The Biology Behind Bonsai Trees

Watch the follow up video:
🌳 Biology of Pain: Can You Torture A Plant?
• Is Bonsai Torture? - B...
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Who doesn't love miniature trees? The art of bonsai is beloved by so many people around the world, yet there seems to be a lot of misconceptions behind their creation. In this video, we do a deep dive into not only the method of creating bonsai's, but also the science behind it.
I have to give a huge shout out to Kimura Bonsai for helping me with this video:
www.kimurabonsainursery.com/
They give bonsai classes for only $30!
I am not sponsored by them, but we gotta do what we can to support small businesses, and they went out of their way to help me out with this video.
//MORE SCIENCE VIDEOS:
⦿ How Redwoods Get To 400 Feet - • How These Trees Reach ...
⦿ Can Moss Save Your Life? - • Can Moss Save Your Life?
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Time Stamps:
0:00 Intro
0:53 Origins of Bonsai
1:58 Bonsai Genetics
2:43 How to Make a Bonsai
4:30 The Secret to Bonsai Growth
5:29 A Cellular Problem
6:04 The Answer
7:51 Closing Thoughts
9:26 How to Go to Kimura Bonsai

[@reffwe]

Why recreate adversity? I'm definitely part of that sub-group against bonsai - it's crippling trees for just aesthetics and there's also some weird control issues to unpack around it. Just get some plants that are good for your local wildlife.

[@alexb2889]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist thank you, a good point. Also like to mention that all these people say its torture to plants because it stops them growing, yet don't bat an eye when they go out and cut their grass.

[@Zackthedalj]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Respect. Looking forward to the plant sentience vid.

[@MissyMona]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Okay, while I have no issues with Bonsai and I agree that it isn't particularly harmful. By only addressing the tone of the question you still didn't answer the question in truth. Your answer is a bit of a tu quoque fallacy. You're relying on the hypocrisy that the OP would realistically have. But the question still stands. Why create adversity for the Bonsai? Wouldn't the answer just be, because it's beautiful? And to imply it's torturous or harmful is a bit extreme? To humor that it's torturous would also imply that trees feel pain without a brain or pain receptors. Furthermore. To add insult to injury, "Another youtube channel name "Isn't probably thinking very hard about things like..trimming a hedge in someone's front yard so it doesn't overgrow.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Sure, that’s a good way to put it. I’ve had this convo so many times in the comments and I’ve answered it many ways 👍🏾 but such a short answer like that it isn’t getting to the core of the problem, which is why I felt I needed to write my response.

[@Maxipad]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist youre insane. so manipulative and neurotic. In your last sentence of your dramatic rant you gave the guy a point to argue which is so condescending and pathetic. was wondering why everyone who was being interviewed seem so freaked out and kept inching away.

[@Integer_Overload]

People like to talk about "torturing" trees like they don't cut their grass every week.

[@XiELEd4377]

ngl I prefer planting weeds

[@Elirosa0i]

Fr like you put a sweater on a cat and it's animal cruelty - now plant cruelty? Are they just gonna starve and not eat any living thing? Like where does it end? Lmao

[@XenaAndKin]

ikr

[@Elirosa0i]

@@XenaAndKin there is a 4 at the end of your name and it says you posted 20 minutes ago lol Oh no now you guys know I burn plants too I've revealed what a monster I am 😔

[@janelle9998]

Trees don't put snakes and mice in the yard

[@MANS4ON-Ce137]

There are also natural bonsai, they form in small pockets of soil on certain rock formations and are really rare.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Totally! I love seeing trees growing in places like that. It's always impressive

[@LRonkainen]

thats true. i live in finland and have visited the very north, and the trees were small and other vegetation was a lot less dense. i think bonsai is very pretty and like mentioned in the video, perhaps treated better than many other trees.

[@Ghost-sf4zv]

I've seen a few trees like that while hiking in PA. They aren't as small as bonsai but they're definitely alot smaller than their counterparts. Super sturdy and great to hold onto.

[@sonnigundbelanglos]

There’s also people with only one arm, doesn’t mean you are free to cut one arm of a person with two arms

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@johnjohnsfutures Plants have indeterminate growth, meaning they don't have a set number of limbs, leaves, roots, girth... they grow as many as needed. People have determinate growth. We have two arms, two legs, one heart.. etc. You cut off a limb on a tree, they grow another. Humans can't. Hope that clears things up!

[@NewFalconerRecords]

A friend of mine has a bonsai store and it's doing really well, in fact he said if business continues in this current direction he'll be able to move into a smaller store soon.

[@apophenic_]

Lol christ

[@loyalsock8387]

Underrated comment

[@lydellb]

Lmao

[@DrunkBonsai]

The smaller the store, the stronger the artist!

[@andrewbeebe8470]

Wow

[@Blackjack3905]

All Bonsai can revert and grow normal if you replant them. Bonsai can preserve rare species by strengthening the trunks and replanting after several years of pruning. And you do not have to deplete the nutrients, all you have to do is continuously pruning, which will increase the strength of the trunk. You can resurrect a whole forest using Bonsai techniques.

[@addie1080]

that's so cool and interesting!

[@arkadihughes4893]

Thanks for your comment, that's really cool.

[@irefuse701]

Using less nutrients and growing plants in tough conditions will make them more adaptive as well! Hardening off plants is a really great way to achieve resiliency.

[@Xandertank2010]

wow i never thought about that! amazing. Thanks for your comment!

[@Calvini2013]

Bonsaing isn't just pruning, but yes proper pruning is beneficial to trees, not making them miniature and wired up

[@Not_Ciel]

"Trees never ask for a lighter burden, only for broader shoulders" Now that's an inspirational quote.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

It’s one of my faves!

[@Ak-xq6gb]

“Trees never ask for anything, that’s why we cut them and burn them for fun” here is another one :)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@@Ak-xq6gb You know some trees require fire's to germinate, which is any organism's primary objective. So those trees would probably say thank you :)

[@animal0mother]

"...only for broader shoulders" > In the context of an art where their shoulders are stunted.

[@Leo_Zeo_Lhang]

That's why we cut off their shoulders lol

[@RoseDragoness]

I like the part that bonsai tree can grow big if allowed and can still make fruit/seed... so we could theoretically save endangered giant trees by making bonsais of them and have a hope that one day... there will be place where they can / their offspring can grow big again.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That's a really good point!

[@covereddonuts1279]

Dude that could conserve and save so many trees species!!!

[@lovelyyolk9066]

I mean, we already fo that with seed of seedlings of native trees, bonsai trees aren't necessary, but I love how you think!

[@RoseDragoness]

@@lovelyyolk9066 indeed, but says people dont care about the big trees but they love the bonsai version.. big trees get cut by logging companies.. it still be a little hope?

[@maddiedoesntkno]

That’s a fascinating thought. If there is not enough resources (no habitat because of, perhaps, climate change?) a small version in an artificially maintained habitat until there is hope for habitat restoration. Very cool idea.

[@mimi-fk6dp]

Bonsai can definitely grow into full-fledged trees--as a kid, my mother bought a Japanese maple bonsai tree, but had no idea how to care for one. So she would move it to a larger pot every year, for whatever reason, and the tree would continue growing. It is now taller than me and flourishing outdoors!

