flower gardening and wild flower gardening.

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Beginner Bonsai Trees: The 5 Easiest To Care For

Beginner Bonsai Trees: The 5 Easiest To Care For
By April Kerr

Beginner bonsai trees should all have one thing in common - they should all be easy to look after. Although the art of the bonsai is often seen as one which is extremely difficult and takes many years to master, this should not put off anyone new to bonsai growing. There are a number of species which are very hardy, can withstand various light conditions and don't need to be monitored as if it were a hospital patient. These include:

Cherry Blossom - Many bonsai trees are considered to be either indoor or outdoor species, however the cherry blossom is one bonsai which can fit into both categories. Not only that but they are especially beautiful.

Azalea - The most common species you will find are the satkuzi azalea and the kurume azalea. They also have very beautiful flowers which will brighten up any garden.

Cotoneaster - There are over 200 varieties of cotoneaster however the most popular for bonsai purposes are horizontalis, Microphyllus and Compacta Nana. These plants should be kept outdoors, and although they are generally very hardy plant, you will need to protect them from the winter frost.

Juniper - Whenever most people think of a bonsai tree it is the juniper plant to springs to mind and is commonly referred to as the "Karate Kid".

Japanese Maple - Although this is not a flowering bonsai, the leaves more than make up for it, ranging from tones of gold to red.

This article is simply an introduction to anyone thinking of growing bonsai trees. It is important that you read up as much as possible on each variety to make sure you are buying the bonsai that is right for you. Just because they are the easiest of bonsai to care for does not mean you should neglect them. They will still need watering, feeding, pruning and re-potting, however this should be easy enough for any beginner bonsai grower.

April Kerr writes for internet site Bonsai Tree Care. Her favourite bonsai is the Cherry Blosom however she also has written descriptions on how to care for many other bonsai trees.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=April_Kerr

How To Be Certain On Choosing The Right Bonsai Pot

How To Be Certain On Choosing The Right Bonsai Pot
By Robert Funge

When it comes to buying a Bonsai pot or tray you maybe forgiven for thinking that an old flowerpot or plastic container will suffice. This is the trap that most Bonsai beginners fall into and is likely to seriously effect your Bonsai tree.

The art of Bonsai is to replicate as closely as possible a naturally growing tree, but with one major difference, its got to be in miniature. So its extremely important that your Bonsai pot or tray complements your Bonsai tree as closely as possible.

Here are a few things to consider when buying a Bonsai pot:

Ideally your Bonsai pot should be understated. The last thing you want to do is draw attention away from you tree with some lavish designed pot. Keep it simple, neutral and symmetrical and you won't go far wrong.

When it comes to choosing your Bonsai pot make sure the internal surface isn't shinny or glazed. These types of pots are notoriously bad for growing a bonsai tree in as they can interfere with drainage, which in turn may lead to many more problems. Glazed surfaces are fine on the outside; just remember though if you are storing your Bonsai tree outside make sure the pot is frost-proof. Glazed pots unless treated prior may crack in cold weather.

Size is critical too. You need to make sure your Bonsai tree has enough room for growth. However, the pot needs to be small enough to provide just the right amount of water the tree needs. If the pot is too large there is a danger that you may inadvertently over water your tree, which can rot the roots if left for long durations. Your Bonsai pot also needs to be large enough to support the tree.

Your Bonsai pot must have enough drainage holes too. Most Bonsai trees prefer that the soil is kept moist at all times. Therefore, proper drainage is essential when deciding which pot to purchase. Not enough drainage holes may lead your Bonsai tree to become too wet, whereas too many could result in the soil becoming too dry. Its certainly a fine balancing act to get right, so its important to know how quickly your Bonsai pot drains.

Of course you can buy a dedicated Bonsai pot from a specialist, and to be honest its likely to save you money in the long run if you do. The Internet is the most obvious place start your search. Just remember the points mentioned above and you will be fine.

For more tops tips on choosing a Bonsai ceramic pot why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice on basic Bonsai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

New to Bonsai? Read Here & Find Out the Best Way for a Bonsai Newbie to Get the Most from this Hobby

New to Bonsai? Read Here & Find Out the Best Way for a Bonsai Newbie to Get the Most from this Hobby
By Charlotte Alice

I first got into Bonsai trees when I was about twelve years old, I remember being fascinated by them when we found a small dedicated bonsai tree hidden around the back of a garden centre. I could not understand why such beautiful, ornamental trees were not placed somewhere for everyone to appreciate. There were a huge number of specimens on show, from the smaller younger bonsai trees, right up to the ancient Japanese palms which were trained to about three foot high with a splendidly decorated bowl.

Since that day I have collected a number of different Bonsai trees, I have attempted to grow them myself and I have traded with other Bonsai enthusiasts. Unfortunately, a number of bonsai trees have also died on my watch. This is always awful when this happens, but the truth is that it is actually very hard to look after and nurture bonsai trees. Which often means that people new to this hobby do not get the most from the experience.

So I though that I would provide a number of tips to newbie bonsai fans about how to enjoy this great way to relax.

Try not to own too many bonsai trees at the same time. If you’re anything like me you will fall instantly in love with new trees in shops and snap them up immediately. Unfortunately, this means that you will have more caring and nurturing than before. It is best to concentrate on as few as possible.

Try to buy bonsai plants from specialist stores, during the last few years as the craze for all things bonsai intensified they have popped up in supermarkets, corner shops and DIY stores amongst others, these are never as good quality or as well looked after than from a specialist store. Have a go at growing your own bonsai tree, it is possible to buy special kits which includes all of the seeds and necessary apparatus to do this. If anything, it will give you a sense of exactly how difficult and time consuming it is to grow a bonsai. If you succeed, you will have an enormous amount of satisfaction.

