Bonsai Trees: The Perfect Gift For Any Occasion

Stand out from the crowd with your holiday gifts this year by giving the gift of a bonsai!

 

Trying to find an original and meaningful holiday gift? Give the gift of luck with a beautiful bonsai tree this holiday season. Not only are they rich in history, they are also surprisingly easy to care for when given the proper tools and methods. Read on for more information on the history behind Bonsai trees, as well as tips and tricks for selecting and properly caring for your perfect gift this holiday season!

 

History of Bonsai Trees 

Bonsai is a Japanese term—when translated, it means “planted in a container.” The art of bonsai has been practiced for thousands of years. Chinese Buddhist monks have been cultivating miniature forms of trees since 500 or 1000 BC, while ancient Chinese elites would practice the artform on native specimens and give them away throughout the country as gifts.

The bonsai tree represents peace, balance, harmony, and luck; and are typically given as presents to symbolize friendship, loyalty, love, and respect. Their meaning doesn’t stop there. If you receive a bonsai tree as a gift, fortune favors you twofold. It is, therefore, no surprise that bonsais continue to be such a popular gift to give to friends, family, and loved ones!

 

How To Gift a Bonsai Tree 

It can be difficult to find a gift as unique as a bonsai tree, so if you’re looking to stand out and give something with a bit more meaning this holiday season, look no further. Bonsais are a unique, organic piece of art that your loved one can be gifted to add visual appeal and charm to their interior spaces. 

Because they often contain everything your loved one will need to get started, “grow your own” bonsai kits can be a great option, especially for those last-minute gift-givers. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more personal, you can never go wrong with a fully-grown plant. Houseplants such as ficus, Chinese elms, junipers, and small-leaf jades can all be turned into great-looking bonsai trees that are ideal for beginners. Customize your gift even more by picking out a planter or pot for the bonsai to live in, and accessorize with a bow and optional rock, crystal or moss features. To go the ultimate length, include some additional supplies to help your recipient care for their new bonsai. Soil, fertilizer, and a sharp pair of small pruners are all great additions to your gift.

 

Bonsai Tree Care 

Your recipient can enjoy their holiday bonsai for many years to come if they give it the proper care and attention. To help your loved one care for their bonsai tree, print out these instructions and include them with your gift:

 

Positioning

Bonsais do their best in humid environments with a temperature between 54 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Because keeping their soil moist is essential, it is important to keep them away from direct heat sources and drafts, as these can cause them to dry out quicker.

 

Lighting

Bonsai require direct sunlight, a lack of direct sun will damage them over time, causing weak foliage and other issues. Aim for a window that receives 5-6 hours of sunlight daily. A south-facing window is ideal.

 

Water 

Bonsai trees are planted in smaller pots. Since these pots are so shallow, the soil content is much smaller than a regular houseplant. For best results, water your bonsai tree every four to seven days, never letting the soil dry out completely. 

Remember too, that as the seasons change, so will your bonsai’s watering needs. These miniature-grown trees typically require less water and fertilizer in the winter than in the summer months, so make sure to adjust accordingly to prevent overwatering and overfertilizing. 

 

Soil 

In order for your bonsai to last, it needs to have consistent access to water, nutrients, and air through a good quality soil recipe. Typically, Bonsai soil mixtures are made up of a variety of different materials, such as:

• Akadama
• Lava rock
• Pumice
• Peat
• Organic potting compost
• Gravel

Our team at Primex Garden Center can help answer any questions you might have about soil suitability, and can help you find the perfect soil for your bonsai!

 

Bonsai trees are the perfect option for those looking to give a unique, meaningful gift this holiday season. Given the proper care and attention, they are sure to grace your loved ones with peace, luck, and harmony for years to come. Wondering where to buy bonsai trees as holiday gifts? Come see us today!