- Which trees make good bonsai?
In general, trees that are best for bonsai include those that are long-lived, are hardy in the area where they will be grown, are tolerant of container cultivation, have small or easily reducible foliage, and have a shapely trunk or other interesting feature.
- Where do bonsai come from?
Nurseries — Most bonsai are developed from carefully selected nursery plants.
Propagation — Some growers prefer to start their own bonsai from seed, cuttings, layers, or grafts.
Collection — Plants suitable for bonsai training are sometimes found in yards or gardens, on farmland, or in the wild and can, with permission, be gathered and transplanted into containers.
- How often are bonsai watered?
Bonsai are watered when the soil becomes almost dry to the touch. The water needs of bonsai grown outdoors will vary greatly according to weather conditions, so it is important to water according to soil condition — not according to a schedule.
- How often are bonsai fertilized?
Frequent, light fertilization is more beneficial than infrequent, heavy fertilization. Trees at the Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection are liquid-fertilized once weekly during the growing season and once monthly during the dormant season.
- How is the age determined?
The age of propagated trees is usually documented. The age of collected trees is estimated based on the number of seasonal wood layers in removed branches or exposed dead wood or by the diameter of the trunk compared to similar specimens of known age.
- Why are some of the trees wired?
Wire bends and holds a trunk or branch in a position the artist desires — it does not stunt a tree's growth. Usually, the wire is placed during a dormant period and is left on for about one year. Eventually, the tree will keep the desired shape without further wiring. Different sizes of wire are used depending on the amount of flexibility and strength needed.
- Who takes care of the trees?
The trees in the Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection are owned by Weyerhaeuser Company and are cared for by a full-time curator and staff gardeners. Assistance is provided by skilled, experienced volunteers.
