Bonsi Tree

The Art of the Miniature Tree Bonsai

Bonsai is actually two words, "Bon", and "Sai". The word "Bon" means "tray" and "Sai", "growing" or "planting". Therefore, the two words put together give you the translation of "tray growing" or "tray planting". When you say the word, "Bonsai" to people, they usually think of a type of tree. However, this art form is actually a way of growing many different species of plants and trees. With that in mind, take your time and browse through the many articles I've written about my favorite hobby, and get started on your path to becoming a true Bonsai Master!
- Erik Olsen, Author of Bonsai Gardening Secrets


Bonsai originated in China although it became popular when Buddhist monks took the art form to Japan where it became excessively popular. In Japanese, the name Bonsai translates to “tray gardening”, which is the growing and training of trees to create them in miniature form. While the process is beautiful and detailed, it takes years to develop a single tree.-Bonsai Gardening

TRIDENT MAPLE (Acer buergerianum)

Summary As a relative to the Japanese Maple, the Trident Maple is a beautiful deciduous tree that works well for bonsai growing. Known for its breathtaking colors of foliage in the fall, which range from a faded orange to hot pepper red, this tree is bushy on the top with a thick, strong trunk. The bark of the Trident Maple is a soft brown with a dappling effect. The leaves are small and close together toward the top, which is where the name “tri-dent” originates. The benefit of using the Trident Maple for bonsai is that it reaches a mature appearance very quickly. The overall appearance is one of refinement with a unique bark. Proper Care The Trident Maple does best in semi-shade during the hotter summer months and then full sun for the remainder of the year. Regardless, you want to make sure this bonsai always has good protection from wind. The soil should be kept moist, not over watering and never allowed to dry out completely. The Trident Maple is hardy, being able to tolerate poor soil and some exposures. However, full sun, as well as protection from wind and frost is best. You can train your Trident Maple bonsai in just about any style. For example, the root-over-rock, twin trunk, forest, and upright are simply stunning, showing off the vibrancy of foliage color. The only style we suggest you avoid is the broom. The soil should be free draining and you will need to repot the Trident Maple every year in early spring. The key here is to wait until you see the buds begin to swell and then repot. Finally, be sure you feed the Trident Maple weekly during the springtime and then in late summer, biweekly.