[@topazmine1086]

This is actually really helpful, thank you. I accidentally bought a bonsai tree that I thought was a smaller variety, and I'm not sure I want to keep it as bonsai but didn't know if it could grow back to its natural state. Well, maybe not its fully natural state as that's apparently about 15 metres or more. Not sure my suburban neighbours would thank me for that!

[@amosbackstrom5366]

​@topazmine1086 I hope your neighbors wouldn't have a problem with someone planting a tree in the neighborhood... If they do, tell 'em to sit on it and rotate😂

[@aaron6841]

Potting up a bonsai doesn't not make it a bonsai!

[@Rick-the-Swift]

Technically there's no size limit to a bonsai, so theoretically, a bonsai can be exactly the same as a regular tree. The term bonsai really just refers to the artist's intent.

[@jollygreenwhxre]

i’ve never heard of people being against bonsai, that’s crazy to me. no one who keeps plants ever wants to hurt them, especially bonsai artists considering how much meticulous work they put into caring for them

[@Lou.B]

A common misconception! It's due to the fact that mankind consider themselves the ONLY Earthlings.

[@saudade7842]

@@Lou.B It is a plant

[@dcasey714]

@@saudade7842He never said anything to the contrary 🤨

[@craniifer]

Same. I wanted to get into roses and there's a similar level of obsession on that. Though honestly, vegetable gardening is enough work for me already.

[@NazriB]

Lies again? Burning Sun Art Of Seduction

[@YuBeace]

So, a bonsai could theoretically become a normal, huge tree when planted elsewhere. But the question is, is a tree “happier” when it grows way bigger? Or is the tree happy when it’s small too? The obvious answer is no, the tree doesn’t care. Another answer would be “we have no way of knowing.” People like to assign emotions to things, but a lot of the time those emotions are just projections of our own feelings. People assign the wrong emotions to animals too, even though we know animals can feel emotion, people still misunderstand them and describe them incorrectly. This happens all the time. So even when we find out trees can experience emotion (and some evidence already suggests this) we would probably still force our own perspective onto them, like we do now. What we do know for a fact is that plants do what they do, with the conditions they are given. Are they “satisfied” being the tree that they are? I don’t think trees know this concept. I think people shouldn’t anthromorphise their idea of “succes and satisfaction” onto plants. In fact, people already project their ideas of success onto other people and animals who don’t need it. The trees definitely don’t need it either.

[@Evolutionstrigger]

Your right. Plants don´t feel because feelings and emotions are transported by the central nerve system. Plants don´t have that. They run on biochemical processes just like we do but simpler and without the CNS. I still think people should care more about plants because even without feelings they are a form of life and so they should be respected.

[@alindileep9227]

Short answer trees don't have centralised nervous systems.

[@blitzaxis]

I talk to them yesterday the bonsais and they said yes, they will be happier if their bigger.

[@YuBeace]

@@blitzaxis what herb u gotta smoke to do that?

[@blitzaxis]

@@YuBeace those five fingers make a good connection man.. them are the bridge between the communication on human and plant world. Its like 5g or LTE man

[@Denkar11]

One thing that the nursery owner got wrong, bonsai's CAN be grown indoors. I'm sitting in my apartment in New England in February, looking at my little lemon bonsai trees that would never survive a winter here. Also, I know of many people at my latitude and above that grow tropical bonsai's indoors.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

You're right. After some research, there are a few species that enjoy the indoor coziness of a house. I believe what Bob was pointing out the large misconception that all bonsai's are indoor plants. Although, I love how there are always exceptions to rules, it's just like nature, and life for that matter :)

[@katjajacob8550]

Love the idea of bonsai citrus ... do you get fruits?

[@hakichiki]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist #TheTrueBiologicalLessonOfBonsai: If there is even the smallest chance of a way to grow and evolve, Life will find it; given enough time...

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

You actually do get normal size fruits, from what Bob told me. But they do add a large stress to the tree since the fruit grow normal sized.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

So true! 🙌🏾

[@DennisBottaro]

"Life can be beautiful within the struggle" those words hit home so hard for me just now. I truly needed to hear that today.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I'm glad they did, take care brother

[@bonsaidinhvuong]

Thanks

[@mysky6312]

The nursery my son works at in Japan has trees some so old they aren’t sure their age. They live over 100 years if taken care of properly. His channel is Bonsai Harmony:)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That’s awesome! I’ll check it out. I’ve met some trees that are likely 1000 because they were taken from the wild and maintained as a bonsai 😳 they’re quite wild!

[@st0ny242]

To the people saying that growing bonsais is torture, I just want to say that many of the training methods are also applies in other tree nurseries, where the trees for parks, streets and gardens are grown. They are repotted, pruned (the roots too), wired and they get limited amounts of nutrients in order to grow into the desired shape. Of course, it isn't neccessary to keep bonsais at such a small size when the trees could become much bigger, but as long as they are kept healthy I don't see a problem with it. I think that few wild trees actually have the resources to grow to their full potential, and especially not the ones that grow in urban settings.

[@texassherman7093]

Also plants don’t have brains and can’t think. Ive never understood the logic

[@st0ny242]

@@texassherman7093 I know, right? Maybe it's more about humans controlling other species and abusing their power. No clue...

[@ksanchez8095]

People complaining about tree torture should probably stop eating at all, and receive all their nutrients from photosynthesis. That way they'll avoid hurting any plants.

[@dilliee]

doesn't really matter anyways tree aren't sentient you can't "torture" them in any meaningful way that isnt just entirely project onto them by us. really seems like a non-issue to me

[@st0ny242]

@@ksanchez8095 Hahaa, imagine people being green like Hulk because they are doing photosynthesis 😂 Would definitely be good for climate

[@Shadow_Arbor]

As a bonsai enthusiast with many of my own personal trees and a student in his bachelors in biology I found this video really refreshing and well informed. Thanks for making my morning a bit more interesting and my hobby a bit more scientific.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Best comment so far, you’re my exact demographic haha. Anytime! Take care and thanks

[@maryannhinden2719]

My husband is not a bonsai enthusiast, but he found the video really interesting. So did I.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@@maryannhinden2719 That's awesome! I'm glad you both liked it. Thanks

[@mightykitty5870]

Hi dude, I got a question. If I grow a bonsai fruit tree, say apple or something like that, will it carry bonsai apples aswell? Sorry for my bad english

[@Shadow_Arbor]

@@mightykitty5870 No. Usually they'll give regular sized fruit. It might be slightly smaller as the tree may have less resources to put into the fruit. You can use fruit trees that give small fruit for a proportional tree. For example, crab apple, cherry, plums and apricots, etc.

[@Lex-ub7mt]

The way I've always seen it is: yes, bonsai is cut back yearly and bent into different shapes, but this happens in nature all the time. A wild tree might lose its branches due to storms and wildlife, it will bend into shapes to reach the canopy in a dense forest, the only difference in bonsai is the trees are treated with respect, love, attention, and kept until and even after they perish from old age. The bonsai artist and the tree work together to make decisions on what to cut and how to shape with one idea in mind "will this tree survive and furthermore live prosperous after"

[@G1NZOU]

Absolutely this. I love walking in Snowdonia and due to the rocky terrain and lots of wind you'll see ancient Oak trees that are permanently looking like a bush being blown sideways, they just respond to the conditions and survive. Yes people are deliberately restricting the tree, but by the same token by having a passion for Bonsai we're also deliberately planting more trees and learning about how plants grow, most bonsai enthusiasts are probably more eco conscious and in favour of protecting woodland and forests than your average person.

