Fake Bonsai Tree - Beautiful Trees Without a Green Thumb
A fake bonsai tree is a great idea for those who appreciate the look and beauty of this ancient Japanese tradition, but who do not have the time, patience, or skills to prune and sculpt real bonsai trees for themselves. The bonsai tradition dates back over a thousand years and like the Chinese art of penjing it relates to growing miniature trees in shallow containers. Clamping, pruning, shaping, re-potting, grafting, wiring and other methods can take years and even decades to achieve the desired affect. Decorators and fans of minimalist design may not have the desire to wait and a fake bonsai tree can offer instant gratification.
Types of Artificial Bonsai Trees
The varieties of fake bonsai trees available on the market today mimic the wider range of sizes and styles found in real bonsai. The main things for a buyer to consider are species, size, materials and style. It is almost certain that a suitable synthetic tree can be found with just a bit of effort.
The same tree species used in genuine bonsai gardening can be found in the world of fakes. Oaks, sequoias, pine, elm, and juniper are all popular tree species that can be carefully sculpted to resemble their larger cousins. Many of these styles are notoriously difficult to cultivate as miniatures naturally. Fortunately, the fake trees eliminate the work, but retain all the beauty of real trees.
Depending upon where the tree will be displayed the buyer will want to consider a range of sizes. Artificial trees can range from several feet tall to just a few inches and everywhere in between. Some enjoy them as table centerpieces, on coffee tables or displayed under a spotlight on a sideboard. Just as there is no real wrong way to display these beautiful trees, there is no real right size. Many sizes and styles serve many different purposes.
Cost is certainly a factor and it can be based on materials and level of detail in the fake bonsai tree. Some companies use clay to sculpt the trunk. Others use natural wood or roots to create the base form. These can be weathered, painted, etched, carved, and then leaves or needles attached to limbs. No matter what materials are used the most reliable companies can produce an excellent mimic of a real tree.
Style is very important and ranges from formal to many informal styles. Formal bonsai are straight and upright. The many informal styles can slant to the side or even cascade to hang down under the level of the growing pot. This is all based on personal preference, but the slanted style is a very popular choice.
Caring for Fake Bonsai Trees
Japan is proud to display several trees that are hundreds of years old. These amazing trees are truly natural wonders and awe-inspiring. The constant care needed to maintain bonsai is very time consuming and requires excellent skills to do it well. Artificial trees only need to be concerned with a few rules depending upon manufacturer. Care varies widely, but most call for no direct sunlight and no wet cloth to wipe them off. It could hardly be simpler! When properly maintained, these trees will provide a peaceful display for decades.
The timeless beauty and unique look of a bonsai tree is truly a joy to behold. Modern technology and manufacturing processes allow any homeowner to afford a fake bonsai tree that is so lifelike it can fool many people. They make wonderful indoor displays in almost any type of interior space.
