jbost
Seedling
I am a novice and am hoping someone can help. I would like to create a bonsai forest and have 5 small Japanese Maple (Acer Palmatum) trees that are about 10-12 years old, their trunks are about 1" and they are about 20" above soil level. Attached is a picture of the trees in their present container. I have purchased an 18" x 10" x 6" training pot and plan to remove the trees from the present container, prune foliage back by about half, and place in the training pot. My question is what kind of soil - should I use bonsai soil or a regular garden soil or a mix? should I root prune? (never done that but I can research). My plan is to continue pruning to reduce leaf size for about a year and then see how they are doing next year. I do not want to lose these little trees so any advice to keep them alive - and thriving - is very much appreciated. I live in Zone 7 (Atlanta, GA), any tips on overwintering, also during our hot summer days, perhaps only morning sun? Thank you!