5-11-2026 The Art of Bonsai

Bonsai (pronounced “bone-sigh”) has been practiced in various forms for centuries. The art of growing small trees in pots spread to Japan during the sixth century through travel and trade. Bonsai has spread all over the world and people are developing bonsai that reflect their culture and surroundings much as the Japanese did.

Bonsai come in many sizes from several feet tall down to a few inches. Bonsai is a hobby

where size doesn't matter. The goal of bonsai is to capture the essence of a full-sized tree in

nature. The trunk, branches and leaves should be proportionate so that viewed alone, one

could not determine the actual size. The goal is a tree that looks like a

mature tree in miniature. Actual age does not matter. With proper care, some bonsai can live

for hundreds of years, being passed from generation to generation.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension