This was growing in the same grow box right next to the trident up until a year ago.
https://www.bonsainut.com/threads/field-grown-elm-2.53755/#post-931226
Just dug this out after about 5-7 years in a grow box. Root work was done prior to going it with a flat cut so that all roots extend from the base at a similar level. The trunk is 5 inches at 5 inches above the soil and has a very nice nebari flare that will be slowly exposed. Will need some...
No need to do cuttings with a nearly 100% germination rate. I'd scout out some local cork oaks and keep an eye on them through summer for acorns. I'm certain that you can find local access to some, I have several here in San Jose that drop 1000s of acorns that I collect from in late summer and...
Had this growing in a raised bed for the past five years. Cut down the top last year and pulled it out of the ground yesterday for the next part of its journey in a training box. Better start saving now for the pot, it is going to be a pricy one.
Both of these made their way into show pots last year.
https://www.bonsainut.com/threads/cork-bark-oak.17343/#post-277693
https://www.bonsainut.com/threads/cork-oak.4390/#post-250317
Try a local rock yard. I've been able to find 1/4 inch lava at more than a few down here in the South bay, not that it helps you much but I'm betting that if you call a few in your area you will be able to find some. I picked up a 40 lb sack for $4 a few years back at Mountain View Garden...