Bonsai

There is no doubt that few people that are attracted to bonsai feel that they are starved, tortured trees as correctly grown Bonsai are blooming with health and vitality.

The most popular misconception is that the cutting of the roots keep the tree small. Instead, cutting the root system by a third and replacing it with soil keeps the tree healthy. The tree does not become root bound which would weaken any tree.

 

There are six things to look for when selecting your Bonsai:

1. Your selected plant needs to have a defined trunkline. It is an added bonus if thick bark is present. It should be wider at the base. 
2. To give a better proportion to the new Bonsai, the leaves on the plant should be naturally small.
3. Your tree needs to have the ability to grow new shoots from any position on the trunk or branches after pruned. You will need to know what type of plant it is and what it is capable of.
4. There must be lots of branches so you are able to cut away some to fit your design. This will also help the tree when you later cut the roots away.
5. Look for well developed roots either I the surface, or under the ground.
6. The lower branches should be close to the ground and must be healthy and strong.

Bonsai in Australia by Dorothy & Vita Koreshoff 4th edition 1983