Japanese Maple Bonsai
Tips on Growing a Japanese Maple Bonsai
Bonsai is an aesthetic art form that originated in the Orient thousands of years ago, and the Japanese maple bonsai is a particularly lovely one to nurture in the home.
The literal meaning of the word “bonsai” is tree in a pot. However, placing just any old tree in a pot does not make it a bonsai. This is only the beginning of the process, followed by pruning, shaping and training the tree to grow in specific shapes. The true feature of the bonsai is in its diminutive size, which is meticulously controlled by the grower.
Several varieties of the tree make desirable Japanese maple bonsai. Commonly used cultivars of the tree are red leafed varieties, rough barked varieties and dwarf trees. Personal preference must dictate the actual cultivar to use, as each are excellent choices for this type of nature art form. Because the Japanese maple is easy to grow, long lived and very hardy, this tree is a popular choice for bonsai in Japan.
Be prepared to maintain your Japanese maple bonsai. You will need to have a vision in your mind as to the look you are trying to achieve and begin pruning the tree in that manner. Typical bonsai are designed to look natural. Many people use wiring to train the trunk and branches into the shapes they desire for their tree. As the tree ages, not only the branches will need to be pruned, but also the root system will need to be cut back by about ½ their size. Every few years, the tree will need to be repotted; the ideal time for the root maintenance. The ultimate height will be the grower’s choice, but typical heights of the Japanese maple bonsai is between 2 and 3 feet tall. The trunk can be around 4 inches in diameter.
When choosing the pot for your Japanese maple bonsai, remember that the tree must be planted off center to be a true bonsai tree. The belief is that heaven and earth meet in the center, so nothing must be planted in this area. The desired shape is normally triangular; an appearance that lends to visual beauty but also adheres to the relationship between the artist, the tree and life’s energy source.
Most bonsai last for many years when they receive the best of care. Generally, Japanese maple bonsai trees are kept outdoors in the natural elements.
Growing a Japanese maple bonsai will require desire and dedication, but not necessarily experience. Everyone who has created bonsai began just as you, in the same phase as a first timer making mistakes; even the Asian forefathers who originated and perfected the art form thousands of years ago.