Charlotte Alice is a professional author for Bonsai Tree Guide and full time Content Writer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlotte_Alice

Save Your Bonsai Tree By Replacing Your Bonsai Pot

Save Your Bonsai Tree By Replacing Your Bonsai Pot
By Robert Funge

So you've got a Bonsai tree. Either, you've grown it from seed; unlikely. Bought it from a specialist or garden centre; more likely, or been given one as a present; a lot more likely.

The trouble is unless your Bonsai tree was bought from a specialist who is dedicated in growing these beautiful trees, you may just find that your Bonsai tree is not looking too healthy. Sure it would of looked great in the shop, but when you got it home did things start to change?

The reason for this is most Bonsai trees purchased from a non specialist are deliberately ‘brought on'. Not only that you will seldom find a Bonsai tree that has been paired to a pot specifically catered for it. This is probably to do with keeping the overall cost of the Bonsai tree down, but can be the cause of lots of problems.

If your Bonsai could do with a little TLC then it maybe time to change its pot...

A ceramic Bonsai pot should first be the right size for your Bonsai tree. If it's too small it will easily be knocked over, but perhaps more importantly could drastically effect the root system which is the life blood of your tree. Whereas, if the pot is too large your Bonsai tree will appear dwarfed in appearance. Also, gauging water amounts correctly can prove problematical.

A ceramic Bonsai pot should just be large enough to fully support your Bonsai tree and provide room for a little growth. Choose a pot that complements your tree and not steals focus from it. The art of Bonsai is to replicate a naturally growing tree as closely as possible, but on a much smaller scale. Therefore, make sure your Bonsai pot is proportionate to your tree, is symmetrical in design, and neutral in colour.

Another important aspect to consider is to ensure the Bonsai pot has enough holes underneath for drainage. All too often Bonsai trees become waterlogged or dried out due to varying water levels or inadequate water draw off.

You will also be well advised to choose a ceramic bonsai pot that is not glazed internally. A Bonsai pot that is shinny inside can cause major problems with heat retention in the soil, and again can effect watering. However, its fine to choose a Bonsai pot that is glazed externally. Just be certain that if your Bonsai tree lives outside that the pot is frost-proof. Shinny surface Bonsai pots that have not been designed for inclement weather are notorious for cracking.

So now you have a little more knowledge about choosing a Bonsai pot why not treat your tree to a new home today?

For more information on ceramic Bonsai pots including specialists in your area why not visit us today at http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk You will also discover essential tips on caring for your Bonsai tree

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Are You A Bonsai Master? Learn How To Grow Your Own Bonsai Tree

Are You A Bonsai Master? Learn How To Grow Your Own Bonsai Tree
By Robert Funge

You may have thought that growing a Bonsai tree should be left to a professional who specializes in growing miniature trees? While it is true that the art of Bonsai is a hobby where you are constantly learning and developing new skills the fact that anyone can grow a Bonsai tree may surprise you.

In fact if you are new to the hobby, its probably best to start from scratch by planting your very own Bonsai tree. That way you will learn as your Bonsai grows and costly mistakes will be kept to a minimum.

So where do you start?

Growing a bonsai tree is pretty much the same as growing any other tree. Its only the pruning of roots and the sculpting of branches that maintains that miniature look and defines a Bonsai tree compared to a tree freely growing in its natural habitat.

If you've already looked at buying a Bonsai tree you would have noticed that some are quite pricey. However, as we are going to grow our Bonsai from scratch, the cost doesn't really concern us, as hopefully you will be able to find a seed or sapling much cheaper.

So what makes a good Bonsai tree?

A good Bonsai tree to start with should be something that is relatively slow growing and has small leaves. This will ensure that when your Bonsai is confined to a pot the roots can easily provide nutrients to the rest of the tree. You should also consider how much light your Bonsai is likely to need and then decide a suitable tree accordingly.

Unless otherwise stated you should initially grow your Bonsai seed or sapling outside. After all, trees have been growing naturally for millions of years without human intervention. What better way to give your Bonsai tree the best possible start than planting it into its natural environment.

Timing is crucial here and it's a good idea to plant your Bonsai-to-be during the warmer months; the closer to spring the better. The soil and temperatures are warmer and should cause rapid growth. Be prepared for a much longer wait if you plant your Bonsai during the colder months when its likely your tree will be dormant. Of course you can always plant your seed or sapling in pot and artificially stimulate its natural environment if you don't what to wait for Mother Nature.

Whether you planted your Bonsai in a pot or in the ground hopefully you should now be seeing signs of early growth. This is a good sign and shows your Bonsai is happy with its new environment. Once you are confident that your Bonsai is becoming established you can think about moving it to a designated Bonsai pot permanently...

For more information on pruning a bonsai tree including caring for a bonsai tree make sure you visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Top Tips On Caring For Your Bonsai Tree

Top Tips On Caring For Your Bonsai Tree
By Robert Funge

When it comes to caring for your Bonsai tree there are a few common pitfalls you should avoid in order to maintain the health of your miniature tree.

In this article we will discuss the most common problems experienced and ways to keep your Bonsai tree healthy.

The Leaves On Your Bonsai Tree:

Depending on whether you Bonsai tree is deciduous or not will determine if it should naturally shred it leaves during autumn and the winter months. Obviously, if your Bonsai tree is an Evergreen then it should have leaves all year round

If you are concerned take a look at the colour of the leaves. Generally speaking, if they are yellow in appearance and brittle to the touch this signifies a lack of water. If however they are yellow and falling you may find that you have been over watering your Bonsai Tree.

Watering Your Bonsai Tree:

Depending on its environment a Bonsai tree should be watered regularly. You should never let your Bonsai tree wither or become dehydrated. Similarly your Bonsai tree should never be saturated with water. Therefore adequate drainage holes at the base of your Bonsai pot or container should be made available so as not to rot or damage the fragile root system. It's a good ideal then to get into the habit of watering your Bonsai tree a little everyday. Generally the soil should be moist, never dry and never saturated.

