Keeping a Bonsai Tree Small, Dec 2016

It's easy to grow a bonsai tree larger, keeping it small, is a challenge!
I prune a Ficus religiosa, a Ficus microcarpa and a Jade tree back to size.

[@lawrence6699]

A lot of the bonsai masters, seem to not want to reveal their ‘secrets’, but you are the exception to that generalization- thank you so much for sharing your bonsai ‘secrets’ with the rest of us!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Larry!

[@NikhilYadav-tl4hb]

Really thankyou nigel.

[@scooterman103]

Yeah that's one of the things that's always kinda bugged me about how much ancient technology/art (bonsai, woodcarving, forging...) that's been lost because the last master never got around to passing on what he knew.

[@edparrera4455]

So silly with secrets lol that’s not caring that’s not sharing

[@mmoarchives2542]

ssssshhhh, keep it quiet, you want people to know they're paying 300% more than they should for a bonsai tree?

[@LeBronKK]

I have less than five hours before I have to get up for work, and I'm hypnotized by this.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks, no get some sleep!

[@gloriashoda3981]

Nigel, just want you to know that you have all the attributes of a great teacher. You are deliberate, clear, offer very good explanation for why you do things. I have learned a lot from you and most of all you give me courage and encouragement as I work w plants in my yard.

[@matthewkizziahcuzia...gott9632]

of all the videos on KZbin nobody makes it look easier and more capable than you. thank you.

[@ChenHaziza]

and yet so many questions

[@OmeHenk993]

9:45 "I'm just gonna push up my drainage hole''.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

That didn't sound too good!

[@OmeHenk993]

Have to admit I giggled a bit!

[@confusedwhale]

@@TheBonsaiZone: I heard sounding's pretty good for some.

[@budrobadre]

lmao

[@frankwankerl7021]

I wanted to say, your videos have inspired me to get into bonsai, and now I have my own olive bonsai tree and it is beautiful!!!!

[@younlok1081]

is it alive

[@ibie27]

Olive bonsai? Great idea!

[@เปี๊ยกโสมัจฉา-ว5พ]

Good

[@NMW80]

Wow I didn’t know you could bonsai olive trees

[@beatsoflaw1477]

@@NMW80 I think olive/oil trees are a classic when it comes to Bosai

[@jayscore7182]

Can't wait to start my bonsai journey! Of all bonsai youtubers you are the most inspirational to me! thank you

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Jay, it's a long hard journey but it's worth it!

[@BonsaiTalk]

I must agree and say yes.. it's been a long journey but IT IS worth it indeed!

[@plumbthumbicus]

Mickey mouse

[@nellythree]

JayScore I feel the same way!! it's a long journey but with experienced people on KZbin will help us along the way!

[@JackwagonForever6]

JayScore me to

[@annettehawkins3412]

Thanks Nigel, very well explained. Great advice for newbies.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Annette!

[@pathakarchana01]

would you mind publishing a list of essential tools for working with bonsai, as wells as their soil management?

[@thabest007]

When cutting all the leaves off, how does the tree survive without photosynthesis? Should this only be done in certain seasons?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The tree relies on energy stored in the roots, trunk and branches to grow new foliage on the tree. It is similar to generating the new leaves on deciduous trees in spring. This does drain the tree of energy, so it should only be done on a really healthy vigorous tree. The new leaves should be allowed to grow and replace the lost energy stores in the tree.

[@georgethomas3373]

Thanks for the reply, as I live in Spain and it is now early summer conditions) I will try pruning now. The bonsai in question has become very leggy. Keep up the good work and interesting videos.

[@gabrielbuze6014]

Gday nice sir! i'm a big fan of your channel (seen all of your single videos at least 2 times :D) and just started some bonsai trees myself too so i am a complete beginner .. your advices are priceless and I do have a question if I may - at 5:17, you cut that quite thick Jade's branch - What was the purpose of growing it if you ended up removing it ? was it initially part of the tree's design and you changed your mind in the meantime or did you grow it for a different reason ? thank you in advance!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

It was grown to help fatten up the trunk below. I will be repeating this operation several times in the trees life, to improve the taper of the trunk. This is the hard part of building a trunk, you let all these nice branches grow, and then you prune it back to a short single trunk again. Eventually you get a nice old looking trunk. After the trunk is formed you can start to grow the actual branches you will use. If you don't prune it back like this, your branches will be the same thickness as the trunk.

