From starting material to Bonsai in 11 steps:

In this blog one of the methods to start with a bonsai is shown. On the basis of eleven sketches it is schematically possible to follow the growth and pruning process over the years. Please note: this technique is only possible with deciduous tree species. It is best to choose a specimen from our climate zone.

These can be found in all plant centres or in your own garden. The first step: One chooses a tree with an interesting root base. The roots nicely spread around the trunk and with a finely flared frame.

In autumn, after the leaf fall, you saw off the upper part of the tree. If there is another pen root (walking vertically down), it is removed. Prune half of the root system, while preserving as much fine roots as possible. Place the starting plant in a spacious pot with a well permeable mixture.

In the spring, you will see multiple buds appear on the trunk and on the edge of the wound.

The excess buds, on the trunk, are taken away. On the edge grow two or three twigs. The lower buds on these twigs are taken away and allow the remaining parts to grow and thicken. The dominant branch (which grows fastest) we choose as future apex (top).
On the drawing on the right, the next pruning point is indicated on the dominant branch (red dotted line). On the left, the first lateral branch grows.

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