My bonsai journey began just under two years ago.  It was Valentine’s Day and I wanted to buy my wife something special.  I was looking for something that would stick around longer than flowers – something that would be around for many years to come.  I decided to try a local cactus and exotic plants shop that had just opened, and lo and behold, I stumbled upon my first bonsai tree.

There were some amazing specimens in this shop, most of which were way beyond my skill level to maintain.  The salesman recommended that I buy a ficus retusa bonsai tree because they are forgiving trees and easy for beginners.  I picked one with some character, watched the salesman re-pot it for me, and I was off.

I had no idea at the time how addicting bonsai would become.  As I began to care for it, I grew more and more attached to it.  It’s got to the point where when I think of moving out of our current place, I can’t help but single out the houses that have southwest facing windows because I want plenty of sun for the little guy.  My wife rolls her eyes at this, but I just can’t help it.  I never thought I would become so concerned for dropping leaves, discoloration, and whatever else affects the ficus.  But I have to admit that it’s fun.

Time permitting of course, I would like to grow my hobby with many different kinds of trees in the years to come.  I really like natal plum bonsai trees, junipers, and others, but what I would really like to get for my next one is a Japanese maple.  Those are some of my favorites of all tree varieties.

So I think I’ll have fun with this blog.  I created it not because I am an expert, but because I would like to share what I learn.  I know what it’s like having to look for information online about bonsai, so I’m confident that many of you will find my informational posts useful.  I might make more of an effort to write about ficus bonsai, but I’ll write plenty about all the other type of bonsai trees that interest me too.  I hope you come back often and find something of use to you.

To success with your bonsai trees!

Tags:bonsai,ficus bonsai,bonsai tree,Japanese bonsai,juniper bonsai