Good for you! It sounds like you're ready for us. We'll help you in any
way we can.
Now, I'll answer your first questions.
Don't start with seeds. They take too long before they will become bonsai
material. Start looking at nurseries.
When inspecting the possibilities, look for interesting trunks, particulary
those which flair out at the base. Next, look for branches which alternate
their way up the trunk. You don't want muliple trunks for starters - just
one single trunk. Now if you find something interesting, don't tell the
proprietor you're looking for bonsai material: that would double the price.
In your note, you memtioned 8 year-old trees. Don't worry about the age.
What you want is a tree that LOOKS old, no matter what age it is.
As for elms, there are many varieties. Among the most popular are zelkova
and Chinese elm. Zelkova is hardy where you are, but Chinese elm should
have some winter protection. An unheated porch or a cold frame would be
ideal. Just be sure that you know the limits of the trees you select.
Finally, nobody in this club is going to shoot you for your limited
knowledge of bonsai. The more questions you ask, the better we like it! We
even like questions to which we have no answers. They make us go back to
our sources to brush up on ourselves. Welcome back to bonsai!
----- Original Message -----
From: "Technium"
To:
Sent: Friday, July 01, 2005 4:17 AM
Subject: [IBC] Ok yes im new, now dont shoot me
Many years ago when I was very young I decided I had to have a bonsai
and with my first Months wage packet I went and purchased 6 or 7 bonsai
trees and after a few weeks there was nothing left. I was young and had
no idea and now im old and have no idea but want to try to get into
keeping bonsai now that im alot more responsible and the first thing to
do is find a decent forum so I can discuss issues, questions, problems
with people who know what im talking about.
Is it best to buy some seeds and start from scratch, or should I
purchase nursery trees that are apparently 8 years old? Ive heard Elm
is the best for beginners, is this correct, should that be my choice?
Im in the UK down south coast if that makes any difference to my
choices.
Thanks for looking and remember everyone has to start somewhere.
cheers
T
--
Technium
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