Aerial Root, Ficus Bonsai Update, April 2017

[@jamesconn3723]

Nigel I just want to thank you for your videos. Belong to 2 bonsai clubs, and when I first mentioned you no one knew you. Funny, because now new members are immediately given your name and the you tube connection.. It's becoming a hobby that everyone loves and your terrific in helping it aloong.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you James, very nice to hear!

[@blairstepp1205]

You are my favorite artist! I love watching your videos!!!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Blair!

[@phillipcottrell6108]

I love the way you use the natural habit of a tree species to correct a problem. I've been totally fascinated by the transformation of that ficus.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Phillip, it will be interesting to see how it looks years from now, we'll just have to wait!

[@uploadedpipi2781]

Hi Nigel! I'm 14 and I'm from Turkey. I'm interested in plants ever since I begun to help my grandpa at grafting his multi-colored roses (he grafted the roses so much that literally each branch was flowering in a different color) and I was curious about bonsais and orchids mostly. Thanks to your channel now I have a bonsai and ten little coffee seedlings (not sure about the word) that are on their ways to become one. Teşekkür ederim :)

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Kahve ağaçları gerçekten güzel bonsai ağaçları yapar! Bonsai maceralarınızda bol şanslar!

[@yahsuahabdurrah-man4605]

I never knew this was possible! I love your passion for the art. Your work is amazing

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you very much!

[@aburakyuksel]

feels like these are also my trees since i've been watching your videos like crazy. so yeah, we did a good job Nigel!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I call any of the ones I have a video of, my KZbin trees. I have to be very careful to keep them alive or the next video will be of a dead tree!

[@andrijagrgic2357]

I love you videos man. You are like the bob ross just for bonsai.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, I love watching Bob Ross videos!

[@dogleghobag]

Just getting into your channel now, and what a pleasure it is to see such tremendous progress in a series of videos. Glad you've been around a while so I get to see projects like this fulminate in a matter of hours.

[@djordjeradakovic6169]

Good job Nigel. You are such an amazing bonsai doctor! :)

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, I think the tree will grow well this summer!

[@djordjeradakovic6169]

I think that too. Can't wait for a new video. Peace!

[@starzncreations3258]

Hi mate, oh thats going to be amazing ..wow

[@raghuvirkenijr.4570]

Fantastic roots on this one. Love it when Ficus videos show up on your channel ... I myself am working on a Ficus ... its currently just thin as a small straw .. made it from a cutting ... its my first and only one ... its not possible to grow many plants when you are in a hostel. I am glad you made this video ... I am trying to grow mine as a root over rock ... I never thought I had to bother removing the soil and checking the root growth and re-arrange it if required but after watching this I have realised it may be wise to do so.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Good luck with your Ficus, you'll find one day your small tree will be getting large!

[@christinesmith7851]

Just watched you prune 90% of root from the guava tree. I hope I can one day be confident as you Nigel in Root Pruning. looking forward to seeing the fusion Ficus bonsai once it's styled.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That was risky removing so much root on the Guava, one of these days my severe cuts will lead to disaster! Many times it comes down to good after care of the tree. Lots of misting, warmth, light and a little luck!

[@garyfowler6812]

Another interesting video Nigel, it proves the time and effort put in can be really rewarding,cheers🌲

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Gary, I'm hoping it grows well this summer and do another reveal in fall!

[@joshdoe7288]

Your videos are so calming. Thank you

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Josh and you are most welcome!

[@annathomsen4307]

I know nothing about plants and trees , I really love how they look and am Amazed by how one can change them , I just want to say even though I don't know much about this kind of stuff I really like watching your videos ! Your content really soothes me but still captures all my Interest ... Thanks for that :) , Greetings from germany !

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Anna, I hope you try your own tree some day!

[@annathomsen4307]

Sadly I don't have a green thumb , but with your hope Iwill defenatly try it again some day :)!

[@QuadDerrick]

if youtubes moneygrabbing fingers become too restrictive, know that i (and most of us i think) would follow your wise videos pretty much anywhere Nigel. also, ofc cool video,, trying arial root on a bush plant i collcted few days ago after watching this,,i try it with just plastic wraped around bottom and some soil inside.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That should work nicely. I will have to be making a decision soon about the channel. I love making videos and helping people with their questions, but as the channel grows, so does the time I need to make and keep the channel alive. I would hate to see the channel grow without me having the time to answer questions and I am getting close to that point now. I may have to monetize the channel to help cover some of my time soon. This can be good in some ways and bad in others. It is a tough decision, but it is one I will have to make soon.

