These days, more and more people are diving into new hobbies, especially when it comes to taking care of plants! But let’s be honest—bonsai often gets labeled as an expensive, fancy hobby. Guess what? It doesn’t have to be! 

You can start your very own bonsai tree on a budget, and the best part? You might find the perfect starter plant right at your local nursery. 

Ready? Let’s show you how to grow your first bonsai tree!

Understanding Bonsai: What It Is and Why It’s Worth It

Bonsai is ideal for anyone who loves plants and wants to deepen their connection with nature. It is a rewarding hobby that encourages creativity and resourcefulness.You can easily start with affordable materials from local nurseries or even your home.

Caring for bonsai is an enjoyable journey that invites you to learn and grow alongside your tree. With a dedication, you’ll discover how to meet your bonsai’s needs, from watering to pruning. The joy of watching your bonsai thrive is truly fulfilling, and these miniature trees add a charming touch to your home décor, enhancing your space beautifully.

Choosing the Right Tree for Beginners

When starting your bonsai journey, choosing the right tree is key. Look for a tree with character—such as a flare at the base and interesting movement in the trunk. If your local nursery has these plant species, be sure to check them out:

• Ficus: This hardy plant thrives indoors and is known for its lush leaves. Ficus is forgiving and can adapt well to various care conditions, making it ideal for beginners.
• Schefflera: Also known as the umbrella tree, this plant features glossy, hand-shaped leaves. It’s easy to care for and can be styled into a beautiful bonsai with a bit of training.
• Boxwood: This classic choice offers dense foliage and is great for shaping. Boxwood is versatile and can withstand pruning, making it perfect for bonsai.
• Portulacaria Afra: Commonly known as the dwarf jade plant, this succulent is known for its thick, fleshy leaves. It’s drought-resistant and can thrive with minimal care, making it a low-maintenance option.

Of course, there are many other plants suitable for bonsai, including flowering and fruit-bearing varieties! Always ask a knowledgeable plant enthusiast at your local store or do a little research before making your choice. And remember, select a plant that fits your budget—there’s sure to be the right tree for you

Where to Find Affordable Bonsai Trees

Finding budget-friendly bonsai trees doesn’t have to be difficult. Local nurseries are a great place to start; they often have a variety of plants, including those suitable for bonsai. Check their stock for young trees that can be trained into bonsai shapes.

Online stores can also offer good deals, especially during sales. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider growing your bonsai from cuttings. This method is not only cost-effective but also a fun way to learn about the growth process.

Essential Bonsai Tools 

When starting with your first bonsai, you don’t need to buy every tool on the market. Here are five basic tools we recommend for beginners:

1. Concave Pruners: Ideal for shaping your bonsai and making clean cuts. These pruners help create smooth wounds that heal better.
2. Bonsai Shears/Scissors: Useful for general pruning and trimming leaves. Look for affordable options at local nurseries or gardening stores.
3. Wire Cutters: Necessary for trimming the wire used to shape branches. Keeping your bonsai in the desired form requires proper cutting tools.
4. Bonsai Wire: Essential for training branches to grow in the desired direction.
5. Water Spray Bottle or Watering Can: A spray bottle is great for misting leaves, while a watering can ensures your bonsai gets the right amount of moisture.

These tools don’t have to be fancy—just ensure they are sturdy enough for the job.

Soil and Fertilizer: The Right Mix for Less

Bonsai trees need the right soil to thrive, but you don’t need to spend a lot to get it. A good bonsai mix should be well-draining and provide enough nutrients. You can buy pre-made bonsai soil at garden centers, but making your own is often cheaper. A simple mix could include equal parts of potting soil, grit, and sand. This combination allows water to flow through while retaining some moisture.

Basic Care Tips After Buying Your First Bonsai Tree

1. Level the Pot: Carefully trim around the top edge of the pot to expose the trunk. Aim to cut enough so that you can see the base of the trunk clearly.
2. Trim Smaller Branches: Remove smaller branches near the trunk to create a clean look. Focus on keeping the major branches intact for structure.
3. Shape the Tree: If you want a better shape, consider cutting back any upright shoots that disrupt the overall design you have in mind.
4. Use Concave Pruners: With concave pruners, cut the remaining branches, leaving three main ones. This should include the top branch, which will help define the tree’s shape.
5. Seal the Wounds: To seal the cuts, use a bonsai wound sealant or a natural product like a mixture of beeswax and tree sap. This helps protect the tree from disease and pests.
6. Wiring and Bending: Carefully wire the remaining branches, using wire thick enough to hold their shape but still flexible enough for manipulation. Wrap the wire around the branches at an angle, then gently bend them into your desired position.
7. Shape the Tree: Using your scissors, trim any shoots to refine the shape. Focus on creating balance and symmetry as you cut.
8. Watering: Give your plant enough water after shaping to help it recover from pruning. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not soaking.
9. Potting: When potting, choose a container that is 6 to 10 inches tall and wide, with at least 3 to 5 drainage holes at the bottom. This allows excess water to escape, preventing root rot. If you’re repurposing a container, make sure it has similar drainage to promote healthy growth.

Final Thoughts

There are still a lot of things to learn, but hey, this is your first bonsai tree! Take it easy and approach it one step at a time. Do your research, learn from your experiences, and apply what you discover.

Each stage of growth will bring new insights and challenges, so embrace the journey. With patience and care, you’ll find that nurturing your first bonsai is not only rewarding but also truly exciting! Enjoy the process, and watch your little tree thrive.