Absolute Bonsai Beginner

[Bentoboy25]

Hello, everyone on the Bonsainut Forums! I went to the garden center nearby last Saturday and bought a Ficus(?) bonsai. I have been wanting to raise a bonsai for a while now, and I'm so happy to finally have one. I've been keeping the soil the way the garden center staff told me; not wet, but not completely dry. I've also been spraying it regularly. However, beyond this, I don't know what to do with it. I've heard about wiring, pruning, and root-trimming, and I'm aware that my bonsai should be well-established in it's new home before anything like that is done. However, where can I learn about these things, and when would it be a good idea to start. I took some pictures to help you out with your advice.





Also, I have two questions about areas on the trunk and roots.





Should I be concerned/take action over these?
Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Bonsaiboy]

I'll start out by saying that is a ginseng ficus, and many people will not consider it a bonsai. Although it is great practice, and was my first bonsai. Wait for someone with more experience to respond about the pruning/wiring. Good luck!

 

[bonsai barry]

To answer your question about the root and trunk, I don't think there is anything to worry about with those scars. The last one is a scar from where a branch was cut off, it will continue to slowly heal over the years, but probably not completely.

The best way to learn about wiring and such is to join a local bonsai club and read a bunch of books. Web sites like this one are helpful, too.

You don't have to worry about wiring those branches because they look pretty young and can grow a bit. Many people would not be satisfied with the big above-ground roots. That is, of course, a matter of personal preference. But you should look at a lot of photos of ficus bonsai and see if any of the trees that catch your attention have similar roots. If not, and you decide not to use the roots in your final design, there are ways to eliminate the big surface roots.

Good luck, have fun and read a lot of books!

 

[Cadillactaste]

Welcome...I'm a somewhat newbie as well...it is enjoyable to find the "one that speaks to you" great advice as to seak out photos and such of similar species...and see what style catches your eye. Been doing the same thing with mine...though sadly my first purchase came with glued pebbles...which isn't the best for the bonsai. So I got rid of the glued mess...and am hoping to let him settle back...and learn what my desired look to be. Had to add myself a second purchase without glue being a bothersome concern...and some past history with said bonsai...with seeing it on a mission trip as a huge old tree.

You'll have to share with us your thoughts...as to what you decide to do with this later on...as you Learn more of the direction you wish to go in.

 

[DougB]

It is best to add your location and zone to your profile. Advice is often based upon where you are. And welcome to insanity.