[@QuadDerrick]

Ooh Nigel Nigel,, have you been smitten by the big bad capitalist monster ? :):) i ment i would follow you away from youtube to any other site like kwbonsai.com or something, but i guess your problem would remain the same really,, i hope you find a good solution for you Nigel, you seem like a nice person, i dont want to steal from you. (and i looove stealing..) free suggetsion : disable comments, or just say\write that you will answer e-mail only, and leave an e-mail adress for questions if you still want to help people. also maybe make a [e-mail] or something like that adress ? sorry if i interfer in private business.. best of luck. -your Norway fan-

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Derrick!

[@BeTheCREATOR]

Was actually waiting for this Aerial Root Ficus update, and the operation is successful as expected, Congratulation Nigel. The guava plant is survived magically because of you only. I appreciate your decision about not monetizing your hobby, but it could help you to do more for us I think.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks, it would give me enough money to buy the perfect pot for my trees, but it also might take the fun and struggle out of finding that bargain or making my own pots. It is important for me to develop my trees for now, later in life, I'll work on their display more (pots, stands, accent plants).

[@BeTheCREATOR]

I respect your dedication .

[@howardsend8509]

Hi Nigel, love your videos, have learned so much. Wondering if you could do a video on your fertilizing methods.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I will do that soon!

[@mar1video]

Why not monetize the videos Nigel ? That couple hundred bucks a year would allow you to sponsor a charity, or buy a tree, or invite someone for a workshop , upgrade your equipment by adding some lights, or whatever. It won't hurt anybody, it won't make you rich, it's just a short commercial. I know , I wouldn't mind waiting for your outstanding videos 30 seconds longer.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I just can't do it, I want to produce the videos for fun, I think as soon as money is involved, it changes the whole purpose of making the videos. It is tempting, but I want to keep work and my hobby separated.

[@mar1video]

Nigel Saunders - hahahaha... I totally understand your principle and admire you for it. It just boils my blood every time I see some mediocre video with 4 commercials in it, and that's about 1/3 of the KZbin nowadays. But not yours. That's why I wouldn't mind waiting an extra 20 seconds for a commercial to end. I'm not trying to change your mind, just letting you know my opinion. I'm one of your 24k subscribers, but I'm pretty sure there are more like me. Since it is your channel, I'll fully honor your decision, Nigel !

[@QuadDerrick]

this is our green porn,,, plz do not talk about money. porn are like fruit on neighbors tree,, alot better when its free. :) also,, i use adblocker and see NO commercials ..

[@PWK95]

I really think you should monetize your videos, they are really interesting and you could use the money to buy new cool pots or better lights or whatever you think would be good for your bonsai. Also your hobby must cost you tons of money with all the equipment, even if it is just 100 bucks a month that should at least cover a nice part of your expenses.

[@QuadDerrick]

i really think, some people are really damaged in the head. mainly filthy capitalists, , thinking money solve everything. 100 bucks a month and i can build a hanging place for filthy capitalists ,, plz sponsor me.

[@Subscriber03-q5m]

Wow Nigel nice to see your trunk operation went on well. I clearly remember the previous video of this operation and it's really nice to see it's update. BTW inspired by you I was finally able to collect some Kapok fruits for their seeds and now going to grow the seedlings. From the time I saw your root over temple video I was in search of the Kapok seeds and after almost an year I finally managed to get them....

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Excellent, I'm thinking hard about the recreation of the Ta Prohn temple I started. I'm thinking of making it from real stone instead of the cement covered bricks I started with. I will be resuming the project soon and will have to make some decisions! Good to here you got some Kapok seeds, mine are growing well, check out this article..... www.bonsai-bci.com/bonsai-appreciation-articles-menu/lew-lessons/know-your-trees/714-the-floss-silk-treef It will help you in the development of your tree. Happy growing!

[@bonsaimoldova]

Waited a lot to see how it did this project. Happy to see it is going great!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

So far , so good! I think it will be looking even better after this summer.

[@MichaelJFrederick]

Hope you're feeling better Nigel, great video as always !

[@LeobardoMartinezBautista]

Wow, me too I was preparing a Ficus that just have lose the top and I use a cutting from him to recreate the top I hope it will work as good as yours. Nice job.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Good luck Jorge and thanks!

[@mazharshohan1157]

i did some root pruning.which is causing some suffering.some leaves are turning yellow. i m from tropical.what can i do??

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Keep your tree in a bright spot but avoid the strong afternoon sun. Mist your tree 3 to 4 times a day and keep the soil moist but not wet. Protect it from the wind also. I greenhouse is ideal, but if you don't have one, some people will put a large clear plastic bag over the tree and the pot. Put lots of air holes in the bag and watch that it doesn't see full sun or the temperature will get too hot inside the bag.

