by 
The Curious Bag
-
Bonsai is the art of growing dwarfed, ornamental trees or shrubs in small, shallow pots. The phrase also refers to the plant itself.
History
The modern art of bonsai originated in China over two thousand years ago and spread to Japan around the 14th century. It spread to Korea during the Tang or Song Dynasty.
Misconceptions
A bonsai appears to be a genetically dwarfed tree, but it actually begins its life as any other standard sized-tree. It is pruned to keep the small size and shape.
Size
The heights of bonsai plants range from 4 inches high for the Mame Bonsai to 23 inches high for the Chuhin Bonsai.
Cultivation
The bonsai is not only trimmed to keep its small size, but also to mimic an old tree that has grown in the wild.
Pruning
When pruning a bonsai, large branches are removed and small branches cut back. branches and trunk are wrapped in wire to define the shape for the first growing season.
Source:
Shobin Bonsai: Size of a Bonsai
The Bonsai World: Bonsai Pruning Is Essential To Create An Aged Look
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC