How Much Do Bonsai Trees Cost?

The bonsai tree is a much-loved plant and is enough to bring flare to anyone’s home, but how much are these plants really worth?

In this article we will be exploring the bonsai tree in all its glory as well as touching on the many factors associated with a bonsai trees cost.’

What Is A Bonsai Tree?

There is a misconception that bonsai trees are like your generic tree, however this is not the case. Bonsai trees are in fact a cumulation of a multitude of shrubs which form to create the impression of an actual full-sized tree.

The way in which these shrubs grow and trunks/branches contort have made the bonsai somewhat of an art piece, specifically tailored within Japanese art.

The way a bonsai tree grows is unpredictable; each tree differs in shape, size and style and this has an overall effect on its value.

How To Grow/Care For A Bonsai Tree

You would not find bonsai trees out in the natural outdoors for they need specific care from a human which nature can’t conduct. They are known as “potted plants”, and this has a literal meaning behind it.

For thousands of years have bonsais been grown and this is still an art we do today. To grow your own bonsai takes respect for the plant, dedication and love and this can be accomplished by anyone.

There are many things which go into growing a bonsai tree; as long as these needs are met, you will be sure to have a beautiful tree.

A Suitable Climate

When choosing your species of plant to grow, it is very important to consider the climate and location. Whilst some trees thrive in hot temperatures, there are others who need the low cold to help them grow strong.

Consider where you live and do you research to find a suitable species for you.

Indoor Vs Outdoor

It is essential to decide whether you want your bonsai tree to be an indoor or an outdoor plant. The location they are in has a drastic impact on how it should be cared for, so it is important to decide this before growing your plant.

Watering

When it comes to watering your bonsai, this should be done on an irregular schedule. It is not about timings but should be wholly based on intuition. When you see that your tree is becoming dry, that is when you should water again.

Do not water every day or every five days or likewise just to keep a schedule – this may lead to overwatering/underwatering. It is necessary to keep a close eye to determine whether or not it should be watered.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing your bonsai is key to its upkeep and needs to be done frequently; make sure to fertilize your bonsai all through its growing period (early spring to mid-fall). In order to know how much fertilizer to use, refer to the fertilizer you use for they each vary.

How Much Is A Bonsai Tree Worth?

Bonsai trees are ancient plants, having been around and adored for thousands of years and because of this, this can lead anyone to question its worth. So, how much do bonsai trees cost?

Because of the variety it is difficult to narrow the price down to just one cost, but on average you will find the bonsai costing around $100. This is simply an average, for you can also find these trees pricing at as little as $10 and as high as $500. 

You may now be wondering, why such the large price range? Well, there are many things that are considered when it comes to a bonsai tree’s worth: age, size, style and shape, species rarity.

Age

Age has a huge factor on the cost of a bonsai tree. Remember, the bonsai tree has been embraced for thousands of years so there are chances that bonsais which were grown hundreds of years ago have been passed down through generations.

Trees of this age will inevitably be worth much more and has added value for its longevity.

Size

When we speak of the size of the tree we are referring to its growth. Depending on species, a bonsai tree can be difficult to require and therefore requires a lot more work.

Because of this, this tree would cost more as more care and dedication needs to be put in for the upkeep of the plant.

Style And Shape

Every bonsai looks different from the other. You have those which are your basic shrubs growing from others, and then you have those with large trunks swirling in an intrinsic design. Inevitably, the intrinsically shaped bonsai will be worth more.

Species Rarity

A trees rarity plays a big part in the cost. You can determine a bonsai’s rarity by its shape, its age, size and many other factors. Essentially, the rule of thumb is the rarer the tree, the higher the price.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the bonsai tree is something of great value, and we are not just talking about the price tag. Bonsai trees have been around for centuries and from this it has become a much-loved and recognizable icon.

To look after a plant such as this one takes plenty of dedication and care as it is not looked after on a routine. Unlike other plants which require daily or fortnightly tending to, the bonsai tree has no schedule.

The bonsai tree needs to be tended to with a close eye – if it is dry, water it and use your initiative to fertilise.

Bonsai trees do not have a specific price but on average narrows down to around $100.

There are many factors which determine the price such as its rarity, its size, its shape and style, and its age – only once this is determined can a price be put on it.

However, despite the price tag alone, these plants are worth so much more based on its history and value. If you do have one for yourself, show it the love and respect it deserves to thrive and grow.