[@christian9140]

Both trees look great! Nigel, you should do a video on the growing media you use for your trees - it would help me out a lot because right now I just use potting mix lol

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Christian, I do have a soil video here..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmaVY3SPltyahas

[@christian9140]

I missed this!! Much appreciated mate

[@thezehao]

Nigel, please answer this, My Chinese Elm that I just got from a Japanese Bonsai Nursery, the leaves are turning yellow, like slowly. Just so you know there is some wax scale insect on the three when I got it, but I removed most of it and sprayed it with a pesticide. Please answer this thank you!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

If your branch tips are growing with lots of vigor, then it may be a natural process of shedding the older leaves. Pruning the tips will take vigor away from the ends of the branch and will cause back budding on the branch and restore the full green look to the tree. If every leaf is turning yellow, it may be several reasons that are causing it to do so. It could be the insecticides, Chinese elms are very sensitive to them. It could also be root rot from too much water. If you have a good free draining bonsai soil, root rot shouldn't be a problem. Scale insects can definitely weaken a tree. Some times even if you remove all the insects, it is still to late to save the tree. They can sometimes go downhill fast after an infestation of scale. It is best to get them off the tree, before they become a problem!

[@tsuraangel1980]

Hello, Mr Nigel! ^_^ I hope this message finds you well. I was wondering if I could get some tips from you for a beginner? I have always wanted to get into this hobby. It's a gorgeous thing to create mini landscapes and seems so calming. Ive been watching a few bonsai hobbyists and have tried to read up on them. They seem to either give not enough information or they take out the meaning on "bonsai" and become too technical. I have to agree with alot of your subs that you very much Bob Ross, and it's what has drawn me to your videos. I would gladly take tips. tricks, info, from the Bob Ross of bonsai

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Tsura, I really enjoy creating and working on my miniature landscapes! Here are some quick tips.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKeuiGaVrtejhtE

[@tsuraangel1980]

Nigel Saunders thank you so much for your reply and the info!!

[@MrChiaak]

It´s been 10 days since the last video. We miss you.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I'll be back soon, I had a nasty cold last weekend!

[@aoabali]

I love seeing the results of videos I've watched previously.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, I too, like to see how peoples trees are progressing!

[@aoabali]

I don't have much I can show I'm afraid. My life has been in kind of a transition lately so I don't want to start new trees only to get rid of them in a few months time. I am hoping once things are more settled I will have many more. At the moment, I only have a couple of flimsy little lemon trees that I started from seed less then a year ago. Your lemon tree updates were what brought me to your page initially. I've been watching everything you make since. Very inspirational, I must say.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Hopefully some day you will have a nice bench full of bonsai trees and your Lemon trees will be the stars!

[@smwillma]

Nigel, I just got a very leggy ficus lyrata from a friend. It's just one thin wavy trunk about 3' high. And I'm trying to figure out how I can get the trunk to fatten up so it stands more upright. I'm wondering what the roots are like (I haven't taken it from its pot, a 6" terracotta) But I was wondering what the connection is between the state of the roots and growing the trunk. I don't intend to bonsai this guy, I'd like him to grown tall enough to one day put a reading chair under, but is a root prune something I should consider before attempting to strengthen its trunk?

[@smwillma]

PS love your channel!!! And thank you in advance for your time!!!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Hello Sam, the fiddle leaf Ficus is one of those ficus that doesn't grow a very thick trunk for the height of the tree. They do thicken up with time, but it will take many years. I have seen some that are over 20 years old and the trunks are still slim compared to the height. Here is a good video..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqavpmehjtZ2f5o

[@meuxtag]

Hi Nigel! Maybe you could have one of your subscriber produce the music in your video. I think the guy from Poor's man Bonsai Channel is a musician and does his own music ;) Keep up the good work! I've learned so much from you and your videos that I even started some bonsaï of my own and started to notice the magnificent red oaks and american elms we have in Québec City!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Maxime, a viewer just sent me some music he has created, look for it in upcoming videos, it sounds great! Happy growing!

[@MDSAHID-zt3jz]

sir can you tell me the name of the star like leaves tree that is right behind of you at the top of the shelf?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think those are my Kapok trees.

[@hamishscott-wood9118]

Nigel what percentage of your trees die from hard winters? A lot of mine lose their leaves even though they are evergreen, any tips on how to save them?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

This year I just had one small Cedar cutting die. I have had good success with most trees through the winter and most of the trees I lost were to rabbits chewing away the bark. That was when I kept them in the ground. I now store my trees in an unheated part of the basement and I rarely loose a tree now. This year we had a mild winter and I left all my hardy trees on the bench and they all survived except for one small Cedar cutting. The best place is to bury your tree in your garden up to the first branch, pot and all. If you protect the tree with mesh to stop rabbits and mice from chewing your bark, the trees should survive with no problems. You can wrap some burlap around your evergreens to stop the dry winter wind from freeze drying your branches also.

