My new (and first) juniper bonsai.

[Ashleypaine90]

I will add that the tree was like this when I picked it up, is this a sign that it needs a bigger pot?


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[Ryceman3]

I will add that the tree was like this when I picked it up, is this a sign that it needs a bigger pot?


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Exposed roots on a juniper of this size/state of progression is probably not ideal ... More suited to more advanced trees. Might be a good idea to address it somehow to maximise the health of the tree and subsequent growth ... Covering them up will help keep the tree growing at a better rate I reckon, and maintain it's health.

[Ashleypaine90]

Ok thank you ryceman, I'll need to get some soil to cover them up, what would you recommend? There isn't really any local bonsai nurserys to where I live, just Bunnings


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[kcpoole]

There isn't really any local bonsai nurserys to where I live, just Bunnings

Take some time one day and head towards brisbane and check out Tess' place. You will find out what works locally form her and use that.

Any soil will do so long as it is open and well draining, if nothing else get some premium potting mix and mix about 50% 3-6 mm decomposed granite. Pumice, scoria or diatomite will be even better if you can get it.

Ken

[Ashleypaine90]

Thanks ken, that's Northside bonsai? I've seen the website it looks good, I'm going to head down there soon. I'll probably get the soil from them, they'll know what I need and then I won't be worried. Could any of you give me some advice on tools, Christmas is coming up and I'm thinking about asking for this kaneshin beginners set, any thoughts?


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[Jarad]

If I were you I would get this one:
http://kaneshin.shop.multilingualcart.c ... y_222.html
Branch cutter, pruning scissors, root pruning shears and a wire cutter.

And add a root rake:
http://kaneshin.shop.multilingualcart.c ... y_104.html

And a crean mate (for cleaning your tools):
http://kaneshin.shop.multilingualcart.c ... y_144.html

The spatula/root rake is a bit more useful than the spatula/tweezers. You can just use some first aid kit type tweezers.

The cases are great but like a lot of us you might eventually find yourself heading to Bunnings to grab a tool box so you can keep everything together. I found the branches I was cutting kept getting bigger and bigger so I kept needing larger tools that didn’t fit in my small case (I now need to invest in a small hand saw and probably a bigger tool box ).

[Ashleypaine90]

Hi jarad, thank you for your help that's great, I'll see what I can afford straight away, but this looks good, I may get the set and then just add on as I can yea I'm a mechanic so I know all about that haha, small toolbox didn't last very long at all...


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[Ryceman3]

I second the Crean mate as recommended by Jarad, vital part of maintaining your tools.

[Jarad]

Hahaha, sounds like you've already got a toolbox.

Also, while bonsai tools are the bees knees, you can just use regular tools until you get enough money for a full set, like side cutters, pliers and pruners. The big green shed also has some basic cheaper tools that you can use and abuse so your top end Kaneshins don't get damaged.