[@jaysen2200]

Did my first bonsai trim today ! thank you so much for sharing your knowledge !

[@samuellopez105]

I just found your channel and watched this video. You explained everything nicely, demonstrated how to do it etc. The best instructional video I've seen thus far. Thank you so much. I do have a question. I recently bought my second bonsai but am having problems identifying it. Do you have a video on that?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Samuel, sorry I don't have a video on plant identification. There is an app you can get for your phone that can do this!

[@mandieartym6594]

Thank you from the bottom of my tiny wee pots. Watching these methods have given me the confidence to continue doing exactly what you've just showcased. I'm glad to know I'm on the right track and can rely on you for any troubleshooting and expert advice. Happy Mame and already looking forward to your next video! Cheers Mandie

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks for the video suggestion! Your ash trees are doing well, the first set of leaves have emerged from the soil. Very exciting!

[@darnel6884]

Can i bonsai a mango tree? I have mango tree just sprouted and grow for about 8inches..

[@BlocksmithBuilds]

Make sure the tree fruits before pruning

[@pinkegg3179]

the mango will be the same size as the tree lol

[@sNstRflyEr]

I just can't get use to you calling rocks "soil" lol. I understand that rocks are what you commonly use on Bonsais, but to call them soil...it's very odd.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Some people can it the "medium".

[@man5ic]

What kind of soil or medium it is? What do we call it if i have to buy it from near by nursury?

[@kajsjoqvist5274]

sNstRchaOs it’s called soil. Soil particles can be much bigger than that.

[@PaperBarrack]

@@TheBonsaiZone so what are they ? They look like pebbles and I was wondering the same. Doesn't the tree need soil ? I mean yeah, ficus grows everywhere around here, be it in wall cracks etc.

[@Capt_Killingfield]

@@PaperBarrack They look like pebbles, which they are. But they are NOT pebbles of rock, which are non-absorbent. They are pebbles of "Akadama" and "Turface", which are both types clay. Clay pebbles are absorbant, but also hold their shape, to allow for drainage of water, and circulation of air. What you don't see in those pebbles are included coarse sand, and Frit, to aid in drainage and minerals. This mix is typical for DECIDUOUS TREES, as opposed to conifers, which prefer a more organic, mulchy type of soil. You and others may wonder where the brown stuff is. Thats dirt. Different thing. Doesn't work on this small scale because it doesn't drain quickly, it turns to mud. These trees he's working on, you can do a 50/50 deciduous(pebble)/conifer(mulch) mix. It would be a littler more "dirtier".

[@justinbrantley220]

This video is deeper than gold on some soul food for reals. You cant find info on mame style trees hardly anywhere. Ty for this

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Justin!

[@SeeNyuOG]

Does the tree even stay alive after pruning roots that hard? : O

[@leevandyke4562]

CyniuxD if it is a tropical you need to do it before summer or after summer (I think but I'm sure you can do it any time of the year depending on the tree and just baby it). if it is a tree that goes dormant then you can cut most of the roots off and most of the top off as well before spring. I found a maple and I cut it to have 2 small roots and 3 inches of trunk and when it grew it was fine. im not sure about ever greens.

[@xiadui7209]

you forgot to fly away captain!

[@ianwitte7659]

Is that a cannabis bonsai in the background? Lol I'm sure it's a money tree or some other imposter. But sure did make me laugh lol. Love your work. I have recently gotten into bonsai and you have helped me more than anything.

[@SeekerOfWisdom07]

No he does all this so it will die. Forgive my sarcasm.

[@nyeeesss2424]

This is one of the best tutorial about bonsai trees. I have a query: Is it possible to make a similar tiny bonsai of a lemon plant?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes indeed, the trees that have naturally small leaves are better suited for small bonsai, but you can grow almost any tree as a small bonsai. Thanks!

