This book defines and describes the ancient craft of bonsai, explaining the best trees and shrubs to use as well as the importance of size, proportion and aesthetics. The art of display is also examined, with useful advice on pots and containers, as well as how to display bonsai indoors and outdoors. The techniques of this precise art form are clearly described, and there is guidance on tools, propagation, and soil types, as well as on basic pruning, shaping and wiring. An invaluable bonsai directory provides information on a variety of popular species, while a chapter on caring for bonsai gives advice on general maintenance, as well as coping with pests and diseases. A unique section describes 15 of the most popular styles and includes how-to instruction on how to achieve each example.

Bonsai, an ancient tradition with its origins in China, was developed as a fine art form in Japan. It is a fascinating `living art’ that captures the beauty and strength of trees and shrubs in miniature. The ancient art of creating perfectly formed miniature trees is clearly explained in this practical book. An expert introduction describes the best trees and shrubs to use and the importance of bonsai size, proportion and aesthetics. The art of displaying your bonsai is also examined, with advice on pots and containers, accessories and stands. Practical guidance is given on basic bonsai techniques, such as defoliating and wiring, and special how-to sequences show how to design 15 classic bonsai shapes from formal and informal upright to slanting and windswept. An invaluable visual directory of over 40 of the most suitable bonsai plants, as well as advice on seasonal care and maintenance, completes this stunning manual. Written by one of the foremost bonsai specialists, the book features both portraits of excellent bonsai specimens and practical step-by-step sequences.

This informative introduction to bonsai will show you how to look after a ready-grown bonsai as well as encouraging you to develop your own specimen from a young plant or cutting. A useful A-Z directory of plants provides horticultural information on a variety of popular species for both indoors and outside and a chapter on care and maintenance gives advice on watering and feeding as well as how to cope with common pests and diseases. Written by a bonsai specialist this book is beautifully illustrated with over 500 specially commissioned photographs. It is an ideal introduction for any aspiring bonsai collector.