How do I get started in bonsai?

There are several ways to get started. If you’re reading this, you’re already off to a good start. There are literally hundreds and hundreds of bonsai related web sites so some internet research is always a good idea. There are also books and videos available to help you understand the art which can be obtained from bookstores and libraries. You can also contact a local bonsai nursery or bonsai society in your area, most of whom will be more than happy to assist you. And there are also community-ed classes, as well as classes available from the local bonsai nursery or bonsai club. Please feel free to give us a call.

What kind of tree should I purchase - indoor or outdoor?

Technically speaking, there is no such thing as an “indoor tree”. However, since bonsai is the art and technique of dwarfing trees and growing them in small containers, in theory any species of tree can become bonsai. There are many varieties that are suitable for indoor growth and many that are suited to outdoor life. Most species that are listed as “outdoor” varieties (juniper, pine, spruce, oak, maple elm, etc.) do poorly indoors. Most enthusiasts will keep their entire collection outdoors, as weather permits, and bring them in only for a few days at a time to display. Consult your local bonsai nursery or bonsai society for information on which species are best suited for your climate. Some of the easiest varieties to maintain are juniper (outdoors only), elm (indoor and outdoor), boxwood (indoor and outdoor), and ficus (indoor/outdoor above 60 degrees farenheit). As a first bonsai, ficus is one of the easiest to grow, as are Japanese junipers.

What tools do I need?

There are three tools that we consider indispensable. They are a good pair of bonsai shears, concave cutters, and bamboo chopsticks. Although you can prune excess growth with a sharp pair of household scissors, a pruning shear is the best option and a good one will last a lifetime. Bonsai shears differ from ordinary scissors in that they usually have longer and narrower blades that allow for getting in to tight spots between foliage and branches while still being easy on the hands due to the larger hand holds. They are quite sharp since the blades are honed to a fine knifelike edge rather than the flat edge you see on scissors and the better ones are made from Japanese steel, which has almost no parallel in terms of edge holding ability. (Think samurai) Concave cutters are designed for removing larger stems and branches in such a way as to leave a divot or depression in the trunk that leads to a much cleaner wound and much cleaner healing of the wound. To my knowledge, there is no western equivalent to this tool. Chopsticks are used for a variety of purposes, the main ones being soil removal, root combing, and working new soil between roots when repotting.

Do I need to feed my bonsai?