About this episode
What if caring for a tiny tree could teach you patience, presence, and even a new way of looking at life? That, plant lovers, is the magic of the art of Bonsai. It is a very specific practice that requires very specific care that I often get questions about. And so today I've decided to re-release an old episode where I interviewed Bonsai master, Bjorn from Eisei-en Bonsai.You might know him from his incredible YouTube videos all about Bonsai basics: what makes Bonsai different, their growing media, how you care for them, the fascinating history, and the philosophy behind Bonsai. I am so excited to re-release this episode because I just gifted my husband his first Bonsai, so I can't wait to send him this episode so he can support his bonsai that he's keeping in his office. In this episode, we learn:[00:04:44] How Bjorn became the bonsai expert he is today[00:05:35] How long does a bonsai apprenticeship take? What are typical duties for a bonsai apprentice?[00:07:31] Bjorn shares his experience in Japan and being an apprentice[00:09:16] How to properly pronounce ‘bonsai’ and what it means[00:09:40] What is a bonsai? How do you classify a tree as a bonsai tree?[00:10:56] Can you turn any tree into a bonsai?[00:11:54] Apical dominance vs lateral dominance[00:14:14] How to measure bonsais and the different bonsai size classifications: shohin and chuhin[00:16:03] Where did bonsais originate from?[00:17:43] How do you differentiate between indoor bonsais and outdoor bonsais? What are great plants for both types?[00:19:29] How much light do bonsais need?[00:20:25] The basic bonsai potting mix: pumice, lava rock, and akadama (yes, it’s Japanese!)[00:22:01] How much fertilizer does your bonsai need? What kind of fertilizer should you apply to your bonsai?[00:23:26] Bonsai and teabags: how to ‘tea’ your bonsai when adding fertilizer[00:24:19] Why growing bonsais is about practicing control[00:25:00] How to take care of sick bonsai trees and what the long-term goal is for growing bonsais[00:26:02] What bonsais can teach us about patience & wellness[00:26:20] Where to get the best soil mixes for all plant needs[00:27:36] How to keep deer and wildlife from your garden[00:29:27] Do you want your bonsais to bloom?[00:30:51] How often should you water bonsais? Bjorn gives us the how-to and why’s on watering bonsais[00:34:32] Bonsai and shade cloths: where should you place your bonsai? What is a bonsai’s ideal light situation?[00:36:20] Bonsai pruning 101[00:37:32] Plant nerd facts: what are the growth hormones auxin and cytokine and what do they do?[00:40:05] Why are bonsai trees in small and shallow pots?[00:41:20] How much of a bon