[@ryannechvatal9888]

Roots systems do not get pruned in nature.

[@liliumkuronatasa3690]

@@ryannechvatal9888 actually they do...let me introduce you to root maggots, root aphids, root mealybugs, and root wevils.. They all like to eat the root part of plants and such...so yes..the roots do get cut down in nature

[@Jay___________________]

@@ryannechvatal9888 and why does it matter?

[@ryannechvatal9888]

@Lilium Kuronatasa They feed on feeder roots not the tap root which is the most important part of the plant.

[@fairuzmaileen5691]

I have an uncle who's hobby is making bonsais. He's retired and does them for his home, because he loves it. He can make any type of tree into a bonsai, for example tangerine trees, and they look SO cute with the little fruits once they grow adult (they get ripe and you can even eat the little toy-sized tangerines). It is a patience builder discipline... he's the "Sensei Miyagi" in the family. BTW, all his bonsai trees look happily beautifully healthy because he really takes care of them, if they were being "tortured" they would probably die. You need to understand that plants can be adaptable

[@Catfish2048]

That's true if a plant NEEDS to adapt and doesn't it will die, If an entire species needs to adapt and doesn't it'll go extinct.

[@YuubiTimberwolf]

Bonsai are also easier to store than a fully grown tree, so it playes a part in preservation. You could have a full metal rack of 20 bonsai but not a single full tree would fit there

[@SR-ck8gu]

I don't think making bonsais of endangered trees is a viable conservation strategy. Otherwise people would probably be doing that. For one thing, it inhibits their ability to flower and fruit as well as a full-sized tree.

[@JarthenGreenmeadow]

​@@SR-ck8gu "Otherwise people would probably be doing that" They probably are. "it inhibits their ability to flower and fruit as well as a full-sized tree." You can take cuttings and root them.

[@peabrain6872]

Course it would!

[@Kodaiva]

@@SR-ck8gu yes, because they aren’t full sized trees

[@jek__]

@@JarthenGreenmeadow cuttings are naturally small life forms not large life forms which have been contorted through the use of strong braces to appear small

[@hudcat]

I just placed some seeds in the refrigerator about two weeks ago to begin the stratification process for my very first venture into bonsai. Thank you for explaining the science behind it!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Sounds exciting! Anytime :)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

🦠🧬 Check out my video about how hot spring bacteria changed science forever: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apuWoaWrjtuWq8k&ab_channel=TheBackpackingBiologist

[@B30pt87]

I am SO happy I watched this. I was one of those people who looked down on Bonsai as a perversion of trees - and honestly, I should have known better. I've been growing things my whole life ( gardens, flowers, pot, trees...) and after some pondering, I think I was anthropomorphizing the bonsai trees. But like the guy from Kimura Bonsai said- it's not as if the tree is unhappy, it just grows within it's constraints. Thank you very much for making this video!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I'm glad you liked it! thanks for watching. You're gonna love my next video on pain and plant pain, it really tackles anthropomorphizing

[@B30pt87]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Looking forward to it!

[@bonsaidinhvuong]

​@@B30pt87 thanks

[@Planted.Aesthetics]

I do Bonsai art as well. Your first styling of the juniper was superb! Keep going, you are a natural. I always tell people when they ask me if it hurts the trees when I bend them and wire them. I always point to nature for examples. An avalanche, snow storm, thunderstorm, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc do way more damage to trees than I could ever even try in a life time. There are still trees everywhere!!! They will out live us. We will end up food for the trees.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks you! I’m definitely proud of how my tree came out fully knowing I still have a long way to go, I’m totally hooked to bonsai! Haha that’s a great way of putting it!

[@timmplay6024]

True, I was shocked at how good it turned out. And the wiring job was stunning for a first timer

[@dewinmoonl]

dude they're plants, they're literally (to our best understanding) chemistry factory dividing and is greedy and want to suck up all the nutrients and sunlight to take over the world

[@invivobonsai]

The leaf reduction section is very cool! Totally makes sense but surprising to see there was real academic research into the subject lol

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Hahaha right. The author of the paper studied dwarf trees in the wild and noticed similarities in structure to bonsai. I think it was a natural transition for him and the team to study bonsai cells and compare to wild type.

[@ARCHITACADEMY]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Just have to say, I like how you're so engaged with the comment seciton

[@cmdr1911]

I had an orange tree for about 20 years that was in a 5 gallon pot the whole time. It only got about 30" tall, but would flower and grow fruit. Smelled great when it would bloom. Spent the Ohio summers outside and winters inside. It ended up being a miniature orange tree

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That's basically a bonsai! So cool :)

[@ShuToshio]

"Bonsai shows that life can be beautiful within the struggle." "Trees never asked for lighter burden, only broader shoulders." Made me cry

[@bonsaidinhvuong]

Thanks

[@Jonathan2x6]

Its “pray not for a lighter load but pray for stronger shoulders.” Which has been happily copied over ..by someone who spells cheques as checks …crying so hard😂

[@blip88]

@@Jonathan2x6this one better because it says tree not pray

[@Jonathan2x6]

@@blip88 talk about missing the forest for the trees…in this case quite literally.

[@guardianfish7718]

It makes sense the cells are the same size - after all, the proteins, sugars, the DNA in the nucleus - those cannot shrink, atoms cannot shrink. A cell is usually just the optimal size for protein transportation from one organelle to another to work.

[@tonylee1667]

Well cells are mostly just cytoplasm, and for plants vacuole can also play a giant factor in cell size so they may vary quite a lot

[@guardianfish7718]

@@tonylee1667 that's true, but the question here was wether the same cells - not a different type, could radically change their size and retain the same function. Do correct me if I missing something

[@tonylee1667]

@@guardianfish7718 The same cell changes in size and mass throughout its lifetime, so I wouldn't have been too surprised if the cells of bonsai were different in size compared to large trees due to things like inhibited cell divisions and etc

[@guardianfish7718]

@@tonylee1667 that's quite reasonable

[@nichimuchimu]

"Bonzai shows that life can be beautiful within the struggle." I'm having rough times lately, feels like giving up at times. This quote really cheers me up.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I'm sorry to hear that you're going through it right now. I hope things start to clear up and I'm glad the quote helped you out

[@SecwetGwiwer]

I am a bonsai artists and I’ve also been through some terribly dark times in my life. I take great comfort in seeing the most revered trees in bonsai, trees that have become strong because of their struggle, not in spite of it.

[@YnseSchaap]

Take a couple of orchids and a few bonsai trees, did me a lot of good 😁

[@MrCmon113]

That doesn't apply to you. When you cut a plant in two, you have two plants. When you cut a human in two, you have zero humans.

[@IhateAcclame]

​@@MrCmon113yet, those trees do the possible and the impossible to survive... That's what this is about.

[@chesterwilberforce9832]

I'm 50 years at this, too. It's important to understand that creating the illusion of age is just as important as miniaturization. Some of the myths I've heard are "You have to keep them in the dark to stunt their growth" and "you can't ever feed a bonsai."

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Wow, haven’t heard of these other myths!