[@frazzno5654]

Four years later and still an evergreen video! Thank you!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kitsukeita]

I though about bonsai after receiving an old brass shallow pot from my father from his military days, after watching 100+ hours of bonsai channels on youtube i can clearly see who the winners are, this channel reveals the most important lessons in bonsai i.e. why and how to do something and the thinking behind it. Another great channel i found was an Indian channel in Hindi language but with english subtitles called Bonsai tricks and a lot more. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks so much Keita! Ayan from Bonsai Tricks and a Lot More is a friend of mine and he is great at bonsai!

[@karinwerner1899]

Thank you for all your inspiring videos and helpful advice. Thank you for caring so much for the wellbeing of all creatures and making a stand for those without voices. Blessings to New Years Eve for you and your family and of course for all the green Projekts under your care

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks Karin for a lovely new years message, Nigel

[@becerriun]

Hello, Nigel. This is Edwin from Colombia. Big fan. I have learned a lot from your videos, but this one has been the most educational one I've watched so far, and though I haven't watched all of your posts, I've watched a lot of them. I also have ficus religiosa and microcarpa bonsai and I'm planning on growing mini bonsai of both species and what I've learned from this video will be very useful. Thanks a lot!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks very much and I hope your mini trees grow well!

[@adamrummer5342]

Can the plant become infected from the open wounds? Do you have to do anything to prevent infection?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

They can, but generally a healthy plant will seal and repair itself without any problems. Some people claim a sealing paste is good to apply, others say it is not! Here is what Walter Pall says... walter-pall-bonsai.blogspot.ca/2009/01/about-sealing-wounds-on-trees.html

[@RageQuitAndy117]

Nigel, I have been watching your videos for a long while now and thank you for sharing your knowledge through KZbin to the world. Question. Can bonsai material, small trees etc. still grow, gain girth and grow in size in a small bonsai pot? Like, if you don't prune the tops nor the roots, can the bonsai still grow 'out of it's pot'? Sorry for that strange question, just wondering.

[@1BergerVongSchlauigkeitHer]

If you don't keep cutting it back, it will keep getting bigger.

[@Lazarus-aap]

Hi Nigel, thank you very much for this video! It really helped me to understand it all a lot better... I have a clearer picture of trees now

[@TheBonsaiZone]

You're welcome!

[@lolliolli]

Hey Nigel! I've already commented before that I love your videos. I have to confess, I've watched each of them multiple times. I'm wondering now, living in a roughly similar climate, southern Finland, have you ever grown a Carmona? I got the Carmona (or Fukien Tea) a couple of months back and to my surprise it's doing fine. It hasn't dropped any leaves even though I've done some slight pruning and is flowering like a crazy. I checked the roots and it's totally rootbound and the soil is really bad. I've researched this tree a lot to find out it doesn't like root pruning and I think I'm going to have to do it the next spring or summer. Also it's in one of those "mallsai" diagonal pots, like maybe 5 cm x 10 cm and the best front of the tree is on the 5 cm side. I would have to prune a lot of roots to get it how I'd like it to be. Any tips are welcome.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I haven't come across a Fukien Tea at a good price yet. The only ones I see around here are the department store kind and they are very expensive. 65 dollars for a small tree not much bigger than a cutting. I will try and get one for the future. I think if you keep the tree humid and warm with good sunlight when re potting, it will do fine. You may want to place a clear plastic bag over the tree (with ventilation holes) while it recovers from re potting. This will keep it humid. Insects seem to be the biggest problem with these trees, spider mites and scale.

[@lolliolli]

Nigel Saunders, The Bonsai Zone Thank you for your reply. I will try to do that. I bought the tree for 15 € in a local department store including the pot. It's probably a common mallsai but I really like it and intend to keep it quite small. It has some signs of pests. Black markings on some of the leaves but I am yet to see any bugs. I've sprayed it with pine soap. I have gnats and some unidentified little bugs on a myrtus and these trees are pretty close to each other. Wasn't a nice discovery, just a day before flying to southern Europe for a week...

