Collecting for Bonsai: MONSTER American Persimmon 2017!!!

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UPDATE: This persimmon didn't make it through the 2017 summer season. I hope this video shows that collecting trees can be more than just a few shovel cuts here and pruning snips there. It can be extremely challenging, but the payoff can be wonderfully rewarding. But, when all that work and care isn't enough, when something you've taken from the woods died in your care, it can be very hard to take. Check the 6 minute mark of this update. • Bonsai: Collected Mate...
This has to be the hardest and most frustrating tree I'd ever collected. It was a beautiful American persimmon tree (Diospyros virginiana) that had been damaged when an old ash came crashing down upon it years ago. I found it while walking in my woods. Little did I realize the endurance it would take to get it out of the ground and into the pot. Even though it leafed out and showed great promise, it didn't make it. Keep your eyes open for the update video in the future.
Persimmon trees, with few exceptions, produce some of the most stunning displays of fruit in the bonsai realm. They can linger for months after the leaves have dropped, with a variety of colors and shapes depending on the parent trees. Parent trees, you ask? Yes. Persimmon trees are divided into sexes, with only female trees bearing fruit. I do not know what sex this particular tree was.
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Like, Share, and Subscribe! - There's plenty more to come!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

This tree died. You can see full details about it in the Fall Update 2017. Right about the 6 minute mark.

[@zep136]

I woulda been shocked if it lived.

[@freedomgarden1]

193/5000 It's sad to know that. I love your videos, love the way you collect and take care of bonsai. You are the one who inspired me to play bonsai. From Vietnam with love!

[@ihzaisrawan2813]

:(

[@isaachinojosa9863]

:( love your videos man

[@danielpatterson7854]

Appalachian Bonsai fall update 2017

[@yuehhtewbb427]

"It's not always easy". It's literally never easy, it takes months to see if what you did had any effect, decades to complete a project. I've raised children with less effort than tending three bonsai trees.

[@smallfaucet]

Entertaining for sure....I could actually feel the frustration during the removal of that tree.

[@tarun5519]

I love gardening, i love to make bonsai and i am learning about it more and more each day since i was 9years old.. now m 22.. u are fantastic and thank you for your contribution to my knowledge of bonsai. Hope i would learn more from you. All the best.

[@veeraraghav1643]

Number plz

[@knuckledraggerfinance]

I love that you said "you really start to question if this was a good idea... then you keep going" thats a great motto to live life by lol

[@duncanhenderson3190]

Great video, well presented and I love the subtle humour "fist shake at your dog cutting into the scene" and your explanation as you go is great.

[@mikbonsai]

Now this is a Persimmon of substance, love the bark and you have the makings of a stunning tree and as its an old tree, flowering and fruiting should be quick. Look forward to the updates.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thank you, Mr. Kahn! We have several trees on the property, but all of them are so large, I didn't think I'd find anything suitable until I happened upon this. Even still, we shall see if it bears fruit or flowers only. They're so pretty - until they're ugly, then they're tasty! I'd be happy to send you seeds from some of the others, as they're bound to bear fruit sooner than this. Not sure how customs views seeds, but if no issue, I'll forward them on! Cheers

[@mikbonsai]

Thanks you for getting back.

[@cannonw59]

I have been pursuing bonsai in my mind for years. I am about to take the plunge and try starting a tree. I have been growing an evergreen in my yard for a few years and looks to be my first project. Thank you for all of the knowledge you share in these videos. Peace&Love!

[@RedRockShane]

I had a difficult experience collecting a few weeks ago in Utah USA. I really enjoy your work. Thanks for showing the frustrating side of our passion.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

It's not easy to show weakness, and I almost didn't show it, but as I commented just a second ago, this happens to all of us at some point. I don't think it would be fair to say that it's all fun & games & easy, because it most certainly isn't. Hope you were able to get some good ones despite the difficulties. I was in Utah around two years ago for business, but in awe of the mountains and trees and the like. Sorta jealous you got to dig & I didn't!

[@VinnyChirayil]

+Appalachian Bonsai Yes, thanks for keeping it real, showing the good and bad aspects

[@michaelpshady]

Also, it's nice to see that I might not be the only person that hunts for deer and new bonsai trees at the same time. :)

[@AppalachianBonsai]

YESSS!!

[@MikeSnedaker]

Hunting sheds and bonsai material is even better!

[@WoodsleeSummercraftwoodturning]

Thanks for your videos, I started collecting trees from my property to begin learning Bonsai, it has always interested me, and videos like yours really help Take care Rob

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Excellent to see you're giving it a shot. I wish you the very best of luck, and I hope that the videos continue to help and inspire!

