Choosing a Bonsai Tree

There are many species of bonsai tree, so which one should you choose? To begin with, you should know there are two basic types of bonsai tree:

• Tropical or “indoor” bonsais
• Temperate or “outdoor” bonsais

The terms “indoor” and “outdoor” are misleading, however, because obviously in their natural habit all trees thrive outdoors. The tropical or “indoor” bonsai trees shouldn’t be subjected to temperatures below 50° F. While the temperate or “outdoor” varieties are hardier and will enter a state of dormancy to make it through the Winter season, their roots are still susceptible to the cold.

If a temperate bonsai tree is left outdoors, the roots must be protected from the cold. The leaves of deciduous trees will fall away, even though the tree is still alive. The dormancy period will end when Spring arrives and the tree blossoms again. Coniferous trees such as pines may not shed many of their needles in the cold, but still must have their roots protected.

The Dwarf Juniper Bonsai is an example of a temperate bonsai plant. Deciding which tree to get is simple, browse the Bonsai Catalog and choose one that appeals to you aesthetically.

When you’ve found one that appeals to your taste, you must find out if it’s a temperate or tropical variety. To ensure it grows healthy, you should also purchase some bonsai soil for the growing season.