Bonsai Life Histories - Tapa dura

Do not make the mistake of regarding Bonsai growers as 'anorak' cases. Bonsai is a centuries old art originating in China but adopted, a few centuries later, by the Japanese and turned into a skill that requires the most dedication and devotion of all gardening disciplines. This book, written by a relatively young Bonsai grower, Martin Treasure, is a photographic history of his collection taken over a timespan of 15 years. The clear, elegant photographs of his plants will inspire readers to take a closer look at this passion of his. The tree's beauty and perfection reflects nature in a miniature form, each styled to conform to the Bonsai ideals of naturalistic planting. More than 50 trees, both hardy and tender, are featured accompanied by detailed cultivation notes from the day the plants were first acquired, providing an insight into the commitment required to create such works of art. Full growing details are covered from seed sowing and growing to cuttings, air layering, grafting and adapting garden centre finds to 'instant' Bonsai. Flying in the face of their 'tortured tree' image, the care and maintenance spent on these tiny jewels is unparalleled. Ideas for display inside and outside the home are shown together with complementary planting schemes. Contact addresses for UK Bonsai societies are found at the end together with a comprehensive glossary of terms. So overcome that 'anorak' image and look more closely at these wondrous creations - you'll soon see the fascination with them that enthusiasts fall for.

It focuses on about 40 case histories of individual trees complete with meticulously recorded photographs of how each tree developed usually from very doubtful beginnings to their present-day glory. The author Martin Treasure is superbly talented technically but also has a unique skill in bringing out the personality of the plants so that even non-enthusiasts cannot help but be drawn into the case histories. In the book the case histories are supported by chapters on basic training techniques, advice on sourcing viable plant material and maintenance tips so that everyone can have a go at creating trees similar to those in the book.