How to Make a Bonsai

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Grow - Part 3 of the Nursery Stock Series. Watch Ryan work with the classic Christmas tree staple, the noble fir, and transform it into a worthy piece of material. We go back to hammer down the foundations of our practice, from defining what a good piece of material looks like to the completion of the first styling.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first lesson or an advanced practitioner refining their knowledge through our nuanced methods, this stream will cater to all levels.

[@moos5221]

I have to congratulate you on making this video. Not only is the content substantial for everyone interested in starting into their Bonsai career, but I am amazed by the quality of production of the video. The video composition, the usage of the different cameras, camera angles and positions and the way of presenting your work is absolutely stunning. There are many content creators who are great in their field of work (in this case growing Bonsai) but few are able to produce high quality videos. I feel it came naturally to you on how you worked with the different cameras and it created the feeling of actually being in a private class with you and being taken by the hand and shown every little thing that you want to teach. I'm actually bad at putting this into words, but I'm incredibly happy to have watched this video, you've done a really great job!

[@PhD-JWT]

I agree! He covered it! 🎉

[@nancyfahey7518]

Is there an update on this tree?

[@washibonsai5307]

It is one thing to be a master in what you do, it is another to share your wisdom with others and do it in a way that people can walk your path… great work from a great master ❤️

[@donnanelson9181]

I’ve watched literally dozens and dozens and dozens of videos to learn bonsai, and this is by far the best educational and teaching video I’ve ever seen. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

[@TheGonzogibby]

Rly? he takes forever to explain non-essential things imho :) I like Heron's Bomsai - he is fast and no fkn around with examining and pondering every possible branch. Totally unnecessary. Still, good on em for getting it out there

[@lydiammusic]

8uuhum-Transfer : BERHASIL 17/06 19:03:38 008 - Mandiri 1610005380139 RR PITA MEIRINA Rp 85,000.00 Ref 716222 No Urut 155011

[@davidnobles162]

I felt the same way. I love bonsai but I'm not that artistic, so his approach really helped me.

[@jakebonsai2165]

@@TheGonzogibby you're fkn crazy 🤪, that joker isn't anywhere near the level of Ryan Neil. You probably think Nigel Saunders is good bonsai too lmao 🤣

[@TheGonzogibby]

@@jakebonsai2165 yea Jake. I think all these things.

[@jake4bonsai]

I wish this video existed 9 years ago when I started learning bonsai. Hands down the best beginner video in existence!

[@finzulu]

Unquestionably, the best basic instructional bonsai video on KZbin. Thank you for your generosity in sharing this!

[@patriciatatich3014]

Spot-on David…from the selection process of accessible nursery material, his discussion on key components of design, branch selection and balance to the wiring and placement of foliage pads…it is one of the best instructional videos on YT. Thank you Ryan.🌲

[@dertomh]

I am amazed that you offer your knowledge on youtube without getting directly paid and even in such a good and understandable way. Thank you very much!

[@erickl4635]

As an absolute beginner I LOVE and appreciate this content so much. Thank you very much. Your "beginner's" series is also so helpful.

[@shinysunlight]

This is by far the best, most clear, most useful and most comprehensive bonsai training video i have found anywhere. Thank you soooo sooo much!!

[@outsiderdf]

hey sexy

[@trufflehunter58]

You're one of the very best bonsai practitioners, Ryan. While you were wiring the apex, I disappeared to prepare a snack. When I came back and saw the final result, I actually teared up a little! It would be great to see it potted up and to follow its progress over the years.

[@reygon5125]

For every beginners who wants to engage in bonsai, in this episode Ryan meticulously explain here in detail how it should be done(even though its a nursery stock plant).very helpful , thank you very much!

[@gregorytrueblood6836]

5 minutes in this is already the best video on bonsai i've seen.

[@Just.bonsai]

I commend you for not only doing this very basic intro to bonsai video, but also for making it available for free. I have subscribed to your fantastic content. It's lovely to make this essential info accessible to everyone, especially newbs. Your content is clear, easy to grasp and very helpful. You are so valued in bonsai today.

[@Just.bonsai]

Jaron Solomon I know, and I do. Cheers.

