PatArizona

G'day Fish...

Sounds like you are doing a lot of things right...keep it up.

A couple of comments...Always remember, that ALL advice given is somebody's opinion...mostly not cast in concrete...

Onward...in MY opinion, "doing it" is NOT the best way to learn...in the bonsai world, anyway.

Again, in MY opinion, hooking up with some local talent (and joining a club), AND doing it, is the best way..."local" in concert with "doing it". Locals can help you avoid a lot of pitfalls. I've done both ways, and believe me, "doing it" alone is not the best way...opinion...opinion.

There is tons of good advice in this thread...and do continue to post questions on bonsaiTALK...however, always remember that the best advice is more likely to come from local experts.

Oh, by the way..."...receiving afternoon sun..." can be hazarous to small bonsai when the weather is hot. My definition of hot is 80F and upwards...

So, Fish...remember that bonsai is a trip that demans time and patience...welcome aboard, and, enjoy the journey.

Pat

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BONSAI isn't about surviving in a storm, rather, how to dance in the rain.
THE ONLY WAY: Always remember, and don't ever forget, that whatever you read here is not cast in concrete... the intent of any advice is to help. In no way should you feel that I’m saying that my way is the only way…heaven forbid! I've seen far too much of the "my way or the highway" attitude in bonsai as well as in other areas of life.