Germinating bonsai seedsWhen the bonsai tree was first introduced in Japan there was a only one type of tree that was used. Clearly, this one tree type was created from one type of bonsai seed. Today however, there are over 250 different types of trees that can be selected to be grown as a bonsai tree. There are many positive benefits that gardeners receive from caring and nurturing for a bonsai tree. Perhaps the main one is the ascetic appreciation of nature represented in these miniature works of art. Another benefit is the calming and soulful feelings that arise within the enthusiasts' hearts and minds as they care for their bonsai gardens. What better way to capture the entire process of that bonsai experience than to grow a tree in a tray from a single bonsai seed? Once you have purchased your selected bonsai seed, the first step is to wake the seeds up. This awakening from its dormancy is accomplished by a process called cold stratifying. Cold stratification can be accomplished in the home by placing your bonsai seeds inside a polythene sandwich bag. Moistened vermiculite is then placed within this bag at a ratio of 10 to 20 times vermiculite to seed. It is recommended that to prevent fungus the vermiculite is sprayed with an anti-fungal solution. This bag should then be placed in the crisper compartments of your refrigerator. This awakening process should be complete within two to three months when you will be ready for the next step. The bonsai seeds are now ready for germination. After completing the recommended period of cold stratification in your refrigerator the seeds can be removed and sprayed with an anti-fungal solution prior to being sown. The prepared bonsai seeds are then ready to be placed in some potting compost contained in a potting bed or single pot. The soil should not be compacted but should be left loose within the bed or popped. This would allow the air to circulate within the soil and prevent the growth of fungus. The prepared bonsai seeds are now ready to be planted into the soil to begin germination. The seeds should lie within the soil at a depth of a quarter to half an inch. If the bonsai tree is to be planted outdoors then the seed should be pushed deeper into the soil up to a depth of around an inch. If this germination is started in the spring it is better carried on outdoors. As your seeds begin this that to germinate keep a watchful eye on them. Gently push the seeds back into the soil if they surface. Keep the soil moist by watering it evenly. The soil should never be soaked but always kept damp. Next, it's simply a case of sitting back and waiting for your bonsai trees to sprout. This is a Snippet Click here to read more
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