Billy is spot on.

I would add that the tiniest of Bonsai are grown in a micro pot from
seed. In these a single leaf can represent a whole branch. They are fun
but difficult to keep alive for any great length of time.

Growing from seed is one of those things that can add a whole new
dimension to a bonsai passion but it is not the best way to get started.
That said, if I hadn't sown those seeds when I got going, I wouldn't
have many of the unusual species as ten to fifteen year old,
ground-grown stock, ready for lifting and styling in coming springs.

Cheers

Kev Bailey
Vale Of Clwyd, North Wales


Billy wrote

The answer to most specific Bonsai questions usually depends upon
the
species of plant in question. The growth of a seedling can frequently
be
controlled with light, fertilizer and water. Usually the more light a
plant gets
the more compact it will be. Don't over fertilize or overwater. Keeping
the
plant in a small, shallow container will also slow growth.
BUT, a seedling grown this way will take 20 years or more to be a
nice
Bonsai.
If you must start with seed, plant the seedling in the ground as
soon
as it is large enough, let it get big and chop it back. This will
result in a
Bonsai in 10 years.
Most of us buy plants others have spent time growing, or dig
plants up
from the ground. A lot of Bonsai are started as cuttings which can give
you
a head start.



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