Abstract :
The art of cultivating bonsai has transformed into a burgeoning global market, valued at USD 9,406.18 million in 2023, with a projected CAGR of 11.11% by 2028. Despite its expansion, many bonsai businesses, especially in Malaysia, struggle to leverage modern content marketing strategies to engage digitally savvy consumers. The study examines the application of content marketing in the bonsai industry, addressing the gap between traditional marketing practices and digital opportunities. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study analyzes primary data from social media users and secondary data from academic literature to identify effective strategies. Findings reveal that visual storytelling, educational content, and community engagement significantly enhance audience connection and loyalty. The novelty of the study lies in its comprehensive evaluation of content marketing techniques specific to bonsai, highlighting the importance of integrating user-generated content and seasonal trends in digital campaigns. The discussion underscores the need for bonsai businesses to transition from outdated marketing methods to more dynamic, audience-focused strategies. Implications suggest that adopting these strategies can significantly improve customer engagement, brand visibility, and sales. However, limitations include a small sample size and the focus on Malaysian businesses, which may affect the generalizability of findings. Future research should explore the impact of AI on content personalization and engagement within the bonsai market, as well as comparative studies across different geographical regions. The study provides actionable insights for bonsai businesses aiming to harness digital marketing's potential, ensuring relevance in a competitive global market.