Creating Masterpieces
Methods Used For Dwarfing Trees in Japanese Miniature Gardens
Nature is a great teacher and by following the rules implemented by her, we, too, can succeed in creating perfect masterpieces. Plants grow into huge trees from tiny seedlings. The final size is determined by the nutrition that it receives from the soil and the place it grows. If the plant is not allowed substantial space to grow and is confined to a small area, obviously the tree remains stunted. Similarly, if the growth of the shoots is obstructed, the tree growth will definitely be retarded. If the plant does not get proper nourishment, growth will be impeded or tardy. These are the simple guidelines that have been followed by the Japanese for centuries for dwarfing various trees and plants. While some believe that trees should always be allowed to bloom and prosper, connoisseurs of Japanese gardens follow the above stated basic principles to grow trees for miniature gardens.
Japanese Method of Dwarfing
Dwarfing trees artificially is a simple process that adheres to the fundamental cause and effect laws of nature. The Japanese have a long history of specialized gardening, making them skilled in the art of dwarfing trees. Stunting the growth of trees is an important aspect of their specialization. Merely producing smaller replicas of the original tree was not enough for them. The Japanese wanted to excel and achieve outstanding results in this art. In order to accomplish this task, they strived consistently to attain perfection. Dwarfed trees are the result of the hard work and experience of many generations. This particular art requires great concentration, patience and expert skill. Although dwarfed trees are readily available in the market at very high prices, their value appreciates with time. If you wish to grow a miniature tree on your own, then you can follow a simplified version of the authentic tradition.
The Simple Version of Japanese Dwarfing Methods
Any tree can be raised as a miniature. Although the procedure is almost the same as for normal trees, a little more time and attention needs to be paid to the stunted trees. Young seedlings are potted and then continuously pruned and shaped, as per the specified or desired shapes and proportions. This procedure takes a minimum of two years before the trees can be successfully transplanted into a Japanese mini-garden and approximately three to five years for them to attain maturity.
Conifers, maples, oaks, beeches, sycamores, birches and certain varieties of wisterias and prunus are the most common favorites. Other hardy varieties include apples, oranges, elms, chestnuts and some shrubs. The results generally depend on the quality of seedlings and the time and attention devoted in tending and rearing. The process of dwarfing begins only once the seedlings have germinated.