re: Bonsai tree

So here's the deal.... If you order one online be prepared to pay big money for an actual bonsai tree. Most of these companies just air layer plants and stick a limb in a pot and sell it. They aren't bonsai trees, but just produced for the masses. If you want a tree your going to have to train it and grow it yourself. I would recommend starting out with a juniper as they can grow into a bonsai fairly quickly (2-3 years with training) and look good. Also, look into digging up your own at the end of winter and starting some. I have a maple that I love, but it still has time to go. Unless you spend big money ($300 minimum probably) you're not going to get a good bonsai. If you're going to go the nursery route, most places will have deals on bonsai specimen that you can cut and train yourself for fairly cheap. The most important thing to pay attention to when buying nursery stock is the trunk and the roots. You want something with a nice trunk for the style you plan on going with. Anyway, I could go on and on, but don't look to skimp and rush into bonsai. It's about the time and journey to get where you want to be, and if you want to speed that process up it will cost significantly.