Hey there, everyone! Welcome to Bonsai Grounds, our very own blog dedicated to the wonderful world of bonsai. Right from the get-go, you’ll notice that I said “our” because this bonsai journey started with just me, but my brother hopped on board a few months later. Together, we’ve been busy building a bonsai garden right in my backyard. It all began back in 2019, and let me tell you, we’ve learned a ton since then!
When we started out, I became a devoted consumer of bonsai content. You name it—I was glued to YouTube videos from channels like Bonsai Mirai and Bjorn, and I scoured through countless posts on the Bonsainut forum. But then something amazing happened: we crossed paths with this incredible grower named Ed Clark, and that’s when things really took off. We learned so much from him, and he even hooked us up with some of his jaw-dropping Itoigawa trees. (Trust me, they’re mind-blowing!)
But here’s the thing: the learning didn’t stop there. I kept on studying and soaking up insights from Jonas. It’s been an educational journey that never seems to end. Now, let me give you a glimpse of our growing conditions. We’re located right in the heart of the Central Valley in California. Oh boy, let’s talk about our summers! This place is known as the agricultural hub, stretching a whopping 450 miles from Bakersfield to Redding. Our winters are mild and cool, but let me tell you, our summers are scorching! Picture this: temperatures soaring to 100-110 degrees C throughout July and August. It’s like living in a sauna! And that means we’ve had to come to terms with the fact that some of those incredible bonsai varieties just won’t thrive in our climate.
Despite those challenges, our collection is pretty diverse. We have Trident Maples, Japanese Maples (I know, surprising, right? Wait till I show you the techniques Ed Clark taught us), Olives, Black Pines, Korean Hornbeams, Chojubai (yes, guys, freaking CHOJUBAI! I used to believe they didn’t fare well in hot weather, but these little champs grow like weeds), Elms, Twisted Pomegranates, and plenty more!
Now, you might be wondering why we decided to start this blog. Well, let me be real with you all. I’m pretty young, but when I hit my 60s, I want to leave behind a legacy—a treasure trove of insightful knowledge gathered throughout my bonsai journey. I don’t want to regret not sharing beautiful bonsai and wisdom with everyone for free. So, here it is: my goal is to share all the knowledge I’ve acquired with each and every one of you, without any cost involved.
This blog is for anyone who loves witnessing the progression of a tree, starting from barebones or seedling and culminating in an exhibition-ready masterpiece. It’s going to be quite the adventure, and my mission is to keep you entertained and learning along the way.
So, let’s dive in together, create stunning bonsai, and embark on this incredible learning journey. Together, we’ll make the bonsai world even more beautiful.