[@AnuragSinhaPrime]

Hi Nigel - Great submission. If I could make a request- Can you talk about your greenhouse setup and some winterizing tips for Canadian weather? Thx

[@marksuson5347]

This would be an excellent video. We've seen the tree benches covered in a think layer of snow but never had a discussion or explanation of how he winterizes. Although, as much snow as they get up there you have to remember that type of snow basically acts like an insulator. The trees under that pile of snow are kept close to 32F because the really cold air can't get to them.

[@jjj1590]

Anurag Sinha n

[@Rovemcmanus1312]

I bought a shelf green house on eBay for $35 . It keeps my tropical trees warm and humid during Australian winters (which are no where near as cold as Canada’s obviously but we still get frost etc)

[@Midlife-Adventures]

Nigel did you ever make that video? Where I live we barely have a winter so my interest is curiosity but I think there are others who it would be a great practical help. And we miss you during your winter.

[@thegreenscene3174]

I learned a TON about the rooting system and how growth happens! From a new into growing life, this has been VERY insightful! Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Always my pleasure, thanks!

[@marilyncampbell9796]

You have become my favourite 'teacher' in this bonsai information place! Thanks for being easy to understand and listen to. 👍🏻😊

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Marilyn, I am honored!

[@mr.chaudhary9273]

Do we have update of this video?

[@alesiawillis16]

You are calling the potting material soil, but to me it looks like rocks? What is the actual material?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The soil is 1/2 perlite and 1/2 turface. It is really good for root growth and keeping the trees healthy. You do need to add fertilizer to your water, like hydroponics.

[@JennyMcFrosty]

So even right after repotting you use fertilised water? Wouldn't that burn freshly cut roots? I understand that your mix is poor in nutrients but great for root growth. I use premixed bonsai soil with akadama on top and bottom, would that still work after such hard root pruning? Cause now I really have a dilemma :D Thanks, love your videos!

[@brodierichards8354]

New to Bonsai and want to say thank you for your very informative but simple videos. Definitely giving me confidence to work on my own collection.

[@zeenat484]

Nigel s., I am watching from my home Canada. I always fond of making Bonsai but couldn't making, after watching your step by step demonstration feel like can do it. I love to see your more tutorials to make Bonsai, your description is clear and meticulous. Some people they put, wear,net etc. Those are not very clear to me. Subscribing your channel more. Zeenat.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Zeenat, good to see you in the bonsai zone!

[@guloguloguy]

....WOW!!! THIS IS LIKE STONE CARVING, BUT, THE PARTS REMOVED CAN REGROW!!... LOOKS GREAT!! THANKS!!! I'M GOING TO SAVE, AND "BONSAI" ALL OF MY "VOLUNTEER" TREES!!.... FREE ENTERTAINMENT, WITH A POTENTIAL "PROFIT", WAY DOWN THE ROAD!...

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes indeed!

[@captainsman]

Great video. But why do you call those white pebbles "soil" when re-potting that little tree.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Soil can have many ingredients and many different size particles. I call it soil because that is my potting medium.

[@captainsman]

Nigel Saunders, The Bonsai Zone Thanks Nigel. After posting this question I found another of your videos on soil mixes 😀 It's all starting to make sense.

[@tridrummond2079]

Hi Nigel, I am in bonsai just a bit too late as I am very old. So I decided to start with keep bonsai small or small bonsai. Question : is the root cleaning work for any type of plants for mini or small bonsai re-poting? And what mix is the soil you are using in this video? Thank you very much.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I am using a 50/50 mix of perlite and turface. I get the turface at the farm store, it's used for cleaning up oil spills. I screen the soil to remove the dust and fine particles to get a 3 to 4 mm particle size (1/8") Root pruning is important for any potted plant that you want to keep small. Here is a video on root pruning.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5S2pmuJirZjoac

[@asea4409]

Hi Mr.Saunders I would like to ask you some questions: 1. Is it okay to start reducing the planet in December or in late January. 2. Taking much of roots wasn't dangerous on planet. 3. What's the kind of your soil is?? Lastly am a big fan of you and your amazing bonsai I hope you could help me am still new

[@SebHopwoodPK]

hi. he is reducing the plant in late december. i don't think theres a big difference weather you do it then or in january - depending on plant ofc. he has videos on bonsai soil

[@AdenzFK]

A Sea Please do not reduce the planet...we already have limited space and too many people.