[@james__anna_burns4885]

people talking about “torturing a plant” while they eat bacon and eggs…

[@shmooptys]

I got into the craft of bonsai at the beginning of the pandemic as a side hobby to do while stuck at home. It has become fantastic part of my day watering and maintaining these trees as well as an excellent lesson in patience and appreciation of nature and life itself. I now have 4 trees and hopefully more to come. Amazing video I had been wondering about the science surrounding how bonsai worked for a while. Thank you!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Love to hear it! Sounds very zen. And I know what you mean, bonsai can be very addicting. Thanks for the comment and good luck!

[@sleepyjo9340]

Those bonsai forests are so stunningly beautiful. It just shows the beauty of human art, and natural tenacity.

[@coolbeansgetyahigh]

Fun fact, irradiated seeds as mentioned by the gentleman at 0:18 are in fact widespread. Atomic gardening was incredibly popular in the decades following WW2. Star Ruby (Red flesh) grapefruits originated from irradiated seeds of a Hudson grapefruit. God bless and love ❤

[@BonsaiEn]

Great video man, usually watching bonsai videos made by people who don't practise the art can be kind of cringe but that was spot on. You made a good decision going and seeing Robert Pressler, and your explanations of the workings of trees was just enough. It goes much deeper then that but for a short punchy video it was just right.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you! I really wanted to include an expert in the field. And for sure, there is so much to bonsai, which is why I just wanted to focus on the science. Thanks for the kind words 🙏🏾

[@SmoothBear]

Came here to say this 🤣🤣

[@maplejapanese9375]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist when he says deeper he also refers to science... even so I agree that you have made a very good video, congratulations!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@Blue_Azure101]

I have accidentally done it to a rose bush because I wanted to keep it in one pot and indoor under artificial lighting. Once every year, I also trim the root so it doesn’t become root bound

[@lyrajaded]

Trees are so insanely, intensely versatile and resistant. I’ve seen pictures of flat trees, basket trees, sideways trees, tree bridges, desert trees, trees growing out of other trees, trees precariously hanging off boulders like that picture of a cat on a partially collapsed tower. I adore trees because they dgaf, as long as they’re thriving. My favorite bonsai ever is the apple tree that made a full sized apple. It’s beautiful. I love that tree. It said “f*ck yeah, I’m gonna do the thing.” I am glad more people are consciously thinking about plants and fungi as more than just biological machines. But they’re also an entirely different form of life to us. I once saw a documentary about snowball earth. The narrator started off by talking about sea sponges and squeezed the sponge through a strainer. I got upset. He then said it’s okay, they don’t feel pain because sea sponges are colonies of single cell organisms. They’ll regroup and be just fine. I thought it was hilarious that he did that, but also very insightful about how we humans, as a social species, empathize with others to survive. But how it’s also important to understand that not everything exists in the same way as us. One thing that seems torturous to us is entirely different to something else. Cool video, thank you for sharing!

[@idiotidiot5821]

In my local park there is a tree growing out of a tree that grew out of another tree. They were all previously branches of the fallen trees all relatively young compared to some other trees in the park. Close enough to a stream that overflows regularly I guess?

[@Cillana]

I had no idea the leaves shrank. I always thought that they just chose species that had small leaves. I had a juniper bonsai for 8 years. I was training it droop over the side of the pot so that the branches go lower than the bottom of the pot (which is sitting on a plant stand). It died when I was very sick for a few months the same year we had a severe drought. I wasn't getting outside enough to water it. I thought the person who was helping me take care of my pets was watering it when she came but we apparently had a miscommunication on that.

[@soeatable6590]

There's no way you could assume that it's doing actual harm to the tree. After all you reassure the plant has got all it needs to survive and actually flourish on a smaller scale since you're eliminating the constant struggle for survival that happens in nature

[@christopherbennett6571]

Not really. To maintain bonsai plants you are frequently cutting back it's roots and branches to stifle the growth. The plant has no reason to think that it's in a safe environment when we are literally cutting back it's only forms of nutritional intake. The act of cutting the plant as a form of harming/hurt the plant? That is a whole other debate IMO.

[@jezackr3500]

...bonsai care is based on ensuring that the tree's life is a co Stany struggle for survival - via cutting the roots and branches, it's only means of getting nutrition. The small leaves and branches are a sign of that struggle, not a thing a tree is designed to do.

[@roddyaxolotl8519]

@@jezackr3500 you do realize there’s hordes of animals nibbling on a normal plant’s leaves and roots anyways, right? Cutting the roots and branches isn’t really a major inconvenience for the plant, because if it was then wild plants wouldn’t be looking too great right now. And to be honest, it’s kind of weird to debate the ethics of something that doesn’t even have any form of brain that we know of. Like could it be there? Yeah sure, is it? Not to any extent as far as we know.

[@Phyto.]

exactly.

[@NejisMate]

To turn that around: there's no way you could prove that it's NOT doing harm to the tree either. Trees don't have a central nervous system, so it's unlikely they feel pain in the same way animals (including humans) do, but we still don't know how they might experience things. For all we know, it might indeed be torture. We just don't know.

[@bonsaibp]

Great job- much better than I thought it would have been. Thanks for the great job and the shut out.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks Bob! Couldn’t have done it without you

[@mescalinelobster]

Lookin good Bob!

[@bonsaibp]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist pretty popular vid- we should consider a follow up

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Definitely! I’ll shoot you an email

[@sonson5486]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist and then another follow up years in the future with the grown bonsai that you made

[@VivaLaHustle]

When I hike, I always gravitate and find astonishing beauty in the trees growing we’re not supposed to. Like from a crack in a boulder. I’ll often pause and try to imagine the brutal existence of that tree. Imagine nights, days, storms, forcing your way thru something harder then you to always reach up and to the light. It’s brutally beautiful

[@BuckBlaziken]

Imagine people calling it torture when they step on grass every time they go outside

[@connorchapman4223]

I really enjoyed this video. Every once in a while you find a gem of a video. I do partially disagree with the idea that bonsai can't be grown indoors. There are some tropical species that work very well inside with the proper care. I have been growing my Ginseng Ficus inside for a few years now and is doing just fine. Please look after your Juniper, I killed mine by over watering it.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for the kind words! Yea you’re right, after doing some research, I have seen there are a few species that can handle indoor temps. I think Bob was referring to how the masses think all bonsai can be indoor plants, but I always love the exceptions to the rules! It’s just like nature, there’s always an exception 🙏🏾💪🏾

[@mescalinelobster]

I've been doing bonsai for a long time. There are trees that can survive indoors, but I know of exactly one dude who has developed quality bonsai indoors, despite hundreds or thousands having tried.

[@adamlenham4359]

Good drainage will mean you never over water. Was the juniper indoors? The biggest mistake is people trying to protect junipers they need and enjoy harsh winters

[@jameslangschied7900]

I agree. I have a 64-year-old ficus microcarpa "green island" bonsai that I have been growing indoors for the past 29 years. It's perfectly happy and beautiful.

[@indusingh2013]

It will work indoors because indoor will be not as cold as outside but it will need tropics level lights too to thrive properly, because tropics are hot humid and super sunny almost 8-9 months of a year and some places which don't get cold enough and stay sunny year round grow best ficus in tropics.

[@FISH_FRENZY]

Coming from someone who is in the aquarium/fish keeping hobby and in the bonsai hobby I would definitely say fish tanks are ALOT more work

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Haha I’ll take your word for it!

