The Latest Bonsai and Japanese Garden Books Review 2024

Bonsai culture is incredibly spread throughout the world. From Russia to India, many people share a common interest in the fascinating Bonsai culture. Politics fails big time whereas Bonsai enthusiastic culture manages to unite the world. As time goes by, I have been reading many books on bonsai. From seed, planting, and cultivation, there is a sea of information and enrichment that one can get by reading and understanding the differences of various trees. Some like it hot, some humid, and some others dry. As this blog post gets regularly updated, please scroll to find the latest books always at the bottom.

The best is to start with a book for beginners edited by Bonsai Empire. Well, the Bonsai guide for beginners is the right choice for those who intend to enter the world of Bonsai. It all starts from nursing and watering the tree down to explanation on how to stimulate growth and upkeep. It covers the basic techniques, well illustrated with over a hundred images, and explains everything you need to know in an understandable way. The images are of great quality. The information is very useful. Many members of my bonsai society have recommended and referenced from this book. Inspirational and informative!

Going into pro territories, i would recommend the latest book Bonsai with Japanese Maples by Peter Adams. This exclusive book is for those who love Japanese Maples. Everything about bonsai with Japanese maples. Step by step on how to prune different styles. How to thicken trunks and many other tips. The examples of How-to's are colored line drawings and there are many color pictures of Japanese maples. I have used his examples on how to thicken several trunks, on how to shape/prune young trees. I use it as a reference every Spring when I re-pot and prune my maples.

Over the years, Japanese gardeners have fine-tuned a distinctive set of pruning techniques that coax out the essential characters of their garden trees, or niwaki. In this highly practical book, Western gardeners are encouraged to draw upon the techniques and sculpt their own garden trees to unique effect.Clearly illustrated for the gardener and arborist who is keen to adapt the plants of their native gardens into the traditional styles of the classical Japanese garden, as well as create their own traditional garden. This is an excellent hands on reference book with species lists, inspiring photography, as well as an interest book for those curious about the traditional horticulture of Japanese gardens. The principles can be applied to gardens throughout the western world.

Another masterpiece written by Jake Hobson is a book called The Art of Creative Pruning. Drawing on both eastern and western styles, author Jake Hobson moves beyond the traditional lollipops and animals and teaches a wholly new approach to ornamental pruning that appeals to modern sensibilities. Have been a fan of topiaries for a long time. I am impressed with this beautiful book. Lots of inspiration and information, beautifully styled and photographed. If you like shaping and pruning your garden this is the book for you!

This book is a well written and explained book on the chinese art of bonsai. Penjing explaines a very detailed version of bonsai in China. I was very curious to determine the difference between Japanese Bonsai and Chinese Penjing. Most information or searches on the internet of "Penjing" leads you towards Japanese Saikei. The book is full of great information, and absolutely gorgeous pictures, which really capture the essence of Penjing. The pictures are beautiful and the text gives you and idea of how they were accomplished. If you are wondering what's the difference between Japanese and Chinese bonsai styles, this book may be an added value to clarify.

The bonsai survival manual is an excellent book written by Colin Lewis. The book is useful as a guide in general for buying, maintaining and problem solving. It's a book for people with at least few years of experience in bonsai. The book is in fact providing detailed profiles of 50 popular varieties of bonsai plants and trees, Lewis offers expert advice on selecting suitable species and step-by-step guidance on feeding, watering, shaping, maintaining proper temperatures, and troubleshooting common problems. The book is amazingly thorough. My only complaint is that I also bought a so-called money tree and it is not included in this book at all. This was not a huge problem as there are internet sites that talk about money trees. All in all I found this to be quite a valuable book and my tea tree seems to be doing quite well.

In The Secret Techniques of Bonsai, the author of the groundbreaking Bonsai With American Trees teams up with his son to offer not only the basics for creating perfect bonsai, but also secret techniques they’ve developed over years of careful work and observation. The Kawasumis provide detailed, easy-to-follow information about growing bonsai from seedlings or beginner plants; expert advice on shaping, pruning, training, grafting and re-potting trees; and new techniques for using tools. And, although the Kawasumi family is world renowned for their bonsai tool design, their instructions allow gardeners to improvise with other readily-accessible bonsai, gardening or even simple workshop tools. Step-by-step photographs accompany the text, many in full-color. Masakuni Kawasumi III, the first qualified tree doctor for bonsai in Japan, contributes his unique insights to make this an invaluable resource for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.

