Bonsai is a combination of horticulture and three-dimensional design, with the growing miniature tree serving as both a symbol of nature and an expression of artistic creativity. The art form is based on the idea that a mature tree in miniature will resemble its full-size counterpart, and each piece must reflect balance between the tree’s roots, branches, foliage, and trunk.
There are several types of trees that grow well as bonsai. Each type has its own distinct appearance and specific characteristics that can be adapted to the unique design style of the artist. Some tree species are easier to care for than others, and some trees are better suited for certain styles than others. The five main bonsai tree types are conifers, deciduous trees, ficus and elms, and flowering plants.
Coniferous bonsai trees, including cypress and junipers, are popular with beginners because they respond well to pruning and aging techniques, Price says. Junipers in particular have small leaves and a rough texture that lends them an authentic old-tree look, she adds. They are also hardy, making them suitable for almost any climate.
For those who want to try something a little different, deciduous bonsai are another good choice. These trees have a tendency to develop interesting trunk shapes, and they often have attractive fall colors.
Beginners can start with seed or a cutting, which is a branch cut from a healthy plant and planted in new soil to start a new (but genetically identical) plant. Growing a bonsai from seeds gives the artist full control over the tree’s development, but it can take years for the tree to reach maturity.
Brussel's Live Dwarf Pomegranate Indoor Bonsai Tree - 5 Years Old; 8" to 12" Tall with Decorative Container, Humidity Tray & Deco Rock
$37.22 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Australian Willow Bonsai Trees Fresh Cutting - Extensive Thick Trunks Fast Growing Light Bonsai Indoor Money Plant - Antique Piece for Your Home and Office
$13.54 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
MEsay 10Pcs Mixed Color Bonsai Bowl Lotus Live Plants - Pre-Sprouted Water Beauties for Indoor and Outdoor Aquatic Settings
$11.39 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Brussel's Bonsai Live Green Mound Juniper Bonsai Tree - Small, 3 Year, 4 to 6 Inches - Outdoor Bonsai Tree with Bonsai Pot and Bonsai Tray
(as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Brussel's Live Dwarf Jade Indoor Bonsai Tree - 5 Years Old; 8" to 12" Tall with Decorative Container, Green, Humidity Tray & Deco Rock
$41.26 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Brussel's Bonsai Live Ponytail Palm Indoor Bonsai Tree - 6 Years Old, 12 to 20 Inches Tall - Prebonsai in Growers Bonsai Pot
$24.00 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
HOME GROWN Bonsai Tree Kit - Premium Ceramic Starter Kit - 4 Variety of Bonsai - Unique Gift for Men and Women Gardeners (BK2-2nd-MF)
$29.99 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Costa Farms Money Tree, Easy Care Indoor Plant, Live Houseplant in Ceramic Planter Pot, Bonsai Potted in Potting Soil, Home Décor, Birthday Gift, New Home Gift, Outdoor Garden Gift, 16-Inches Tall
$33.99 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Brussel's Bonsai Brussel's Green Mound Juniper Bonsai in Zen Reflections Pot, SMALL
$32.26 (as of December 22, 2024 17:45 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)