[@hettyrichards2377]

ZFKStudio49 was waiting for a comment like this

[@sNstRflyEr]

Faraaz Khan lol

[@InLakech_AlaKin]

Faraaz Khan good thing Earth isn't a planet then.

[@mrshaggybreeks]

Hi Nigel, thanks for the great information in this video. I have a ficus myself that needs some pretty severe root pruning. Was wondering if you had any advice regarding what time of year would be best to do that job. To contextualise my environment. I'm in Ireland, and it's an indoor plant. So overall there's not huge temperature variation between summer and winter.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I think the best time would be the middle of summer. You want to do this when the weather is hot and humid. In the right conditions the tree won't skip a beat, it will just keep right on growing!

[@wisedylan]

Thanks Nigel. It's always so relaxing watching you maintain your trees. I enjoy showing your techniques to my friends. Great video. Stay warm and safe. :)

[@specialk1287]

If trees were sentient... this would be a really hardcore video

[@rahitifromtahiti]

Wow!!! That is what i'm going to learn, do, and share the rest of my life...

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Good to hear, it a great hobby that you can do for the rest of your life!

[@cesarl83]

Hi Nigel, great videos. I would like to ask you something. I'm about to start my first bonsai ever. I chose a Eastern Red Cedar to be my tree because its a native species here in Minnesota, so I want to know what kind of care it will need during the winter? Thank you.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

They are a very cold hardy tree, but do need some protection from the drying winter winds. You can place the tree in an unheated shed or wrap the tree with burlap and keep it out on the bench all winter. Be sure to place snow on the top of the pot so that on warm days it will melt and water your tree. It is important to keep the soil watered when it is above freezing.

[@joeyraul2340]

i want a tiny tree so cute!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

They are nice and they don't take up much space!

[@Thesingndance]

This is just the thing I wanted to see. So well explained. And the suggestion to understand the problems was uplifting!

[@how675]

great explanation sir...thanks a lot.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks!

[@stephenhyatt82]

Hi. Great video. Thank you. I am new to this and love trees. In the video you add the stones then the tree roots then stones? is there soil in between please? Just realised sorry. Bonsai soil is the stone looking material. Apologies. 😜

[@AJ-kz6tq]

Ficus religiosa can grow anywhere without soil...in india u can find these plant growing on wall and terrace itself 🙂

[@r58723]

Hi Nigel, happy new year. Once again thank you for your thoughtful approach to maintaining our trees.

[@domonicpoores1267]

This really helped me a lot. Love the video Nigel. I have an Indian Laurel. It's beautiful and I'm trying my best to grow it.

[@danf8047]

Always a pleasure to watch your videos and looking forward to them :)

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you David!

[@larrysimmons6910]

Thanks for the video on bonsai soil composition! Clearest explanation out there. Have you or anyone you know of used coarse kitty litter in place of turface?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes, some types of cat litter are fired, so the particles don't break down with water. You would have to test this out before using it, some types just turn to a gooey mess when water is added.... bonsai4me.com/Basics/Basicscatlitter.htm

[@shreyashgupta9983]

Hi Nigel! After seeing your videos I'm inspired to start my own bonzai hobby. It seems like agreat hobby and I think I'll continue this for life! I had a quick question. After such severe pruning as you did, seen at 3:43, how does the plant not die and thrive even without leaves?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The energy is stored in the trunk and by letting the tree grow with vigor before hard pruning, the tree has enough energy to recover. The tree has grown really well this year and will require pruning at the end of summer.

[@alexg5513]

Really great video, thanks for all the effort, very educational

[@shaeearls5543]

I can listen to you talk and watch you prune all day long. When I showed my dad and told him I thought you reminded me of a plant artist Bob Ross he definitely agree !! Thank you for being a little positive in my day, on so many days, it is a joy to watch you work !

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Shae, lots more videos coming soon! Stay positive!

[@domenickbarone]

Hi Nigel, good video. when you repotted it looked like you had some Organics in your soil. I know that your new soil mix is non-organic. When you're working with small pots, do you think it's okay to not have the moisture retention of Organics?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Yes, I would use composted pine bark, it doesn't break down easily and won't fill the air spaces in your soil.

