Being an avid lover of gardening with itchy green fingers, I have over the years succeeded in growing and nurturing a variety of indoor plants. However, a couple of years ago my life changed - for the better; it was the day I was introduced to the fascinating living art form of growing Bonsai plants.

‘Bonsai’ originated in China and paintings during the period AD 96-1280 show the use of dwarfed trees in containers for house decoration. And according to documentary evidence, Japan adopted this art form during the 12th and 13th centuries.

Bonsai literally means a "tree in a pot." The tree and pot, though small, convey the image of a large mature tree, with all its characteristics of age and natural aesthetic appearance. I prefer to call a Bonsai grower an artist, who, with patience, dedication and with an eye for beauty, creates a masterpiece of a living tree in a small pot.

Bonsai really is on the one hand an art form, as it appeals to the aesthetic senses and at the same time is also a science, as it makes use of horticultural techniques in order to grow a healthy plant. Growing Bonsai is different from the growing of normal ornamental plants where the concentration is on the flowers, fruits and foliage. In growing Bonsai, the focus is on the combination of tree and container, presenting the image of a miniaturized giant tree, in a manner pleasing to the viewer. Especially during the past 50 years or so, many countries around the world have taken up this art form.

Here are some general principles and characteristics of Bonsai:

In creating classical Bonsai hardwood trees and shrubs are used.

Trees are dwarfed by means of root restriction within a small pot or shallow tray, accompanied with systematic pruning of branches and roots.

Small leaved trees are preferred to those with large leaves.

Bonsai are sun loving plants and should be grown in areas with adequate light.

Some of the trees that are suitable to be grown as Bonsai are Ironwood, Woodapple, Pomegranate, Mandarin, Mahogany, Rhododendron, Hawthorn – and of course, many more varieties.

There are a large number of books and magazines in the market that give step by step instructions on how to grow and care for a Bonsai plant. Be adventurous and try – it will no doubt open a wonderful new path to the art of gardening.