Bonsai and penjing enthusiasts will be inspired by a fresh approach to miniature landscapes presented by a master artist. Mountains in the Sea, The Vietnamese Miniature Landscape Art of Hon Non Bo. Connoisseurs of miniature landscapes have long studied and appreciated the arts of bonsai from Japan and penjing from China. Until very recently, however, few outside of Viet Nam have known of an equally distinguished and vibrant art form known as "Hon Non Bo," literally "mountainous island in the sea." While bearing some similarities to bonsai and penjing in its use of stones and trees, Han Non Bo is a unique discipline influenced by the landscape of Viet Nam with its mountains, coastal scenery, and lush vegetation. Culturally, Hon Non Bo reflects the ancient Vietnamese custom of worshipping stones, trees, and rivers. Practitioners of Hon Non Bo view their art as much more than a hobby; it is a creed or form of meditation that is distinctly Vietnamese. Mountains in the Sea will appeal to readers of many backgrounds.

The most comprehensive exploration of the art of the Japanese garden published to date, this book covers more than eight centuries of the history of this important genre. Author and garden designer Sophie Walker brings fresh insight to this subject, exploring the Japanese garden in detail through a series of essays and with 100 featured gardens, ranging from ancient Shinto shrines to imperial gardens and contemporary Zen designs. Leading artists, architects, and other cultural practitioners offer personal perspectives in newly commissioned essays. 

This beautiful, full-color, authoritative book presents, in a practical yet inspirational way, Dan Barton’s expert knowledge and two decades of research on the joy of Bonsai. He gives detailed step-by-step horticultural instructions and fascinating insight into the creative process of Bonsai and provides a genuine understanding of the subject. This book is definitely one of 2020 bestsellers by Dan Barton. 

Ken Norman has been growing bonsai for over 40 years, and with his wife Ann has been awarded six Gold Medals at the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show. A highly respected bonsai artist, Ken lectures on and demonstrates the art of bonsai all over the UK. The Complete Practical Book of Bonsai: The Essential Guide to the Selection, Cultivation and Presentation of Miniature Trees and Shrubs, with Over 800 Photographs

Peter Chan has been awarded twenty-one Chelsea Flower Show gold medals, a record among bonsai specialists. He is the author of eight bestselling books on bonsai and gardening, and his books have been translated into many languages. Chan lives in the United Kingdom, where he owns and operates a bonsai nursery. The art of growing and keeping miniature trees is one of Mr. Chan's detailed explanation. I would rather say, one of the master pieces that show multiple illustrations and details around miniature trees. 

One of the great Bonsai books written by Daiki Sato in 2020. A comprehensive guide to growing, pruning, wiring and caring for your Bonsai trees. Opening with a definition of bonsai shares the author’s concern for fine teaching: ‘Bonsai is a botanical art form used to cultivate small trees to the shape of larger trees. Although the roots of this horticultural practice originated with the Chinese art of penjing (tray planting), the Zen Buddhists of Japan laid the foundation for modern bonsai gardening more than a thousand years ago. The word bonsai in Japanese is made up of two parts: bon meaning “tray”, and sai meaning “Planting.” The literal translation of the word bonsai means “planted in a tray.”

The modern Bonsai practice is another masterpiece by Larry Morton. This book can be found in the upper price range but you will notice why once you flip through this book. The most current, useful information on growing Bonsai. Fresh, practical, definitive, comprehensive reference guide to the finest art of horticulture: growing miniature trees. Common sense bonsai answers separating myth from fact with depth and detail. Appropriate for both bonsai hobbyists and experienced practitioners. 

Among the first titles published in 1978, with more than 150,000 copies in print in three editions, Japanese Maples is a Timber Press classic. Japanese maples are unlike any other tree. They boast a remarkable diversity of color, form, and texture. As a result of hundreds of years of careful breeding, they take the center stage in any garden they are found. In the last decade, the number of Japanese maple cultivars available to gardeners has doubled and there is a pressing need for an up-to-date reference. This new fourth edition offers detailed descriptions of over 150 new introductions, updates to plant nomenclature, and new insights into established favorites.

The latest and amazing book of Bonsai written by Aiko Sato. With the practice of growing bonsai having benefits like being therapeutic and a great stress reliever, purifying the air in your home or living space, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment amongst other benefits, it's easy to see why the practice isn't going to die out anytime soon. In this comprehensive guide, you're going to be handed all the instruction and techniques you need to successfully grow a bonsai tree without fuss. With tips ranging from selecting your bonsai and caring for them, you'll become an expert in growing bonsai tree in no time. The intriguing history of the practice of growing bonsai that will probably blow your mind.Types of bonsai trees and how to figure out which specimen that's best for you or your next bonsai project.