[@RandomS4nity]

Brand new to bonsai and also in the KW area so your videos are of particular interest to me. Thank you for making this so easy to understand and not over-complicating things! I really wish I had discovered bonsai earlier in my life so I had some strong trees to work with!

[@angelamomin522]

I really was wondering how to keep the roots without protruding out. Thank you.

[@douglasladzinski6019]

Hi Nigel! You’re videos are so enjoyable to watch. I really love the work you do and you have inspired me to begin my bonsai journey! I was wondering if you had any advice on the placement of Juniper trees year round. I’ve done quite a bit of research, however it is unclear if it is bad to keep the Juniper indoors. Could you share some advice on that? Thanks

[@TheBonsaiZone]

If they are kept indoors, they should be kept in a cool location. The trees need a cool winter of rest to survive and be healthy in the long term. People have kept them alive indoors for a very long time, but the trees are usually just staying alive, not thriving. When they are dormant in the winter, they don't need light. I keep mine in an unheated part of the basement. A cold garage or garden shed will work well also. You do have to be careful not to let them dry out over the winter.

[@douglasladzinski6019]

Nigel Saunders, The Bonsai Zone Great. Thank you very much. Keep up the great work and I hope you enjoy the upcoming holidays

[@northtrade6814]

On a less serious note, I keep hearing an undertone of Michael from The Office in your voice. That is not to detract from your value by providing such useful information, sir. I believe that because you are a bonsai person you will be happy and 'chill' enough to understand my intention is pure. Lol. Great video. I am a newcomer to bonsai but am so appreciative of the effect it has on my emotional state. Have a great day, Nigel. Keep up the good work.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you, a good show!

[@elmarmeurer4362]

Nigel, very good video! I'm exploring also your older recordings and learning a lot! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thank you Elmar!

[@claraalebrook5335]

I know you know what you are doing.. But im like.. NOOOOO!! 😆 Great tips..

[@jotchava]

I'm from KW as well! Great video. I just planted some silk tree, oak, and elm tree seeds. So far so good! Thanks for helping me along.

[@TheBonsaiZone]

Nice to hear Josh, happy growing!

[@alfiepintsworth]

Merry Christmas Nigel. Been great watching your videos, I find them both informative and relaxing. Look forward to many more and following the journey

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I'll be sure to keep updates on the small trees!

[@TinPanAlley100]

Hey Nigel, great video! I was wondering if it is ok to repot all ficus trees during the winter months or only ones that you know are vigorously outgrowing their pot?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

I get really nice light in my plant room in Jan and Feb, for me it is a good time to re pot, prune etc. My plant room is also warm and humid, so I guess I'm saying, like real estate, it's location, location, location! With good after care, and growing conditions, I would think it is safe to re pot late winter.

[@TinPanAlley100]

Great, thanks! I have my tropical trees set next to a south facing window so they get great light and it's around 60F so they're also warm enough but I can't seem to get the humidity past about 50% without constantly misting. Do you think these conditions would be ok for a repot at this point in the season? Also, on a different note, I have a ficus retusa that I'd like to take one of the large bulb-like roots off of and I was wondering if this would cause some serious issues or if I could seal the wound and give it time? Thanks again and love all your videos!

[@davidbydefault6333]

I thought you can only repot in the winter, or after a stimulated winter.

[@ujjagersbanga2234]

which rocks you use as bonsai soil ?

[@sajjadahmadvoc9388]

At dislike 393, bcz i got sleepy. 2nd time when i watched i understand some techniques, hope i will try soon, if not sleeping again to watch from interval

[@Co0kieMadera187]

Wonderful Video, i love your work... can i ask you a question ? When this tree was a cutting, was it in this tiny pot right from the start or did u develop the trunk in a pond basket or similar ?

[@2techshop]

You have the best videos, your teaching method is top notch. Thank you so much.