[@osamabinmiau8639]

Don't fucking do that, if you love nature go and get new ones and work on that

[@rabeyaahmed7235]

I love gardening and have a little knowledge about the bonsai. Love the way you collect plants from the nature. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@tonyloizou]

I have watched many videos of Bonsai propagation: these are far and away the best presented. No frills: no "fat": all lean! Intelligent, straightforward and easy to follow - unlike some of the self-indulgent nonsense on some sites! The narrative and the filming have the most important thing: clarity and a good store of knowledge. Very well done!

[@VinnyChirayil]

Great story, editing and humour :-) I loved the fact that you showed an update after the tree recovered ! Cheers 🍻

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Definitely, Vinny! I'm still looking forward to seeing your documentary on pot design.

[@BonsaiTalk]

Thats what Bonsai is all about man! Gettin dirty and working hard sometimes.. I know EXACTLY the feeling when it looks easy but it's hours of work gettin' that sweet yamadori... Some swedish steel (Husqvarna) and some american powerwill made it!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Whew! Happy it's in the pot, and love my Husqi stuff!

[@mrv1271]

You've inspired me to look for a similar tree. What a great job.

[@lisareneed]

I just received my first bonsai for my birthday. I wanted to do it right, so I binged watched KZbin videos for a couple of days. I came across this one by accident. Not only is Appalachia my favorite place on Earth, I loved your dedication to living art. This video was an inspiration, though I won't be going into the woods and digging out stumps ;-), but I'm somewhat sadistically happy that you are. Thanks.

[@SgtFoster]

Love that video. Reminds me of collecting with a friend in Korea. Sorry to hear it didn't make it.

[@swimbait1]

I’m surprised that was enough root for survival, glad it worked.

[@shoushirei]

This feels so antithetical to the practice of bonsai cultivation... I could feel your impatience and frustration, and I wouldn't be surprised if the tree could too. I haven't seen your more recent videos, but I wish you well on your process.

[@petejohnson6498]

Great video! Love the humor! One of the most entertaining bonsai videos I've seen yet! Looking forward to seeing updates!

[@comofazerbonsai]

Hard work my friend, but definitly worth!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Yes, indeed my friend!! It's still not a guarantee to survive, but it's got a good a chance as any. If I make it through autumn, I'll feel great!

[@comofazerbonsai]

Good lucky bro.

[@boboala1]

You've inspired me! I live on the edge of a MO Ozark mountain and there are all kinds of possibilities I've realized...right here in my own back yard! Thanks!

[@justinj.2839]

I love this video. It's got met excited to collect some material of my own. I really appreciate the story behind these trees too. I can't wait to see what you do with them in a couple of years when you repot and / or wire some of them.

[@deloreschildress5569]

I've been watching your videos for a while. Great job. I'm exhausted from the work and frustration that went into collecting this tree. Really can't wait to see what you have planned for your new haul

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I've only two more collection videos for this year - a hawthorn and a white pine. There will probably be a few other videos spread in between; I'll be describing soil mixtures, collection ethics, bonsai failures, and a few others. Thank you for continuing to support the channel, Delores!

[@jairoacosta8940]

thanks for the video

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thank you for watching!

[@ericdavid8214]

"This tree's not out of the woods yet".. I see what you did there

[@jonasdalemans3876]

Perfect summary of bonsai. Patience, dedication and sometimes frustration.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

All three in one shot!

[@hectordehesa2118]

Hard work and dedication! Gotta love it

[@MrTributes]

fun episode^^

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks, Tribute!

[@haley5154]

and this is why i chose tiny trees to collect... not enough tool and im weak ahah

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Tiny trees are still beautiful trees, and weak trees can become strong. You got this, Haley!

[@haley5154]

Thanks, you have some nice collected trees I can't wait to see how you transform them into bonsai

[@l.d.p.9365]

The persimmon reminds me of my jasmine. The 30 year old jasmine was part of a jasmine hedge around the back of a house I bought in North Palm Beach, FL. It took two years of pruning beforehand and 2 days of root cutting to wrest it from the hedge. After five years training in upright, root over rock I was pleased with it. I moved to Washington DC and gave the tree to a gardener in St Augustine FL who had admired it.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

That's a great story!

[@richardlynch8009]

This is frigging hysterical... and brilliant. Wonderful.

