Bonsai is an ancient art form with modern appeal. It’s the art of miniaturising a plant by skilfully pruning and training it to grow in a shallow container or tray. Bonsai makes the perfect showpiece for a small garden and balcony. You can make a bonsai out of almost any plant from deciduous trees like Maples to evergreen plants like Conifers – even flowering shrubs such as Azaleas.
Creating a Bonsai is like making an investment. Not only is it a work of art, but a lot of the plants you see here will live to be hundreds of years old.
Melissa King has some questions answered by Bonsai Man, Lindsay Farr, to see what you should be doing now to keep your Bonsai in tip top shape.
If this tree had been planted straight into the garden it would have grown into a full-sized tree, what have you done to keep it this size?
The constraints of the small pot, plus top pruning keep the tree small.
What should we be doing to our bonsai now in winter?
In general, you can prune the canopy and roots and re-pot them.
Would you treat a deciduous bonsai the same way as an evergreen one?
There are some differences. For example, some evergreens have more sensitive root systems than deciduous plants. Deciduous plants can also be treated more vigorously in winter.
By pruning the canopy are you looking to create a special shape?
Yes, pruning the canopy defines the size and style of the plant.
Do you need any special tools?
A good sharp pair of scissors/secateurs for top pruning and a root hook for root pruning are useful tools to have.
How do you know when the roots need to be pruned? Are there any signs?
The plant will tell you. It will start to look root bound. E.g. Roots poking out, the pot may even lift up. A hungry looking tree is also a good indication.
How often should you prune the roots?
It depends on the type of plant you are growing and how often you can be bothered but a good general rule is every 3-5 years.
