Freestyle Bonsai: How to pot, grow, prune, and shape - Bend the rules of traditional bonsai

by Jerome Kellerhals, Mariannjely Marval

Learn the tools and techniques of bonsai to get started potting, shaping, and caring for your own collection of tiny trees, all while learning it’s okay to bend the rules along the way. Though bonsai is steeped in ancient traditions and techniques, it doesn’t have to be intimidating and difficult. A new generation of bonsai enthusiasts are discovering the joys of growing these miniaturized works of living art , and in Freestyle Bonsai , bonsai artists and growers Jerome and Mari Kellerhals of The Bonsai Supply show you how you, too, can grow beautiful bonsai trees without judgement or the stress of perfection. The art of bonsai is personal, and learning how to train trees to please you is the only thing that matters . While the history and tradition of the art is respected and honored throughout, Freestyle Bonsai  is as much about giving you permission  to bend the rules as it is about introducing you to them. You’ll
Whether your trees are grown indoors or out, bonsai is a relaxing hobby with gorgeous results . Like every other art form out there, bonsai comes from the heart. Live a #bonsailife with guidance and inspiration from Freestyle Bonsai .

Genres: Nonfiction, Crafts

160 pages, Hardcover

Published April 12, 2022

Reviews

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Freestyle Bonsai is a beginner friendly casual introduction and tutorial guide to some of the concepts and techniques of bonsai collected and written by Jerome Kellerhals & Mariannjely Marval. Due out 12th Apr 2022 from Quarto on their Cool Springs Press imprint, it's 160 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

This is a really well written introduction to bonsai aimed at keen beginner level to expert gardeners. There is a good introduction with some interesting history, followed by bullet point lists of common misconceptions and some definitions of what bonsai actually *is*. The following chapters give a good overview over tools & supplies, plant materials and how to choose for specific purposes, and good beginner friendly chapters on bonsai culture: repotting, styling, and maintenance. The book also contains useful appendices: an FAQ, glossary, bibliography, and resources/links lists. The included resources are impressively comprehensive and include websites and locations in most regions in the world, listed by continent/region. The resources include exhibitions and bonsai gardens which can be visited as well as retail suppliers.

I loved the color photos of gorgeous gorgeous bonsai in all their glory, showing a wide variety of species trained into both traditional and modern silhouettes. The included tutorial photos are easy to understand and are carefully positioned such that hands and tools aren't in the way of the "action". The photography is superlative. Worthwhile and inspirational. I was a little taken aback at the cover blurb suggesting that readers "bend the rules of traditional bonsai" but I needn't have worried. The book (and its authors) are knowledgeable and respectful of the ancient art.

Five stars. This would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition, garden groups, makers spaces, and for the home gardener's library.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Susan Bewley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who knew nothing about bonsai, I honestly thought Freestyle Bonsai was an excellent, interesting book. Not only is it filled with beautiful, informational pictures but all the information you need to get started and keep your bonsai alive. I’m honestly also happy that the book gives realistic expectations. No tree is going to start out looking perfect, and you will have to wait for it to grow (like most trees). I am also thrilled they warned about poisonous bonsai, something essential for pet owners like me. The only bad part of the book is I think I may end up with a house full of bonsai now (my money tree needs friends). Overall, I am thrilled with this book and can’t wait to grow my own bonsai!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't Fear the Bonsai

Ever since I saw a traveling Bonsai exhibition at a local museum I’ve been fascinated by the art. I’ve purchased several established specimens but have been fearful of trying to DIY. Jerome Kellerhals & Mariannjely Marval’s book Freestyle Bonsai has given me the courage to attempt my dream.

This book has everything from choosing the proper type of plant; repotting; choosing planters; styling/wiring/training; and how to care for your bonsai once it gets established.

The book is written in easy to understand language and has illustrations to lead you along every step of the way. This is an excellent tutorial for folks like me who need a little helping hand.

[Joni Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like any person that grew up in the 80s, I’ve always been enamored with Bonsai. This is a great book to get you started. It tells you the tools you need, and all different types of trees that you can Bonsai.