IN A HURRY FOR A BONSAI THEN TRY THIS

There are many candidates in the plant world that would an excellent miniature version of itself in a pot. That is what is known as a bonsai. The most perfect example for creating a very beautiful bonsai is the deciduous Japanese Maple. Using a method called air layering, makes it very easy to make a branch sprout roots that will support that will support it after separation. One begins this adventure with a selection of a nicely shaped branch that will be grown as a bonsai in a shorter term than the traditional method. Now for the secret, here are the steps:

First, but not last you must do the homework. Many kinds of trees, plants and shrubs can be made into a bonsai. A bonsai is a miniature version of a tree planted in a pot.

Japanese maples are ideal deciduous trees for creating beautiful bonsai. Using a method called air layering, it is very easy to make a branch sprout roots that will support it after separation from the tree. By selecting a nicely shaped branch, you can start a bonsai tree that will bring years of enjoyment.

The Japanese Red Maple is an excellent choice for your first successful bonsai project. We are going to use a process called 'air layering' which is accomplished as follows:

1. Select a branch approximately the diameter of your little finger that possesses a pleasing shape and structure.

2. You will need the following items for your bonsai project:

Sharp knife
Sphagnum moss that has been soaked in water at least 15 minutes
A small sheet of heavy plastic
String
Rooting hormone, available at any garden center

3. . After you have selected the branch for your bonsai make a circular cut through the bark and into the hardwood underneath above the area where you want the roots to appear.

4. Make a duplicate cut about two branch diameters below the first cut.

5. After you have made the circular cuts, make a straight cut connecting the first two circular cuts.

6. Peel back the bark between the two circular cuts making sure that none of the cambium layer (green) is left.

7. Dust the top cut with rooting hormone. Wrap the area with the wet sphagnum moss, and then wrap it with plastic and tie in place.

8. Keep the moss wet. After several weeks, you should see roots through the plastic.

9. Separate the tree. When the roots start to thicken and turn brown, separate your new tree by cutting it off below the new roots.

10. Place small pebbles for drainage in the bottom of a pot. Partially fill the container with top soil. Unwrap the plastic and without disturbing the roots, plant your new tree, adding additional soil as needed.

11. Insert a stake. This will keep the tree from moving and damaging its delicate roots.

12. Lean back and enjoy the fruits of your labor, your bonsai tree!