Bonsai Care 101 - How long does it take to grow?
Many people decide to get a bonsai tree, and many bonsai enthusiasts love this hobby because of the challenge it presents and the amazing results you can get after years of hard work. The purpose of this guide is to give you an idea of what to expect, what to do, and what to avoid when caring for bonsai trees so that you can enjoy this hobby and see growth.
With that in mind, you may be wondering how long does it take for a bonsai tree to grow? Well, the answer is, it depends! Your bonsai tree growth times will depend on a number of factors: your tree's species, your tree's age, your tree's variety, the size of your bonsai tree, your tree's growing conditions, and your tree's cultivation methods. Here are some general timelines and age charts for a number of popular bonsai trees.
Length of Time for Your Bonsai Tree to Grow
The time it takes for your tree to grow, or to achieve its full potential, will be proportional to the amount of time you spend caring for it. Bonsai trees are a form of art and it is up to the grower to decide how the tree will look. With time and hard work, your beautiful bonsai tree will reach its full potential and become worthy of being displayed in an art gallery.
On that note, nurturing a Bonsai tree from a seed into a full-blown masterpiece can take from four to five years, then you can finally proceed with wiring, modifying, and pruning the tree. That timeframe alone proves that caring for a Bonsai tree takes time, so consider that when deciding if a Bonsai tree is right for you.
Speed Up the Process by Starting with a Pre-Grown Tree (Bonsai Trees are Already Five to Seven-Years-Old)
It is possible to purchase a bonsai tree that has already been growing for several years so that you can jump-start the growing process. In either case, there are steps you will need to take to ensure the survival and growth of your tree.
If you are starting with a seed, choose a species that will take a minimum of four years to reach maturity and germination. On the other hand, if you are starting with a pre-grown bonsai tree, choose a variety that is at least five or six years old and has thrived under a professional's hand. The important thing is to be prepared to spend time caring for your bonsai tree from then on because time is the most important factor in caring for a bonsai tree.
How Long Do Bonsai Trees Live?
The longevity of a bonsai tree will depend on many factors, but the most important one will be the tree's species. Most bonsai trees grow anywhere from 10 to 30 years, but there are some that can live up to 100 years!
Many bonsai trees are often passed down from generation to generation because of their beauty, so the trees are cared for over several generations and during each generation, the tree is shaped and sculpted by the owners. If a tree is well-maintained, it can last for a long time.
The Bottom Line: The Mysterious Nature and Beauty of Caring for a Bonsai Tree
Bonsai trees are a beautiful and fun hobby to take on and one that you can enjoy for a long time. Aside from their artistic beauty, they are great stress-relievers and a great way to spend time with your family--especially if you have kids.
Whether you get a bonsai tree or make one, it will take time, patience, and hard work to care for it properly. The end result, however, will make it all worth it.
Are You Looking for a Bonsai Store in Canada?
With a mission to share our love for the art and science of growing a Bonsai tree, we're a Bonsai store that has a wide range of bonsai trees for sale online in Canada. We also have a large selection of bonsai tools, fertilizer, soil, pottery and all you need to start and maintain your green hobby!