: a potted plant (such as a tree) dwarfed (as by pruning) and trained to an artistic shape
Merriam Webster Dictionary
also : the art of growing such a plant
A bonsai is an art form of pruning and reshaping small trees and shrubs. It is a centuries-old practice of managing a living tree in a manageable, miniature form. It is a balance between art and nature, a blend of art and horticulture.
To start a bonsai, gardeners acquire a suitable tree and nurture it through various stages of growth. To shape the bonsai, gardeners use techniques like pruning, wiring, and grafting to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. Once the desired shape is achieved, gardeners take care to protect the tree from environmental hazards, including pest infestations, frost damage, and over-watering.
Wise Moon Garden 