Level One
Are you wondering what bonsai is about? Would you like to have a bonsai but don’t know where to start? Welcome!
After you have your new bonsai tree; how do you keep it alive and begin learning the art?
- If you started with a nursery tree; it will need to go into a pot. That means a few things. It must have a pot with drain holes, be in suitable soil and be anchored with wire. Potting times vary with species. In general the best time is early spring.
- You will need to fertilize your tree regularly during the growing season. This will vary depending on the species of tree. Some trees prefer different acidities.
- You will need to regularly treat your tree with insecticide, fungicide and miticide. This will keep the bad things away.
We understand that this is not simple. That’s why we have a club. We do novice workshops and love to help people learn this generational art form. That’s also why there are shelves of books and online information.
Most importantly that’s why the most common answer begins with “It depends -“
- Find a local club (like the TVBS) with more experienced people and be social. Bonsai is also a people hobby.
- There are many bonsai shows in the Southeast every year. Go see great examples of the art and learn from the people there.
- You might see a bonsai that’s 1000 years old. Understand that trees are passed on from one generation to another. We are often just the latest caretaker.