The literal meaning of the word bonsai means plant in a pot. It originates from ancient Japan where they were one of the first to start the art of growing miniature trees in pots. This really has become an art form and there are thousands of people across the world who enjoy sculpting their own miniature bonsai trees to the shapes that they choose.
A common misconception is that a bonsai is the actual name of the tree. But this simply isn't the case. Bonsai just refers to the art of sculpting and growing a miniature tree. The actual tree can be a various species. In fact there is not much difference between a tree used for bonsai or one that can grow several hundred feet in the air. The only difference is the way it is cared for.
Another thing which many people do not know is that bonsai trees can survive for hundreds of years and can survive in the family and passed down through different generations. Establish the requires a lot of care and attention being given to the bonsai tree which is a relatively easy thing to do. The main things they require our watering and pruning.
Pruning the tree helps it to grow naturally as it is able to soak in all the nutrients it requires for healthy growing. This is one of the things that people enjoy most about owning a bonsai tree. They have the honour shaping it into any shape they want. The only thing that limits this is your own imagination.
It is really important to get good feel of how to grow bonsai tree before you actually make the purchase. This can be done very easily in today's society. You can visit your local library where you find many books on the subject or maybe the quickest way is to search on the Internet for any information you require. The best thing about the Internet is its free and you can do it from the comfort of your home. You quickly find thousands of web sites dedicated to the art of growing the bonsai tree.
Gardening Network: All about Bonsai trees