The Complete Book of Bonsai: A Practical Guide to Its Art and Cultivation

The Complete Book of Bonsai: A Practical Guide to Its Art and Cultivation” is a must-have for anyone passionate about the art of bonsai. Authored by renowned bonsai expert Harry Tomlinson, this comprehensive guide offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike. The book covers every aspect of bonsai cultivation, from selecting the right tree species and containers to mastering pruning techniques and achieving aesthetic harmony. What sets this guide apart is its clear and concise instructions, accompanied by stunning photographs that illustrate each step of the bonsai journey. Tomlinson’s expertise shines through in his meticulous explanations of bonsai styling principles, including shaping, wiring, and repotting. His insights into bonsai care, including watering, fertilizing, and pest management, are invaluable for maintaining healthy and thriving bonsai specimens. What I appreciate most about this book is its emphasis on the artistic aspect of bonsai. Tomlinson encourages readers to express their creativity and individuality through their bonsai creations, while also respecting the traditions and principles of this ancient art form. Overall, “The Complete Book of Bonsai” is an indispensable resource that will inspire and empower bonsai enthusiasts of all levels to cultivate and cherish their own miniature masterpieces. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned practitioner, this book belongs on your shelf as the ultimate guide to bonsai mastery.

Love this book by a reknown bonsai expert. I bought the first one as a gift, and loved the author's writing, pictures, and how-to's. Strongly recommend the book for anyone with a passion for bonsai, or interest in learning how to grow and maintain them.

This book is a great "starter" book as it covers many of the techniques of bonsai, has lots of info on the various plants used in the art and has lots of beautiful pictures which make for enjoyable viewing as well as giving the reader ideas and ramping up enthusiasm. It is the closest book I've found to the book that got me started 35 years ago. Its wealth of information and lovely pictures also make it a nice book for the experienced bonsai gardener.

I'm new to the bonsai world, and had read some material online for a quick introduction. Now I was ready for more details, which is why I ordered this book. It is an excellent book, with step-by-step descriptions and accompanying pictures, which are large and high-resolution. The book is great for education as well as inspiration. It covers everything from the history, to starting your own bonsai from scratch, to maintaining it. It also has an extensive compendium of trees and shrubs. The only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 stars was that there were a couple of (what I thought were basic) things I was looking for that didn't appear in the book, i.e. information I came across online that I was hoping to get more detailed information and pictures on. I would give it a 4.5 if I could, because it's still a great book. TIP: If you buy this book, don't buy Bonsai (101 Essential Tips) . I bought both, and was disappointed to see they are the same book, only Bonsai (101 Essential Tips) is an abridged version of this book. They are published in the US by Abbeville Press and in London by DK.

Excellent book. I recommend it for every beginner in bonsai.

This book has almost everything from beginner to advanced bonsai techniques but it was written in the seventies and has not been updated since. Western Bonsai practitioners back in the 70s and early 80s really did not have any idea as to what the best soil substrate mixture for rhizome or root development and many of the trees pictured in this book use non porous stone mixed with topsoil and not once in the book does it mention using a all or mostly grit substrate such as Boons mix (akadama, lava stone, and pumice). While it is lacking in certain areas, what it does lack stems from the fact that Western knowledge on the art of bonsai has developed much further then when this book was last updated. That being said I do not regret purchasing this book and would suggest it for any beginners 2 Intermediate area practitioners but fall time practitioners and experts may not gain very much other than possibly to be reminded of things they have forgotten here and there.

I've wanted to get into bonsai for many years now, but was always afraid by how daunting it seemed. I finally decided 2020 was the perfect year for it and after looking around figured this would be a good starting book. I've now read this book cover to cover and think it is a great guide that covers any topic you could think of! It touches on the horticultural aspects as well as the artistic styling of bonsai. The many illustrations and pictures helped me understand exactly what the author was talking about. There's even a pretty extensive species guide that helps you pick the right bonsai species for you. I'd highly recommend this book for both beginners and advanced bonsai enthusiasts!

Came new in package, good information. The book has an in depth examination of several trees,

This book was a Christmas gift for my son. He was over the moon when he looked through it. He has been wanting to start several Bonsai trees, and know he has the perfect to show him how.

Tempistiche di consegna rispettate. Il prodotto è eccelelnte per qualità delle immagini e per le spiegazioni fornite in merito alla cura e sviluppo dei bonsai. Acquisto consigliato.

This book does what it say in the title. As a novice it explains the different types of trees and how to look after them. It shows how to maintain existing trees. It also explains how to start with an untouched tree and what to do to turn it into a good looking bonsai. The delivery was quick and it was well packaged. H.S. P.

Alles volgens afspraak! Heel correct.

This is a great book for bonsai trees. Unfortunately my tree didn't make it but that isn't the books fault. This book has many different types of trees and everything you need to know on how to form and shape your tree to giving each type it's specific good to survive. Great book.