Bonsai Tree Pot Or Container.

Your Bonsai Tree pot or container should be relative to the size of your tree. You don't have to use a dedicated Bonsai tree pot or tray as these can be expensive, but its important to ensure the size is right for your type of tree. It's best to steer clear of any pot or container that are internally glazed or shinny inside. These are renown for not being well suited to a growing a Bonsai tree.

Pruning Your Bonsai Tree

Don't be afraid to prune your Bonsai tree when you want to control the way its growing. Pruning is good is what the art of Bonsai is all about. Just make sure that there is plenty of new growth occurring before you sculpt your tree. Any unwanted branches should be pruned using a sharp pair of secateurs and cut back to a bud. Any new branch will then take the direction the bud is facing, thereby enabling you to sculpt and shape your Bonsai tree exactly how you wanted.

Just one word of warning. The art of Bonsai is to mimic the appearance of a naturally growing tree, but on a miniature scale. So don't be tempted to sculpt your Bonsai tree into some sort of unorthodox shape or pattern. You may just regret doing so...

Bonsai tree care is fundemental in keeping your tree healthy.

If you're really serious about looking after your miniature tree why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice.

You'll also discover top tips on pruning a Bonsai tree

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Azalea Bonsai Care

Azalea Bonsai Care
By Kevin J. Riley

The azalea bonsai tree is not actually a tree, but a shrub. The thick base of the plant makes it a good candidate for a bonsai because it resembles a miniature full grown tree trunk. These bonsai usually only flower once a year but their blossoms can very colorful and beautiful. The care azaleas require is minimal and can be maintained with a little effort.

The azalea bonsai do not care for direct sunlight and it is preferable to place the bonsai in an area that has some indirect light. Azalea bonsai require water twice a day and should be kept in a container that allows proper drainage. Azaleas do not care for a damp or wet soil and a mix of sand, gravel, and clay should be used when potting. Take care to ensure the holes in the bottom of the container are lined with screen to prevent the loose soil from draining out.

Azalea bonsai should have their flowers and leaves removed right after they die to promote proper health and growth. Care should be taken when pruning to remove only the new growth every year after they flower and again in the middle of summer when new sprouts appear. Azalea bonsai care for an acidic soil and should be fertilized every 6 weeks.

The roots of the azalea bonsai should be inspected once a year and trimmed to keep the root ball the same size as the container. The azalea bonsai needs to be repotted every 3 to 5 years when more than 1/5 of the root ball would need to be trimmed to fit the container. Care should be taken when repotting to insure all air pockets are filled with soil.

Proper care of the azalea bonsai for the winter is to keep the plant out of the harsh elements of snow and ice but the azalea should be allowed to go dormant. An unheated room with a little sunlight would be a good place to care for the the plant and should be watered once a week to ensure proper azalea bonsai care.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He is the host of the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

Essentail Advice On Choosing The Right Bonsai Tree Pot

Essentail Advice On Choosing The Right Bonsai Tree Pot
By Robert Funge

The word "wa", loosely means "harmony in Japanese and is the relationship between nature and man. However, it can also signify a work of art. In the case of Bonsai or Bonsai art this concept is about striking a balance between the type of tree used, the style its pruned or shaped too and the container or pot that the Bonsai tree lives in.

The Bonsai pot or container is a fundamental aspect of Bonsai art and should be given proper consideration. The material used color and of course the size and shape all need to be researched when marrying a Bonsai tree to a pot or container. There are no real hard and fast rules here, as your decision is likely to come down to your own personal preference. However, it's a good idea to keep with the Bonsai art tradition and ensure your pot has a sense of symmetry and above all will complement your Bonsai tree and thereby is likely to be pleasing to the eye.

Here a few factors you need to consider when choosing a Bonsai tree pot or container:

Its important to gauge the correct size your Bonsai pot needs to be to physically hold the weight of the moist Bonsai soil and support the tree. As your Bonsai tree is likely to be in a prominent place the last thing you what is for it to be tipped over due to the Bonsai pot being too light or small. Therefore make sure your Bonsai pot is large enough to easily support itself and the tree, but also small enough to ensure everything is symmetrically balanced.

Your Bonsai pot also needs to hold enough soil to ensure enough nutrients are provided to the root system as well as plenty of space for further growth.

Its vitally important that your Bonsai pot has adequate holes in the base for drainage. The last thing you want is for your pot to retain too much water and therefore over time is likely to rot your Bonsai trees root system. A good pointer here is too use a wire mesh grill designed to fit over the drainage hole. This will allow for proper water drainage.

When it comes to it though experience and your own personal aesthetics will determine the right pot for your Bonsai tree. If you feel quite literally overwhelmed by the prospect of finding your own Bonsai tree pot it may be worth you buying a dedicated one specifically designed for your tree. Just remember the points above and you shouldn't go far wrong...

For more top tips on choosing a bonsai tree pot why not visit http://www.growing-a-bonsai-tree.co.uk today for essiential help and advice on anything Bonsai. We also review the best Bonsai tree books & products

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Funge

Chinese Elm Bonsai

Chinese Elm Bonsai
By Kevin J. Riley

The Chinese Elm is native to China, Korea, and northern Vietnam and was introduced to Japan as a tree that was ideal for bonsai. The Chinese elm makes a good bonsai tree for beginners because it is hardy and forgiving to pruning mistakes.

An interesting feature of the Chinese elm is that it has small tightly arranged leaves making it a good candidate for bonsai. The bark of the Chinese elm also varies from smooth to rough with unique and interesting textures. Bonsai that have a smoother bark need more care than a Chinese elm with a more rough bark and should be kept in mind when choosing a bonsai tree for beginners.

Bonsai created from the Chinese elm can do well in full sunlight to shade making it ideal for beginners who need more flexibility with their garden plant placements. During the winter the Chinese elm should be sheltered from the elements but allowed to go dormant.