[@romelmadray6706]

How do you get those lovely overlapping and large main trunks ?and displayed roots

[@howardsend8509]

With the guava and the "brutal pruning" how long would you estimate the roots to grow and fill the pot

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think as soon as they get outside with some nice weather and sunlight, it will grow quickly and the pot should be full of roots by the end of summer.

[@brentbishop444]

Hi Nigel, I recently went searching for Turface. I found a product called All Purpose Absorbent and wanted to get you're opinion on it. the contents are: A natural blend of Diatomaceous earth and montmorillonite clay. I was hoping to get an opinion on it before using it, any help would be great. Thanks

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think it will work fine as an ingredient for bonsai soil, the turface I get is sold as Safety-sorb, it sounds very similar!

[@elisabethserrano8264]

Hi Nigel what do you use to get the cutting groing thank you

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I just stick it in some bonsai soil and keep it watered and misted. Most of the cuttings I try in winter don't make it, but almost all my summer cuttings root and grow well.

[@frankwilsonii7399]

I think that is a better idea anyway. I am a huge fan of local bands. I even go to see bands who play music I don't like to help support them. I'm glad to see this tree is doing so well. I saw the video where you began this and thought it was an awesome idea. Great stuff as always

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Frank, I had a viewer send me some really nice music they created!

[@frankwilsonii7399]

Another bonsai guy I watch made a few music videos over the winter. If you like the music and if he doesn't mind, it would be really cool if you could use his music in your videos. Kennet De Bont is his name and his channel (I think anyway). Just an idea.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank Frank, great suggestion!

[@patriciasholarfreund4964]

This is an awesome project! You are so inventive with your plants. I love watching your videos and seeing what has happened with your experimentation. Could you have taken a 1 liter drink bottle as the collar? Cut off the top, slit side, tape together with duct tape. We use something like this for air layering.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That would work equally as well!

[@funnytime1111]

Hi Nigel, I just got my first Bonsai tree and your videos are really informative. They show me how much is possible with these plants. I just bought a ficus microcarpa ginseng, and I would like to repot it and try to fuse the roots together to achieve a more appealing shape, then wire the branches. Do you have any advice on how to go about this? Should I report then wait a while and then try to fuse the roots? How do I fuse the roots?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Hello Allison, it is always best to do one operation at a time and then let the tree recover before the next step. I would get a strip of rubber, (I use bicycle inner tubes) and wrap it around the roots to bring them all in contact with each other. The rubber shouldn't leave any marks on your roots. You can hold the rubber and roots in place with a strip of rubber tied around them. As the tree grows, the roots will fuse together. It will take at least one growing season to get any fusion happening. It may take two years to get the roots fused together enough to remove the rubber wrap. It is best to let the top of the tree grow wild until you get the roots fused together. The more growth you get in the tree, the quicker the fusion will happen. Top growth equals root growth. The branches can then be styled and shaped.

[@raytheater]

Hey Nigel, been watching you for a while. I just started a couple of bonsai today. Thanks for the bonsai soil information. Also, I have a question. Why do you have to leave your bonsai in the shade after potting it? And for how long? Thank you!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Keeping the tree in the shade keeps the water requirements for the tree low. When the new root tips start to grow and take in moisture, the tree can be returned to full sun. I would do this transition slowly over a week. Keeping the tree out of the wind also reduces the water requirements of the tree. I try and mist a recovering tree 3 to 4 times a day. I usually keep the tree protected for a couple of weeks after re potting.

[@kevinbrianthomas1]

you are a tree doctor. when i'm tending to my bonsai, i year your voice.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Kevin, keep up the good work with your videos and trees!

[@HB-ps6rn]

Hey Nigel, first off thank you for all of the videos, its great to learn from and also to keep up with their development. Have you considered doing air layering to get a similar effect to this? I know that many commercial propagators use girdling, sphagnum and polyethylene bags to air layer. I am not sure how well the girdle wound heal up so it didn't look man-made, but it seems a bit easier than cutting and grafting again. Thanks and keep up the good work!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Hayes, I'll see how the tree looks at the end of summer and then decide the next steps to take in making the tree look natural.

[@George-lc8mh]

where can we send in our bonsai pictures😊

[@TheBonsaiZone]

You can send them to... [e-mail]

[@screamoXable]

My Ginseng Ficus is really young and I've noticed that the few aerial roots it does have grow back into the tree before the soil line, I have a few in the soil line that i'm quite excited for but would clipping the aerial roots the have grown back into the tree injure the angle hair noodle roots and cause them to die back to the base?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Aerial roots can be pruned, but they must be kept wet or damp at the tips. You can place small pot underneath them to ensure they continue to grow. Some people use straws to keep the tips humid and to guide the roots into the soil.

