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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 5 JUNE 2022 4 ART THE origins of Bonsai culti- vation can be traced to over 2,000 years ago in China. In- itially, a requisite of the Elite classes and cultured in Zen Buddhist monasteries as Pen- jing (Tray scenery) the art was adopted into Japan to become later known as Bonsai (tree in tray). Records have also been traced to the Egyptian and early civilizations in the Mid- dle East where Bonsai are sug- gested as being a medium of transporting medicinal herbs to various locations. Despite being an ancient Art form, it is comparatively new to our western culture only having become more com- monly known after the 2nd World War and the opening of commercial and traditionally introspective approach of Jap- anese culture. Traditionally, the knowledge and technics of Bonsai cultivation was limited by prospective apprentice stu- dents having to undergo 5-8 years of intensive training un- der the watchful eyes of recog- nized Masters. In recent years, several western apprentices have qualified and returned opening their own schools and sharing their knowledge and practical experiences. With today's Social internet, thousands of Bonsai enthusi- asts are communicating their experiences and results inter- nationally and its popularity is increasing. There are today clubs; associations and Fed- erations in most countries who organize exhibitions and workshops. They have even started participating in events in Japan. In Malta we have a group Bonsai Culture Group (BCG) which was formed in 1991. There are many misconcep- tions regarding Bonsai; most of them are myth. The care and cultivation of trees in the restricted confines of a pot require a high degree of dedication and understanding of environmental conditions. The process is never ending as trees continue to grow and adapt to their environment. Most Bonsai enthusiasts are mere custodians of their trees which will long outlive them. Specimen Bonsai trees are of- ten several hundred old. Through the practicing of this Art form, one develops a deeper understanding of Na- ture and the environmental impact of our planet. Under- standing the various micro ecological needs of various species of trees and their abil- ity to adapt to changes in cli- mate; water etc.; brings a clos- er affinity to our appreciation of the environment. Trees, alongside other plant life have an incredible ability to survive by adapting to en- vironmental change. Bonsai trees can be likened to the fos- sils found in Ghar Dalam when Dwarf prehistoric Elephants who used to live on our island found their resting place. They too had evolved in Malta and other isolated locations to the deceased natural habitat and source of nutrients. With our lack of land and gar- dens in Malta, with access only to small yards; roofs or terraces keeping Bonsai trees is an ideal way to keep in touch with Na- ture. The hobby can take many forms from keeping one tree alongside other potted plants to an experimental artist. It is hobby which transgress all so- cial barriers and draws interest from people from all walks of life. Bonsai Culture Group have regular meetings at their club premises in Floriana every Thursday evening and organ- ize Exhibitions every year. This year after a 2 year break due to covid restrictions, the 29th Annual Bonsai Exhibition will be held again in the BCG Gardens in Notre Dame Arch Ditch, Floriana on Sat 4th – Sun 5th June between 9am- 6pm. The Minister or the Environ- ment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli officially opened the exhibition on Friday at 1pm. For more information de- tails or help with your Bonsai contact BCG via Facebook on Bonsai CultureGroup Malta Bonsai exhibition in Floriana closes today In Malta, the Bonsai Culture Group was formed in 1991