The Chinese elm needs to be kept moist and should be watered year-round with special attention during the spring and summer months. Care should be taken in the summer months to ensure the bonsai does not dry out. The Chinese elm should be placed in a shaded area during this time.

Pruning should be done in the early spring. When cutting back new growth on a Chinese elm care should be taken to leave a couple of buds just below where the bonsai pruned. This will help promote new growth and assist in the training of new branches.

Repotting of the Chinese elm is only needed about every three years when the bonsai tree out grows the container. The Chinese elm should not be pruned less a month before until or after the repotting to avoid damage to the bonsai. Care should be taken not to remove more than about ¼ of the root ball to ensure proper health of the Chinese elm bonsai.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He hosts the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

10 Steps To A Perfect Bonsai Garden

10 Steps To A Perfect Bonsai Garden
By Lilly Jones

If it could be properly narrowed down to ten steps in terms of getting the perfect bonsai garden, it would probably end up being a lot easier than it actually is to take care of the bonsai trees that make up your bonsai garden. Instead, however, limiting the practice of bonsai to a mere ten steps seems a little bit of a parlour trick for some because the art of bonsai is significantly more complicated than any step by step treatment could offer. Instead, a simple tip or two should be able to open the doors on what is a practical and personal art form.

Bonsai is basically Japanese for “tray gardening” and is the art of miniature trees and the care of them in containers. The origin of bonsai is, however, traced back to ancient China where the Tang Dynasty was believed to practice the art of bonsai. It is believed that the art form somehow evolved from using the same technology that the medicine men used to carry the healing plants from town to town. The early focus of the bonsai garden was the stylish trunks and containers that the plants could be stored in, but as time evolved so to did the art of bonsai.

Learning Effective Bonsai Maintenance

It is important to realize that the bonsai is not a genetically warped plant. Knowing this should affect the care you give the plant and should cause you to practice a form of bonsai garden maintenance that will, in fact, create a great looking garden for you to enjoy. Bonsai care is quite difficult and the shallow containers limit the root systems. In turn, this makes proper watering of your bonsai garden quite the difficult art form in and of itself. Some species of bonsai can handle long periods of dryness, but others require an almost constant soaking. Consult your plant’s guide for more information on what your plant requires.

Sun, wind, and heat can dry a bonsai out to the point of no return so it is important to realize what type of watering plan your bonsai garden needs to survive. Watering too frequently can cause as many problems as not watering enough. The soil can become soggy and this can prevent growth in your bonsai garden, so ensure that you have taken care as to water to the exact specifications of your bonsai trees and plants. The soil, in most cases, should never be allowed to become bone dry. Instead, monitor the plant on a daily basis to see what it needs for proper care.

For more bonsai tips, visit EverythingBonsai.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lilly_Jones

The Fine Art of Bonsai: Beautiful and Unique Decor

The Fine Art of Bonsai: Beautiful and Unique Decor
By Anne Clarke

The bonsai is a very delicate plant; bonsai can be shaped and molded into any for you want, most people use wire and gently let the tree grow and shape itself according to the will of the gardener. Bonsai are a rare and stunning addition to any home, patio, garden or yard. And the bonsai can be long lasting if it is well cared for.

If you are looking for a new gift idea, one that no one else is likely to have—check out the many kinds of bonsai trees available on the market. Especially for a housewarming present or any other present—and of course, as a gift for yourself if you want this elegant look that only bonsai can create in your own home.

The art of bonsai originated in Asia many centuries ago, the literal translation of the Japanese, means “tray planting”. As most gardening, growing bonsai is a truly artistic endeavor, there must be a similarity, or striking appropriateness of the pot in which you plant your bonsai. The tree must compliment the pot as the pot compliments the tree. Of course, as I mentioned before, the tree is then shaped. In fact, the tree, if not shaped by the gardener, will not live long and will grow, surprisingly enough, looking unlike a tree. Each branch and limb of a bonsai tree is shaped or clipped and molded into the perfect design.

Bonsai is the fine art of dwarfing trees and other kinds of plants to create a picturesque shape, when trained using the proper growing methods.

A successfully well-designed and well-maintained bonsai is a delicacy among the gardening arts. It is an ancient horticultural phenomenon and a perfect gift for any dedicated gardener you may know. And the bonsai make a lovely addition to any home, garden, patio, yard, office etc. It will be an impressive part of the overall look of your décor, as well as a unique touch that is certain to draw the eye and be the center of attention.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on gardening ideas please visit Garden Decor, or Garden Answers, or Garden Gifts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

4 Top Tips For Stunning Bonsai

4 Top Tips For Stunning Bonsai
By Niall Mehaffey

Many people think that growing bonsai is very hard but in actual fact, it is only hard if you do not have the correct knowledge and guidance, when you have those things, it is easy.

Here are five tips to help you grow better looking bonsai:

1) Choose the right pot. The pot you put your bonsai tree into is important as it needs to support the tree and also it can make a difference to how it looks. Take into consideration the size and shape of your tree when choosing a pot for it.

2) Remember that different seasons have different affects. Different times of the year will play a role in how your bonsai trees develop and grow, make sure you know what conditions require additional care.

3) Know in advance what outcome you would like for your trees. Bonsai can be shaped and manipulated in order to appear differently and take on different shapes, you should know what way you would like your trees to look before growing them too large.

4) The display is everything. When you take the time and effort to grow a bonsai tree, you get a nice sense of satisfaction, however, that can be ruined be not giving your tree perfect placement in order to let it's beauty shine through.

There you are, four top tips to help you grow stunning bonsai trees. Growing bonsai is not as hard as you may think, if you have the right information, you can grow them juts as easily as anyone else.

Start growing your own bonsai today!