[@kaushikacharjee2480]

hey mr.nigel...i really really enjoy your amazing videos...you know when i was kid i saw bonsais for the first time in the movie karate kid ...in which mr.miaagi...the coach of karate kid , was working in one scene of the movie on bonsais..it was like magical tree to me...and i was very amazed by seeing them!!! today when i see you working on such trees...it makes me feel like magic happens in real world also..:-) really great work mrr.nigel hats off to you...all the best

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Kaushik, I agree, a good bonsai is almost magical and makes you feel good about the world!

[@tinaphihuynh]

Hi Nigel. What is the white stuff please?

[@boskojames2527]

perlite

[@markmondrinos7721]

Really great results so far!! It's wonderful to see the progress of these projects over time. I don't think there are any other bonsai channels with so many follow up videos, seeing the result of the techniques is an incredible teaching tool. When will you remove the collars and soil around the trunk? I wonder how the roots continue growing downward even though there is soil in the collar in which to divide and ramify etc. As for the monetization - it was always difficult to make appreciable cash on KZbin, now it's almost impossible. Many larger channels are asking for donations to continue operating. Due to wild fluctuations in advertiser buy-in, the only sustainable use for KZbin as a business tool is to use it as a way to provide free content that attracts followers and directs them to your actual business/product. Maybe you make enough to buy new bonsai tools every year, but as you say - why dilute the purity of the endeavor - especially when the financial benefit is so minimal.

[@markmondrinos7721]

That said - I would gladly sit through an ad or two on your videos if you ever did choose to do so!!!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Mark, yes the business side of KZbin gets messy, but I can see both sides point of view on the matter!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The reveal in fall (such a long time to wait) will be very interesting, I sure hope I can style what's left up top into a nice design some day. I can always grow more cuttings to add to the top if I need more branches, it will be interesting!

[@rajatanand3269]

hello Nigel..... ! I saw your video how to make bonsai soil and in INDIA it is very difficult to find pyralite so is there any other alternative for that... ?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Check out Vinny's channel, it's a great resource! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWi1q4Wdd8uXoas

[@Eram.Abbasi]

just an idea.....on ur guava tree what if u didn't cut the higher up roots & let them grow & spread over the ground. wouldn't that give a nice look to the bonsai? A few days back while pruning roots on one of my bonsai I had similar roots & i kept it. So just wanted to get ur view

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think the upper roots would have looked good if I had trained them to bend down and into the plane of the other radial roots. If I get more roots down below in just the one root plane, I think I will get a better taper from the roots into the trunk. Either way would work well.

[@definitelynotnoreen]

How many months did that foil stayed attached to the tree?

[@jomariecinco4655]

Will it bear fruit?

[@tam_ryan1036]

Some great Ficus info here. Thank you. I have a potted FB that I rescued from mealy bug a few years ago. It has two bulbous 'lumps' of root before it goes into the soil. It seems a good candidate for my first major bonsai project. Have you used strange root balls like this before?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Hello Tom, many of the Ficus trees will develop these potato type bulbous roots. There are many ways to correct this undesirable feature. Here is one of the best website that shows this process with some good photos..... www.sidiao.com/Ficus_e.htm?i=1

[@I.am.gauravschoudhary]

Hi Nigel, Awesome videos!! I have a quick question. Do you have same soil composition for all the trees?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes, but I will add some composted pine bark to my coniferous trees if I have it available. I'll add 10 to 20 percent and I make sure it is sifted to remove the fine particles. I don't think the pine bark makes much difference, I have used the soil, with it and without, and both seem to work well.

[@I.am.gauravschoudhary]

Thank you!!

[@CaptOz]

have you ever tried a weeping willow bonsai?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Here is my weeping willow progression....... kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3m5gZJ_fZWpgJI

[@weirdangel4025]

did u not touch the plant in these two years at all apart from watering? you are such an inspiration.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes, they were just left to grow and recover until the day, I began to re join them with the top in a better position to regrow the upper structure.

[@debkousik8943]

Good Evening Nigel , I have a ficus Benjamina purchased April month it's not bushy it's growing vertically not any horizontal growth. Now in india monsoon going on till September monsoon stay . It's almost 3 feet height. What should I do ? Please tell me. Can I chop it ? If chop from the bottom part to upto 13 inch no leaves. 1 or 2 branches but those branch are vertically tall and they have leaves on the top . Please suggest me. Thank u.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

If the tree is healthy, yes you can chop it to a lower height! The new growth will come in all over the remaining stump and should become quite bushy in time. Some Ficus benjamina's don't react well to trunk chopping, but the tree usually always lives, the branching can be unpredictable and may grow in places you didn't expect.

