Literally translated, the two Chinese words bon-sai mean: potted tree. However, a bonsai is more than a potted tree.

Bonsai is above all an art in which, as in all others, the artist uses a variety of techniques to design a unique work. In this case, the techniques are gardening and unlike the other arts Bonsai is not static, and the work is never finished. It is sometimes called 'living art'. There is thus no 'magic potion', 'secret' or 'type of plant for bonsai'. Basically, understanding the basic aesthetic concepts and using a series of gardening techniques that anyone can learn, you can create a miniature tree and you can enjoy many years of pleasure.

If you have purchased or received a Bonsai as a gift and it died, do not worry, it has happened to everyone! Probably that plant was bought in a supermarket or other place where it was kept in bad condition and when it came to your hands was already more dead than alive. And of course, you tried to give the best environment and kept it indoors (1st mistake!). Bonsai is an outdoor plant (the plants in their natural habitat do not build houses!), there is instead, species from tropical climates who can not stand the cold of winter or dry summer and need protection at those times. Soon after, your recent acquisition starts showing the first symptoms of 'dissatisfaction' and the first reaction is that it comes to water. The plant condition does not improve so lets give more and more water (2nd mistake!). Do not water too much, should be the Bonsai to 'ask for' water. You should just keep the soil moist (not soaked or dry!). It is most common to Bonsai die by over-watering than from lack of it.

If you have had a Bonsai, you will certainly review yourself in these examples. Are just some mistakes that people do in their first attempt with Bonsai. I hope with my site contribute to the understanding of this art. I appreciate if you send me your comments, questions or suggestions to the e-mail correiadasilvabonsai@gmail.com.

 

English is not my native language, if you find any incongruence or mispelling please let me know.