Let Happy Bonsai guide you along the path to enlightenment, with care and display profiles for 40 top trees and fully illustrated step-by-steps of more than 20 bonsai techniques and styles. Find your perfect tree and discover how to prune, shape, and tend to its needs to create a beautiful living sculpture. Fall in love with this most meditative of garden crafts. The author Michael Tran owns and runs his own bonsai nursery in Germany, where he specializes in European bonsai species. Born in 1982, he began his bonsai training with Mr. Udo Fischer and had the chance to meet and learn from Japanese masters while under his wing. After two years he became self-taught, and his mastery of bonsai at a young age led him to be called a prodigy. Today he is honored to have some of Europe's oldest, prize-winning masterpieces in his care, which have been passed down to him from the first generation of European bonsai practitioners. Michael has published many articles in bonsai magazines and gives lectures, workshops, and demonstrations all over Europe.

One of the best and easy to understand bonsai book by Masao Hideyoshi. Straight forward to the point that as a beginner you may succeed or fail in your endeavor to Bonsai. This guide will help you in making choices in all aspects of Bonsai that make you more knowledgeable and learn. While there are some basics you need to learn to keep your Bonsai flourishing, it's not nearly as difficult as most believe. This book points you in the right direction to get you started and keep your Bonsai's thriving.

 

This note book is practical if you have more than one tree. Simply because the bonsai control sheet notebook helps Bonsai enthusiasts to keep record on wiring, pruning, fertilizers and watering and reporting. Basically it's all on record for each tree species. Every tree species has a different time line and also watering may be different too. Therefore it is vital to have the situation under control to avoid unnecessary pests or diseases that may occur if over watering etc. 

Chinese Elm Bonsai

This type of tree is the most common kind of bonsai and generally the first one most people will own. Without some information on how to look after them they are also usually the last one they will ever have after it struggles and then finally gives up. Bonsai in general symbolise peace, harmony, order of thoughts and balance. Known as 'The tree of harmony', the Elm symbolises inner strength, intuition and wisdom. A beautiful bonsai which signifies love, balance, calm and a peaceful energy. Here an illustration from the popular channel Bonsai Empire;

They are tough and able to survive the hazards of life indoors, difficult for any tree. Chinese Elm have very small leaves, rugged bark, fine branches and nice roots. Large trees have real charisma and the wow factor. Small ones can be bought cheaply. The tree is semi-decidious and will either keep or partially loose its leaves depending on the conditions in which is it kept. Branch protection is vital for Bonsai's to survive in the long run. Efficient would be tree raffia which can be found here --> Bonsai Tree Raffia

Positioning

The Chinese Elm is an easy bonsai to care for. It is not overly fussy about positioning but prefers a position with good natural daylight but out of direct sunlight, especially during the hottest summer months. We recommend a position away from radiators if possible. A window sill would be great but avoid south facing window-sills in mid summer.

Temperature

As an indoor bonsai the Chinese Elm is not fussy about temperature. If you are growing your bonsai outside, please place in a sheltered position in the garden. Outside this bonsai is semi-evergreen so you should expect the leaves to drop. For very cold nights (below freezing) we would recommend that you bring the bonsai into a shed, glasshouse or cool room. Once nightly lows begin approaching the 40 degree mark, it is time to bring your indoor bonsai inside. The ideal indoor location is on a window sill facing south. An east or west exposure is second best. A northern exposure will work, but will necessitate the use of "grow lights" to provide sufficient light to keep your bonsai healthy. Four to six hours of sunlight per day should suffice. If you can provide more, so much the better.

Watering

Aim to maintain an even level of moisture. The species is quite thirsty especially in hot or sunny conditions. Pot emersion watering can be done or the tree can be watered from above. It largely depending on when the tree was last re-potted and what mixture of organic or inorganic soil medium was used.

Pruning 

Chinese Elms can be very vigorous growers which can resemble fluffy bushes in as little as a couple of weeks. the leaves group alternatively on straight shoots.If you seek simply to maintain the existing shape of a pre-made bonsai, cut the shoots back to the first set of new leaves after the shoot has got an inch or two in length. It also responds will to finger pinching of small shoots on an ongoing basis.

Growing Chinese Elm

We are frequently asked for bonsai seed kits but the reality is that thee kits are rather a disappointed. They frequently don't germinate and it is not the best way to propagate indoor bonsai trees. You are far better to purchase a bonsai, so you can enjoy growing it, and propagate new bonsai by taking cuttings. These are best taken in spring. Allow new shoots to grow 8-10cm and then prune with clean pruning scissors. Pop these cuttings into some fresh multipurpose compost in a small pot. Water them and then keep misting to maintain humidity.

