After teaching bonsai to beginners for many years I am constantly reminded of my past and how bonsai became such a big part of my life. It is amazing how a tree, which will become an invaluable part of your life, can come to symbolise so many things in such a short amount of time.
Bonsai is usually translated as ‘growing in small pots’ so the ‘potted’ meaning is obviously included here. However, it is worth mentioning that bonsai are not genetically dwarfed trees but grown in such a way so they maintain the same proportion to the rest of the tree that the full grown tree has. This is important as otherwise you would not be able to see the trees clearly.
The Beginner’s Kit
This is the most essential kit for anyone wanting to learn how to grow a bonsai. It includes everything you need to start training and pruning a bonsai such as a pot, training wire, pair of pliers, screwdrivers, and a root rake.
The best place to begin with your bonsai is to find a nursery that supplies both beginner and more advanced bonsai trees. Each year I attend several bonsai exhibitions and try to learn something new. Most nurseries will have a Beginner’s Centre, where you can ask questions of experts in the field and take a tour of the store. This is a worthwhile encounter if you are considering taking on training yourself as a bonsai enthusiast.
Finding the Best Bonsaipots
There are a few factors to consider in choosing the best bonsai pots. First of all, make sure that the pot is 12 to 16 inches deep. This is the perfect depth for bonsai, although smaller pots can be used. Also, make sure the pot has a drainage hole in the base and a tray underneath to catch the messy soil.
Sealed Bonsai Pots vs. Plastic Pots
I’m not a big fan of either as a buyer so I won’t say much here. I’ve seen them both in use and both have their good points and bad points. The good points of either are that the pot holds the soil together and the bad point is if the soil becomes wet which it will.
Bonsai Trees and Compost
Another thing you should consider before you purchase your bonsai is what type of style you would prefer. There are several styles of bonsai and you can choose something that best matches your home and personality. The easiest way to become a good bonsai enthusiast is to find a tree that is flourishing in its pot at home and then watch and see what you can do to get it to look exactly like the tree you bought.
Once you have your bonsai you will need a container to hold it. This container must have a hole in the bottom to allow the water to drain. There are some special bonsai pots made for holding bonsai perfectly. These Pots can be found at most department stores and are a good place to brag about your bonsai to your friends and family.
Finding the Best Specialty Trees
Now that you have purchased your bonsai it is important to find a tree that will thrive in the conditions and the type of soil you have in your home. There are numerous speciality trees now available that will not only be easy to care for but also very beautiful.
Try to find a tree that is at least 10 years old and is thriving. You want to bring back to life what nature gave you. Find a bonsai tree that has small leaves and a nice trunk and then invest the time to learn how to care for it. While these trees are somewhat easier to care for than younger ones, they are not impossible and you will still have to remember to water and fertilize.
Before you know it, you will be a pro at bonsai growing and have your very own bonsai trees.
