The Japanese Maple Bonsai

The Japanese Maple Bonsai is one of the most beautiful bonsai trees. When properly cared for, the result can be truly stunning. This article provides a nice introduction to the Japanese Maple bonsai tree.

History of Bonsai

Bonsai is the practice of growing a normal size tree or plant in a miniature form in a flowerpot. This hobby requires training and patience, but most enthusiasts would agree that bonsai is an extremely rewarding way to create beauty, elegance and sophistication. The art originated in China around the fourth century and soon traveled into other Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Japan developed a great skill for bonsai cultivation and today it is still a very popular practice in that country as well as many others such as here in the US.

The Japanese Maple Bonsai

The Japanese maple bonsai, also known as Acer palmatum, is relatively easy to convert into bonsai. It is fairly easy to grow and hardy, plus the result is a truly beautiful creation. As a result, the Japanese maple bonsai can be found in many Japanese gardens. Its characteristics are delicate foliage with incredible fall colors that range from rich gold to deep blood red and burgundy.

Choosing Your Japanese Maple Bonsai

When you go to purchase your Japanese maple bonsai, try to pick out a tree with a trunk that is a minimum of 4 inches in diameter. This will provide greater flexibility when training your tree into your style of choice. If you prefer, however, it is possible to grow your Japanese maple from seedlings.

You may also want to consider purchasing the semi-dwarf species. Many people prefer this species due to the fact that the color of the leaves changes often. If this feature appeals to you, this species might be just what you are looking for in a Japanese maple bonsai tree.

Maintaining the Japanese Maple Bonsai

Position: The Japanese maple bonsai does not require direct sunlight. Therefore, on hot summer days be sure to find a shaded place in which the bonsai can be placed away from the sun's direct rays.

Watering: Be preapared to check your Japanese maple bonsai daily in order to make sure the soil is not dry. The goal is to not over-water but to keep the soil moist at all times.

Pruning: Prune back leaves to 1 or 2 pair once growth has reached 3 or higher pair. Leaves should be trimmed in the late spring. Branch pruning is best done in the fall after the leaves fall. Shape the Japanese maple bonsai according to your preferred style.

Soil Treatment and Repotting: This should be done in late winter to early spring but please note not to use any accelerating growth fertilizers at all.

This hobby can be a challenge even for those who are experienced in the art of bonsai. Fortunately, there are many good books and web sites devoted to this topic. Keep in mind that this is something that you learn over time and with experience, but the results are well worth your time and effort.

Bonsai trees are classy and elegant additions to any decor and therefore never grow out of style -- after all they have been around since at least the fourth century. So relax and have fun experimenting while growing your Japanese maple bonsai!