More Bonsai articles can be found here:

Please click here for more information on --> Chinese Penjing Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> The Origins of Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> The Art of Saikei Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> Japanese Tanuki Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> How to Water a Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> Bonsai Healing Methods

Interesting Books on Bonsai can be found here:

The Complete Book of Bonsai --> I've been into bonsai for 25 years and this is the basic Bible for beginner and intermediate bonsai enthusiasts. It has an excellent section on techniques, including pruning, wiring and whatnot, and it has a large species-specific tree guide. If you're into bonsai and want only one book, this is it.

Indoor Bonsai The Great Selection --> Creating beautiful, healthy bonsai is a wonderful skill that anyone can learn, with a little time, patience, and this all-inclusive manual. With color photos and drawings to illustrate the points, it introduces all the cultivation techniques; offers expert advice on location, soil types, watering, and pest control; and provides intricate instruction on training the bonsai--including pruning, wiring and stretching it.

The Secret Techniques of Bonsai --> In The Secret Techniques of Bonsai, the author of the groundbreaking Bonsai With American Trees teams up with his son to offer not only the basics for creating perfect bonsai, but also secret techniques they’ve developed over years of careful work and observation.

Bonsai Survival Manual --> Problem solving when your Bonsai get sick. Expand your gardening repertoire as you create a captivating and exquisite miniature world. In this introductory guide, Colin Lewis covers everything you need to know to design, grow, and successfully maintain attractive bonsai.

Bonsai and the art of Penjing --> Bonsai & Penjing, Ambassadors of Beauty and Peace describes how Chinese penjing and North American bonsai were later added to the Museum, making its collection the most comprehensive in the world. Stories of individual trees and forest plantings are featured, as are the roles played by the skilled and talented creators of these living art forms people such as John Naka, Saburo Kato, Yuji Yoshimura, Harry Hirao, and Dr. Yee-Sun Wu.

Bonsai with Japanese Maples --> With their delicate foliage, seasonal color changes, and intricate pattern of branching, Japanese maples are among the most popular and suitable plants for bonsai design. In this long-awaited book, internationally renowned expert Peter Adams discusses both the specific horticultural needs of Japanese maples as bonsai subjects and illustrates proven techniques for creating and maintaining beautiful specimens.

The Modern Bonsai Practice --> The most current, useful information on growing Bonsai. Fresh, practical, definitive, comprehensive reference guide to the finest art of horticulture: growing miniature trees. Common sense bonsai answers separating myth from fact with depth and detail. Appropriate for both bonsai hobbyists and experienced practitioners.

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Harmony in a Miniature World: The Art and History of Penjing in Hainan

Hainan, the tropical jewel of China, is not only celebrated for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture but also for its deeply rooted tradition of penjing. As a captivating form of Chinese art, penjing is akin to bonsai in its endeavor to capture the essence of nature within miniature landscapes. This story explores the rich history, cultural significance, and passionate practitioners of penjing in Hainan, delving into the mystical world where harmony, beauty, and nature coexist in diminutive form.

The Birth of Hainan Penjing

The roots of penjing in Hainan can be traced back to ancient China, where early practitioners sought to recreate nature's beauty within a confined space. We'll uncover the historical origins of penjing and how this art form evolved over time to reflect Hainan's unique natural environment.

Hainan's Natural Bounty

Hainan's diverse flora and climate have provided the ideal backdrop for the growth of penjing. This section explores the unique plant species that thrive on the island and the impact they've had on the development of Hainan penjing. It was estimated that approximately 60% of the island is covered by forests. The gardens on Hainan Island can be stunning and diverse. The island's tropical climate allows for lush and vibrant vegetation to flourish, creating beautiful landscapes and gardens. 

There are numerous botanical gardens, parks, and cultivated areas showcasing a wide variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors often find the gardens in Hainan to be quite beautiful, offering colorful displays and serene settings to explore and enjoy.

Sanya: Known for its stunning beaches, Sanya also hosts some beautiful gardens like the Luhuitou Park with its lush greenery and panoramic views.

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park: This park not only offers forested areas but also showcases tropical plants and flowers.

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone: It features the Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Park with meticulously landscaped gardens and beautiful statues.

Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County: Here, the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone presents visitors with various gardens amidst the rainforest setting.

These locations stand out for their diverse flora, well-maintained landscapes, and often stunning views. Each garden or park offers its unique charm, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Hainan's natural surroundings.

The Artistry of Hainan Penjing

Penjing is more than just gardening; it is an art form that requires deep knowledge of horticulture and an artist's eye for design. We will delve into the techniques and principles that transform a simple pot of plants into a breathtaking miniature landscape.

