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Philonotis thwaitesii, also known as コツクシサワゴケ in Japanese, is a species of moss that belongs to the Bartramiaceae family. The plant body is small, with erect stems that are 1-2 cm long and densely covered with yellow-green leaves. The leaves are triangular-lanceolate to lanceolate in shape, measuring 0.8-1.5 mm in length and 0.30-0.35 mm in width. They have a sharp tip, strongly recurved leaf margins, and fine teeth all around. This species is widely distributed from East Asia to New Guinea, and commonly found in the low mountainous regions of Honshu and further south in Japan. It forms yellow-green colonies on moist rocks and soil. These characteristics make Philonotis thwaitesii an important part of the natural environment. https://mikawanoyasou.org/koke/sawagoke-osu.jpg

Kosugigoke is a term that refers to a specific species in the Polytrichaceae family of mosses. However, it is also commonly used as a general term for the Polytrichum and Pogonatum genera. There are about 250 species of Polytrichum and Pogonatum worldwide, and 20 of them can be found in Japan. Kosugigoke is characterized by its brownish stems and leaves. The stems are erect and can be several centimeters to several tens of centimeters tall. The leaves are scale-like and densely packed on the stem. Kosugigoke grows in moist places, marshes, and undergrowth in forests. Kosugigoke is distributed throughout Japan, as well as in the Korean Peninsula, China, and Russia. It usually forms colonies in places with moderate sunlight and slightly dry conditions. It is one of the most popular mosses in the "Polytrichum" family and is often used in Japanese gardens. It grows to a height of 1-5 cm, and when it dries, the leaves curl strongly. https://www.bing.com/th?id=OSK.a6b6257f65485c2a1

Ginkgo moss, also known as Ginkgo biloba, is a type of moss that can be found all over Japan. It is highly resilient and proliferative, and it is particularly resistant to air pollution. You can often observe it in everyday environments, such as on asphalt or block walls. One of the main characteristics of Ginkgo moss is its color. Unlike typical moss, it has a gray-green to white appearance. This is because the tips of the moss leaves do not contain chlorophyll, which gives it a white appearance. The key to growing Ginkgo moss successfully is to ensure good ventilation to prevent excessive humidity, while providing plenty of light. In bonsai, it is recommended to place it in a location where it can receive plenty of sunlight. However, Ginkgo moss does not form large mats and has an upright shape, so it is not suitable for moss balls. Also, the soil used for moss balls is clayey and does not drain well, which is not suitable for Ginkgo moss, which prefers dry conditions. Therefore, it

Kokedama, literally translated as "moss ball" in English, is a style of Japanese plant art where the roots of a plant are encased in a ball of soil, which is then covered in moss. This idea originated in Japan and is a combination of the nearai (literally "root wash," but meaning "no pot") bonsai and kusamono planting styles. Kokedama is also referred to as the "poor man's bonsai" and is made of wet akadama soil and keto (peat) formed into a ball. The plant is set into the ball and afterwards, the moss is wrapped around. Aluminium wire or nylon wire is used to fix the whole bundle, and is sometimes used to suspend the kokedama in the air. Kokedama must be watered regularly. One method suggests feeling the weight of the kokedama over time – when the ball feels light, it can be submerged in water. The best plants for making kokedama are ones that require medium to full shade, since direct sunlight will likely burn and ultimately turn the kokeda

Mini Bonsai refers to a method of cultivating plants, particularly those of a small size, in pots to enjoy their beauty. While many people associate Bonsai with pine trees, it can also involve flowering trees like cherry and plum, as well as leafy trees like maple. In the world of Mini Bonsai, trees with a height of less than 20cm are referred to as "Shohin Bonsai", and those less than 10cm are called "Mini Bonsai". Mini Bonsai is easy to start, even for those who are not familiar with plant cultivation. Due to their small size, they are easy to plant and can be grown in small spaces like window sills. This makes Mini Bonsai a perfect match for modern society, where many people live in small spaces like apartments. Also known as "Penzai", Mini Bonsai is appreciated both in Japan and abroad as an art form that can be enjoyed even in small spaces such as condominiums. They are seen as a "cool" form of Japanese culture. Mini Bonsai is becoming incre

