Garden supplies to keep your bonsai growing

Growing bonsai does require special garden supplies. Most plant catalogs and general garden nurseries don't carry the necessary materials needed to grow and maintain your specimens properly. It is possible to make do, but as with every aspect of bonsai, there is art not only in the plant, but in the form and function of the entire process.

A Bonsai soil must be able to allow for equal quantities of air and water to the root system. This mixture has to be able to do this without any significant compaction. Bonsai soils are consistent throughout and provide the roots with the proper nutrients, air and water. The most prevalent soil is Japanese akadama, which is made from red clay granules. Another popular medium is vitrified shale or coarse sand combined with minute pieces of lava. Young plants can be grown in combination of sand, peat and sphagnum moss so transplanting is less traumatic. Although it is possible to mix your own soil, it is easier and safer to use products that are proven.

The wire that is used to manipulate and train bonsais is another consideration. The professional wire that is available from bonsai suppliers is a much better choice than using copper electrical wiring or something as mundane as wire coat hangers. The wire that has been made specifically for bonsai is unobtrusive in color, easily cut, bent to shape and comes in multiple thickness for the training task. This wire is coated to protect the branches and limbs from any damage that may occur when it is applied. These properties alone make it a superior choice than what is available at your local hardware store.

Other garden supplies that are available from reputable bonsai plant catalogs and specialty bonsai suppliers are fertilizers and fungicides. Again it is possible to make do with what is available from local garden nurseries but why risk your prized garden crafts when these hobby supplies are available specifically for your needs? Small pebbles, and mosses are used to adorn the soil on some specimens and these to may be purchased from the bonsai supplies companies. Other medium that are prevalent in the Japanese garden such as water fountains, figurines and display tables are also available.