[@Belemonguin]

When he said "more than a goldfish" my reaction was Oh! THAT much?

[@biazacha]

Just keeping the water balance right, specially for sea life, is such a hassle lol

[@Shadow_Arbor]

I've been in the aquarium hobby for many years now. That being said I haven't gotten around to salt water yet because as a Uni student I don't have enough money for a chiller or space for a large tank. But I have multiple high tech planted aquariums, and breeding tanks that take many hours of work a week. I'm not sure you can compare the two. While yes, aquariums are a lot of work I think that bonsai can be equally as time consuming and challenging as the aquarium hobby. Having to remove wire at exactly the right time, consistently water, constantly prune (depending on the species) and more.

[@mizdrmcdoogles3858]

pretty sure he just meant your average goldfish youd have as a kid in a bowl lol

[@DrunkBonsai]

Great video, man. Bob is a great go-to source for information (as we ll as trees and supplies), and he throws his heart and soul into the Southern California bonsai community.

[@genisay]

For peopel that think using wire to bind parts of the tree is like foot binding, or torture, it's not. For one, foot binding required breaking the bones in the foot, usually in the middle or near the heel, then binding the foot into a folded over shape that has to be bound for the rest of the person's life to keep it that way. The foot needs to regurally be cleaned with treatment solutions and can become infected if not properly cared for. Inversely, the bending of a tree branch into a configuration over time has no adverse effect on the tree. The wires used in bonsai can be thought of more like guides that suggest the tree to move into a desired configuration. Trees are very good at taking different shapes over time naturally, and many of them do this in nature on their own (say a tree that is growing right beside a cliff wall), and once the tree has adapted to the suggested shape, it will stay that way on it's own unless some factor causes it to change shape again. One such factor that can actually determine the formation of branches on a natural tree is the position of the sunlight. If you keep a houseplant on your counter or window sill, and you have ever turned it, you might have noticed it will naturally start growing in the direction of the light. With a tree that becomes shaded on one side, this can happen as well, it will start putting more effort into the side of itself that recieves more sunlight, it might just take longer to be noticable.

[@cassidyforsstrom5105]

The oldest recorded practice of growing trees in pots is actually in Egypt where herbalists grew medicinal trees in pots so they could have a variety on hand when needed rather than constantly going out in search of herbal medicines.

[@jameslangschied7900]

Wow, wow, wow. Thanks so very much for giving me an insight into the science of bonsai. I have been working with bonsai since the mid 1980s and I didn't have a clue about the science end. I hope that bonsai continues to grow as a hobby around the world and that we adults share this knowledge and delight with younger generations. Thanks again!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you so much for your comment! Bonsai is such a wonderful art, something that can passed as a living heirloom. I hope it continues as well

[@philipknerr7357]

Just bought my first bonsai tree geeked about it

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Congrats!!!

[@kennethe8391]

I bought my first bonsai 🌲 tree kit today and I’m very exited is fascinating to think you can make miniature copies of big trees, also I’m using it as therapy to relieve my anxiety

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Congrats! I hope it brings you peace and joy 🙏🏾

[@mndlessdrwer]

We haven't been able to prove that plants can "feel" yet, so it's not so much torture as manipulating a set of parameters for an organic machine. Bonsai are fascinating, often beautiful miniaturized trees with deep cultural ties. People can feel whatever way they wish about whether or not the practice of crafting bonsai harms the tree, but in the end it is a practice that keeps these trees alive for dozens to hundreds of years, providing their owners with tranquility and happiness as their caretakers.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

🙏🏾

[@bunniesbunniesbunnie]

they do.

[@insertclevernamehere2506]

@@bunniesbunniesbunnie They don't x infinity. Well, that takes care of that argument. I do love this high level intellectual debate.

[@bunniesbunniesbunnie]

@@insertclevernamehere2506 stop abusing trees

[@Spider_Dan]

@@bunniesbunniesbunnie i go outside every day to punch and spit on the trees in my yard because they like it

[@firesoullv]

Having a bonsai is literally a symbiosis - there's a far greater chance the tree would perish in the wild naturally, not even getting CLOSE to reaching maturity. A caring, mindful bonsai artist gives the tree a chance, does everything to make it thrive, protects from dangers of parasytes and herbivores, and in return the little tree pleases, amazes, inspires or even provide a kind of emotional support for people. It's no different to having a houseplant or a pet. Or planting or caring for a tree in a city.

[@bunniesbunniesbunnie]

and then it would be of use to thousands of other species, depending on where it died. instead, it's a fancy little thing to sit on your shelf all gnarled and fucked up because teehee I put a golf ball in its trunk.

[@firesoullv]

@@bunniesbunniesbunnie so would you... hehe jk Seriously, you should redirect your anger towards something more significant like the old, massive forests being cut down as you're reading this, whole ecosystems destroyed by human hands, most of the species going extinct, all the pollution going down in our soil, seas and up into the sky. Soon, it all will change the WHOLE world for worse. And here you are, going on a noble crusade for "ethics" about bonsai. Something as trivial as a few potted trees, plus likely of a very common species. If anything, you should at least appreciate that it educates and makes more people interested in nature and plants. It's not a one day hooliganism like "I'm just gonna put a ball in its trunk" (like where did you even got that from?), it takes years, dedication, perseverance and passion or love for one's work... I agree ethics should be discussed, but you're clearly blind to our current priorities. Once we as a mankind deal with the irreversible crisis in clear sight, animal abuse and global warming we're causing, we can have discussion about the matter of growing potted trees in certain positions, shall we?

[@bunniesbunniesbunnie]

@@firesoullv maybe don't be cool with torture

[@firesoullv]

@@bunniesbunniesbunnie I'm not, but nature is. You don't seem to understand that.

[@wilbertsuryajaya5688]

@@bunniesbunniesbunnie plants don't have pain receptors that is very obvious

[@meghangonyea1564]

If the art if bonsai is torture, I'm a murderer for the amount of weed i burn on a daily basis 😂 Sounds like half of you need some weed in your life.

[@warrenlugone2007]

“Trees never ask for a lighter burden. Only broader shoulders.” This was touching.

[@chefalopod1137]

I started a little terrarium a few years ago in an empty candle jar that's still thriving today, and like with bonsai trees, the plants inside adapted to it by shrinking down. I took one leaf from a succulent plant for it, and the leaf was about the same size as my thumbnail. But today, each leaf on the plant is only 2-3 cm each

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That's awesome!

[@rosemacaskie]

One thing that is also interesting about bonsias is that in Japan the way their cut, shape is symboilic. You get an upright branch growing towards heaven, a heaven princiiple branch and a diagnonal on that symbolises man and a branch that grows towards the earth, I suppose a reality inclined branch, for example. Also, cutting them is slow, an a meditative process, a process that if done right helps the person get quieter. ward off a nervous break down, or some awfillly violent tendencies with any luck. On being done quietly, the person uses less nervous tension and so is left with plenty of energy for other tasks, or even an increase of energy. Sometimes this slowness ends up meaning that the person is much faster and more efficient at an activity, iin macial arts for example, but as far s i have seen cuttign bonsais is always a slow process.

[@arcayenne]

“Trees never ask for a lighter burden, only broader shoulders.” Is a baller ass quote to live by.

