Bonsai, an ancient tradition with its origins in China, is a fascinating 'living art' that captures the beauty and strength of trees and shrubs in miniature. Developed as a fine art form in Japan, it inspires and intrigues gardeners the world over.
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Starting with a fascinating introduction to bonsai, the book defines and describes this ancient craft, explaining the best trees and shrubs to use as well as the importance of bonsai size, proportion and aesthetics. The art of displaying bonsai is also examined in some detail, with useful advice on pots and containers, display stands, accessories and accent planting, as well as how to display bonsai indoors and outdoors. A beautifully illustrated section on the bonsai year looks at growing seasonal bonsai, from the glory of cerise azaleas in spring to the flaming colours of autumn acers, while a photographic gallery provides stunning images of over 40 mature bonsai specimens, with statistical information on their age and the method of training.
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The essential techniques of this precise art form are clearly described, and there is practical guidance on tools and equipment, propagation, and soil types, as well as on basic pruning, shaping and wiring. There is also advice on advanced bonsai techniques for creating beautiful flowering and fruiting bonsai, including azaleas and rhododendrons, chrysanthemum, fuchsia, prunus and wisteria. An invaluable bonsai directory provides horticultural information on a variety of popular species for both indoors and outside, while a chapter on caring for bonsai gives advice on watering, feeding and general maintenance regimes, as well as coping with pests and diseases.
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A unique inspirational and practical section on bonsai styles describes 15 of the most popular methods of cultivation, from formal and informal upright to slanting and windswept, and includes how-to instruction on how to achieve each example.
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Written by one of the foremost bonsai specialists, the book is beautifully illustrated with over 600 specially commissioned photographs featuring stunning portraits of excellent bonsai specimens and practical, informative step-by-step sequences.
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