[@groovygranny5565]

Jaron Solomon I totally agree. Visited his place a few years ago. Was greatly inspired and impressed by his work and his generosity and graciousness.

[@davidsommer8318]

Amazing video! I've watched dozens and dozens and I've learned by far the most from this. Thank you!

[@tranhungvt]

Wow. This is absolutely the best education video about bonsai. Truly apreaciate your effort and great information you put on this video.

[@vorsterfourie6081]

Dude, you are a ....no, you are the best bonsai teacher in the world! My bonsai improved over night, just by applying what I have learnt from you.....

[@jakebonsai2165]

I don't know about "the best" in the world but he's one of them. Bjorn Bjorholm is another one.

[@WGH-ef5ze]

This has been up for a while on KZbin and I’m a little late to the discovery of your channel. I really wanna thank you for this demonstration of the effort you put into it. Absolutely loved it and learned just tons of great information. You could’ve done a whole section I’m just forming that Apex and that in a bit south would’ve been fascinating. Thank you for all your efforts and sharing

[@sanjeevmraman]

Pure brilliance. Nothing else describes this. Thanks so much for doing this!

[@davidk5953]

Exceptional video for someone at my skill level. Patient, thorough, and easy to understand. It was surprising to me that valuable trunk movement could be so subtle.

[@skatersquad3776]

David Klepich 6’

[@ptownjon9236]

I agree with David. Nice pace and great information.

[@karenschmiedl3531]

I love your video, this is just what I have been looking for. I Especially like how you explain what your doing & why your doing it. Thank you

[@maheswarthandar3094]

O

[@ambonreog3058]

@@skatersquad3776 L

[@guygriffiths4950]

This is one of the best, most knowledgeable, detailed and valuable videos on youtube - not just on bonsai, I mean in general - the movie itself is a work of art never mind the content. Thank you so much

[@RangaPirate]

Best bonsai instructional video on KZbin hands down. I've made instructional videos for work, and this ticks all the boxes and more. Outstanding video and an even more outstanding result. 10/10.

[@JonDAlessandro]

By far the best, most practical, articulate and inspiring instruction, even as compared to paid courses. Thank You!

[@TheRssRehT]

Best Bonsai instructional I've ever seen. Thank you for all the knowledge.

[@zato6226]

You are an AWESOME AND THOROUGH Sensei. You break things down to where even I can understand what you're saying. And being one just starting to learn about Bonsai you make it a lot easier and less intimidating .

[@groovygranny5565]

"Yes, bonsai is a dirty practice..." Indeed! Hahaha. You are such an amazing teacher; down to earth, clear, and detailed without being overwhelming. Wonderful teaching video. Answered MANY of my questions. I had a tiny Italian Stone Pine one year for my Christmas tree. I made it into a bonsai but didn't know anything about what to look for while selecting the tree or how to approach the cleaning/pruning/shaping. The next year I had a little rosemary Christmas "tree". So I made it into a bonsai also. Not my favorite but it's okay. Right now I'm trying to make a poinsettia and some cuttings from the main plant into bonsai plants (can't really call them trees). So far they are really drooping. We'll see. Thank you for sharing yourself as a teacher...your teaching skills, knowledge, respect for your art and experience are awesome.

[@thomasknopfler2621]

Well thanks to your videos, I'm just remembered that I must practice my wiring. So mutch to lern and it's all about the basic. Thx mirai-team!

[@CascadianFyn]

This is exactly what I needed to see to gain the confidence to get started and experiment on my new bonsai. Thank you Ryan!

[@OkunsanyaA]

I love you. This was an amazing video, I've learned more in 2 hours with you, than I did with 3 books. Thank you!

[@CarloBavius]

This is absolutely the best bonsai beginners tutorial ever!

[@pesoverwatch9324]

I was watching from second 1 till 1h35min...top work, so clear, so helpful. THANX!

[@CallMeJuancho]

I'm going to have to rewatch this like 20 times, there's a lot of great info here. Good job man! Thanks for being so thorough!

[@cairoalessandro8066]

you all prolly dont give a shit but does someone know of a tool to get back into an Instagram account..? I was stupid forgot my login password. I would appreciate any help you can offer me!