Shimpaku, also known as the Shimpaku Juniper, is a highly popular species for bonsai due to its attractive foliage and beautiful bark. It's particularly favored by beginners because of its ease of care. Here are some features of the Shimpaku: ・The leaves are cylindrical and resemble green stems. ・Even young trees have a rugged bark that splits vertically and peels off naturally when dry. ・ The Itoigawa Shimpaku juniper tree, used for bonsai, naturally twists and turns its trunk, and its branches grow diagonally. Shimpaku is known for its delicate leaves and elegant tree shape. Its seasonal changes are captivating, especially the fresh green of spring and the deep green of autumn. While it can grow in the shade, it's best to place it in a bright location. Watering should be done when the soil dries out, and maintaining humidity is crucial. Pruning should be done after new buds appear, and shaping the branches helps create a beautiful tree shape. https://www.fromjapan-tk.com/data

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai.  Fallen Leaf Soil: It is made by fermenting fallen leaves. https://plant-growing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/53-1.jpg

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai. Black Soil: It has fine particles and is moist, so it is often used for delicate-rooted grass bonsai. https://item-shopping.c.yimg.jp/i/j/sk-online_0465500

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai. Kiryu Sand: It’s a weakly acidic soil that is often used because it is compatible with many trees. https://joyfulhonda.jp/client_info/JOYFULHONDA/itemimage/295337_1.jpg

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai. Kawasuna (River Sand): It’s crushed granite, very hard, and excellent in both aeration and drainage. https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.4919cc182c8329797d055de52de116c0?rik=eyg4TuN7acKzRw&riu=http%3a%2f%2fthumbnail.image.rakuten.co.jp%2f%400_mall%2fik-shouten%2fcabinet%2fyoudo%2fdojyoukairyou%2fimg67228144.jpg&ehk=qsWAJPD8qKNln8lqnACDcRjcriRsfUsSsAl%2frEZODck%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw&

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai. Kanuma soil (also known as “Kanuma pumice”) has high water retention and tends to retain moisture. It is acidic, making it recommended for planting Satsuki. https://d30uxjjrk95rd.cloudfront.net/img/goods/L/4945426214210.jpg

The soil for bonsai is a very important element for the growth and health of the bonsai. Below is some basic information about the soil for bonsai. How to choose soil for bonsai The soil for bonsai should meet the following three conditions: 1. Water retention to provide sufficient moisture to the roots 2. Drainage to prevent root rot from excess moisture 3. Aeration to deliver fresh oxygen to the gaps in the soil Types of soil for bonsai There are various types of soil for bonsai. It is important to understand the characteristics of each and choose according to the type and environment of the bonsai. Akadama soil: Good balance of water retention, drainage, and aeration. If the grains are too small or too soft and easy to crush, excess moisture and water may accumulate, which may adversely affect the bonsai in the summer. https://d30uxjjrk95rd.cloudfront.net/img/goods/L/4936695452199.jpg

Bonsai pots are typically chosen based on the type, size, and shape of the plant. Here are some guidelines for choosing a bonsai pot: - For conifers like pine and cypress, unglazed pots are generally used. - Deciduous trees can use either unglazed or glazed pots, but brighter glazed pots are rarely used unless the tree bears flowers or fruits. - The width of the pot should be about 2/3 of the height of the bonsai. Bonsai pots are classified into two types based on the firing process: - "Glazed" pots, which are fired with a glaze like typical pottery. - "Unglazed" pots, which are fired without a glaze (raw firing). When purchasing a bonsai pot, there are many online shops that sell various types of pots. You can choose based on price, size, shape, and material. It's important to consider the type, size, and shape of the plant you're planting. The size of the pot affects the growth of the plant, so it's important to choose the right size. Choosing a bonsai

1, A place with good sunlight: A location that gets good sunlight from sunrise to sunset is ideal. During the cultivation period of bonsai from spring to autumn, it is basic to place the bonsai in a place where it gets at least about 4 hours of direct sunlight a day. 2, A place where the setting sun hits: When you hear "setting sun", you may have an image of the summer setting sun that has a negative effect on bonsai, but sometimes the setting sun is also important. Especially when growing bonsai in the city, the setting sun is important sunlight in an environment where the housing environment is narrow and the sunlight is not very good due to the housing environment. 3, A place with good ventilation: A place where a moderate breeze passes and the air is clean. If you manage the bonsai in a place where a moderate breeze passes, pests are less likely to adhere, so you can prevent pest damage. 4, A place where it is easy to manage bonsai: Bonsai requires daily watering, regular

Consider your preferences: Do you prefer a bonsai that stays green all year round, one that changes with the seasons, or one that blooms flowers? This is a basic criterion to consider. Consider the price: Bonsai prices can range from billions to a few hundred yen. Set a budget for your hobby and enjoy within that range. Consider ease of care: For beginners, it's recommended to start with bonsai that are easy to grow in flat areas, such as maple, pine, etc. Consider the placement: Bonsai prefer environments with good sunlight and ventilation. Taking these points into consideration, choose a bonsai that suits your lifestyle and preferences. If you want to learn how to care for a bonsai, attending a bonsai class and learning directly from a professional is a shortcut. Bonsai allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature on a small scale and feel the changes of the four seasons. Find a bonsai that suits you and fully enjoy its charm.

