Bonsai Basics


The art of growing trees in small pots started almost one thousand years ago in China. Since this time growing Bonsai has been a favourite hobby and past time for many people around the world. Growing a Bonsai, even for a beginner is a relatively simple process if you know the basics. The following pages contain a wealth of information for the beginning bonsais. If you would like to submit or update an article, please contact us.

Bonsai: an Introduction

A basic introduction to the fundamentals of the art of bonsai.

Starting Out in Bonsai

Takes you through the basic care of your first bonsai.

Classis Bonsai Style

The basic bonsai forms illustrated and explained.

Bonsai Tools

Guide to Bonsai tools.

Glossary of Bonsai Terms

A glossary of horticultural terms.

Glossary of Japanese Bonsai Terms

A glossary of Japanese bonsai terms.

A Guide to Watering Bonsai

Think that watering your bonsai is straightforward? Think again. Incorrect watering is The main cause of Bonsai death and disease. Learn to water your tree correctly with this essential reading for beginners.

The Effects of Rain on Bonsai and Watering Practices

As it is impossible to gauge the frequency and amount of rainfall that may or may not fall on a bonsai, it is important to understand the effects of rain on the soil of a tree so that correct watering practices can be maintained.

Watering Bonsai While on Holiday

Keeping your bonsai watered while you are away from home has always been problem for enthusiasts...

Bugs, Diseases and First Aid

A basic guide to Pests and Diseases that affect Bonsai.

Feeding Your Bonsai

How to fertilise and feed your bonsai.

Wiring Bonsai

A beginners guide to wiring.

Propagation: Creating New Plants For Bonsai

How to propagate new trees to add to your collection.

Propagation: Growing from Seed

How to propagate new trees from seeds.

Propagation: Taking Cuttings

How to raising new plants from cuttings.

An Introduction to Bonsai Soils

Mixing your own soils.

The Importance of Timing in Bonsai

The importance of timing in Bonsai.

Repotting and Root-Pruning Bonsai - Part I

Part I Why repotting is essential, How often and when should a bonsai be repotted?

Repotting and Root-Pruning Bonsai - Part II

Part II A photo guide to repotting.

Repotting and Root-Pruning Bonsai - Part III

Part III Bare-rooting a bonsai.

When to Repot Your Bonsai

Discovering the best time in the Spring to repot your bonsai.

Maintenance Pruning Part I - The Need for Regular Pruning

Part I An introduction to pruning your bonsai and understanding Apical Dominance.

Maintenance Pruning Part II - Pinching Out Deciduous Trees

Part II Spring Bud Pinching.

Maintenance Pruning Part III - Scissor Trimming and Finger Pruning

Part III Scissor Trimming and Finger Pinching.

Repairing Snapped Branches

How to repair snapped branches.

Bonsai Myths: Part I - Watering in Direct Sunlight and Misting Your Bonsai

Does watering in Sunlight burn the leaves of your trees? Why is regular misting bad for your trees?

Bonsai Myths: Part II - Overpotting

Why overpotting your trees in training will slow their growth.

Bonsai Myths: Part III - Continually Trimming Your Bonsai

Why you should leave your bonsai to grow.

A Guide to Bonsai Critique

An introduction to bonsai appreciation.

Protecting Your Bonsai and Garden Against the Wind

How to protect your bonsai and garden against the wind.

Bonsai Lillipilli "Hot Flush"

Bonsai Progression series, styling and development of a Lilli Pilli