Having been on this forum for a few months now, it is very apparent that many people who come here really need very basic information. While bonsaiTALK is an excellent learning and interacting tool, it is even better if people put in a little effort first. If someone new to bonsai takes some time to read what is already available, both on and off the forum, they will quickly appreciate the opportunity to hone their skills that bonsaiTALK brings to them.

1. Let us Know Who You Are

First, before posting, fill in your regional information. Being able to have this information available to other members means that they can tailor their responses to your needs. Go into your Profile in the "User CP" and fill in at least your region and your zones. If you don't know how to find your zones, google for them. Take a little time on this, it will help others to help you.

2. Try a Basic Search First - Use the Wiki, too!

Before posting a simple question about soil or care or pruning, try searching for it. Go to the "Search" tool in the overhead banner, and type in a few key words. (Like: "maple soil" or "prune ficus") Take the time to read through the posts that you find in your search, they may answer your question and you will probably find other information besides! Something you didn't even think to ask yet! Then go on the internet and use a search tool to search the web. Type in "maple soil bonsai" or "prune ficus bonsai" (notice I added the word bonsai...if you are on this forum you can assume we are talking about bonsai, so you don't have to add it here) With the web and search tools like Google, you have more information available to you than anyone at any time in human history. Use it!!! Be willing to take the time to read what you find, and think about it.

Many terms related to bonsai art and horticulture are already defined in the bonsaiWIKI, which is a user-supported encyclopedia here at bonsaiTALK. You can search on any term in a posting just by double-clicking on it, whether it is highlighted as a link or not.

3. Post in the Appropriate Place

If you still don't have an answer to your question, post on the appropriate thread, and post your question just once! Notice that there are forums for Beginners Q & A, for Species Specific, for Pests and Diseases, etc. Everyone is guilty of putting a posting in the wrong place sometimes, but it does pay to take a minute to think about your question. If you post in the wrong place, it will be moved by a moderator. You don't need to post in a couple of places. That becomes very confusing because no one knows where to reply.

4. Be Specific and Accurate

Make your question as specific as possible. It will be easier for someone to answer if they understand what you really need to know. Take a minute to look over your post, check the spelling, make sure you are clear on what you want to say.

5. Include Relevant Photos

If your post should have a picture to help everyone see your problem or your tree, use the "manage attachments" below the posting area. For further questions on this, go to the FAQ. Try to make the photo clear and at a good angle. Digital pictures don't cost money, they only take time, and the more time you spend taking your pictures and learning about how to do them, the happier you will be.

6. Be Patient!

Finally, post your question and wait. Many people only read the forum once a day, or a couple times a week, or when they are done pruning or cooking dinner. Meanwhile, keep reading and trying to find the answer yourself. Getting practice finding the many resources on the web will always help you, because you will have more questions as you go on your bonsai journey. And you will also find other sites that you can check back on frequently. If your question isn't answered in a couple of days, you could post again like you are replying to yourself, and ask nicely for help. Don't start a separate thread, please!

7. Be courteous!

Remember, anyone who answers you is doing so because they are trying to be helpful, and no one has to take the time to answer you at all. Be courteous and thank them, and if they ask you a question back, make sure to answer it promptly. You can use the thread tool, and from the pulldown menu use "subscribe to this thread" and then you will know when someone answers and you can get right back to them.

8. Summary

There is so much to learn, and bonsaiTALK has so much to offer. Learn the basics by reading as much as you can, and you can take the best advantage of the knowledge that you are given here. People here will be happy to help you find the information you want.

Joanie

ONLY THE BEST ARTICLE EVER ON THIS TOPIC !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good job, well written and right.

I can't agree more

Well done. Should have been in the article contest. A sure winner.


Mike

Thank you...for a perfectly stated and needed statement
Jay

Goodonya Joanie!

This would be a good candidate for a 'Sticky' thread. It's all common sense - but the problem is that common sense ain't all that common. Keep up the good work.

FlyBri.

Wished I had wrote it. ;o(

(Blush)

Thank you for your very sweet comments.

Joanie

Thank you very much. Really, a lot of questions had been answered before they were asked and just a little effort is needed to look for "search". And how to make people read this post?

Good 'un.