Niall Mehaffey is a bonsai enthusiast and runs a website that will show you exactly how you can grow stunningly beautiful bonsai trees, just like the experts do, click here - bonsai tree care

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niall_Mehaffey

Spider Mites And Your Bonsai Tree

Spider Mites And Your Bonsai Tree
By David Mello

If you notice a fine webbing between your bonsai plant leaves you may have spider mites. Outdoor bonsai such as Juniper are more susceptible to this than indoor bonsai. Spider mites can be seen with the naked eye. Inspect the web to see if you see movement. They will look like very tiny spiders or micro spiders as I like to call them.

Why they are bad for your bonsai

Spider mites feed off of your bonsai using their tiny mouth parts to suck out the plant cell contents. You may notice white or yellow areas in your foliage as a result. Leaves may fall off as a result of the damage. Your bonsai may lose its color, have its growth stunted, or die as a result of the damage if there are a significant amount of mites.

Life Cycle

Spider mites hatch from eggs laid on the bonsai. They generally hatch into larva within the first 3-7 days after being deposited onto your bonsai.

Prevention

Carefully inspect any new bonsai purchases for mites by looking at the tops and bottoms of their leaves. They are about the size of a period on a typewriter and can be introduced from contaminated soil as well.

Treatment

Predators

If you would like to control the situation naturally, introducing predator insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites are your best solution.

Pesticides

If you go the pesticide route, make sure you get a miticide. Insecticides that aren't specifically miticides don't work very well on spider mites.

Conclusion

Spider mites can be detrimental to your bonsai, but if caught early the damage will be minimal.

Written by David Mello for http://www.mellobonsai.com - Premium bonsai trees, supplies, and care information Alternative to chemical pesticides
For a more natural method you can try this http://www.mellobonsai.com/care/Miticide.aspx that uses household items.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Mello

Bonsai - What And What Not To Do

Bonsai - What And What Not To Do
By Patrick Desnoyers

Bonsai plants are all tree. By definition, a bonsai tree is a tree in a pot if we literally translate the word bonsai from Japanese to English. A few elements are essential to a great bonsai tree and here is a list of the elements I consider the most important.

* - A well developed, rounded crown with delicate branches

* - Trunk must have a gradual taper, an interesting shape and a smooth bark without any marks or scars

* - Excellent branching structure with detailed ramification (short internodes.)

* - Healthy and vigorous green foliage or needles

* - Branches need to start at roughly one-third of the trunk eight

* - Strong buttress and realistic surface roots to make the tree seem solid and stable

* - Natural appearance of the soil with moss or fine rock

* - Pot must complement the trunk color and be a suitable size and shape

However, some characteristics are considered a fault to bonsai appearance that must be avoided at all cost since they are pretty hard to correct, and aesthetically they are breaking the balanced look of a great bonsai tree. Here they are:

* - Inverse taper of the trunk big on top to small on bottom

* - One sided or inexistent surface roots

* - Branches that are too thick or thicker then the trunk

* - Totally symmetric branches on both side of the trunk

* - Cluster of branches creating a swelling

As noted, these are pretty hard to correct and leaves an impression of imperfection and unbalance from the exposed bonsai tree.Without being the absolute truth about bonsai, with these pointers in mind, you should be able to increase the bonsai look a-of your tree in a pot.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai and gardening for more then 8 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with ressource for Bonsai seeds and bonsai tree care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

Indoor Bonsai Care

Indoor Bonsai Care
By Sam G Jackson

Indoor bonsai care is one of the most difficult things to ever face the normal gardener. Virtually every bonsai grower has horror stories to tell of their prized bonsai trees dying all of a sudden, even when it seemed like the tree was being cared for properly. Today I will briefly outline the main steps that need to be taken for successful indoor bonsai care so you can avoid having your bonsai trees die!

1. Watering

Watering is the most important step in indoor bonsai care. Most of the time, bonsai trees die because they are not watered properly and start to suffer from dehydration. To ensure that you are watering your bonsai tree correctly, wait for the soil to begin dry out then water until excess water comes out of the bottom of the pot. Leave the bonsai until the soil begins to dry out again, then water again. Remember that over watering your bonsai is just as bad as allowing it to dehydrate. To help prevent dehydration try to place your bonsai tree in a reasonably humid environment.

2. Pruning

The process of pruning a bonsai tree is done two different ways. There is "branch pruning" and "root pruning". Branch pruning should occur near the start of spring and you should select which branches you want to keep and then remove all others. Root pruning should occur once the bonsai's roots have become bound in the container.

3. Soil and fertilizer

Seeing as up to half of a bonsai tree is covered in soil it makes sense to pick the right soil to give optimum growth. Bonsai trees should be given a water soluble fertilizer either once or twice a month during the growing season and you should remember that bonsai trees need to have their fertilizer applied when the soil is wet.

4. To sum up

In this brief article I have covered the three most basic aspects of indoor bonsai care and growing good bonsai trees. There are more advanced techniques for growing bonsai trees out there, however, it is important to start with the basics first! Only once you have mastered these and can successfully grow a great looking bonsai tree should you start practicing more advanced techniques!

Samuel G. Jackson is an avid bonsai grower and has a passion for indoor bonsai care. You can find out more about growing great bonsai trees that will impress your friends and family at http://www.squidoo.com/indoor-bonsai-care

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_G_Jackson

Bonsai Tree Care - Mixing Your Own Soil

Bonsai Tree Care - Mixing Your Own Soil
By Jennifer Gormly

Bonsai tree care is an art. It takes a great deal of dedication and patience, but also some know how. One of the most important elements in looking after your bonsai is using the correct soil. Many beginners will purchase ready-made soil mixtures but as you advance, you may decide you would like to start mixing your own.

When mixing your own soil, you must make sure you create the right mix of ingredients. Your bonsai needs the right balance to ensure it gets all the nutrients it requires to thrive.