[@luiscolome75]

Well I can't be entirely agree with Yamadori. And I say "entirely", because I collected a couple of trees my self, but they where (two Mimosa trees), from a really small hole between to cobblestones in the city, so they weren't gonna live too much there. And another one from directly bellow important electricity lines, where they don't let the trees get big because of security, so they couldn't get too old neither. But from the nature, I don't think I agree to take a tree from there. I respect what you do, but I think there are a bunch other ways to get a bonsai. And they are totally fun too.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I can agree with you there. In many ways, collecting is a bad idea, especially when it exploits rare and important species. I know that the theft of olive trees has been a major problem, and therefore illegal in many countries. I don't think they were all heading for bonsai places, but it doesn't matter, it's wrong. The trees I've collected are very common and often considered 'trash' species. But, does that make it right? Not necessarily. I've been collecting ideas for a video, and it's become so large that it will become a small series of videos discussing the ethics of collecting trees. As far as urban collecting, I'm all for it, as long as permissions are obtained. Trees in the city and sidewalks have very few chances to live long, whereas if they're cared for, as they are in bonsai, they'll outlive us. I value your input, and I hope you stick around for the videos, my friend! Thanks!

[@luiscolome75]

Of course I 'll stick around. I like your videos. I love your small Juniper, the one you use to make the video "How to Winterize Your Bonsai". Couldn't get the type of Juniper is though. About Yamadori, my concern is that there are some people that just don't have that limit to think about protected species, or inappropriate environments for trees to live. I can't wait to see that series of videos about collecting trees. I'll be there taking part of the discussion ;). Thanks to you for your work!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Well said!

[@johndeckard6592]

I love Yamadori, have absolutely no problem with it.

[@FelipeBSR]

I don't see a problem as long as he plants another tree at its place.

[@Kjbrunzo]

I've literally been waiting for this one, nice!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks for sticking around KB!

[@susansands1]

I enjoyed watching you dig out that tree. That was an old established tree and knew it would be hard to excavate. I smiled at the hard work you put into the chore. I would have given up but you stuck to it. Good for you!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I probably should have given up & let it be. Lesson learned. Thanks for watching!

[@LascosasdeJavi]

No yamadori please

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I have several videos coming up that aren't about yamadori, but there are still two more to show this year, probably late summer/early fall.

[@ghm0702]

Way more yamadori please

[@stampuhhSC]

Yamadori = Tree killer

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Yamadori are collected with the intent to keep the tree alive, not to destroy it. A collected tree has as much chance of living as a seedling does if taken care of properly. Do you consider a person who collects a seed from the tree a thief? If they plant that seed,and it dies, is that person also a tree killer? My house is made of dead trees. The bridge I cross to get to my house is made of dead trees, as is the paper I write on to pay the bills for it. We are all tree killers, you & I both. Mankind wouldn't be very far without them. If you don't believe that, go live under a rock and stop eating.

[@johndeckard6592]

Pfft, tree killer my ass. There is a great bonsai saying "if you aren't killing trees, you aren't doing bonsai". And it's absolutely true. You have to kill some to get the special ones.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I agree that bonsai artists kill loads of trees (I have), but we (or at least I) live in a place where red maples and hornbeams and eastern white pines are plentiful with little chance of extinction in the near future. However, it's illegal in many countries (especially the mediterranean where I think @stampuhhSC is from) because tree theft is a major problem. 2500-year-old olive trees planted by the Romans are being dug up to sell to rich clients. That's cultural heritage - and that sucks! Most of these guys don't even know how to keep it alive, and therefore, 'Yamadori = Tree killer." I get it. If someone were to get onto my land and steal my ginseng and my lady slippers, they'd be leaving with a few holes in their clothes and some salt in their legs. It's a damned shame that some people exploit their surroundings for quick cash and trophies, as it ruins it for those with good intentions. I believe I was on a hot-streak when the initial comment was made, and for that I'm at fault for my rudeness. But, I'm still up for tree collecting. I just think there's a reasonable balance that needs to be found. I've an ethics video series that should 'hopefully be started by the end of July that can start a further discussion on it. Keep tabbed, John. I want to hear your side, too. That's what this is for!

[@johndeckard6592]

Yeah that is reprehensible when people steal trees and especially important trees. Or when some meth head burns down an ancient, priceless and beautiful tree it is devastating. Methusale got burned down. The US Forest Service keeps location of special trees secret (like 5000 year old Bristlecone pines in California or wherever they are I forget at moment). I always plant a young sapling or two in the area of where I take a Yamadori.

[@raphaelamin5565]

Don't like killing trees? Try wiping off our ass with plastic bags.

[@nikkimcneil7929]

Hanks for this! I've been wanting to create my own bonsai for YEARS and never quite been successful. I'm learning so much from watching so thanks!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

You're very welcome! You can try this on material bought at a local nursery or collect one from your yard. I wish you success this spring!

