Imagine walking by a maple (枫树) tree that is no taller than a ruler. You may think that this is a special type of miniature tree, but it actually isn’t! Creating a tree like this is a form of art called bonsai. Bonsai are tiny trees grown in small pots. Bonsai can be any kind of tree. They just need to be planted in a small container and cultivated in a way that stunts their growth.
Cultivating, or taking care of, a bonsai tree requires patience and care. Pruning — removing branches, leaves, and roots — is an important part of raising bonsai. It keeps the trees small, and it also controls their shape. Pinching off new buds (嫩芽) and tying wire around branches help create a beautiful design. These processes allow the grower to control what shape the bonsai tree will take as it develops.
People who raise bonsai want their trees to look like they belong in nature. Even though it is contained in a pot, a bonsai tree should look similar to its larger counterpart (相对物，参照物). For example, the bonsai maple should have the same forked branches and vibrant leaves as the full-sized maple. This makes the bonsai a tiny copy of the full-sized maple that towers overhead.
Like other plants, bonsai need water and food from the soil. In order to keep bonsai the proper size, you need to carefully control the amount of water and fertilizer you provide. If you want to grow a bonsai, it is best to start with a species that grows in your area. Most bonsai do best when kept outdoors, so they need to be able to survive the weather. If kept indoors, the bonsai must be placed near a window. Interestingly, with proper care, bonsai can live for a hundred years or more.
【小题1】Why does a bonsai tree need pruning frequently?| A．To control its size. |
| B．To help it grow well. |
| C．To save fertilizer and water. |
| D．To create a shape as designed. |
| A．One of a larger counterpart. |
| B．A tiny copy of the full-sized maple. |
| C．One looking like its counterpart in nature. |
| D．One with forked branches and vibrant leaver. |
| A．To keep the bonsai indoors. |
| B．To start with a native species. |
| C．To keep bonsai the proper size. |
| D．To control the amount of water. |
| A．Bonsai — a special hobby |
| B．How to be bonsai grower |
| C．What does bonsai refer to? |
| D．Why is bonsai so popular? |