The species of bonsai you have will determine the ingredients you need to include in your soil mixture. The quality of the soil is vital to the tree’s health and survival. The soil needs to have good water retention in order to retain moisture between watering. It must also have good drainage so that excess water can run out immediately and to prevent the build up of salt.

Good aeration is also important as the roots of your bonsai tree will need access to oxygen. Well-aerated particle-based soils have tiny air pockets between the soil particles that provide the roots with oxygen and allow fresh air to continually enter the soil.

The ideal soil combination is specific to your bonsai and must be learned overtime by trial and error. Talk to someone at your local nursery with knowledge of your type of bonsai for a good starting point. You can then tweak your formula as your bonsai grows and your understanding of its species and bonsai tree care practices increases.

Jennifer Gormly loves to share her interest in and experiences of looking after bonsai with others. Visit her Bonsai Tree Care Blog for lots of great information and tips on bonsai tree care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Gormly

The Juniper Bonsai Illusion

The Juniper Bonsai Illusion
By Patrick Desnoyers

I think the biggest misconception I have faced while trying to explain what bonsai are, is breaking the idea that a bonsai is what people have seen in Karate Kid.

People in my entourage are now informed about what bonsai are. But, when I meet new people and talk about my interest in bonsai, I am always asked if I got those juniper as bonsai, just like the one's in Karate kid. I say that I have one, along the fifty others. I always get the same comment: "they are no bonsai, but trees"

Don't get me wrong, Karate kid was a great push for the bonsai community in America. It help put bonsai into a mainstream market, but also created some misconceptions. Bonsai are not only juniper as seen in Karate Kid. In fact, literally translated from Japanese to English, bonsai means a tree in a pot. So, may we conclude that every tree in a pot is a bonsai, and not just juniper? Aside from the purist bonsaiist who would call a tree in a pot a mere "stick in a pot" since it lacks the strict art guideline of bonsai, I like to say that every tree in a pot is a bonsai.

The bonsai's seen in the Karate kid's movies are named "Juniperus procumbens nana" scientifically. They are dwarf garden juniper. They are sold in almost every garden store in America. In their bonsai form, even Kmart and Walmart sell some bonsai in a bag/box. Other then being mistreated and in poor health, these tree don't have much offer.

Bonsai, as previously said, can be made up with any type of tree. Of course, some species are more popular, because they are easier to dwarf, more tolerant to training techniques and provide a better display of colors and form.

The best question to ask yourself when choosing a species to grow, it is not what species you would prefer, but what species can you grow in your area. Trees are susceptible to climate and temperature. Heat and cold, not all trees support either cold or heat.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai for more then 10 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with ressource for Bonsai seeds such as juniperus bonsai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

The Art of Bonsai Trees

The Art of Bonsai Trees
By Kevin J. Riley

The art of bonsai trees is an ancient and intriguing skill of training and growing trees into unique and beautiful miniature versions of the full size plants. The word bonsai comes from the Japanese words meaning “tray landscape”, but the art itself originated in China.

The Chinese were the first to master the art of bonsai trees as a way of growing small versions of medicinal plants that could be easily transported for epidemics and into battle. The Japanese adopted the art in the 8th century after Buddhist monks brought them to the country. The art of bonsai trees was practiced almost exclusively by the upper class for many years before developing into what it is today. The art of bonsai trees is now practiced around the world by millions of people from all walks of life.

Bonsai are traditionally thought of as trees; however bonsai may include plants, mosses, and even rocks known as “suiseki”. Just about any plant or tree can be trained to become a bonsai. Plants and trees with smaller leaves, flowers, and fruit make the best choices as their proportions are more aesthetically appealing because of their scale.

Some of the most popular choices for bonsai trees are the Chinese elm, Japanese juniper, and azaleas. There are two categories of bonsai trees to consider. The evergreens include the pines and hemlocks which keep their foliage year-round. The other type of bonsai trees is the deciduous trees like the elms and maples which lose their foliage in the fall.

Other bonsai trees are chosen for their flowers and fruits. They are grown to highlight their blossoms and fruits. These types of bonsai trees include the cherry blossom, crabapple, azalea, and the apricot.

Many people consider the art of bonsai trees to be ancient and mysterious. Like any art, these techniques can be learned and mastered by anyone who takes the time to learn and practice this art. The most special and personalized gift a person can give or receive is the gift of a bonsai tree as a piece of art.

Kevin J. Riley has studied and observed the art of bonsai for 20 years with his father James J. Riley. He is the host of the website http://www.theartofbonsaitrees.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_J._Riley

Bonsai - What Does It Mean, Anyway?

Bonsai - What Does It Mean, Anyway?
By Connitta Bowers

Say the word, "Bonsai" to people and they will usually think of a type of tree.

Bonsai is a Japanese word meaning "tray-planted," and can refer to either the dwarf trees or to the art of training and growing the miniaturized trees in containers.

The most important Bonsai skills include the knowledge of when and how much to cut the roots, how much fertilizer and water is ideal, and which branches should be pruned to give the plant a pleasing look. Bonsai trees are able to bear fruit and to drop their leaves in season, thereby producing nature in miniature.

The idea of a bonsai is to balance the pot with the plant and make the plant look like a miniature tree. Selecting the right pot has a lot to do with the desired size and style of the plant. The pot must be large enough to allow enough soil to cover the roots of the plant. You will kill the plant if you do not have a large enough pot.

While there are many excellent tree species for bonsai, the Chinese Elm is one of the most popular. A skillful bonsai artist can prune, bend, and shape branches to suggest trees standing tall and upright in a field or bent and gnarled by age or weather.

Bonsai trees have long been popular additions to offices and homes because of their small size, aesthetic appeal, and minimal upkeep requirements. Growing bonsai is a great hobby. With a little patience and care, the results you achieve can last many years.