[@pandapigeonpowpow3838]

Bad days happen, your hard work and persistence paid off

[@PeriodWoodworker]

I had forgotten about this video. Is I almost a quintessential field dug video showing what really happens. I love the the Appalachian woods and look forward to getting back in them after a little knee surgery. Until them, I am living vicariously through your videos. Thanks so much, Steve

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Heal up, man!

[@attra91]

Just found your page. Love this. I thank you for your time in posting such videos.

[@wagnerkurt7091]

Hi, I'm from Brazil and started to make my trees, I already have two, your work is fantastic.

[@19Meikel62]

Vielen Dank für das tolle Video....sehr aufwendig aber es hat sich gelohnt 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@kamuroshow4884]

Oh good lord, i understand the work you've been trough with this one! Digging something like that is a hell of a job, i hope all the work will pay off in a few years! Keep up!

[@1969hornet]

Wow, that was a lot of work and frustrations. I'm glad that the tree didn't die :)

[@clarkianperez6756]

very inspiring to get that huge bonsai in days. Perfect fit !

[@axelbubenzer6255]

Really great video you sure persevered to finally get it out but it's rewarding to see growth beginning so soon

[@mr1ddub]

I'm going to start my hunt because I now have an appreciation for downed trees thanks to you.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Just make sure you wait until spring to dig. Good luck!

[@thondupandrugtsang]

I admire your perseverance. Great job.

[@stevesgrowingspace]

I searched for Bonsai and found your channel, so interesting, I can see why that guy in Scotland gets tired watching you lol Thanks for sharing all the best Steve

[@claireconley8522]

Thank you so much for posting this video. I love bonsai, but I don't know who would take care of them after I'm gone.

[@kidcitylynnwood6324]

Great work, proud of you!

[@mikec3820]

i have a new fav bonsai channel. very cool. nothing beats some hard working and awesome bonsai collecting

[@yogasethu]

Your hard work has really paid off...

[@PeriodWoodworker]

What a super video. Anxious to see the outcome in future years. Thanks for capturing the agony for us.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

No worries, Steve! I'll let everyone know as the months and years go by.

[@ronniepressley2123]

Love your video. I've got some Japanese White pine started from seed. Their almost two inches high now. I've been working with bonsai for twenty years now. Keep up the good work.

[@Snr-SCV-Driver]

Nice video! Congratulation, life is not always expensive tools and pot and super detailed cameras. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your genuine bonsai passion!

[@hoikychientranh2118]

Thank you so much for sharing. Have a nice day

[@user-dz6sj8zf2t]

it was really good video and it shows the hard work for a heavy , difficult yamadori . Keep on the good work and keep your eyes open for the next good one

[@caycanhvacuocsong]

Thanks for posting a great video!

[@josephascroft4774]

Really enjoyed this video, thank you, I’m currently attempting to pot up a 20yr old hawthorn that my brother brought home from work while doing a fencing job, I really can relate to this video 👍

[@MiriamPerez270466]

The work was spectacular, beautiful, sometimes it does not go as we want, I say it because I know you did not want to cut that part of the trunk, but good although you can not do bonsai waterfall or other forms, it is an exotic beauty, I loved the video, it was worth the effort, you gave a new life to the tree, to see it sprout left behind any frustration, I am very happy to have seen its new shoots. A hug from Paraguay.

[@anthonylock5327]

I haven't finished the video, just saw your comment about the tree dying. You deserve a like and my subscription, just for your dedication, hard work and passion. Truly enjoyable video 👍🏻

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Love it!

[@jckasugatan6810]

You deserve a new subscriber for all that hard work. very much appreciated...

[@TheDaveSouth]

Wow, amazing process … dedication!!!

[@jimmyslimz2624]

Penticton BC Canada here. Love your channel. Wished I would have found this sooner. Keep up the great work!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks!

[@haydenfox3116]

Love your videos and I can't wait for the next bonsai you're going to tackle.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Excellent! Next video should be from my Tampa trip to Artisans Bonsai, but another collection shouldn't be far behind. I've another hawthorn and a pine to show. Oh, editing... why do you take so much time!!

[@michaelanctil5475]

Impressive work. Glad I came across your KZbin channel! Have a blessed day.

[@garyb8888]

Your dedication is admirable! Keep on doing what your doing. Gob bless.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks, gary b!!

[@kasungamage6465]

Hi.. I really appreciate the effort you made on collecting that tree..As a beginner i really understand how these beautiful Bonsai trees are crated with lots of effort..Great work..Looking forward to see the tree in future...

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks, Shanara! More to happen soon!

