The History of a Bonsai Tree

When researching the history of the bonsai tree the most obvious place to start is to know what the word "bonsai" means. The word bonsai is Japanese and literally translated means "potted in a pot or container". The tradition includes a specific set of techniques and methods to grow, shape, and care for the tree. The results of these techniques should have your miniature tree looking like a replica of a naturally grown ancient tree. This method used in this horticulture practice has been taught and passed down through generations. Though the word bonsai originates in Japan the actual
practice, according to bonsai history started and originated in China. China is the true birthplace of this practice and the word the Chinese use to describe it is "pun-sai". The first time you find this ancient art is 1000 BC; the Chinese began to use these methods to cultivate miniature trees in pots. At this time only the very upper class participated in this hobby and if you gave one as a gift it was thought of as very luxurious. The Chinese have gotten very good at this and have even been know to shape the tree trunks into mystical figures or different animal shapes. Many historians speculate that the Chinese got the idea of miniaturizing trees from the healing doctors who grew their different herbs this way so they were easy to take with them. During the Kamakura period of history is when the Chinese practice of pun-sai was adopted by the Japanese. They took many of the Chinese traditions for growing plants. The Japanese began to really develop this technique of growing and maintaining miniature trees in containers. This is why many people make the mistake of thinking that the bonsai tradition actually began in Japan. This art form really began to spread in Japan during the Heian period of history. The Tokugawa era of history brought landscaping to a new level in Japan. It became quite the status quo to have beautiful landscaping. The upper class in Japan began growing miniature trees and they especially grew maple trees and azaleas. When this form of horticulture first began the plants were actually much larger then they are today. Before the 1800s these dwarf trees were actually referred to as "hachi-no-ki" It was not until the Meiji era that they changed the name to "bonsai". The Japanese made growing and cultivating bonsai trees popular. They were also responsible for developing the different techniques and styles that are still popular. This practice did not come to America until the 1990s. Today, bonsai is a very popular hobby and art form through out the world. You can find many shows, exhibits and auctions for bonsai trees. You can find these trees in your local ornamental nursery or there are many place to find them on the Internet. It is a great hobby for those who love history and art. This art form has always fascinated people all over the world and will continue to be passed down to the next generation.

source.www.bonsai-abc.com