Tree Species for Planting: March 2008 Archives

If you cannot plant a favorite tree with aggressive roots, such as a willow, because your sewer lines are old and  could be damaged roots...what are your options?

SOLUTION:  Plant the willow tree in a  large tub of earth -- 2-3 feet across and high enough for a good root ball.  Get a book on bonsai and use the same basic technique to grow trees in pots or tubs.  The care of bonsai trees entails pruning, wiring, fertilizing, repotting and watering properly, and of course -- proper seasonal timing!

• Junipers and Maples, are hardy enough for growing outside
• Ficus and Norfolk Island pine make good indoor bonsai or plants for moderate climates (like Southern California)

I've heard from one gardener that she has a 20 year old redwood that is only 6' tall that she's been bonsai-ing for years.

Some sources of basic bonsai information:

www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Bonsai-Tree

www.bonsaigardener.org/

www.bonsaiforbeginners.com