kreashun

As a beginner, I have to respectfully agree with Joanie. It is paramount that a firm base be set before attempting to build upon that base. I do not doubt that it is possible for a beginner to care for and grow several species of trees, but at what expense? Are those trees truly heathly and thriving?

Anyone can look down from among high and say, "I wish I could have had more species when I started out," but it is the lessons that you have learned along the way that allow you to make such statements. When starting out, it can be a daunting task just learning the growing habits, how much to water, how much light is needed, or what type of fertilizer to use for each individual species. Most people can handle the frustration of making mistakes along the way, but it is the severity and the frequency of those mistakes that can potentially turn someone away from the art form.

I believe Joanie's original post was not meant to discourage beginners from attempting species that are typically considered for more experienced growers, but more to simply limit the number of species attempted by beginners and in turn limit the number of potential mistakes and frustrations. By having a few different species of trees and 4-5 five of each species in various stages of development, someone just starting out will have plenty to do and learn. This way experimenting will lead to limited errors along the way.

"He who would learn to fly one day must first learn to stand and walk and run and climb and dance; one cannot fly into flying." - Friedrich Nietzsche