[@lelandmark6042]

@Cairo Alessandro Instablaster :)

[@cairoalessandro8066]

@Leland Mark I really appreciate your reply. I found the site through google and Im trying it out atm. Takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@cairoalessandro8066]

@Leland Mark It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thanks so much you saved my ass!

[@lelandmark6042]

@Cairo Alessandro Happy to help :)

[@andyfadeev4842]

I can only repeat the commendations of the others. Thank you so much for this awesome and honest piece of educational material.

[@barbkrienke8400]

I just happened across a video from your channel earlier this year. Thank you so much for your video series where you walk through both the basics of how to start your first bonsai, and also the more “master class” videos where you interact live with your bonsai club audience to consider the more complex reasoning behind bonsai decision making. This is a legacy work that will benefit the bonsai community and bonsai beginners for years to come! I have not yet created a bonsai, and likely will not until I retire, but I have really enjoyed watching your channel, and have learned so much from you. I saved this video to my library, so when I get ready to do my first bonsai, I will be able to find it. Thank you for your dedication to this art, hobby, and to education!

[@BonsaiMirai]

Thanks for the comment, Barb! Happy to be here when you're ready to dive in. :) live.bonsaimirai.com has hundreds of videos available for our subscribers. So that's ready for you, too.

[@camilomedina9045]

@@BonsaiMiraithanks very much for this much informative video full of precious information. I would like to know what happened with this tree? Do you still have it? It would be awesome to see it now after 4 years

[@sammitch8295]

Champion Ryan! Thank you so much for taking the time to explain everything so clearly and thoroughly, unlike any other Bonsai video I have ever seen. You are a natural instructor! Greatly appreciated =).........I wish I had your job!

[@tasanastasi7799]

.Phenomenal ...what a step by step guide …love the thought process THANK YOU

[@Thought_it_up]

This was the most helpful video ever. Just do it. Hearing your reasoning and thoughts was empowering.

[@KIWISMAMA]

Thank you Sir for sharing your knowledge with new bonsai owners like me. I think my 3 small Fukien trees may actually own me at this point. Due to a fairly recent TBI I spend 95% of my days homebound and bedridden. My new hobby, researching techniques and watching new leaves grow gives me extreme peace and pleasure. Many blessings and lots of joy. Your avid fan. Judy

[@gromageindustries6745]

A great film, a fantastic layout of steps to take when you have to take them. Always great to come back to fundamentals. Thankyou 🙏

[@jani1103]

This video is excellent! You are a natural teacher. I am just starting to develop an interest in this art, and I feel that I learned SO MUCh with this. I’m going to rewatch this before I head out to Portland Nursery today to purchase my first future bonsai. Also going to start looking for a teacher.

[@miltonescobar9194]

I can’t believe it. This guy is awesome. I learn tons just watching this video. Thank you very much. Super cool.

[@skandarsan5148]

This is by far, the BEST introduction to Bonsai I've seen! Thank you!

[@cleohunzinger5388]

Like almost all your comments amazing. Thank you so much for sharing. Because of this and other mirai videos I'm able to access the hobby at a much higher level. Bonsai would be much poorer without you.

[@harryjohnson8044]

Exceptional video well worth watching explanations on what to look for and what to do to get the best out of your tree . Cheers from the UK.

[@r1verman]

This has to be the best and most in depth video I've seen regarding the art of bonsai. Thank you so much on not only showing the process but of giving the explanations as to why you made each decision that you did.

[@singakoreantv7582]

Beautiful scenery! 🔥🔥🔥 Lovely sound! Amazing video! 💯💯💯🎈🎈🎈

[@TeachaDeeTv]

Hey Ryan you are a very good teacher.

[@ODballin357]

I know some guys that will make that copper wire disappear to where you will never see it again! LOL! Your videos are super informative and very appreciated. Thank you for the information. I have been growing plants and trees since i was a kid but have only recently began bonsai.

[@dracokaiser]

Love it!!!! There’s a so-called self proclaimed bonsai master in my area who constantly argues with me. You’ve proven him wrong!!!!