[@punknezar2041]

dude thank you so much now i understand more about bonsai , it was the information i was lacking to accomplish what i needed for my bonsai

[@innocehnt75]

i don't understand people who can type out complaints that "bonsai making is sadistic, cruel, and torturous" as they're sitting on their comfy wooden bedframe in a warm wooden house. like pick a struggle.

[@originalman6599]

you're right in this instance, but don't forget that normally you are really really stupid.

[@VerdadeiroDataBR]

It's the first video I've watched on your channel and I have something to say: your content has the same quality as the best science channels on youtube, it's perfect for inspiring curiosity about scientific topics. Carry on, you seem to have found something you're really good at

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

You don't know how much I appreciate that. It's my goal to make entertaining and educational videos for everyone. Thanks and take care!

[@Starsthebest]

Same

[@romanmeneghinister1584]

So for bonsai trees, he said to grow them outside, do you still do that in winter? Do you only keep bonsai out in winter if the tree normally deals with it anyway and keep tropical bonsai inside over winter?

[@icewink7100]

People usually choose bonsai that are compatible with the climate they live in. That way you can leave them outdoors all year round. (Though you might have to bring them inside on an especially cold winter night)

[@romanmeneghinister1584]

@@icewink7100 thank you

[@meikahidenori]

We sort of do this to certain tropical house plants so we can keep them trailing in hanging baskets over growing up poles and getting too big. The only main difference is the type of plant and how/conditions they're grown. Also depending on speices they certainly can indeed be grown indoors. I'm currently growing 3 varieties of lilly pilly as bonsai and if they were outside atm they'd die of frost bite through the roots at night!

[@grimiskitty1120]

You can actually find natural bonsia trees under certain rare harsh conditions. At first when I was younger like as a kid I thought it was cruel to the tree cause all I heard about it, is they cut the roots, but as long as it's well taken care of, that bonsia tree usually thrives more then the grass in peoples yards, or gold fish people keep and think the goldfish are ok in small bowls. Now that I'm older I realized it's not as awful as it sounded and that the trees could potentially grow bigger if put in the right circumstances., and it's just a tree your keeping as a semi house plant. Will I ever own one? No. Do I admire the art form, yes. the tree is just gonna tree.

[@88dfletcher]

Wow, that was really good. Just a simple click after waking up added so much to my perspective. I never viewed plant or tree manipulation as torture by any measure, but I appreciated your outlook on it, whereas I'd just roll my eyes if someone said that. Thanks for hopefully being my new go-to!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for the awesome comment! I definitely wanted to show all perspectives of bonsai (or anything for that matter) to show diversity of thought, but then also add my opinion because I think my opinion is good 😂. Cheers man!

[@chrisakaschulbus4903]

If those people are soooo concerned about bonsais, they'd have to get PTSD everytime a lawnmower starts.

[@absolstoryoffiction6615]

@@chrisakaschulbus4903 It's funny... When humans eat plants and animals. If they cared, then they wouldn't exist... Hypocrisy, if anything.

[@laurelcook9078]

I have a degree in biology but I needed a refresher and you did a great job! I’m starting a bonsai tree.

[@megancanflyy123]

omg at the end of the video i was so surprised to hear you didn’t even have 1000 subscribers at the time of posting! this is such a well made video :)

[@rXHrzn]

Your bonsai looks amazing! Im going bonsai since i am 10 too! Now im 24 and got a lot of them. Some died some are beautiful now! Its a very long term hobby. Im also glad someone said "its not for indoors" thats probably the reason 90% of the bonsai die. My tip: buy or create at least 3 bonsai. The chance one will live for a long time is increased :)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks a lot! I feel like I need a lot of work, but I'll definitely be getting more trees to work on. Thanks for the tips, cheers!

[@aman70707]

keep doing what you're doing and you're going to blow up! Happy to see someone do what they love and create wonderful videos about their passions :)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I really appreciate that, thanks so much!

[@TripleJumpYTP]

I've barely even thought about bonsai trees at any point in my life I don't know why this is so captivating to me

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Well thanks for watching the video and I'm glad you liked it and hopefully learned something! Cheers

[@sikox209]

I work in an orchard. When we replant a field we usually remove the saplings from the plastic pots they’re in, prune the roots and plant them each facing towards specific direction. Then we trim off the branches near the base of the tree trunk and place a paper cover box over them. After some time we’ll go back and drive a wooden stake about +6” away from the sapling. After some more time passes we will prune branches that aren’t “necessary” or that are damaged/dead. Then we’ll wrap the branches with either twine or some black and orange rope( don’t know what it’s called but it looks like plastic) and we repeat this process. We do this with almond trees btw in California

[@Piquliar]

This was a really well made video with some crispy production quality and smooth transitions while being entertaining and quite informative.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks a lot!

[@laurencekennedy2033]

This was a really interesting and well made video, was shocked to see your subscriber count, keep up the good work man!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you! I’m just starting out :) 💪🏾

[@HoseTheBeast]

I love seeing natural bonsai trees where I live. In a semi rare occasion on the rocky coastal shores there is a tiny pine growing on a tiny plot of soil right at the edge of the sea where heavy winds and lack of nutirents slow down it’s growth. There is no way for you to accurately judge it’s age. It’s trunk is burled and twisty but the tree is barely 5ft tall when an acerage full grown pine of it’s species is ~80-85ft.

[@jagatheesanchandrasekharan7248]

