BONCIDE , understanding bonsai - Ojasvi Singh

The Art of Bonsai: Miniature way of peace and harmony

Bonsai is a centuries-old art form that originated in China and Japan. It involves growing and shaping small trees and plants into miniature versions of their natural counterparts. While bonsai may seem like a complex and intimidating art form, it is actually quite simple to learn and can be a rewarding hobby for anyone who loves plants and gardening.

But what does Bonsai mean?

Bonsai is a Japanese word that literally means "planted in a container." It refers to the art of growing and shaping small trees and plants into miniature versions of their natural counterparts. The goal of bonsai is to create a tree or plant that looks like a full-sized version but in a smaller, more compact form.

A Historical dive into Bonsai:

Bonsai originated in China over a thousand years ago, where it was known as "pun-sai." It was later brought to Japan, where it evolved into the art form we know today. Bonsai was traditionally practiced by the wealthy and aristocratic classes, who used it as a symbol of status and refinement. Today, bonsai is enjoyed by people all over the world, and there are many different styles and techniques used to create these miniature masterpieces.  

And bonsai came to India in the 12th century, Bonsai was known and practiced as Vaman Vriksha Kala or the art of miniature trees. The word is said to have been derived from 'Vamana' the 5th Avatar of the Hindu God Vishnu.

The process of making a bonsai:

Creating a bonsai involves several steps, including selecting the right tree or plant, pruning and shaping the branches, and potting the plant in a suitable container. The process can take several years to complete, and requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. However, with the right tools and techniques, anyone can learn how to create a beautiful bonsai tree.

How to Keep a Bonsai:

Keeping a bonsai requires some special care and attention, but it is not difficult once you know what to do. Bonsai trees need to be watered regularly, fertilized, and pruned to maintain their shape and health. They also need to be placed in the right environment, with proper lighting and temperature conditions. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your bonsai looking beautiful and healthy for many years to come.

Trends in bonsai now days

Bonsai has evolved over the years, and there are many different trends and styles that are popular today. Some people prefer traditional Japanese styles, while others prefer more modern and experimental approaches. Some of the current trends in bonsai include creating miniature landscapes, incorporating unusual materials, and experimenting with new techniques and styles.

But if bonsai is such a peaceful and traditional technique for keeping and caring for a plant then why people think it is torturous and sadistic for tray planting?

The Controversy Around Bonsai:

While many people appreciate the beauty of bonsai and symbolic meaning behind it, there are some people who believe that it is cruel and torturous to keep a tree or plant in a small container for its entire life and cutting and pruning it on a regular basis.

 However, proponents of bonsai argue that it is a form of art that celebrates the natural beauty of trees and plants, and that it can actually be beneficial for the health of the plant when done properly.

But do Bonsai trees feel pain ?

In short they don't, but let's break down this into quick points on why they don't feel any pain and bonsai isn't tortuous:

like all trees, bonsai trees don't have pain receptors, a brain stem, neurons to send signals, or a brain to determine how much pain they are feeling.

As such, bonsai trees cannot feel pain and so don't care if you transform a tree into a bonsai tree.

most common argument against bonsai is wiring the plant and that this is a unnatural

Wiring is undertaken to hold the bonsai tree in position to grow its branches to achieve these intricate and aesthetic designs.

the wire typically used for bonsai trees is most commonly made of copper or aluminum. 

And you would not bind a person like this to grow, so why do the same for a tree?

If not disposed of correctly, these wires, especially copper wires, can adversely impact surrounding trees. 

Ex- copper nails are commonly used for tree killing.

How to make this less cruel?

if you are opposed to using copper or aluminum wire, then there are several alternatives that you can use. you can use natural alternatives and they do not cause any impact on your flora, for example:

1. jute ropes.

2. Yarn or threads.

3 bamboo.

4. Raffia.

5. even rubber bands.

conclusion:

 bonsai is a beautiful and rewarding art form

In which you can create your own miniature masterpiece that will bring joy and beauty (because it adds a aesthetic beauty to the place) to your home for many years to come that anyone can learn and enjoy. With a little bit of knowledge and practice. 

 

- Scientrust, Ojasvi Singh , Sarth Priyadarshi