AusBonsai

Anyone know where i can get small Birch? Nothing big and trained, just after some raw stock.

I have some

Hornet wrote:Anyone know where i can get small Birch?

Be warned Hornet that, in my opinion, they dont make great bonsai. It is difficult if not impossible, to reduce leaf size. For no good reason they will kill off branches, even if the tree is healthy. And if you you cut back to the second leaf for ramification they will kill off that secondary and shoot elsewhere. Just my experience with them but dont let me detour you

bodhidharma wrote:

Hornet wrote:Anyone know where i can get small Birch?

Be warned Hornet that, in my opinion, they dont make great bonsai. It is difficult if not impossible, to reduce leaf size. For no good reason they will kill off branches, even if the tree is healthy. And if you you cut back to the second leaf for ramification they will kill off that secondary and shoot elsewhere. Just my experience with them but dont let me detour you

Cheers mate, i have read that they are a bit tricky. At least with something cheap ikts no huge biggy if i stuff it up and kill it

Couldn't disagree more. Wonderful trees. Bark character unrivaled. Leaf size comes down nicely in full sun. To stop dieback just don't cut back too hard when dormant they hate it. Major styling after they have budded. I know I'm not as experienced as others on this site but sincerely don't be discouraged you will miss out on some wonderful trees. There is no doubt that Birch trees are awesome. I have heaps and have sold heaps. Han. Maybe you could pipe in the conversation and tell us whether you enjoy your Birches?.. .... I suppose one persons tree is another's weed.

talk about being called out mate

Very nice trees to grow. As Rod mentioned, the bark characteristics is unmatched in beauty once they hit maturity
Slow growers and late budding trees in my micro climate of the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne.

Worth trying as not many have these in there bonsai collections. Apparently, the autumn is magnificent
I have single, twin, and triple trunk styles...all doing great Rod.

Cheers.

I would love to see some piccys guys Not calling you out but i have tried this species in vain and have not yet managed a good one yet and would love to see one.

Sorry Han. I just don't want people to be put off by a great species of bonsai. Sorry I called you out but I will never forget sharing that great passion for Birches in my garden BTW how is that eucalypt forest?? still miss it Anyway I'm happy they are doing well especially the '3 laughing ladies'. Cheers mate. My shout Some pics when we can Bodhi.

Pax

I have some seeds of betula pendula (silver birch) which I have been eagerly awaiting to sprout. I was inspired by the bark on old trees in my neighbourhood. I have googled both silver birch, and betula pendula bonsai on google images, and there are some nice examples there. maybe you should check it out?