73) Classical Benevolent Latin-LXII) Classical Latin, kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKnKXoFtgclmfpI The Biology Behind Bonsai Trees The Backpacking Biologist 18.8K subscribers Who doesn't love miniature trees? The art of bonsai is beloved by so many people around the world, yet there seems to be a lot of misconceptions behind their creation. In this video, we do a deep dive into not only the method of creating bonsai's, but also the science behind it. I have to give a huge shout out to Kimura Bonsai for helping me with this video: www.kimurabonsainursery.com/ They give bonsai classes for only $30! I am not sponsored by them, but we gotta do what we can to support small businesses, and they went out of their way to help me out with this video. //MORE SCIENCE VIDEOS: ⦿ How Redwoods Get To 400 Feet - www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsLKY... ⦿ Can Moss Save Your Life? - www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2VGH... //For the royalty free music I use: Epidemic sound - share.epidemicsound.com/z5nkc2 ⦿Gear list Film: Camera: Sony a6400 - amzn.to/3LIhAUk Shotgun mic - amzn.to/3jgpF6A Wide angle lens - amzn.to/3DQcP8E Nice lens - amzn.to/3ujgOaM Wireless mic - amzn.to/3KmU13p Drone - amzn.to/3Kxlz5W Instagram: @backpackbiology Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 0:53 Origins of Bonsai 1:58 Bonsai Genetics 2:43 How to Make a Bonsai 4:30 The Secret to Bonsai Growth 5:29 A Cellular Problem 6:04 The Answer 7:51 Closing Thoughts 9:26 How to Go to Kimura Bonsai Chapters buddhist-spirituality.org/medition-practs/jhana Free in line benevolentia Orgelizer Missionis benevolentia universum per Crescente tua herbas & fructibus in ollis 🍍 🍊 🍇 🍌 🍎 🍉 🍒 🍑 🍆 🌱 🍅🍜 🍄 🍝 🌽 🍏 🌳 🍓 🍊 🌵 🍈 🌰 🇧🇧 🍐 pro bono salute sine divitiis Nos sunt benevolentia excitavit ones Nos sunt benevolentia excitavit ones Nos permanere ad benevolentiam excitavit ones Nam excitatio et nibbas in LXXIII) Classical Benedictus Latin-Lxii) Classical Latin: Tertium Verum nobilis: realitatem cessationis passio - quod est in actum Jhana Jhana est meditationem statum altum statum et concentration in quo mente fit plene immersa et absorbuit electum objectum. Est angularis in progressionem ius concentration. Per definitionem (cum similes) [Primo Jhana] "Est casus ubi monachus - satis subtrahitur a sensualitate, subtrahitur a disco qualitatibus - intrat et manet in primo Jhana: raptus et voluptate natus ex recessus, cum dirigi et iudicium. Permeat et Plasmodium suffusio et implet corpus cum raptu et voluptatem nati recessus. Nihil totius corporis in raptu et voluptate nati recessus. 'Iustus ut si peritus brattum aut brattum scriptor discipule esset effundam balneo pulveris in aes pelvem et commisce eam, aspersionem iterum et iterum aquam, ut pila et iterum et iterum, ut in humorem, onustum, imbúntur, et sine humiditate, in lándis, et non est in lánem, imbúntur, et non est in humorem, in acerbus, et non est in - Tamen non stillabit; Etiam monachus permeates, implet et implet corpus cum raptu et voluptatem ex recessus. Nihil totius corporis in raptu et voluptas nati receditur ... [Secundi Jhana] "Ceterum cum in sylvestre cogitationes et aestimationes, quod intrat et manet in secunda Jhana: raptus et voluptas natus est in unifictionem de conscientia liberos a dirigi cogitationem et iudicium - internum fide. Permeat et Pervades, et implet hoc ipsum corpus cum raptu et voluptatem natus est. Nihil totius corporis in raptu et voluptatem natum ex securitate. "Sicut lacus cum vere-aquae welling est ab intus, nullum influxum ab oriente, occidente, aquilone, aut meridianam, et cum aetheres periodiciter supplet abundanti, ut frigus aqua welling permeate et permanere, suffoderunt et replete cum frigus aquae, ibi non est pars lacus vacuus per frigus aquae; Etiam ita monachus permeates et pervades, et implet hoc ipsum corpus cum raptu et voluptatem natus est. Nihil totius corporis in raptu et voluptatem natum ex securitate ... [Tertium Jhana] "Et praeterea, cum evacuatur raptus, manet aequinicus, memor, et erecti, et sensibus voluptatem cum corpore. Et intrat et manet in tertia Jhana, de qua nobilis annuntiabit, 'equatineous et memor esto, qui habet iucundum manet.' Qui permaneat et pervadat, et implet hoc ipso corpore delectat, et implet hoc ipsum in delectat raptu, et implet hoc corpus cum delectatur ex raptu et implet corpus cum delectat, et implet hoc corpus cum delectatione abstulit et implet corpus cum delectat, et implet corpus cum delectat ex raptu et implet corpus cum voluptatibus, quod est in delectatione, et implet hoc ipsum in delectat raptu, ita quod est in delectatione, ut sit in delectatione, et implet hoc ipsum in delectat raptu, ita quod sit Nil totam corpus in voluptate abstinent raptu. "Sicut in blue-, white-, aut rubrum-lotus stagnum, non potest esse quidam ex hyacintho, alba, aut rubrum lotuses quae natus et crescente in stans De aqua, ut non permascentur et pervaduntur, suffusa et repleti frigus aqua ex radices eorum tips et nihil ex hyacintho, albus, aut rubrum lotuses esse vacua frigida aqua; Ita, monachus permeates et permades, et implet hoc ipsum corpus cum voluptatem abstinent raptu. Nihil totius corporis indolis deletted de raptu ... [Quarto Jhana] "Et praeterea, cum ab derelicto voluptatis et accentus - sicut cum antea ablatione elationis et angustia - et intrat et manet in quarta Jhana, nec-pura, nec-dolor. Sedet, permeating corpus puram, clara conscientia, ut nihil totius corporis in pura, clara conscientia. "Sicut si quis sedebat involvit caput ad pedem cum albo panno, ut non esset pars corporis, cui album pannum non extend; Etiam monachus sedet, permeating corpus cum pura clara conscientia. Nihil totius corporis in pura, clara conscientia. " (Anguttabant nikaya, 5.28) -----------

[@angryzombie8088]

It just didnt make sense for a miniscule cells to become even smaller cell. I guess all the time I've spent in Biology class isnt wasted after all. As Bonsai beginner, I also think that the wire is torturing the tree. But in reality, the wire are not meant to torture or strangle the tree. In fact wire marks are not ideal for bonsai.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Exactly, if done properly, the wire won’t girdle the tree in any way. Hello to my fellow biologist! Thanks for watching

[@zacmumblethunder7466]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist I've seen full sized trees that engulf iron railings, I never thought a bit of wire would trouble them too much. Trees are brilliant. Even the one at the bottom of my garden that has moved the top row of bricks on my wall.

[@bestaround3323]

I mean trees don't have pain receptors so it is a little hard to torture them.

[@Immortal_BP]

@@bestaround3323 some people dont understand this, reading comments make me cringe lmao

[@PNWBonsai]

Yooo amazing video! Cracking down on those misconceptions all the while making a very well shot and narrated documentary! Great job dude!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks man! You have a wonderful channel yourself.

[@PNWBonsai]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤

[@PNWBonsai]

If your ever in Seattle, hit me up!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@@PNWBonsai for sure!

[@Jupiter-theswrdmstr]

It’s so beautiful how years of training can be reduced to a video of knowledge like this

[@Missioneer]

Dude, I wish you were on TV back when I was kid watching YTV here in Canada Ontario. Keep up the great work! 🥲

[@Silvahhhhhhhhhh]

Really well informed video! As someone who owns a few bonsais I am really happy to see such a well documented video on this hobby. The mention of it's culture of origins is also something that I believe to be of importance to the topic. There is indeed a lot of controversial topics about bonsais, such as torture. It isn't a far fetch, plants do have a level of conciousness, they acknowledge their enviroments and react accordingly to their surroundings. Their sentience is important for evolution, acknowledging shifts in climate, temperature and seasons is a key to further survival. However, I do think that, if done right, growing bonsais is an incredibly delicate procedure, it can certainly be claustrophobic to the plant, but in the end "product", it is no far from a regular tree, it just adapted to a smaller size. However, if you are to grow a fruit bearing bonsai, do try to grow one that does not cause too much weight on the tree, as it may damage the branches and hurt it in the process. I was personally a bit shocked to think about the theory of the cells being smaller. It never crossed my mind, I always thought that reducing cell size would impossibilitate the growth of the plants. Anyways, for anyone who got an interest in bonsais due to the video, I always recommend adenium obesum (desert roses) for newbies! Although they are not really trees, but succulents, they can be turned into a bonsai, and out in the wild, they can grow up to 6 feet tall. And turning them into bonsai really is no harm at all! Given it's origins conditions, desert roses are used to being restricted in size (yes, there are natural bonsais out there), it is apart of their evolution trait, and they are quite pretty when they bloom.

