The Art of Bonsai: Small in Size, but Grand in Meaning

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BY CAMILA VALLEJOCARLA MCELROY PHOTOS

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Small:

an adjective often used to describe insignificance or the beginning of something expected to grow. In today’s world, we all start small: our houses, salaries and even our size. But in a quaint greenhouse off Tolland Turnpike in Manchester, small means years of dedication, culture and value - more than you might imagine.

“Think small, grow bonsai” is imprinted on a nondescript postcard stuck to the entrance of Bonsai Gardens of Connecticut, a clue to the magic that waits inside. Enter the bonsai nursery and you’ll find yourself in the midst of a miniature forest of conifers, cacti, fruit trees and more ranging in rarity.

If you’re already a fan of bonsai, get ready to spend some money. But if you were just driving by and stopped to see why there might be a greenhouse attached to a used car dealership, you’re like most customers and just found the “best hidden secret,” says Victor Eng, owner. He’s a bonsai specialist and penjing artist.

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“Think small, grow bonsai”

Originally from China and deemed a national art form in Japan, bonsai has brought the beauty of nature to our fingertips for centuries, giving us a live, never-ending view of trees often found in the wild. And with good reason, because who hasn’t looked at a tree hovering high above with overwhelming admiration?

“The whole aesthetic of bonsai is to make the plant, tree, shrub or flower look like an old tree. An old tree’s features tell you what it’s been through and how strong it is. It’s inspirational, and we replicate that through bonsai,” says Victor.

Contrary to popular belief, bonsai, meaning “planted in shallow vessel” or “tray plating,” are not genetically modified to obtain their distinct size and features. Ordinary trees and shrubs are instead carefully trained and shaped in shallow pots for years on end to remain miniature. Inspired by trees that thrive despite harsh conditions, bonsai come in many styles: from those that are grown downwards, mimicking the effects of a waterfall to those swept to one side by the wind. A practice so full of care and attention, Victor refers to it as pampering the plants. He’s been mastering the skill for the last 47 years.

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Despite his own Chinese ethnicity, Victor had no knowledge of bonsai growing up in Flushing, Queens. But everything changed when he stumbled upon his first tiny tree.

“I was in my early twenties, having dinner with my wife and friends when I saw a miniature tree with a tiny scene at the base. I was stunned. I wanted one for myself,” Victor recalls.

He immediately bought his first round of bonsai, which he admits to accidentally killing, and you could say the rest was history. Victor went on to study as an apprentice under Frank Okamura, bonsai master and former curator for the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Victor eventually opened Bonsai Dynasty, Inc., his first retail store in New York City - and one of the largest in the country, according to his website.

Now relocated to the Greater Hartford Area, Victor’s door remains open six days a week for seasoned bonsai owners and beginners alike. Whether you’re planning your next garden or simply want to add some greenery to your work desk, bonsai adorn any space with grace.

For the average beginner, he recommends an umbrella tree or small leaf jade, both of which require minimal care. But for those willing to take on a challenge, he offers anything from Japanese red maples to calamondin orange trees - great for garnishes. And for succulent lovers, a jade or cactus bonsai provides all the same perks as the popular plants, but with the added bonus of shaping it your own taste.

“find yourself in the midst of a miniature forest...”

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“Regardless of what bonsai steals your heart,

care is key to keeping them sm

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“One of the reasons why succulents and cacti have become popular is because they thrive on neglect. If you don’t water an average bonsai, you might be in trouble. But succulents can be bonsai too. We have something for everyone,” Victor says.

Bonsai have garnered popularity for their styling, but also their cost. An average beginner bonsai can range between $20 to $90, but with proper care and dedication its value can increase by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The beauty of bonsai is their potential to be ageless and passed down through generations, Victor says.

“If you start a bonsai right now, in your early twenties, it should last as long as you live and even help pay for your kid’s tuition,” he adds.

Regardless of what bonsai steals your heart, care is key to keeping them small and healthy. Watering, fertilizing and constant pruning are all a must. But repotting is also high on the list. Luckily it only has to be done every 3 to 5 years, depending on the bonsai. For those who aren’t sure where to start, Victor hosts six small-group workshops every spring and fall, hoping to share his art with others.

Shifting from store owner to sensei, Victor highlights the rich history of bonsai and helps students create their very own potted tree. Workshops range from traditional shaping methods and aging techniques to creating your own stone pot and mini bonsai landscapes - Victor’s specialty. Beyond creating beautifully sculpted dwarf trees from just about any species, Victor specializes in penjing, the art of miniature landscapes.

all and healthy.”

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“I like people

Penjing elevates the traditional bonsai and creates a natural scene with the use of different colored gravel and miniature figurines. Victor can replicate a serene river under a bridge or a classic American golf scene. “Penjing uses feng shui elements to depict the harmony between heaven, man and earth in one miniature landscape,” he says.

Victor’s mission is to help his customers master the art of bonsai as he has, whether it’s welcoming them to visit with bonsai issues, or boarding plants at a small cost for those on vacation. At Bonsai Gardens

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and

I like plants.

People say I’m really lucky

to do what I do.”

of Connecticut you’ll find undivided attention and timeless advice, often lacking at big-box retailers that might also sell these tiny trees. Bonsai is an art form, and every student needs a teacher.

“Bonsai has been around for centuries and for as long as I’ve been doing it, I’m just a flash in the pan. But I like people and I like plants. People say I’m really lucky to do what I do,” Victor says.

Bonsai Gardens of Connecticut is located at 1 Tolland Turnpike in Manchester, Connecticut. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information on workshops and services, visit Bonsai Gardens of CT on Facebook.

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