[@utubesam007]

Looking forward to see any updates on this.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I did a basic update in the Fall 2017 update. It died, and I give the reasons why. Very ambitious, but some things were overlooked on my part.

[@josephowens7425]

I'm just getting started in bonsai. I love it so far. I have lots to learn but I'm excited. Thanks for this video. It was helpful.

[@AppalachianBonsai]

You're welcome, Broseph!

[@jwkoeniger]

So jealous of your beautiful property! Collecting is the most fun part of bonsai for me. Too bad this one died...been there (many times) done that. In fact I have a video of just one of my prized trees burning in my fire pit. But enough about me. YOU, my friend, are inspiring...love your explanations about how the sugars feed the branches and help grow the roots...oh, yeah, it died. Oh well, you're a youngster and have so much time left to grow more stuff! I used to live in Virginia before retiring to Florida. I miss the rolling hills...your place looks great. Thanks for the work you do!

[@osamab814]

The dedication! Great work

[@Djprasad1000]

Beautiful work I really loved it hope soon I too start

[@martinoperazzi845]

Wow, good job. But it was so hard for you. Thanks for the video.

[@jootai]

Great video. What a beautiful area you live in

[@edubeterraba]

Sou do Brasil e estou muito agradecido pelo cuidado em inserir legendas! Belo vídeo!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Obrigado a você e ao Brasil pelo amor e apoio que você me mostrou !!

[@gregmilstead1369]

Hope to see more about this tree. in the months. To come

[@TheNatrjack965]

That was very helpful as I am a new comer to the hobby ,I need all the advice I can get ,I did try 25 years ago but there was not much information in them days as there is now ,thanks again for sharing your knowledge ..

[@junaida.siddiqui6549]

It's very hard work and you done a great job, I like it very much.

[@alfredpgarcia111]

First time watching your video and enjoyed it very much. Very informative. Will definitely watch again and subscribe. Thank you.

[@mixedlollies7117]

This video is great , thank you for your determination getting that stump out..

[@anandanthraper1575]

great commitment in this video..

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks!

[@rosamnaranjo1]

Ahhh ok it was worth it !!!’ seeing the new growth and most I enjoyed seeing the 🐕 walking in front of the camera

[@thickbrianq]

You got my subscription. Love Bonsai. Thank you for your videos.

[@mblkitu]

Thank you for sharing your experience with this tree. After all the effort, the fact that it dies after just make me sad. But I guess it is what life is all about, let things go, isn’t it? Good luck next time!

[@K1mbokhmer]

Thanks for the educational video, enjoy it and will start the bonsai of my own

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Good luck to you Kimsan! And thank you for watching!

[@TheMarPacifico]

Great video, very informative. So funny at 6:45 when "spot" cuts in front of the camera and you get mad!!!

[@AppalachianBonsai]

The little punk... That's Taboo. She and her sister Ace own this place. You raise them from pups, give them all the love and attention, pay their bills, and let them run free, and look how they repay you. Pffft! Dogs!

[@rebeccariel2872]

Hey, I thought she was adorable. Heck, you're already collecting bonsai with a chainsaw, an ATV, in the Appalachian mountains, off your rural mountain property -- having your cattle dog stroll through the picture is just icing on the cake. And, yes, I noticed them patiently, OHH SO PATIENTLY sitting in the background while you were trying to dig out the persimmon, day after day..... :D

[@ghm0702]

I gave up on my first persimmon collection this spring at around the 2 min mark for you haha so glad I didn't continue down that rabbit hole without the proper equipment

[@AppalachianBonsai]

I probably should have quit day 1. Better luck to us both next time around!

[@hickshobbies6432]

AWESOME JOB!!!! I'm soooooo inspired by your video to grow my grandchildren....Bonsai trees. :0)

[@ThirstysURL]

i never realised you can collect one like this...i'm gonna get one, thanks for the vid brother

[@loganbeeman3854]

Had an interest in cultivating natives for awhile, glad to be here. Subbed

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Excellent. I love natives - I don't really have any big issues with them. And they over-winter really really well

[@BillsBayou]

This makes my winch-pulling technique look easy. Sorry the tree did not make it, but not for a lack of busting your hump. Thanks for the video. Very nicely produced.

[@bimalnair]

awesome work boss! You made it such a fun video. Loved it!! :)

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Thanks bimal!

[@Gamer_proud]

Awesome work

[@kennycheng5591]

Amazing hard effort, a big thumbs up

[@deepusoman6569]

awesome work brother... loved it

[@TheStonedGamerr]

awesome video dude, that hard work paid off

[@AppalachianBonsai]

Sorta paid off... it suffered a hard summer and not looking good for autumn. The others did just fine. Bummer on this one.