Bonsai Trees vs. Dwarfing/Dwarfism
Bonsai is the Japanese art of growing miniature trees by restricting the growth of the plant through various pruning and cultivating techniques. As part of the growing technique (aka the training process), future Bonsai trees are grown in containers/trays to limit root growth and provide easy access for pruning or shaping the plant as desired. The Bonsai method can take years before a final tree is completed and requires constant care for the tree to stay in the desire size and shape. Bonsai trees are often confused with dwarfism or dwarfing of trees. In actuality, the two processes are completely different in their approach to creating miniature trees. Click Here for more information on the pruning techniques involved in the Bonsai tree method.
In dwarfing, the miniature tree effect is obtained through genetics or selective breeding. In selective breeding, specimens which are smaller than the normal specimen size are mated to created a smaller than average specimen. This process is continued till you have a breed of the specimen at the desired size. The other method for dwarfism in plants is genetic engineering. In genetic engineering, genes that inhibit growth or provide miniature characteristics are spliced into the genome of the desired specimen. Genetic engineering modifies genes on a microscopic level while selective breeding modifies genes looking at the macroscopic effects. The end result is a miniature version of the desired specimen with all the desired aesthetics retained. To learn more about the genetic process visit our Website.
Another potential method for creating a miniature trees is hormone control. During the growth process, certain hormones are required to promote growth and by depriving a plant of these specific hormones can result in a dwarf or miniature specimen. However, restricting hormones during the growth process can have side effects which result in the specimen not having the desired appearance or having undesirable characteristics. Expertise and experience are required to create a miniature tree by depriving the tree of hormones during the growth process. For this reason, creating Bonsai trees using this method is not recommended.
Genetic Engineering (dwarfing/dwarfism) and the Bonsai method are two different ways to produce miniature copies of full grown plant and trees. It does not matter which method is used, the final result is a miniature version of a tree or plant demonstrating the characteristics of the full grown plant or tree. However, miniature trees created through genetic manipulation have a significant advantage over miniature trees grown using the Bonsai methodology. Once at the desired size and displaying the desired characteristics, the Dwarfed miniature tree requires only routine care (watering, wedding, removal of dead leaves, etc…) to maintain the desired size, shape and characteristics. On the other hand, miniature trees grown using Bonsai methodology and techniques require continued cultivation throughout the plant life to maintain the desired size and shape. If not care for properly, the miniature tree or plant grown using Bonsai techniques will eventually grow out of the desired characteristics. Basically, the miniature tree grown using the Bonsai techniques is commitment of the time and resources for the life of the tree or plant.
So, if the desired miniature tree is one the can be taken care of with watering and some general maintenance, a dwarf tree is the proper selection. However, if you want a miniature tree that reflects your personality and want a hobby for life, the Bonsai tree is the proper selection. In either case, miniature trees have been a source of beauty and awe in private gardens and public arboretums for decades and will add a definitive touch to any décor.
To get started growing your own Bonsai tree Click Here to visit our Website.
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