Connitta Bowers has been interested in Bonsai trees for many years and has spent considerable time researching their care. For more information about these beautiful and creative trees please visit us at: http://www.bon-sai.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connitta_Bowers

Bonsai Trees

Bonsai Trees
By Elizabeth Morgan

Bonsai is a Japanese technique of growing miniature trees in containers. These plants are primarily used for aesthetic purposes. Many people take up bonsai cultivation as an interesting hobby. Bonsai trees have always been popular as they make great showpieces and rare gift items. Bonsai trees are very small and the height can vary anywhere between 2 inches to 3 feet. These trees are grown in decorative containers and the size is maintained by pruning roots and branches regularly. The shape of the bonsai trees can be modified by wiring the branches and trunk of the tree. Generally, bonsai trees can live for many years if they are maintained well. Some of the most common bonsai trees include bamboo, plum, camellia, pine, and azalea. The evolution of modern techniques have led to five major styles of bonsai trees, which are cascade, semi-cascade, slanting, informal upright and formal upright.

To maintain bonsai, a good set of tools such as pliers, root trimmers, shears, and branch cutters are required. Beginners can grow bonsai with the guidance of a skilled professional who can teach them the art of training and pruning a bonsai. Beginners can initially start with a small plant of a common variety such as hibiscus, azalea, camellia, boxwood, gardenia, or cotoneaster. The plant can be trimmed using bypass pruners. The roots are to be trimmed to reduce the size. Bonsai trees require appropriate fertilizers to grow well and look healthy. However, over watering the bonsai tree must be avoided.

Braided bonsai money plant tree is highly popular among bonsai growers. Each tree is a group of four to five trees whose trunks are braided together. It can be 10 to 18 inches in height. According to Feng shui practitioners, the braided bonsai money plant is believed to bring good fortune and is often given to others as a gift. It makes a great indoor plant as it can thrive well in low light.

Bonsai trees can bear flowers, fruits, and seeds like any other tree. Little care can go a long way in growing beautiful bonsai trees.

Trees provides detailed information on Trees, Palm Trees, Christmas Trees, Tree Houses and more. Trees is affiliated with Silk Palm Trees.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Morgan

Mini Bonsai – How They Differ from Regular Bonsai

Mini Bonsai – How They Differ from Regular Bonsai
By April Kerr

In ancient Japan, the art of bonsai sculpting emerged. Normally we think the bonsai trees are small by their nature, however this is not the case. The bonsai tree artist has to prune and train these ordinary trees and plants to achieve the desired effect. The mini bonsai takes this concept even further and is so small could fit in your pocket.

It may be a surprise to know that to create a miniature bonsai you do not need to use a traditional bonsai plant. If you do your research you will find there are lots of other species that are suitable

Caring for your Mini Bonsai

Looking after your mini bonsai needn’t be more difficult to look after than a regular bonsai. Keep caring for the mini bonsai in the same way as a regular bonsai. For instance, don’t treat your mini deciduous bonsai any differently from your regular deciduous bonsai. Keep the same watering habits and use the exact same soil.

The only real difference between caring for your mini bonsai is you require a much smaller pot. This does not mean you should neglect your repotting duties however. Remember that if you are repotting you should avoid doing this within a month either side of pruning. Your don’t want to cause your bonsai any shock.

Make sure you have read up on how much sun your bonsai variety needs. If they are given too much or too little sun this could cause them to become unhealthy or even die. Make sure that the soil does not dry out during the hotter months by giving them more shade.

If you enjoy growing and looking after bonsai trees, it is suggested that you read up as much as you can on the subject. Joining a club is a great way to share tips and make friends. If you there are no bonsai clubs in your area, why not start one?

If you already are experienced in caring for bonsai plants, looking after a mini bonsai could give you that extra little challenge. Make sure you look after your mini bonsai as it will help you develop your pruning skills further than you can with a regular sized bonsai.

http://www.bonsaitreecare.org provides care hints and tips to people who want to learn more about the art of the bonsai tree.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=April_Kerr

Watering Care Tips For Bonsai Growing

Watering Care Tips For Bonsai Growing
By Patrick Desnoyers

The most important aspect of a successful Bonsai gardening is the proper watering care given to Bonsai plants. Proper water supply and watering schedule could spell the Bonsai's continued life or caused their death. The lack of ample supply of water would cause the Bonsai plants to lose energy or dispose waste properly. Just like a human being, Bonsai plants need water to survive. Too much water will drown the Bonsai and too less water will cause the Bonsai to dehydrate. Bonsai artists should learn the proper steps and facts about watering Bonsai plants in order to become successful Bonsai artists or gardeners.

When providing water to Bonsai plants, there are two major things to consider. One is the amount of water to give to Bonsai plants. And the other is when to water the plants. When determining the amount of water to give the Bonsai plants, bonsai artists especially those who are new to the art of Bonsai gardening must not give too much or too less water. To know the amount of water to give the Bonsai plants, the Bonsai artists must know several factors about the Bonsai plants. These are size and specie of the Bonsai, size and shape of the pot, the soil mixture used and the weather conditions where the Bonsai plant is to be grown.

Smaller Bonsai waters need less water than bigger Bonsai. For Bonsais that are planted on smaller pot, less water should be supplied as compared to a Bonsai planted in a given pot since the water supplied is sipped in by more soil mixtures. Thus, the soil mixture dries up quickly.

The other factor to consider when caring for Bonsai plants is the watering schedule. The best time to water Bonsai plants is in the morning where the weather is colder. And the frequency of watering Bonsai plants depends on the season. During winter, Bonsai plants should be watered periodically to prevent the soil from drying up. During spring, summer or fall, Bonsais should be watered daily. During rainy season, the Bonsai artists must make sure that Bonsai plants, especially located outdoors gets ample supply of water from the rain.

Additionally, for better supply of water, watering containers should also be considered. As a general rule, use watering sprinkles which have holes that when the water passes through can create droplets that is similar to soft rain showers. Too much or too strong droplets will damage the soil mixture where the Bonsai is planted. And lastly, when watering the Bonsai make sure the water is completely drained to avoid over flooding the soil mixture. There are various water sprinkles available in the market that have built in holes that are specifically meant for watering Bonsai.

