Aaron_K

Hi Shane,

Welcome to the world of bonsai. Many years of frustration and disappointment are to come, before you reach happiness - Or is that just a defination of married life? I digress.

Having only been practising bonsai for about 18 months now, I'm pretty much a newbie too, and know how daunting it can be. My advice to you would be not to buy a tree for a few weeks. Moreover, buying a book or two on the subject will be the best step forward.

Read all you can on the subject, from basic horticultural techniques, to growth, styling and of course, the terminology that goes with it. You will find this site a good source of information, advice and inspiration.

I started reading a few of Peter Chan's books and found them to be an excellent point of reference as they covered the basics and more advanced techniques in good depth, although any book by good bonsai practioners will suffice.

After you have spent a time reading a few books, I would then suggest that you purchase a tree. A good species for the beginner is a Chinese Elm, as they are pretty forgiving if mistreated. Don't spend a huge amount on one either. Just a nice little tree, that you can "practise" keeping alive. Learn about the species, how you should feed it and water it and its light requirements.

After you've successfully kept the tree alive for a few months, you can start looking towards such aspects as pruning and styling, and eventually repotting. Don't bother spending a fortune on tools either. Just a sharp pair of bonsai sheers should be all you need to start with. Your tool collection will expand over time.

I can fully appreciate that you want to dive into the subject, but by taking your time, being patient (I promise you - patience is a prerequiste), and gaining as much knowledge as you can, you should avoid disappointment.

I hope that proves helpful.

Welcome aboard!

Kindest regards,

Aaron