Beautiful Bonsai

Beautiful Bonsai
by Bruno Delmer
ISBN 1402714335 HC pp.159
Published 2002
Sterling Publishing Co, Inc.

This “hard cover” book offers a lot of insight into plant selection, e.g.: indoors or out and general care. The book is not very descriptive and is more suited for the coffee table than the reference library. This was the second book I purchased, because it broke down various species and their use. It does not contain bonsai techniques perse, but does breakdown the species in:

a. Broad-leafed trees
b. Evergreen trees
c. Tropical Trees

Bonsai School

Bonsai School
by Craig Coussins
ISBN1402703686 HC pp.256
Published 2003
Sterling Publishing Co, Inc

Each part of Bonsai School examines the techniques required to create a bonsai in depth. Part one and thus, the two opening chapters explain the history of the art of miniaturizing trees. Craig has worked closely with Bonsai Historian Robert Baran to tell the true history of bonsai, thereby clearing up some of the myths and misinformation that are occasionally put forward.

Part two consists of four chapters that together form a structured course in how to create a bonsai, covering popular methods and techniques, as well as trees suitable for bonsai culture.

The third part of the book builds on an explanation of bonsai techniques and styles with a series of photo essays that systematically cover many bonsai-creating techniques. The fourth part of the book explores those areas of interest that are associated with bonsai, namely suiseki, Chinese viewing stones, pots and tools.

The book is well illustrated and contains a good section on tree selection for bonsai, other than that it is a bit disappointing. The section on pest and diseases is shallow in my opinion. The emphasis of the book seems to be placed on going “gaga” with the historical inspiration and pretty pictures. It does have a good section on styling techniques by Michael Persianno and Bill Valavanis, in the meantime it leaves the reader flat. I awaited this book with great anticipation after reading about it on Craig’s site. Totally Bonsai by the same author will provide more to the novice than Bonsai School in my opinion. A good read which belongs on the coffee table vice a reference library.

Complete book of Bonsai

Complete book of Bonsai
by Harry Tomlinson
ISBN 1558591184 HC pp.224
Published 1990
Abbeville Press

Harry Tomlinson is one of Europe’s leading bonsai artists and instructors. He has practiced and studied the principles for over thirty years and is a recognized authority on the subject.

With so many books out there, the vast majority being repetitive, it was indeed refreshing to find one with a unique blend of information and ideas. Not unlike other good books, I found the description on the origins, development of bonsai and it’s underlying principles clearly explained. It contains an in depth section on how to create a bonsai from seedling, cutting or nursery stock. Clear step-by step instructions take you from the initial raw material through to the finished bonsai. All the tools and techniques are clearly illustrated and explained. Their use is described in full detail. I found the section on containers extremely informative. Although brief, the attention to details in this short section is commensurate with the rest of the book. As most artist, the choice of the right pot is often difficult, this is especially true when one has developed a world class bonsai, where the pot becomes an integral part of the composition/illusion. This book contains a good explanation on suitability and use of each, unlike other manuals that seem to give the reader a mere cursory or general overview on containers

The heart of this book is a photographic catalog of bonsai trees and shrubs, providing the cultivation and styling details of over 100 different species. The end of the book encompasses a compendium of over 300 trees and shrubs that can be developed as bonsai including individual growing requirements and needs. This hardcover full colour book make it a worthwhile investment.

Complete guide to Trees and Shrubs

Complete guide to
Trees and Shrubs
By Ortho Books
ISBN 0897215001 SC pp 224
Published 2004
Meredith Publishing Group

Undoubtedly a comprehensive writing on trees and shrubs. Not only does this volume assist bonsai enthusiasts in plant/tree selections, it is a great assistance in the landscape.

I have found this book extremely useful when making selections for the landscape. It describes in detail the suitability of the tree in relation to any landscape, soil condition. light, hardiness zones to name a few. Whilst this book was not designed with bonsai enthusiasts in mind, individual growth habits of trees and shrubs will greatly assist you in making an informed decision when choosing bonsai subjects.

This book contains an extensive section on pruning and maintenance as applied to the landscape. It is amusing to find some of the guidelines listed in this particular section, have been seen before in bonsai books. It is my opinion that far too many folks just plant out their trees and shrubs without any thought to growth patterns and necessary maintenance, to finally wind up with trees and shrubs that have become unmanageable. Too often these shrubs will find their way to the curbside because of negligence. Trees on the other hand are often frail and fail in severe adverse weather conditions, where a little forethought would have prevented the latter.

A definite asset to anyone's reference library.