[@debkousik8943]

@@TheBonsaiZone Thanks Nigel for the information you provide.

[@alejandrocastro9790]

Excellent job Nigel, what fertilizer do you use?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I use 20-20-20 (with micro nutrients) I always put a pinch in my watering can and fertilize and water at the same time.

[@bonniehyden962]

Mr. Saunders, I've always been very fascinated by Bonsai but I'm just now wanting to really get my hands dirty in it. I've been watching your videos for about a week and I've learned so much! This Ficus arrangement you have going is absolutely fascinating to me! As a Grand Newbie to all this....it's almost magical! In my sheer ignorance, I am wanting to walk around in my woods to find a likely and good candidate but I'm reading that might not be a good idea. What are your thoughts, sir? I've also watched your video on the Bonsai Aloe Vera. Again....fascinating! And I think you have just influenced the fate of my one Aloe Vera plant, too. I think in the next week it might start a new life as a Bonsai Aloe Vera. Thank you so much for your efforts with these videos. Even in your video techniques you are creative and pay attention to detail. Your channel has now become an every day habit to which I very much anticipate and look forward! I pray you continued success, sir!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Bonnie, I hope your Aloe does well. Collecting trees at this time of year if fine for tropical trees, but hardy trees should be collected early spring for the best success. Styling a nursery tree is a good solution as they tend to have a better developed root base for bonsai.

[@SolorideryR6CX650C]

how did you get it to grow roots on top of the stump?? did you use protein???how did the top part grow roots???

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The top part of the tree was rooted in bonsai soil as a cutting using just rain water. This species of Ficus will grow these aerial roots in a humid environment.

[@austinhodge8572]

I have done a bit of research on ways to grow aerial roots. I found a couple sources that recommended when using the tin foil method to poke holes in the sides of the foil to allow the roots to breathe and not be overly wet for extended periods. I noticed that you did not do this. Was there a specific reason as to not poking holes or would it really matter either way?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think because the foil is open at the bottom, water will drain through the wrapped sections and the roots will be at a nice moisture level. The next reveal will be at the end of summer, I'll see how they have done and make more adjustments if there are any problems.

[@hoomanaliagha8651]

Hi nigel.whats the name of the video that you shared before this?i want to know how you fusion this beautiful ficus.but i can't find it

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Here is the playlist for this tree.... kzbin.info/aero/PLQouTWwmTQow33hNUHMspuLIADinmz-mM

[@hoomanaliagha8651]

@@TheBonsaiZone thank youuuuuuuu😍😍😍😍😍

[@D-Love2947]

Hey Nigel, long time fan from London. I'm currently into 1 week after Repotting my ficus ginseng into new soil (it was in potting soil and was pot bound) I repoted into Bonsai soil which is sand loam and peat. I've noticed 3-4 leaves have started yellowing. Is this a normal sign? I have many trees and understand Watering not to much and not to little. I watered yesterday 6 days after last Watering and feel maybe I should increase to 5 days as the soil was more on the dry side. The pot is 32cmX22cm so quite big. I can supply photos through email if needed. Cheers. Damian.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

It sounds like you are watering correctly, only when the soil begins to dry out. I would suggest misting the tree a couple of times a day while it is recovering. It is normal for some of the older leaves to get yellow and fall off after the roots begin to grow and the tree becomes vigorous. You could try placing a small block of wood under one side of the pot to increase the drainage. Ideally you want your soil to dry out within a day if the tree is in full sun on a warm day. You can send pics to... [e-mail]

[@D-Love2947]

Nigel Saunders brilliant thank you for your reply. We are currently only getting a few bursts of sun throughout the day in the UK and the pot has 2 drainage holes either side but it is very large. I had previously pruned it 1 month before re pot and taking ownership of the tree. So had lots of new growth before the repot and just waiting for a new burst of life. :) I'll send some photos over.

[@spamuel44]

Your like the Bob Ross of bonsai

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, I'm a big fan of the late Bob Ross!

[@americansensei]

I was thinking the same damn thing! Lol. 👍🏿

[@Therelaxingleaf]

Can you please told me your tree pot size?

[@vk0987]

hi nigel, i want to start a ficus benjamina from cuttings, how would you suggest i should start?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

It is best to start them in the early to mid summer when it is hot and humid outside. Just stick the cutting in some soil, bonsai soil if you have some. In summer almost all my cuttings take root and grow, in the winter almost none do! Just water your cutting daily, keep it in full sun and it should grow fine. Good luck!

