What is considered a Bonsai?

[Dave]

A bonsai is not a genetically dwarfed plant. It is any tree or shrub species actively growing but kept small by crown and root pruning. Theoretically, any species could be used, though ones with attributes such as small leaves and twigs will generally make better bonsai, helping to create the illusion of a larger tree in miniature. Properly maintained bonsai can have lifespans that might be able to reach that of their full-sized counterparts. However, bonsai require a great deal of care, and improperly maintained bonsai will not survive.

[twirly]

How different people have seen the bonsai issue during the time

http://www.users.qwest.net/~rjbphx/InOtherWords.html

..sometimes romantic, some others just as a theme..bonsai is always a good topic to rely upon

[Tawny]

I see bonsai trees in the markets here all the time.
I LOVE them but have NO experience with them.
Is this something I should try? And could yu suggest resources to help me learn more how to maintain these lovely plants.

[orchidaddict789]

Yes, it is pretty fun to try. Buy a bonsai tree. Treat it like a houseplant, except it requires the vital maintanence. You must pinch out the new growing shoots. If the branches grow out and lose the "perfect shape", you might even need to trim the branches back. There are many great resouces on the internet. Go to google.com and type in "Bonsai Tree", and you can get some great stuff!

[Tawny]

Originally Posted by orchidaddict789

Yes, it is pretty fun to try. Buy a bonsai tree. Treat it like a houseplant, except it requires the vital maintanence. You must pinch out the new growing shoots. If the branches grow out and lose the "perfect shape", you might even need to trim the branches back. There are many great resouces on the internet. Go to google.com and type in "Bonsai Tree", and you can get some great stuff!

Thanks for your help! I will give it a shot!

[Dave]

I remember when I was younger I watched the movie KARATE Kid and saw Mr. Me-agee trimming his Bonsai Trees! I think he did it blind folded...or maybe that was him trying to catch the flies with chop sticks
In any case Bonsai Trees are a great hobby, you just have to keep on watering them and make sure they do not dry out. Many places recommend that you soak your bonsai tree instead of watering from the top.