Styles and Variations

Hainan penjing, like other regional penjing traditions, boasts a variety of styles, each with its own distinctive characteristics. From the rustic and natural to the more refined and intricate, we will explore the diverse penjing styles that have evolved in Hainan.

Penjing Masters of Hainan

Hainan has produced some of China's most esteemed penjing masters. This section profiles these revered figures and their contributions to the art, as well as the stories and legends that have made them famous.

The Contemporary Guardians

In the modern era, a new generation of penjing artists has emerged in Hainan, carrying on the legacy of their predecessors. We will meet these contemporary artists and witness their dedication to preserving and evolving the art of penjing in Hainan.

The Cultural Significance of Hainan Penjing

Penjing has always held a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing harmony, balance, and the deep connection between humans and nature. This section explores the cultural significance of penjing in Hainan and China at large.

Penjing in Daily Life

Hainan's residents have integrated penjing into their daily lives, from private gardens to public parks. We will delve into the role of penjing in the island's culture and how it influences the way people interact with nature.

Preserving the Legacy

While Hainan's penjing tradition is rich and thriving, it faces its own set of challenges, from environmental concerns to changing cultural landscapes. This section addresses the hurdles that must be overcome to ensure the art's continuation.

Conservation and Education

Preserving the legacy of Hainan penjing requires dedicated efforts in conservation and education. We'll explore initiatives aimed at safeguarding this living art form for future generations.

The Heart of Hainan Penjing

Hainan's penjing tradition encapsulates the island's essence, blending nature's bounty with artistic expression, and embodying a profound connection to the natural world. Through the stories of its practitioners and the history of its development, we discover the heart of Hainan penjing – a world where beauty thrives in miniature, and harmony is celebrated in every pot of plants.

Hainan's penjing tradition is a captivating journey that unveils the beauty and culture of this tropical paradise. While this story offers a glimpse into the world of penjing in Hainan, it's important to remember that the real depth of this art form can only be fully appreciated by immersing oneself in its world, exploring the gardens, and engaging with the passionate artists who bring these miniature landscapes to life.

Interesting Books on Bonsai can be found here:

The Complete Book of Bonsai --> I've been into bonsai for 25 years and this is the basic Bible for beginner and intermediate bonsai enthusiasts. It has an excellent section on techniques, including pruning, wiring and whatnot, and it has a large species-specific tree guide. If you're into bonsai and want only one book, this is it.

Indoor Bonsai The Great Selection --> Creating beautiful, healthy bonsai is a wonderful skill that anyone can learn, with a little time, patience, and this all-inclusive manual. With color photos and drawings to illustrate the points, it introduces all the cultivation techniques; offers expert advice on location, soil types, watering, and pest control; and provides intricate instruction on training the bonsai--including pruning, wiring, and stretching it.

The Secret Techniques of Bonsai --> In The Secret Techniques of Bonsai, the author of the groundbreaking Bonsai With American Trees teams up with his son to offer not only the basics for creating perfect bonsai but also secret techniques they’ve developed over years of careful work and observation.

Bonsai Survival Manual --> Problem solving when your Bonsai get sick. Expand your gardening repertoire as you create a captivating and exquisite miniature world. In this introductory guide, Colin Lewis covers everything you need to know to design, grow, and successfully maintain attractive bonsai.

Bonsai and the art of Penjing --> Bonsai & Penjing, Ambassadors of Beauty and Peace describe how Chinese penjing and North American bonsai were later added to the Museum, making its collection the most comprehensive in the world. Stories of individual trees and forest plantings are featured, as are the roles played by the skilled and talented creators of these living art forms people such as John Naka, Saburo Kato, Yuji Yoshimura, Harry Hirao, and Dr. Yee-Sun Wu.

Bonsai with Japanese Maples --> With their delicate foliage, seasonal color changes, and intricate pattern of branching, Japanese maples are among the most popular and suitable plants for bonsai design. In this long-awaited book, internationally renowned expert Peter Adams discusses both the specific horticultural needs of Japanese maples as bonsai subjects and illustrates proven techniques for creating and maintaining beautiful specimens.

The Modern Bonsai Practice --> The most current, useful information on growing Bonsai. Fresh, practical, definitive, comprehensive reference guide to the finest art of horticulture: growing miniature trees. Common sense bonsai answers separating myth from fact with depth and detail. Appropriate for both bonsai hobbyists and experienced practitioners.

More Bonsai articles can be found here:

Please click here for more information on --> Chinese Penjing Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> The Origins of Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> The Art of Saikei Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> Japanese Tanuki Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> How to Water a Bonsai

Please click here for more information on --> Bonsai Healing Methods

Please click here for more information on --> Bonsai Books Review