[@johnlogan1022]

Bonsai ficus are my favorite. Are you going to bonsai the poinsettia that's in the background? LOL

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Of course it is destined to become a bonsai! I do have a video on the parent plant of this cutting. The original lived 22 years before it got too cold in the plant room one winter and it died. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYvJnWtjnJumjKc

[@glomelino]

Hi Nigel, I'm new to Bonsai this growing season and I've been really enjoying your videos. I'm learning a lot. I have a question about something you said in this video. You say that you got rid of the "S-shaped" root because it would never become a bonsai if you left it on. Why is that? Would it not look right? Possibly it wouldn't sit right in a bonsai pot? Or is there something about large roots that prevent the growth patterns you're looking for in a good bonsai? Hope you can clarify. Thanks.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Hello Jim, very good questions, I have a video that will answer them all for you, I hope! kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5S2pmuJirZjoac Let me know if you have any further questions, thanks!

[@growingeffects1881]

What a healthy specimen! Great stuff! How's the weather over there? I'm hoping the worst is over! O'Neil 🌴✌🏾

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks, we had a few warm t shirt days, but the weather has turned cold and rainy, highs of 8 to 14 C. Typical spring weather. The leaves are starting to come out on the street trees and all is looking green!

[@mekketabo]

Hi Nigel, love your videos! Can I ask you how long I should wait before I unwrap my tree and look for the roots? Have a nice day :D

[@boskojames2527]

I had used PVC drainage pipe cut out instead of foil , it turned out quite a solution.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That would work well, good idea!

[@mayermeyer9898]

Hey Nigel, do you use warm/hot water to water your bonsai? it just looks like it in this video

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I place my watering can on top of my radiator style heater, it warms the water up to 35 to 40 C. In the middle of winter the plant room will go down to 15 C, so the plants like the warm water for both misting and watering. I hardly see the water vapor in real life, but it sure shows up in the videos!

[@mayermeyer9898]

Ah thats nice thank you!

[@darcicorrea3339]

Boa noite amigo fiquei afastado nos tempos por motivo aqui que tá muito frio aqui no Brasil mas voltei fazer minhas mudas fazer as podas do meu bonsai essa semana eu montei um pé de laranja né uma muda pré bonsai em cima de uma pedra mas ficou bonito né e tem uns vídeos cada dia mais tá ficando bonito amigo Fique com Deus que Deus te abençoe essas lindos bonsai que você faz esses vídeos maravilhoso tá bom amigo ótimo começo de semana para você amigo

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Muito obrigado, é o meio do verão aqui e estamos tendo um clima muito agradável até agora, não muito quente e não muito frio! Ótimo para crescer minhas árvores!

[@tucker655]

How's this tree lookin now awadays?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

It is doing really well! An update and more styling will be coming this summer.

[@thabest007]

I can see why you wouldn't want roots on only one side or, or one really big root on one side, but why is it important for a bonsai to have a radial root system (without downward facing roots)?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The radial roots help thicken up the base of the tree to get a really nice trunk flare in the future. It also allows you to get the tree in a shallow pot some day. The roots that grow straight down, do help the tree grow, but it is better to let the radial roots do all the work so they thicken up more quickly.

[@whatifwecould9049]

Did you just Frankenstein a tree?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I did, it's the FrankenFicus! I'll have an update coming soon!

[@sarrakitty]

Hiya Nigel, big fan of your videos, I always love seeing you work on your trees, and I think it even helps me (and many others) learn a lot about bonsai. I have no idea if you would remember, with all the comments you get, but months ago, in a comment section on one of your citrus videos, I mentioned that I would be repotting and root pruning my own seed-grown lemon tree. Well, the deed is done, and somewhat inspired by you I made a video of my repotting process. It's nowhere as professional as yours (seriously man, you have some quality vids!), but I was wondering if you would care to take a look. I kinda want feedback on if I did everything right, and on the general shape and appearance of the tree. I'd be very curious to see what you think! I hosted the video on a different video site than KZbin, Vid.me which I am trying out. (that and it was like 15 seconds too long for me to post on my KZbin account, uugh, stupid length limitation >.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Great job with your first root pruning, I think you made very good decisions and your tree looks very nice. Just keep it well watered and you are on your way to having a nice bonsai! I enjoyed your video and hope you keep making more!

[@sarrakitty]

Wow, thanks! I'm really glad you like my video. And even more glad that I did everything right apparently! I just watered it along with all my trees this morning, going to be watching it closely as it recovers. I might do other videos for other trees I have in the future, as I work on them too!

[@kathypierson1128]

Very much enjoy getting some KW Bonsai in the morning!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Just like a nice cup of coffee, I hope!

[@kathypierson1128]

Absolutely!

[@IsmailHossain-sr5ce]

This video also had advertisement... I guess you can't prevent it, and I guess no one will mind it either since your videos are worth watching for learning...