[@daljitsrkg]

great story telling voice! amazing content. love the editting. dude keep it like this and you will someday have like 10 million subscribers! this is one of those channels. dont give up!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Dude, thank you so much! I really hope so. Cheers 🙌🏾

[@watrgrl2]

This was fascinating! You’re a gifted teacher! I really enjoyed you video and I learned something I always wanted to know! ❤👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@lavp365]

i started watching, but then saw the is bonsai torture video link, so i went ahead and watched that one first. super interesting stuff! i had this video sitting in my watch later for so long, and i’m glad i finally got to it! just subscribed and i’m excited to explore all your other videos. just wanted to share 😄

[@GothicPotato2]

Fantastic video! Really loved the presentation and tempo of everything. Keep up the amazing work!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Aye! Peter, thanks man!

[@nuri-garden]

I like your scientific approach to the principles of bonsai.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@222k3]

Thank you for sharing this. It covered all the questions I had in my head on bonsais. ❤

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for watching!

[@thomaskn1012]

Just discovered your channel. How did I ever not discover your channel earlier? Two of my favorite subjects (outdoors and biology) in one. You have a new subscriber.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you and thanks for watching :)

[@matthewp1988]

High quality video man. Hope you continue growing, you deserve it.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you so much! I appreciate it!

[@deusvaulter4198]

The thing I learned from the video is that the artform of Bonsai is limitless. Just from the video, you can turn trees into natural art or add props for the bonsai to grow through like geometric shapes, bone, metal, whatever prop you'd like. Not to mention how intricate you could make the art using tools. It's really badass. I also think for those against bonsai, given the "trauma" of bonsai the tree would die long before becoming art. Considering the "trauma" of clipping and wire being used as a guidance tool. I just dont see a "negative" of bonsai.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I agree! To me, it just feels like more intimate gardening. Cheers!

[@Flicks_and_Pages]

Wow this is truly amazing and inspiring at the same time. Thanks for this. You really made me more appreciate Bonsai trees.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching :)

[@Saamniferu]

You cannot torture a plant, you can immorally kill a plant (If you kill it for no reason), but it cannot feel pain. These trees cannot think, it should be appreciated as a environmentally friendly artform. (it is)

[@mushmush4980]

True. But while they don't have nerves, they do send stress responses via electrical signals and respond to distress

[@mikehunt3420]

@@mushmush4980 that’s mot sentience tho that’s electric signals firing.

[@KILLD0ZER]

@@mushmush4980 So do all living things, even single-celled organisms communicate both internally and with each other. The notion that every lifeform is precious is silly, considering how brutal nature is towards itself and how you kill thousands upon thousands of organisms every time you e.g. wash anything (hands, dishes, laundry, floor, car...)

[@mushmush4980]

@@mikehunt3420 who said anything about sentience And why do you guys think I'm disagreeing with the guy or trying to make a point, I'm just saying that they do feel electrical and chemical distress to a small degree

[@mushmush4980]

@@KILLD0ZER Where did you get all that from when I just mentioned that they have some basic form of signalling

[@Raziel2404]

Bonsai is an interest I had many months ago. I wanted to do a miniature rose bush from a cutting and give it away to a woman I liked after budding for the first time. Sadly, it got eaten by an animal. My thoughts on the subject, though: It's an art form that requires time, dedication and learning. It harmonizes Mankind's will to create with Nature's will to survive.

[@hmnc444]

That animal must have had a sore mouth afterwards 😆

[@Raziel2404]

@@hmnc444 It was in its early stages of growing. I was cloning it from a cutting. I was also taking off the thorns as it was growing.

[@aughta]

Im currently growing 8 trees from seeds i got from store apples. So far they are coming along quite well for a first attempt. They haven’t reached a stage where they need to be trimmed or shaped yet but they are as of now quite strong. I am growing them while trying to spend as little money as possible such as making pots out of recycled materials. I only paid for apples and a mini watering can.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

sounds like an adventure! Good luck!

[@Plantabs]

Thanks for those info... Excited more to create a bonsai of my own.. keep it Up👍😊🌿

[@nakenmil]

So I guess bonsai aren't all that different from naturally-occuring "Krummolz", the kind of trees you get when stuff like pine or juniper grow in poor soil near or above the tree line, with strong winds and little water. Not quite as manicured, of course, but the overall conditions are similar. I wonder if that's where the original inventors of Bonsai got the inspiration to begin with.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That’s exactly where they got the inspiration! Great observation

[@inugami-d5355]

There are many many styles of bonsai and some of these styles (in particular literati style) are extremely representative of those trees. Bonsai is supposed to mimic natural form. Many also show form of broad leaf trees in less extreme style. Its a fantastic hobby

[@MrCliveado]

Good video, I've been looking for scientific videos on bonsai and found this. I'm trying to understand WHY you should do bonsai techniques rather than just doing it because it's what others do. Thanks from the UK

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks man, I’m all about the science 🔬 I’m a bit confused by your question. Can you please elaborate? Are you referring to the specific techniques in bonsai rather than just going Willy Nilly?

[@MrCliveado]

Sorry I think I just worded my comment awkwardly. I just appreciate the scientific approach. Thanks

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@@MrCliveado haha no problem man. Thanks again

[@juntar4065]

Stumbled upon your video by chance, I am new to bonsais, just started with juniper and some ficus few years ago and still growing some other plants. Good quality content! Keep it coming 👍🏻 Subscribed 👍🏻

[@0230Raveena]

Thank You for this. I've always been fascinated by the art. You have provided amazing information.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I'm glad you liked it! Take care

[@DickerWaal]

Kudos to you for all the research and immersive deep dive into this topic! I've realized the quality from start, respect for taking the time for it. As always, as eerie as KZbin's algorithm works, I've been thinking about the bonsai'a biology lately and also didn't approve of the idea how we cut their roots, stems, leaves, ..possibly anything just to make them fit in cookie cutter aesthetics as we humans like to play to be the creator. With science within the limits of our human understanding, apparently it's not proven yet that they "feel" mental and physical pain in any comparable way that we would resonate with. Simultaneously, I've realized that we limit plants in any scenario possible, not specifically bonsai only. Think about any houseplants being restricted in their space for root growth and their environment to thrive, any domestic plant that has been genetically modified only to please our senses (either visually, or in a gustatory or olfactory way, even the texture - the way it feels when you touch the plant) and to be able to mass produce to satisfy the overconsumption that is pushed by the system. Think about all the plants that are pushed away and restrained from their habitat with all the freaking concrete and alike everywhere. It's truly amazing to still see plants that are considered as weed, e.g. dandelions still find a way in the tiny crack between concrete elements to still bloom, reproduce, and turn the soil more fertile. When it comes to morals on how much we can limit plants, it doesn't stop with bonsai, we have to rethink how we modify possibly everything within anything imaginable with plants and beyond

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you for your nuanced comment! Plants are an interesting topic to explore, especially the ethics of it. I think we will continue to evolve our understanding of plants and the line between what is right vs wrong will become more blurry.

[@DR3AMLP]

great video! this will help me grow my first bonsai... bought it yesterday. and btw I love the work you put in your videos keep it up

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That’s awesome! Good luck and thanks :)

[@janrinortega4304]

Just found this channel by pure chance - what a gem of a find.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you! 🙏🏾

[@II-ot7fb]

Love the video! Maybe you can make other plant based videos! Would love to learn more about my acacia palm and your videos are always so well done!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you! I definitely will be making more plant vids :)

[@alexandersvensson2677]

Awesome stuff...learned something new today!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks man!