[@veegee49]

I learn more and more every time I see your videos man thank you for your time because you don't have to

[@carlbeech5151]

Realy appreciate you going back to the fundamentals of bonsai design. I feel I have learned enough in this 90 min walkthrough to go buy a tree from a nursery and make my best bonsai yet. Cheers from New Zealand

[@shaileshsaxena]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. You are not only an excellent bonsai specialist but also a great teacher. This is a single video that answers most of my questions as a new bonsai student.

[@theflyingdutchman787]

Simply the best tutorials by you. Thanks.

[@stevehoward9425]

I am just trying to get started working bonsai. With not having anyone around here to help me, this video is invaluable.

[@brendancahill3376]

Very Educational video .After watching that Bonsai styling is an art form and is down to lots of experience .

[@pmalone46]

Very clear and understandable instruction, especially for us newbies to bonsai. Such an informative video about bonsai fundamentals from an obviously skilled, articulate and enthusiastic artist! Incredibly well done, Ryan! Thank you.

[@Fleur_de_lis2k]

The tree has remarkable aesthetics in the finale. Great video, learned a lot!

[@MihirrPanchaal]

Probably the most useful video for bonsai beginners to watch. Thank you sir.

[@sujitpadival7257]

Excellent video. The best way anybody could have walked us into the world of bonsai art. Thank you so much for a whole lot of information.

[@bigshortstack2929]

Ryan, I just watched the video of a young lady interviewing Mr. Kimura and also including many shots of some of his trees in his garden and I think I started to get the feeling of just why YOU were so proud to become one of his deciples. That man's talent produced hundreds of absolutely beautiful trees in his own garden that the idea of everyone of them being DIFFERENT with no duplicates, nor near duplicates, is mind boggling.

[@TheLawnSensei]

This is one of the best and most informative video I have never seen on Bonsai. I have watched this video already twice and for sure I will watch it again before I will actually experiment myself, if I was closer to Portland for sure I would have come to visit. Thank you so much for all of this information I really appreciate the time you have spent to put all this together. I would love to see the tree how is now and how you continue to work on it. Again thank you so much.

[@graceland75]

Best piece of Bonsai Education I've ever had. Thank You

[@davidcarrigan8868]

Really appreciate you all sharing your knowledge. Really helps a newbie like me feel like Bonsai is assessable.

[@Michael-xh8bn]

Thanks for making these videos. There was no content like this when i started around 2012-2013. These videos are so helpful.

[@CH-qx4vp]

Nicely done. Learned a lot...including some technique. Thanks.

[@Feldhouse1208]

Clicking around KZbin, I did not think I would end up watching Bonsai. What your doing is very impressive and was entertaining to watch. You make planning and design look easy. Great job and thanks for sharing.

[@Nabanitacg]

Its 3 26 am here in India . and i cnt go to sleep cause I m totally focused on ur Vdo. Extremely informative and helpful. I am learning from you and shall definitely use your guiding tips .

[@danielcuison]

Awesome! First, I already have the last of my bonsai tools/supplies arriving this week. Second, I have been studying for a few months and also have confidence from experience in growing plants. For the most part, I would have employed the same approach to my first ones this season. But he really put it together so well! I'm glad I seen this before I went to the nursery!!!

[@rickyricardo58]

One of the most interesting Bonsai "tutorial" videos I have seen. Absolutely inspiring..........hoping for more like it to come in the future. Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@jmckinnon1456]

Loved this presentation

[@amazingmaples]

Ryan thanks, it is great for you to offer up these wonderful videos about searching the local nurseries for bonsai material. You give me a lot of great ideas for the plant material in my own nursery. With all the new varieties which can be used for bonsai or in a garden with a similar style pruning as used in bonsai, it will be fun in future videos to watch as Ryan uses his talent to create new forms of living art. FYI, Cedrus libani "Green Prince / Green Knight" which is one of my favorite dwarf conifers does have issues with staying alive.

[@Serentropic]

I've been crash-coursing bonsai this year, and I really wish I'd found this video earlier! It's a wonderful guide from start to finish. And I wish I'd seen it before I picked my first nursery trees to play with, haha. As an Oregonian myself, I especially appreciate that you're working with Portland material. I've seen some of your work with Douglas Firs (my favorite tree) and I'm really excited to start digging into your educational material.

