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bonsaiTALK Master
Join Date: Dec-2006
Location: Manchester, NH
Country: USA
Posts: 390
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Newbie Advice Sought
Hi,
I'm completely new to bonsaiTALK, and lightly experienced in raising bonsai. Prior to my current situation, I successfully raised a juniper in the slanting style. I thoroughly enjoyed it for a number of years until something (probably overwatering) killed it.
I have just purchased a C Elm over the Internet. I wanted to raise a root-over-rock tree in the broom style. I was told that the tree is about 5 years old, and it appears to be so. It is about 10cm high.
I have read many threads (especially newbie threads) prior to posting this new thread. I have seen a great divergence of opinion on some of the questions I raise, without definitive answers. I want to do the best I can with this bonsai, and am in no rush to accomplish my goals.
1- (Semi-Religious Question  ) For my C Elm, what is the best soil for training?
2- I am reluctant to repot soon after getting it, but understand that I should put the bonsai in a larger (what size?) training pot, especially since a major desire is to thicken the trunk and roots. Should I repot about a month after I get the bonsai, or wait until sometime later? 
3- Should I do anything to the branches to start implementing the broom style, or just let them grow while the trunk thickens?
4- What should I do to train the trunk to grow straight, so that a proper broom style bonsai can develop?
5- What method of watering is best for the C Elm? I understand that I should do it such that the potting material gets totally wet withing 90 seconds or so, and drains excess water within a couple of minutes. Any further advice?
6- What should I do about fertilizing during our first year together?
Thank you so much for your input...
Brian
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