The Growing Art Of Bonsai

"Killing trees is part of the learning process," says one of the bonsai experts in this comprehensive introduction to the art of growing bonsai, and while it's not said with lip-licking glee, it's hard to ignore the S & M element in bonsai. Just the tools section alone, with it's wire snippers, root hook, and knob cutter, suggests the ambiance of a torture chamber. The idea is simple: one "trains" (by forceful means) a tree to grow small and aesthetically pleasing in a container. (Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't this the same methodology and rationale for foot-binding?) Anyway, for those people who have a green Frankenstein wish, and absolutely must control nature, The Growing Art of Bonsai is an excellent guide. Hosted by Arthur Skolnik, the program briefly covers the flourishing of the art of bonsai in Japan, shows viewers a sample bonsai arrangement (an informal upright juniper), points out various styles, and offers tips on pruning, soil, potting (and repotting), watering, fertilizing, insect control, and seasonal care. But I still keep thinking about the guy in the tape who says that the appeal is in the "control": he has to pinch his bonsai 100 times a day to keep it in shape. Torture? Art? It's a mystery, like many things Japanese. Highly recommended. A good and less expensive supplement or alternative to Bonsai is Living Sculpture (VL-5/88). (R. Pitman)