How to Choose Your First Bonsai Tree By Master Mori, Guardian of the Tiny Forests
“A bonsai is not chosen with the eyes, but with the heart and the patience to care.” — Master Mori
Welcome, dear sapling, to the first step on your journey through the tranquil art of bonsai. Here, we speak not only of trees, but of transformation—of cultivating calm and growing resilience, one leaf at a time.
But before you prune a single twig or whisper a wish to your miniature maple, you must first choose your companion. Selecting your first bonsai tree is much like making a lifelong friend. Let us walk this path together.
So How do You Choose Your First Bonsai Tree?
The answer lies not in perfection, but in harmony. The best bonsai tree for beginners is one that suits your lifestyle, climate, and willingness to learn.
When Choosing Your First Bonsai Consider These Beginner-Friendly Bonsai Species:
Ficus — Forgiving, hardy, and great indoors. A noble choice.
Jade (Portulacaria afra) — A succulent warrior needing little water.
Chinese Elm — Resilient, fast-growing, and perfect for practice.
Juniper — Classic and beautiful, but prefers the outdoors.
Serissa — My own treasured teacher. Tricky, but richly rewarding.
Read more: Best Trees for Bonsai: A Beginners Guide
These species are known as the wise elders of beginner-friendly bonsai species. They are low-maintenance bonsai trees that still teach many valuable lessons and are perfect and should be considered when you are about to choose your first bonsai tree.
Indoor vs. Outdoor: Where Will Your Tree Dwell?
When you are about to choose your first bonsai tree, you will first need to decide where your bonsai will live. Some bonsai prefer the kiss of the morning sun and the breeze of fresh air. Others thrive on a windowsill, content with indoor calm.
Indoor Options: Ficus, Jade, Schefflera
Outdoor Options: Juniper, Maple, Pine, Azalea
Read more: Indoor Bonsai Care Guide
Climate matters. Be sure your tree feels at home where you live.
How Much Should I Spend When Choosing My First Bonsai
Ah, the wisdom of restraint! A seedling need not break the bank.
Expect to pay:
$20 – $50 for a beginner bonsai
$50 – $100 for a more mature or styled tree
Read More : Bonsai Tree Cost: How Much Should You Spend as a Beginner?
Resist the temptation of ancient trees. Let your first bonsai grow with you.
Where to Buy a Bonsai Tree Online (That You Can Trust)
Not all who sell bonsai walk the noble path, some offer weak, rootbound, or poorly cared-for trees dressed up for the camera. Choose with care.
When you are about to choose your first bonsai tree, seek out nurseries with a solid reputation, ideally those that specialize in bonsai rather than general garden plants. Look for:
Verified reviews and testimonials – Many satisfied students leave behind digital scrolls of gratitude. Read them.
Clear, recent photos – Avoid sellers who use stock images or show only one angle. A healthy tree should be seen from all sides.
Accurate descriptions – Trusted sellers will list the species, age, pot size, and care level. If it’s vague, beware.
Safe shipping practices – Bonsai are delicate travelers. Ensure the seller ships with care and includes instructions for acclimation.
Real bonsai experience – Established nurseries and bonsai artists often offer better trees, along with guidance and support.
Start your journey with reliable nurseries, not the cheapest listings. A healthy tree from a trusted grower is far more rewarding than a sickly one bought in haste.
Master Mori says: “I have walked many marketplaces—from mountain towns to glowing screens. A tree’s roots must be strong… so must its source.”
Coming Soon: Where to Buy a Bonsai Tree Online: Trusted Sellers (2025)
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Avoiding Sickly Saplings: Choose a Healthy Tree
The eyes must see, but the hands must feel. When choosing your first bonsai tree:
Look for vibrant leaves and moist, well-draining soil
Avoid yellowing leaves, mould, or soggy roots
Inspect the trunk for strength and signs of good shaping
Coming Soon: How to Pick a Healthy Bonsai Tree (Beginner’s Checklist)
Even the mightiest oak began with a healthy seedling.
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Master Mori’s Final Advice When Choosing Your First Bonsai Tree
Do not rush. Let the right tree choose you. Sit in silence. Observe. Feel which species speaks to your spirit. Your first bonsai should be a joy, not a chore. One tree. One lesson. One path.
And so, dear beginner, walk the path of bonsai with a humble heart and watch your world bloom in miniature.
“To tend a bonsai is to tend the soul.” — Master Mori