[@luketownsend4527]

Love your videos, very helpful as I’m starting my very first bonsai from seed. If you’ve already said, I’m sorry, but how often would you trim the roots?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The roots can be trimmed every year if the tree is growing nice and strongly. Here is a video on this.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5S2pmuJirZjoac

[@martimgodinho3461]

Hi Nigel! Been learning a lot with your videos! Loved the yellow-ish pot where you had your ficus microca. Where did you get it? I’m a big fan of simple pots with some fine detailing to them, much like that in the video. Can find pots like that anywhere… If you’d so kind to tell me the name of the pot maker, or where you got it from, I’d be truly thankful! Been looking for stuff like that everywhere… Cheers from Portugal! 🪴⛩️

[@satinlover4715]

Hey Nigel, it's the first time I'm trying to make a bonsai.. I choose a neem, rose and small leaf guava (so called chinese guava) for the task. First thing I want to know how old a plant should be for soft pruning branches and should I really wait for January (Late winter here) to hard prune tall branches... also should I really care about the 1/3 rule? I mean how can I make a tiny bonsai if I really care about the 1/3 rule and wait till January? Sorry for silly questions but really love bonsai plants and it's the first time I decided to try my hands.

[@allystejero1445]

@15:29 he said soil?! Thats small stones! Hehe nice video.

[@shmickyshmoe]

Thank you so very much! This video has cleared up a mystery for me about my 30 year old bonsai!!! Thank you!🙏🏻☺️🙏🏻

[@TheBonsaiZone]

You're most welcome!

[@luisvieyra]

Hi Nigel, I'm a newbie in the bonsai área, recently I travel to hawaii and bring home macadamia nuts seeds, only one seed germinte and now I've a 15" tall plant, can I make it a bonsai tree from that plant?, which of your all videos recommend to me to watch as a principiant? thanks a lot.

[@DirtyCircus]

thank you for making a great video for us that is simple and comprehensive. I have 2 mangoes and one ackee fruit seedlings that I intend to bonsai, and this video answered all of my beginner questions.

[@hahnemannhomoeopathyclinic]

Thank you for the tutorial, could you explain me about banana bonsai cutting techniques?

[@TheTopseat]

One of the best beginners guides to bonsai. Thank you. My question is in reference to branch pruning and root pruning. Is it to much stress on a tree to do both at the same time or should I do them at seperate times? Do the age of the tree matter? Also, I'm training a lemon tree (almost two yrs old) in an Aero garden grow bowl system with pumice stones and its working great! When repotting the tree should I always place the root system near the top of the soil? Should the pot determine the depth of the roots or should the roots always be closer to the top layer? Thanks

[@lingarajkamble4354]

What kind of soil you are using.. is it soil or just small stone..

[@TheTopseat]

@@lingarajkamble4354 I bought a 6Qt dry bag of bonsai pumice (you don't need the whole bag) First, I washed the stones to get off as much of the dry dust as possible. The pumice works great. I would suggest buying a small zen garden tool set too. This way you can rake the pumice around in the bowl without damaging the plastic. Word of caution...Depending on you light cycle, fertilizer, and water cycle, the pumice will develop good minerals and some bacterial (green fungus) because of the light. I find this to be harmless to my tree and I care for the tree weekly. Actually, I find my tree thriving! If see any bacteria forming, rake the stones around and they'll be white again within a few hours. But that's the joy of bonsia! The simple weekly care. The pruning and raking become my meditation. Again, I have my tree set to 14hrs of light and I fluctuate between watering every 3-4 days. I think the best water growth cycle is around 4600 minutes. No lemons yet! This will be the end of my second year so my fingers are crossed that the 3rd year will be the charm. Remember, I started the seed in aerogarden pod system and once the seed germinated, I switched to the grow bowl w/pumice stones. Hope this helps! Enjoy Bonsia Zone

[@lingarajkamble4354]

@@TheTopseat thank you very much for replying..

[@brandonloubier3959]

Do you have any cherry trees? I got a cutting from a sucker on my cherry willow, and am pretty sure the rootstock is just a wild cherry. I am so thankful for the knowledge you spread helping ordinary people like myself be able to create our own masterpieces in an artform many people are misinformed of.

[@aditimukhopadhyay5047]

I am planning to make an avocado bonsai cause 1. I want to start with something that is cheap and easily available. 2. they are easy to germinate. I am a newbie in the bonsai world. Can you tell me how long a plant can get the woody trunk? many thanks for considering my request.

