So Expensive Season 3 Episode 5 Why Bonsai Trees Are So Expensive

So Expensive is a fascinating documentary series that explores the world of luxury and extravagance, revealing the reasons behind the astronomical prices of some of the most expensive items in the world. In season 3 episode 5, titled Why Bonsai Trees Are So Expensive, host Robert Frank takes viewers on a journey into the fascinating world of bonsai trees.

Bonsai trees have been a symbol of Japanese culture for centuries, and they're known for their intricate beauty and exquisite detail. But what makes these miniature trees so expensive? Robert begins his investigation by visiting a nursery in California, where he meets with an expert in the art of bonsai cultivation.

The expert explains that growing bonsai trees involves a meticulous and time-consuming process of training the tree's branches and roots to achieve the desired shape and size. This can take years or even decades, and it requires a great deal of patience, skill, and attention to detail. Additionally, bonsai trees require specialized soil, fertilizers, and tools, all of which add to the cost of cultivation.

As Robert delves deeper into the world of bonsai trees, he discovers that their value can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as the tree's age, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. He also learns that a bonsai tree's value can increase significantly if it has won awards at prestigious bonsai competitions, such as the Kokufu-ten exhibition in Tokyo.

Robert travels to Japan to attend the Kokufu-ten exhibition and witness the stunning beauty of some of the world's most exquisite bonsai trees. He meets with several bonsai experts, who explain the techniques and traditions that have been passed down through generations of Japanese horticulturists.

One of the experts demonstrates how a bonsai tree can be trained to look like a miniature forest, complete with tiny buildings and figures. Robert marvels at the incredible attention to detail that goes into creating these miniature landscapes, and he realizes why bonsai trees are so highly valued in Japanese culture.

As Robert explores the world of bonsai trees, he also learns about the controversies surrounding the trade in rare and endangered species. He meets with conservationists who are working to protect these ancient trees from exploitation and environmental degradation.

In the end, Robert reveals the true reasons why bonsai trees are so expensive, and how their value reflects not only their beauty and rarity but also the artistry and dedication of the horticulturalists who cultivate them. So Expensive season 3 episode 5 offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of bonsai trees, and it's a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art, culture, and luxury.