Aqua Bonsai, Bonsai growing in water

Aqua Bonsai is a new Bonsai style using the technology of hydroponics (a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without soil).

First, a Bonsai that was initially growing in soil is put in a circulation system of water and growth-lights. The details about this system are a well kept secret, but it results in a Bonsai tree that can thrive without any soil.

How to grow an Aqua bonsai?

Select a nice glass pot to display the Bonsai in. Per 250ml of water we add 2 drops of the fertilizer. Place the tree at a window at a sunny spot. Discard the liquid once a week, replacing the water and adding nutrients again.

Aqua Bonsai
Adding fertilizer to the water, on this tiny Ginkgo bonsai.
Aqua Bonsai
We place the Aqua Bonsai at a window facing the south, for enough light.
Aqua Bonsai
Once a week we change the water and nutrients.
Aqua Bonsai
Japanese craftsmen have created these glass containers by hand. These are absolutely beautiful.
Aqua Bonsai
Different tree species can all be kept as Aqua Bonsai. including pines and maples.
Aqua Bonsai
Some tiny little Aqua Bonsai displayed indoors.
Aqua Bonsai
A maple, wax tree and a young pine tree.
Aqua Bonsai
Wonderfully designed glass pots!

The process of creating Aqua Bonsai

Aqua Bonsai creation
With this circulation system, Bonsai are grown with new roots (suitable for hydroponic cultivation).
Aqua Bonsai creation
The water in which the Bonsai is placed is not normal tap water, as the tree would wither and eventually die. So we add certain fertilizers to the water, making it weakly acidic and promoting growth.
Aqua Bonsai creation
The fertilizers.
Aqua Bonsai creation
Every day, mr. Nakajima held a record of the hydroponic results, perfecting the mix of fertilizers to add to the water. This took well over three years to perfect. And so Aqua Bonsai was born.

We thank Daisuke Nakajima (aquabonsai.jp), for sharing these insights.