[@holyperceval6310]

Enjoyed your enthousiasme and knowledge, thanks for the nice video

[@thanhtruong-uh6kd]

Very detailed and educated video. Thank you!!!

[@bsepower3209]

Amazing explanation! One could literally write a dissertation with the information given.

[@stavrospapadopoulos2115]

best youtube bonsai lesson so far.... thank you. that was really educational

[@Driv3rWisard]

You open my world!

[@petesavage5846]

This is the first time I've seen someone talk about natural/man made movement. Man made movement makes a tree look amateur. Great video.

[@yoteslaya7296]

Amateur? Lol you must be new to bonsai kiddo

[@cx.m.d]

Excellent job! What inspires me is that in the start of working this spruce, you dont see what in the end becomes a beautiful formed bonsai tree. That really facsinates me! You definitly show some skill! Hope to see more of your work or a timelaps video. 😊💮

[@beersport]

Good god. This is awesome. Thank you so much. I cannot tell you how helpful this is. Thank you very much!

[@Jakub_Andrzejewski]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Greetings from Poland,

[@juanserrano9547]

nice video, i will really like to see the root work on this tree for the transition to a bonsai pot. I read to many times the we cant take out the substrate or do root pruning on conifers but i know in some point has to be don and i believe it will be really interesting to watch how a professional do this job

[@Gina-if6zh]

This was so helpful to watch. And wow, how beautiful that tree looks! Thank you for such an awesome vid, I’m going to try and practice on my first spruce bonsai 👍

[@504nars]

I just ordered a bonsai set for the first time and this DEFINITELY helps

[@lcheng215]

this is the best video about starting a bonsai i've watched, so educational and it's so helpful to see your thought process/decision making !! Thank you so much for doing this!!!

[@rickmiles3242]

Fascinating, very interesting and helpful!! Thanks so much!!

[@richardpalmer8132]

Wow! The second video of my research on Bonsai and I hit the jackpot. Thank you.

[@mrfamousgetfamous7885]

It's like im in the room, this guy presents so well. I'm only at the whiteboard part but i feel like its really personal and engaging. Great job on the video, I will be watching till the end. Subbed of course! I am brand new to Bonsai, i hope to start soon. I am the type to research a lot before diving in, have a strong base, then learn as I go. Thanks for making this video!

[@IRCarter81]

even though the process was explained in such detail i consider you a miracle worker! fantastic

[@shauno812]

Was awesome to watch the progression. Very informative, and a lot to take with on the journey. Thank you.

[@wonderwend1]

Absolutely SUPERB video! You are an amazing teacher. I've learnt so much and feel happier at leaping into this wonderful world

[@veegee49]

Simply fantastic you have taken me to another level thank you Sir for your time and patience your the Man

[@rolfandersen7676]

I love watching your bonsai demonstrations. There is something uplifting about the way you explain the process. I would liked if you now, four years later could show us how this specific bonsai you created in this video looks like today? How did you moved it from the tilted plastic container into a final display pot? - Thanks again for taking your time informing me in details about a living art form I always have loved looking at.

[@philipkatipunan1794]

Amazing content. And the passion is infectious!

[@finnsbiavl7483]

This lesson is one of the best .... Thanks 🇩🇰🇩🇰🇩🇰

[@PrairieDoodle]

Thanks for sharing with us. Great video.

[@maart0123]

I also search bonsai material like this at garden centres, always awkward when checking +25 trees on your knees while people are looking at you haha. really fun to do though =) Nice to see other people are doing this too

[@michaellimeallen8309]

lol.. it my look odd to others, but for tree lovers its pure joy.

[@alani.s.w1756]

you know, i actually accidentally stumbled upon this video. your love and affection to what you do is admirable and worth aspiring to. plus, im getting to actually enjoy while im learning something.

[@junaidiefendi7939]

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[@mrellis1181]

Awesome, professional and very interesting. Thank you.

[@AlexRodriguez-gm4rr]

Excellent video. Your way of explaining the various concepts are masterful. I learned a lot. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@Xx2ED]

Thank you for this amazing tutorial