Avid full time hobby bonsai grower. As been practicing bonsai and gardening for more then 8 years. Owner of http://www.mishobonsai.com, a website with resources for Bonsai seeds and tree seeds.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Desnoyers

Silk Bonsai Trees

Silk Bonsai Trees
By Kent Pinkerton

A silk bonsai tree is an effective alternative to a live bonsai tree. Silk bonsai trees are artificial, hand-made artifacts that are made to fit the highest standards. Since they need no wiring, pruning, or other maintenance, silk bonsai trees have now become a popular option to adorn the indoors and outdoors of homes, office settings, restaurants, and other commercial places.

Noted for their versatility and durability, silk bonsai trees are complete with silk screened foliages and trunks made of natural birch, maple, or vine wood. Chinese silk and synthetic materials such as polyester are the raw materials most commonly used for making silk bonsai trees. Materials such as Luna clay, fiberglass, and steel are also used in the creation of the trunks of silk bonsai trees. Silk bonsai trees are generally potted into containers made of terracotta, clay, or plastic, to provide a high quality, realistic look. Sometimes, silk bonsai trees come with attractive display tables, apart from containers. To avoid fabric dye fading, it is best to keep silk bonsai trees in areas with medium light.

Silk bonsai trees are available in every possible styles, shapes, and tree species such as pines, palms, maples, plums, elms, and golden ficus. Silk bonsai trees set over beautiful granite stone are perfect additions to your home decor. If one wants to decorate interiors or outdoors with flowering type bonsai trees, then silk bonsai trees graced with artificial cherry or azalea can be used. To give a gorgeous look to your bookcase, mantelpiece, entertainment center or sideboard, silk bonsai pine trees finely crafted from preserved tree trunks are an ideal option. Likewise, bonsai ficus silk tree plants designed in the bonsai tradition make an excellent gift for special occasions. Wonderfully crafted Chinese elm silk bonsai trees, crabapple silk bonsai trees, and Japanese red maple trees are also popular.

Quality, size, realistic appearance, and naturalness of various parts determine the price of silk bonsai trees. You can buy silk trees from any of the local outlets as well as from online shops.

Silk Trees provides detailed information on silk trees, silk palm trees, silk mimosa trees, silk ficus trees and more. Silk Trees is affiliated with Silk Floor Plants.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton

The Art of Japanese Bonsai

The Art of Japanese Bonsai
By Fran Black

The Japanese refined and developed Bonsai techniques and evolved the art form it is today. For the Japanese, bonsai represents a fusion of strong ancient beliefs with the Eastern philosophies of the harmony between man, the soul and nature. The major aspects of Japanese bonsai, has not changed significantly over time.

Bonsai initially originated in Egypt thousands of years ago and moved to China. From China bonsai moved to Japan. Where the Japanese perfected the art of bonsai.

Japanese use azaleas to create magnificent bonsai following years of pruning, wiring and careful attention. The Japanese art of bonsai, and its precursor, the Chinese art of penjing, are rooted in the traditions of Asian culture.

The art of raising bonsai dwarfed potted trees has enabled the Japanese to admire nature in an indoor setting. The art of bonsai, as developed in America, is much freer in concept and style than Japanese bonsai.

The quality of a bonsai tree is measured on how well it portrays nature in miniature form. A bonsai should have a well tapered trunk and have branches all around the tree to give the bonsai visual depth. The art of bonsai involves the bringing together of tree and pot in visual harmony. "Bonsai" simply means "potted tree." But many of the really fine specimens have been pruned for more than 100 years.

Requiring many years of devoted attention and care to produce, the bonsai extends beauty and expresses the significance of life. The care involved in creating and shaping a bonsai is considered a form of meditation in and of itself.

Over time, bonsai began to take on different styles, each which varied immensely from one another. Today, hardy as well as tropical indoor bonsai are trained in classic styles, including windswept, slanted trunk, rock clinging, and forest.

Bonsai are highly regarded as a symbol of Japanese culture and ideals. Contrary to popular belief, bonsai are not tortured trees. A bonsai may have areas of dead wood to give an impression of age. There are several techniques available to the bonsai grower to increase the apparent age.

No longer exclusively an oriental art form, today bonsai is practiced by thousands of people around the world, on every continent. The art of bonsai is the art of imitating the spirit of nature. A bonsai industry of considerable size exists in certain sections of Japan.

Francesca Black works in marketing at Bonsai Garden http://www.bonsai-garden.com and Pilates Shop http://www.pilates-shop.net leading portals for bonsai gardening and natural exercise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fran_Black

3 Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree

3 Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree
By Daniel Delott

Bonsai trees are a lot of fun, but if you don’t know anything on taking care of Bonsai trees, then you’re going to have a hard time growing them. So here are a few tips on taking care and growing Bonsai trees.

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #1:

Shaping. This is a big part of getting your dream Bonsai tree to look how you had thought it would. So if you get some metal wire, you will be able to grow your Bonsai tree in the direction you want much quicker than other methods.

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #2:

Wires. Aluminum works best because it is gentle and soft on branches. The wire will need to be thick, since thin wire has a tendency to scratch the tree’s bark. When you need to, you can use copper wire. (Since it is stronger than aluminum.)

Tips On Taking Care Of A Bonsai Tree #3:

When wiring the Bonsai tree, start with the thicker branches, then work out towards the thinner ones.

There are just a few tips on taking care of Bonsai trees, there are many aspects to growing and maintaining them, but a lot of this comes from experience.

Dan has been growing Bonsai trees for over 15 years. He was a botany major. If you want to grow Bonsai trees, and don't know how, this may be the most important guide you read - Bonsai Training Manual

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Delott