Best Bonsai Kits Buying Guide
Bonsai tree culturing originated from Japan. It is a method to grow a miniature plant of large trees grown in natural conditions. Bonsai trees show similar qualities as normal trees but are so small that they can be grown in a small pot. You can find special bonsai kits in the market that help you to cultivate bonsai species. However, finding quality one for growing a healthy bonsai tree is challenging. That’s why we have compiled a guide on how to select the best bonsai kit.
What Are Some Important Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A Bonsai Kit?
Tree Type
Since most common trees can be grown by the bonsai technique, you can find various bonsai tree seedlings in different bonsai kits. Some well-known species are Jacaranda Mimosifolia, Brazilian Rosewood, Colorado Blue Spruce, Delonix Regia, Buddha Tree, and more. Most of them have a beautiful appearance and are suitable for decorative purposes in the room.
On the other hand, you can also find fruit trees that require more care but give tasty fruits after maturation. If you have a pet, then select a pet-friendly tree like Apricot, Cardboard Palm, Baby Jade and more because many bonsai plants can cause allergies to dogs and cats.
Training Wires
You should check that the bonsai kit comes with training wires made from quality materials like aluminum, copper, and more. They are easier to bend and usually do not harm the growth of the bonsai tree. However, you should keep a regular check on these wires as they play a major role in maintaining the shape of the plant.
Guidance
Whether you are a professional gardener or a beginner, you should always refer to the instructions and tips before planting any bonsai plant for better results. Therefore, make sure that the kit you buy comes with an instruction book that guides you through the whole process of growing the vegetation. Some products also provide digital guides or access to their specialized bonsai cultivator community, where you can receive direct guidance from the experts.
Tools
Another essential factor to focus on while selecting a bonsai kit is to check the type of tools provided in the kit. Many products come with a complete set of useful bonsai tools which includes, shears, a brush, different types of spades, a rake, and tweezers.
Besides, check the quality of these tools as they will come in direct contact with your plant, and any harmful material used for their construction can affect plant growth. Bamboo and some metals like stainless steel cause no harm to bonsai trees. In case you already have the toolset, then a simple seed-providing bonsai kit is the best for you.
Quantity of Seeds
There are high chances that seeds planted for the first time might not grow well. Moreover, not every seed has completed its dormant stage and is ready to grow in a new bonsai plant when sown. That’s why it is recommended to invest in a bonsai kit that provides at least five to six seeds for each species so you can experiment and learn the plantation technique.
What Are The Various Growth Shapes Of Bonsai Kit Trees?
The shape of their growth also differentiates bonsai trees. Additionally, the amount of care required for growing a specific tree also depends on its growth shape. There are mostly four types of growth shape:
In this type of growth pattern, the tree eventually bends and grows in the downward direction and touches the outer surface of the pot in which it is planted.
The tree grows in a downwards direction, but its apex does not touch the ground outside the pot. It almost develops in a sideward pattern after taking a 90-degree turn.
Here, the bonsai tree shows growth in a slanted position almost at a 45-degree angle. It is best for the gardeners who love bonsai trees that grow at a minimal inclination without showing full straight-line growth.
The bonsai tree develops in almost a vertical pattern but with small curves and turns that are clearly visible. It is almost like a curvy line that is directed in the upward direction.
The bonsai plant grows in the exact straight and upward pattern as in the wild. The only difference is that it is small in height and shows the typical bonsai characteristics.
Hence, it is recommended to select the tree species while keeping the growth pattern in mind. Every growth pattern requires different amounts of sunlight and weather conditions. Furthermore, you should trim the tree according to its growth shape.
How Long Does A Bonsai Kit Tree Live?
Once the bonsai tree starts developing and shows healthy growth, it will usually be viable for up to 100 years. Hence, it is similar to a parenting responsibility of your kid for a lifetime. That’s why most gardeners recommend only investing your time and money in developing a bonsai tree if you are up for a serious commitment.
How Much Does A Bonsai Kit Usually Cost?
Most of the quality bonsai kits are priced in the range of 16 USD to 25 USD. The final cost is determined by the various species of tree seeds, tools, fertilizers, and more items provided in the kit. It is suggested that as a beginner, you should start with a low-cost kit and then gradually move to try expensive ones.
Bonsai Kit FAQ
Q: What is meant by a non-GMO bonsai kit?
A: The non-GMO mark indicates that the seeds provided in the kit are generated with the natural breeding of bonsai plants. There is no inclusion of any genetic engineering or artificial technique to produce the seeds.
Q: Can I get fruit tree seeds in a bonsai kit?
A: Yes, there are bonsai kits available in the market that come with seeds for growing bonsai fruit trees. However, bonsai fruit trees require a lot more effort and care than growing a normal bonsai tree.
Q: What are biodegradable pots in a bonsai kit?
A: Biodegradable pots are made from soil that is suitable for the growth of a bonsai tree. Hence, you can initially grow the seedling in that pot and then directly transfer the whole pot to the main plant holder.
Q: Which type of location is suitable to grow a bonsai kit tree?
A: Select a place where the plant can receive adequate sunlight and air and is protected against bugs and animals. It is also suggested that the tree pot should not be placed in an extremely noisy environment as it can hinder its growth. Besides, if you decide to keep your bonsai in a small space in your room, make sure to prune it regularly for an organized growth of the plant.