The Bonsai Tree

The Bonsai Tree:

When I was living in San Francisco, that would have been a decade ago, I had an older friend who gave me a Bonsai Tree.

- “Take it.” He handed it to me.

It was a Ficus. It wasn’t doing so well. It had been “Over-pruned.” He explained the abuse was a result of frustration. Or, visa-versa. I am not sure now.

The result was the same; too many twigs left standing with no leaf.

I searched a local plant shop for a suitable tray to place it on; something that would keep the water from ruining the table underneath. I had to mist spray the rocks, it was explained, to keep the soil moist.

- “Oh, I think what you have is fine. That’s what I would use, a piece of Tupperware, just like that.”

That was what the shop owner told me after hearing my request. I held the Bonsai Tree and listened, knowing my search would continue. I knew there was nothing suitable in her store.

I took the tree elsewhere, to show in another shop, down the street.

It has a fine bottom now; a tray designed for Bonsai plants. It’s the right receptacle for a pot of this width and length.

The tree has had leaves that have come and gone over the years. There has been very occasional pruning. Its’ environment had been varied.

I have been told it is quite old.

There are rocks in the rectangular pot. The tree has a large root, like a thirsty appendage.

I keep applying the water. It gurgles though its’ rocks. It keeps its’ thirsty roots satisfied. There have been more promising leaves and healthier twigs with greener flesh.

I have not been dissatisfied.

By, James Legare
© Jan 30, 2009