[@definitelynotnoreen]

I'm a newbie and no resources, all I have is a ficus I picked up from Wall in the church, and I don't have soild that can be bought in the market. All I have is what I can see in our home. Can I use sand and normal soil outside?

[@felipeolivares6164]

What do you use for soil at 16:28 I see you using little stones instead of dirt, can you explain why and what those rocks are? Or how do you make sure the tree has enough nutrients to grow?

[@seamuswarren]

Hello, Can I shrink a six foot Ficus down to three feet tall? Can I also trim the root ball because the roots are all squashed into the pot and may even end up cracking the pot.

[@RikhanaKasumi]

Happy holidays from Australia! I found your video about starting Bonsai when I was starting out and have been watching ever since, they're so helpful and relaxing. I Look forward to seeing your videos into the new year :)

[@TheBonsaiZone]

G'day Michelle, greetings from the great white north! Have a great green new year!

[@a.e.7242]

about how old is the smaller ficus? And approximately how long would it take to regrow foliage again?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The smallest Ficus is very old, about 15 years, once the trunk is to the desired thickness, it doesn't take very long to grow a nice canopy of leaves, maybe 2 to 5 years. The refining of the tree never stops and hopefully it will continue to improve with time!

[@Palmi63]

Did anyone else’s jaw hit the flow when he hard pruned the jade plant? I could never bring myself to do it unless I could root the cutting into another plant. I swear I heard it scream!

[@armonj4789]

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[@iggy1644]

How do you increase the diameter of the trunk? Can you just prune it back all the time as shown in the video, and the trunk will become bigger over time?

[@ghostgaming7344]

Pls tell how to keep the trunk of my jade mame bonsai small Should I prune its main trunk after every two months to my desired size when it grows higher than my desired height

[@billnicholson9095]

at 00:06:335 there's a small bug to ne of your right forefinger...is it ok for these bugs? or should i use an insecticide if i see any. thank you and this is a way too cool video. but just wondering if it's ok for 'some' bugs to be in there thank you again

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[@TheBonsaiZone]

Thanks!

[@telsclark]

Ok this is the tree i have friend gave me a a cutting of off her big one and now my cutting is bigger than her! Ive been cutting it to keep it in the shape i want but the bark is still very young only just starting to thicken up. Im so happy i now know what it is ive got it in a huge pot was going to up pot it now i think i wont!

[@TheBonsaiZone]

You may be better to root prune and keep it in a smaller pot. Trees will grow big if they can!

[@ArtistBrianSheffield]

Cinnamon powder on the cut instantly seals the wound. It also is anti-biotic in it's nature and also will help regulate sugar level at the wound area giving maximum healing advantage. People use it for diabetic patients for it's sugar leveling and anti-biotic purposes.

[@nuningcummins1003]

Thank you so much for sharing your bonsai secrets ….. 👍 Such good technique to follow….🙂

[@Nanchantress]

This video is chock full of so many nuggets of good information and tips. Thank you!

[@002kaveri]

Its very easy to understand as u show three different plants step by step very cute as they are remarkably small thanks a lot being a beginner tips are very helpful

[@jaguardelcielo]

Thank you, as always very well explained! Living in Southern California do you have any knowledge as to when to air layer a ficus and perhaps transplant? Happy New Year

[@TheBonsaiZone]

The best time it air layer and re pot is when the tree is growing with vigor. This time is mid simmer here. In Southern California the best time might be late spring for re potting and early spring for starting an air layer.

[@jaguardelcielo]

thank you

[@guillermoruiz1339]

So I just got some European white birch seeds, they came with no instructions and I've looked up stuff but everything tells me something different, what would be the best way to germinate them?

[@TheBonsaiZone]

They will need a cold period of at least 6 weeks in a fridge or outdoors in a pot. After that they should germinate in the warmth of a house or in spring outdoors.

[@guillermoruiz1339]

Nigel Saunders thank you

[@Jojosawesomeadventure]

How did you thicken the trunk of your small bonsai? Thank you so much for this video!!!