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Ismail, I had to monetize the channel, sorry about the commercials, but it helps me to make videos and manage the channel!

[@oliverclaffey5186]

Thanks for that great video Nigel

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Oliver!

[@ashishgusain5359]

do you have any GULMOHAR tree ???

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I don't, but they are a beautiful tree. Hopefully I will get one some day!

[@ashishgusain5359]

I asked this because it looks a perfect tree for making bonsai to me , but i never saw one so may be you can grow on ..... It's root system is perfect for bonsai actually...... My question is that can you find its seeds in Canada?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I can get them here... www.amazon.com/Royal-Poinciana-Flame-Tree-Seeds/dp/B000VLXSJI They do look like they get a nice root system at the base of the tree. I'll add it to my wish list!

[@ashishgusain5359]

BEST OF LUCK FOR THAT SIR

[@ashishgusain5359]

can I send you some seeds from Indian . They are available here ever wear. I got more than 10 trees in front of my house and they got a lot of seeds and red flowers on them at this time of the year.

[@bonsaiguys9360]

Really cool might have to try it sometime

[@mmi4555]

I love & enjoy your work thanks much

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you very much!

[@arrobamarcos]

You should monetize your videos, we won't mind to wait 5 seconds and you could invest that money on recording equipment or something.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I did have to monetize the channel, it was beginning to take a long time each day to answer questions and make videos. I still haven't gotten any money yet, going through the long process of verifying my address!

[@arrobamarcos]

Nigel Saunders Good luck with it then

[@o3MTA3o]

Do you use patreon?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I don't, and I'm not sure what it is, I'll have a look and see what it's all about, thanks.

[@entyropy3262]

Clever Idea and good job !

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, I'm looking forward to seeing the results of this summer's growing!

[@Behealthy358]

Can I buy any one?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I don't sell my trees, but hopefully you can find one at a garden center! It is a medium leaved, Ficus benjamina.

[@amantulsian7870]

nice video sir

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Aman!

[@hamishscott-wood9118]

Wow congratulations on not advertising! Shows a lot about someone

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Hamish!

[@plantbased3313]

i rly love you channel and your work amazing rly impressed !

[@patriciablue2739]

Fantastic work.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Patricia, I think it is ready for some more work to be done to it soon!

[@eduardobrandao4307]

Isn´t the title wrong?!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That's just what I call the tree, because it has lots of aerial roots on the trunk.

[@eduardobrandao4307]

First of all, Nigel, in my opinion you´re the best. I´m learning a lot with you! About my comment, when your presentation of the aerial root video finished I thought it was all over. So I stood up without turning off the movie. When I came back the guava update was running under the same title. So I got confused and made that question. I sincerely apologize!

[@CypherWitch]

youtube has a list of a bunch ad free music found in the creator studio>create>audio library you might be able to find something there

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you!

[@Adelaida1234]

COMO SIEMPRE FENOMENAL EL VIDEO UN TRONQUITO CON UNAS RAMAS Y UNAS HOJAS SE CONVIERTE EN ALGO PRECIOSO UN TRABAJO FENOMENAL POR EL FICUS LA GUAYABA Y MAGNIFICA LA FOTO DE LA PORTULACARIA FELICITACIONES POR TODO NIGEL SAUNDERS ERES UN ARTISTA DEL BONSAIS

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Obrigado para suas palavras amáveis ​​e crescimento feliz!

[@tka4tv614]

Хороший канал! Жалко, что не все всегда понятно из за проблем с языком. А так желаю успеха автору.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Спасибо, может быть, когда-нибудь у меня будет время добавить закрытые субтитры, и люди смогут просматривать в любом langauge.

[@josanproductions8322]

I love and respect very much your work Nigel, its so meticulouse and full of care.. a true Master! Thank you for being so inspiring. ps: I'll send you 3 music tracks that Ive composed, free for you to use, if u want :-)

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you so much, excellent music!

[@dailydose5988]

Loving it as usual!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, nice to hear!

[@matdamerique3442]

i like using nylon sock for this type of job, , it breed well and it's streachable

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks, another viewer suggested pantyhose, a good idea and a good colour to blend in with the trunk!

[@zuilok]

Nigel Frankenstein, love it.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

It's alive! It's alive!!!! Ha ha ha!!!

[@zuilok]

You should call it the Frankenficus.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Now that tune is stuck in my head!

[@luizpaulosilvadasilva106]

seus vídeos são muito bons, mais uma dica coloca legendas.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Obrigado, permiti que as pessoas traduzam e adicionem subtiltes aos vídeos através do KZbin. Alguns vídeos já possuem legendas como opção.

[@luizpaulosilvadasilva106]

Legal vou procurar

[@victorloke4721]

Thanks😺great video.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Victor!