Best Beginner Bonsai

mr_burninator

Until recently I was under the impression that a Japanese Juniper is almost certainly the best beinnner tree, however, i'm starting to think that was a hasty decision, since i'm looking more for a bonsai that can be indoors a fair amount. I plan on providing plenty of outside time throughout the warmer months but as a beginner, an "indoor" bonsai is more what i'm looking for.

Since I don't make it a habit of making hasty decisions, I have yet to buy my first bonsai tree and i was hoping some people out there would share good or bad stories or advice that might help me pick out my first tree. Also, opinions on indoor vs. outdoor is something i'm still studying so feel free to comment on that as well.

I understand that Ficus Benjamina is a good way to go (as well as the many other easy to keep ficus species), and I hear that Serissas and Fukien Teas are maybe trees to steer away from as a beginner. With the recent passing of my 23rd birthday and sping around the corner (for me at least), any tips on what to order and maybe from where would be much appreciated. I'm hoping to have a tree by the end of march or so. Thanks.

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<------------ Thomas Newton



Do not be afraid to go out on a limb ... That's where the fruit is.
- Anonymous

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mr_burninator

Just some additional info that might impact the decision, I live in Pennsylvania..... by the way, how can i find out what zone that is? Also, I just joined this forum so i apologize if this question has been asked 100 times before now, and hopefully not too recently. I am eager to learn so thanks again for any advice.

__________________
<------------ Thomas Newton



Do not be afraid to go out on a limb ... That's where the fruit is.
- Anonymous

Geodude

My personal opinion... Chinese elm. They are strong growers, backbud well, root easily from cuttings, leaves are small, etc. etc. etc. I'm a relative beginner myself, and I just love 'em.

Re: USDA zone, look under your name and you'll see USDA which you can click on to get the map.

Welcome to the hobbie.

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Paul

"Life will be sweet like a rhapsody
When I paint my materpiece"

acousticco

Greetings,

http://www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/ushzmap.html

The above link will give you abundant information on USDA zones.

I think Ficus make an excellent introductory plant for bonsai, but I believe that with proper research, (which you sound as if you're willing to do), you should be able to discover countless species to investigate. I wish I had had the insight to research a little harder before making some early tree purchases... I like olives, pomegranates and Chinese elms for indoor trees... ...and Figs of coarse...

Also don't discount outdoor trees as more advanced than indoor ones. If you examine species native to your region and choose wisely, I don't think they're any more challenging than an indoor tree. Perhaps even easier because light and circulation are provided for free by the sun and wind.

Also these links are excellent sources for information:
http://www.evergreengardenworks.com/index.htm
http://www.bonsai-bci.com/species/indexcommon.html
+the BonsaiTalk seach engine at the bottom of the page.

Happy Growing

-Cody

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acoustic company gardens

Greggles

If u live in a country like australia where the climate is always warm, then growing a chinese elm is great.
I bought a chinese elm and it looked like a stick when I bought it, but now it's full of leaves and that's in 2 weeks time.

If u'r buying from a nursery, ask the people there about which tree back-buds well. Trees that back-bud well, IMO are great for beginners.

A popular bonsai with the chinese is the serissa. However, if your climate is always cold, it is best not to grow anything that cannot withstand this.

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"And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground-trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food." - Genesis 2:9

Bart Thomas(deceased)

Mr. B.

I'd strongly suggest that you go to the Philly Flower Show next month and talk to the folks at Chase Rosade's(non-selling) display. You could also pick up a schedule of their classes, which are held in New Hope, Pa.

I wouldn't buy anything until I had talked to them or to Jim Doyle (Nature's Way) in Harrisburg, if that's more convenient.

Both are world-famous bonsai masters.

BTW, I'd recommend a willow-leaf ficus, or a Green Island Ficus for the beginner. They are less "fussy" than F Benjimina, and are responsive enough so that they will teach you how they grow and respond to pruning.

Welcome to the hobby!

BTW, I think you will find that you are in zone 6.

Travesty34

The grow back is much quicker on a Ficus retusa or Green island than a Benji. I would recommend a Ficus retusa. You would also have most of the year to work on it indoors.I would keep it outside after night temps. are staying above 60f to 65F and let it get partial sun for a few months.Make sure you do not let it get chilled for any length of time, or it will seriously stunt it or even kill it.

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Travesty34 - GW - Profile

mr_burninator

Thanks for all the useful info guys... this site is getting me really excited and optomistic about my first purchase. It looks like if I don't start with on of the ficus species that you guys suggested, a Chinese Elm is the favorite. Considering the apparent lack of fussiness and how beautiful they can become (at least if Thomas J. gets his hands on them) it's exactly what i'm looking for.

Alright it's off to learn all about USDA zones. Also Bart.... can I call you Bart?.... thanks for the tip about the Philly flower show and the Masters you suggested I talk to. I'm looking to really get out there and immerse myself, and since we live in somewhat close proximity, please mention future events like this so that i can become more networked. Or if you would share like to share your source of this kind of information (magazine, membership...?) maybe i could investige myself.

__________________
<------------ Thomas Newton



Do not be afraid to go out on a limb ... That's where the fruit is.
- Anonymous

mr_burninator

Speaking of magazines and chinese elms.... is there a most popular or informative bonsai magazine that i should check out? Also, I was wondering if the title Chinese Elm refered to a number of different species in the same genus or if Ulmus parvifolia was the way to go.

__________________
<------------ Thomas Newton



Do not be afraid to go out on a limb ... That's where the fruit is.
- Anonymous