What bonsai tree should I grow?

Question

When I mean grow, I mean seedling to adult. I found the site that had both a Juniper bonsai started kit with a 4 year old bonsai and another kit including red maple bonsai that is a seedling (no age added.) Her is both of there links: http://www.herons.co.uk/prod5.asp?prod_id=10094&id=233&grpid=10094&msg=&offset=12#prod_anchor

And:

http://www.herons.co.uk/best_detail.asp?prod_id=10269#prod_anchor

Which species is better for a beginner, with basically no experience, is better to grow. How hard and long are the two main factors in my choosing, but I dont know which style of bonsai I want.

Answer 1

Contrary to what some people think, bonsai CANNOT be grown either indoors or outdoors. They can be grown indoors or outdoors DEPENDING on the natural habitat of the standard plant. Both of your considerations are outdoor plants and you would have to raise them outdoors almost as if you were growing a standard plant of that variety in the climate where you live. I say "almost" because a little more protection is required to protect the plants from harsher weather but they need the changes of the seasons. It's just part of their natural habitat.

How long? This bonsai artist/grower has been cultivating some of his plants for 20+ years. It's a life long labour of love.

http://www.american-bonsai.com

By the way, your link about the Japanese Maple bonsai says that they are 2-3 years old. Both varieties are pre-bonsai and need work BEFORE they are actually bonsai.

You might consider a local bonsai club. The members would likely be very willing to share info on good choices in your area and might even have plants they're willing to sell/share.

Good Growing!!

Answer 2

Oooooh don't do the Japanese maple...they are very finicky! The Juniper would be an easy one to start with as would a Japanese elm...you can grow either indoors or outdoors and they both are pretty forgiving little trees. The Japanese maple, however, is not forgiving at all.

billie

www.blowininthewind.com