 "Houkidachi" is a style of Bonsai, particularly seen in Zelkova trees. This style is characterized by a trunk that stands straight up, from which branches spread out like a broom. To achieve this form, meticulous pruning is required to create fine branches. The beauty of the tree is enhanced as the root spread, bark texture, and fine branches are beautifully formed. When creating a "Houkidachi" Bonsai, it's important to check the shape of the tree as it can vary depending on whether branches are extended from the trunk in a bifurcated manner or a core is created to extend the branches. Creating a "Houkidachi" Bonsai is a wonderful way to express the beauty of nature, but it requires careful maintenance to preserve the desired tree form. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=FMtooSbF&id=D694768CC0810AEBC688EEA59772EF51038E4E06&thid=OIP.FMtooSbFkqoWRii1jxeTpwHaG_&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2f4.bp.blogspot.com%2f-nCWw8SIHCh8%2fW

"Fukinagashi" is a style of Bonsai that represents a tree's struggle against harsh natural environments. The trunk and branches are inclined in one direction, giving the impression of a tree being swept by strong winds. In Bonsai, this style is achieved by inclining the trunk and creating the appearance of a tree being swept by the wind. It is also a characteristic Bonsai style, along with "Kengai", where the form is created to resemble a tree hanging from a steep cliff. When creating a "Fukinagashi" Bonsai, one-sided seedlings are selected and planted together. It's important to create harmony in the overall strength and weakness, and to keep the branches minimal, similar to the "Bunjin" style. The "Fukinagashi" style of Bonsai is a beautiful representation of the resilience of trees in the face of harsh natural conditions. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=5g49I8fN&id=E1CECA804E1B7CB8A4CB8F295C209A9

"Ikadafuki" is a method or style of Bonsai, also known as "Ikadazukuri". In this style, a tree trunk is laid down and the branches that sprout from it are trained to grow upwards, becoming new trunks. This creates a multi-trunk tree form. The name "Ikadafuki" comes from the resemblance of the tree form to a raft. This style is inspired by a common sight in the mountains, where branches sprout from a tree trunk that has fallen due to wind or snow, and these branches grow upwards to become new trunks. This tree form is older than the "Neziganari" form and is often created using the "Goyomatsu" tree. The charm of the "Ikadafuki" style lies in its expression of the robust vitality of nature. However, it has some drawbacks, such as the tendency for the base to become monotonous and the difficulty in creating depth. To overcome these drawbacks, it is recommended to use trees with patterned trunks or to lay down double or triple trun

  “Bankan” refers to a type of bonsai where the trunk is extremely compressed and twisted from the root. A Bankan must have a thick trunk and gives off a grand atmosphere. Creating a Bankan artificially is extremely difficult, and it largely depends on the nature of the tree. It’s so rare that it’s often referred to as the “phantom tree form”. Bonsai is a traditional Japanese art form that encapsulates the beauty of nature in a small pot, allowing one to enjoy the changing seasons. The Bankan style of bonsai is one example of this, recreating natural landscapes. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=qagoi5tH&id=A4478C9D7AA2470E298668155621D914A6D9D69E&thid=OIP.qagoi5tH_N_2Z5Hpcr93HQHaFj&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fi.ytimg.com%2fvi%2fghikiHjHxo4%2fhq2.jpg%3fsqp%3d-oaymwEoCOADEOgC8quKqQMcGADwAQH4Ac4FgAKACooCDAgAEAEYZSBhKFMwDw%3d%3d%26rs%3dAOn4CLCCWTI3Fby1f0D8Pd529-0eSsCUJQ&exph=360&expw=480&q=%e7%9b%86%e6%a0%bd+%e8%9f%a0%e5%b9%b9&simid=608044293

