There are many bonsai myths doing rounds. The other day I was browsing some forums and I came across a thread with a heated argument.

Any guesses about the topic of argument?

May be you are right. There were fifteen odd bonsai lovers trying to help two persons against the art form.

Before going ahead with the article let me tell you that in this case my vote is with the majority. Because I have experienced the benefits of bonsai is my life first hand.

Now I will take up a few questions that are often noting but over highlighted myths. For your convenience I will mention the myth followed by my take on it.
 
Myth1: Bonsai restricts plant growth forcibly.
My take: That is any thing but true. The full glory of bonsai is revealed only when the plant attains full growth. You just do not find a great bonsai tree that is 2 years old, but you will better appreciate a bonsai tree of twenty years that has matured over time.
 
Myth2: Bonsai is genetically engineered.
My take: One more blatant lie if you ask me. Assuming things is relatively easy from a distance. Any body that has been remotely associated with the art of bonsai will negate this thought. The fact is that growing bonsai is a natural process and it is very similar to the growth of plants growing in wilderness. None of the bonsai artists that I have known promote the idea of genetically modifying the plant to convert it into a good looking bonsai. Neither the natural chemical composition of the plant is not altered nor is the hormonal balance tampered while training it as a bonsai.
 
Myth 3: Bonsai plants are starved.
My Take: Not so. Bonsai plants are never starved. In fact the bonsai trees receive great attention and care as compared to their counterparts growing in nature. Food on time, water just as needed, adequate exposure to sunlight, protection from harsh weather and pests are something that bonsai growers give a lot of importance. So logically speaking, bonsai trees get a lot of love, care and attention from their trainers.

I have conveyed my thoughts on three of the biggest myths on bonsai. Hopefully now you get a clear picture of the entire story, and are able to take a stand for or against the art of bonsai.