  “Kabudachi” refers to a style of bonsai where multiple trunks rise from a single root. This style can be divided into four types: Honkabu : A tree form where multiple trunks grow from the same location on a root, or where the trunk splits near the ground into multiple trunks. Yosekabu : A type of Kabudachi where multiple seedlings with a single trunk are brought together at the roots and grown as one tree. Fukashi-naoshi : A tree form where a tree that was originally a thick single trunk is cut, and many branches that have sprouted from the cut are trained as trunks. Yama-dori : Trees that were naturally growing in the mountains in the Kabudachi style are dug up and commercialized as they are, giving the most natural atmosphere. Each of these styles has a different way of growing and strength, and you can enjoy each of their individualities. Bonsai is a traditional Japanese art form that encapsulates the beauty of nature in a small pot, allowing one to enjoy the changing seasons. The

 “Nezumiganari” is a term used in bonsai to describe a style where multiple trunks extend from a single root, creating the appearance of trees huddled together. There aren’t many tree species that can form a Nezumiganari, but some examples include the Japanese white pine, Japanese yew, cedar, and Japanese maple, which are known for their ability to easily grow roots from their trunks and branches. This style is also seen in “group planting”, a technique where multiple seedlings are planted in a single pot. The key to this style is to create variation by adjusting the thickness and length of the trunks, as well as the spacing between them. Bonsai is a traditional Japanese art form that encapsulates the beauty of nature in a small pot, allowing one to enjoy the changing seasons. The Nezumiganari style of bonsai is one example of this, recreating natural landscapes. https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.EHLxid_xrHsScie2K6qJ7QHaFj?w=226&h=180&c=7&r=0&o=5&dpr=1.2&pid=1.7

"Yose-ue" in Bonsai refers to a technique where multiple trees are planted in a single pot. This style is used to recreate the scenery of multiple trees seen in nature. The basic technique of Yose-ue typically involves an odd number of trees, such as 3,5, or 7 and usually uses the same species. The arrangement of Yose-ue is based on the principle of "not aligning the trees in a straight line". It's also good to be mindful of not arranging the trees in a configuration that resembles the Chinese characters for "mountain, river, field" (山川田三). Furthermore, when creating a Yose-ue, it's generally more visually cohesive to use an odd number of trees. Yose-ue has been popular as a genre of creative Bonsai for a long time, and it is said to test the skill of the creator. The charm of Yose-ue lies in the fact that the expression of the individual tree can change greatly depending on its arrangement, such as the strength and spacing of the trunks. However,

"Sōju" in Bonsai refers to a style where two trunks rise from a single root. The taller, thicker main trunk and the other trunk are harmonized to create a symbiotic appearance. This style is considered auspicious and is popular as a Bonsai. It is also similar to the style of "group planting," where multiple trees are planted in one pot³. Bonsai is an art form that expresses the beauty of nature, and there are various styles. Each style is based on the shape of trees growing naturally. When starting Bonsai, it is important not to be confined to the framework of established styles, but to enjoy shaping the tree according to your own preferences while nurturing it.  https://auctions.c.yimg.jp/images.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/image/dr000/auc0402/users/a9b9378d8b9959a6cfb92ef1727f193a1a4c5088/i-img1200x1158-1675344955mtgmlx383047.jpg

"Sōkan" is a type of bonsai tree form where two trunks emerge from the root of a single plant. The taller and thicker trunk is called the main trunk, and the shorter and thinner one is called the secondary trunk. The harmony of the height and thickness of these two trunks is important. If the point where the trunks diverge is slightly higher, it is called a midway "sōkan". https://i.pinimg.com/originals/62/0a/d9/620ad9128ee3431e4fc62dc6dfb067a1.jpg

Ishizuki Bonsai, or rock-attached bonsai, is a type of bonsai that recreates the scenery of trees growing on rocks or stones. This kind of landscape is harsh and dramatic. The best time to create an Ishizuki Bonsai is similar to the best time for repotting, which is when you see signs of new buds sprouting in spring. Here's how to create an Ishizuki Bonsai: 1. First, find a suitable stone. The stone should have small cracks or holes where roots can wrap around or grow, ensuring space for growth. 2. Next, prepare the tree(s) to plant. You can use multiple trees. Conifers are preferred, but deciduous trees like maple can also be used. 3. The tree to be used should be healthy and have long roots. 4. Prepare a soil mixture of Akadama and Keto soil to prevent soil from washing away during watering. Ishizuki Bonsai represents trees growing on rocky surfaces in nature.  https://i.pinimg.com/originals/dd/cc/63/ddcc6314464d24fd8659e614165801f2.jpg

In Bonsai, the term "Kengai" refers to a tree form where the trunk rises from the root and immediately bends downwards in a hanging manner. The method of increasing the ornamental value by extending the main stem of the ornamental plant downwards to resemble a cliff and creating a grass or tree shape is called "Kengai-zukuri" or "Kengai-making". Kengai Bonsai mimics the harshness of the environment, but its expression requires a thick trunk that rises and the strength of the branch tips stretching upwards. In addition, there are two types of Kengai-making for Chrysanthemums: the "Sagari Kengai", which extends the stem straight down, and the "Shizuoka-type Kengai", which bends it largely to the left and right to make it a flowing type. Note that Kengai-making requires repeated pinching and fertilization during the nutrient growth period to increase the side branches. As a result, the apical buds of each side branch differentiate into flo

The term "Bunjin Bonsai" originally refers to a tree that is favored by literati. In a broader sense, it can refer to all current bonsai, but generally, it refers to a tree with a slender trunk, good age, few branches, and a tasteful and elegant structure that embodies the aesthetic of wabi-sabi. Specifically, it refers to trees with the following characteristics: Slender trunk with good age Few branches Embodies the aesthetic of wabi-sabi Elegant structure Furthermore, "oldness" is an important element of Bunjin Bonsai, and it requires a long time to achieve this. In terms of species, Japanese black pine and Japanese white pine are typical. The name "Bunjin Bonsai" originated from the tree shapes seen in Chinese Nanga paintings and was favored by literati during the Meiji era, hence the name. Nowadays, trees with slender trunks, few branches, and small branch masses are also called Bunjin Bonsai. https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.e66ad09e8fdb0ff8dae9fceb36b0642

"Moyogi" is one of the basic tree shapes of bonsai, and is a common tree shape often seen in nature and in the field of bonsai. The trunk is almost S-shaped, and each time a branch appears, it rotates and grows upwards. This creates a visually appealing curve. The taper of the trunk should be clearly visible at the base of the tree, not in the higher parts of the tree. This reflects the growth pattern of natural trees. Also, prune the inner branches so that they grow vertically from the base. This maintains the consistency and balance of the tree shape. This tree shape is the most popular tree shape regardless of tree species, is easy to maintain, and has an excellent bonsai aesthetic. The shape of a bonsai tree is created based on the individual's free interpretation and does not necessarily have to be tied to a specific tree shape. This allows creators to express themselves artistically. https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=%E6%A8%A1%E6%A7%98%E6%9C%A8%20%E7%9B%86%E6%A0%

The slanting trunk (Shakan) of Bonsai is one of the beautiful tree forms that imitate the landscapes of the natural world. The slanting trunk represents the state where the trunk rises diagonally from the root due to the wind, and its characteristic is the beauty of the inclined straight line. The feature of the slanting trunk is that by extending the branches and thickening the roots in the opposite direction of the inclination, a sense of stability is born in the Bonsai. Based on the ground, in the Bonsai tree form, a figure that tilts at an angle of about 60 degrees is often seen. The root is ideal for developing on one side to firmly support the tree. In Bonsai, the first branch is often on the opposite side of the trunk's inclination to maintain visual balance. The trunk is slightly curved or straight, but it becomes thinner from bottom to top. The slanting trunk is one of the beautiful tree forms that imitate the landscapes of the natural world, and its beauty is due to the s

A straight trunk is one of the basic forms of bonsai, characterized by a trunk that grows vertically upwards. This form is often seen in nature in ideal conditions where the wind is not too strong and there is good sunlight. The beauty of a straight trunk is judged by the condition of the moss, the arrangement of the branches, and the root spread. As it grows upwards, the trunk should become thinner, and the spacing between the branches should gradually decrease. It is also considered good for the branches to extend in all directions.

“Leafy species” is one of the classifications of bonsai, referring mainly to deciduous trees. You can enjoy the budding in spring, the deep green in summer, the autumn leaves, and the appearance after the leaves have fallen. The leafy species include the following types: Zelkova (Keyaki) Maple (Momiji) Maple (Kaede) Judas-tree species (Shide) Oak (Nara) Beech (Buna) These tree species sprout well and are strong and easy to grow, but if you neglect to pinch buds and prune, the branches will stretch and lose their shape quickly. Also, tasks such as managing sunlight and leaf pruning are important for making the autumn leaves beautiful.