How many people know that bonsai can be grown from seeds? Although there are no magic bonsai seeds which can turn into the perfect-looking bonsai tree after being planted, the bonsai seeds can still grow into the “dwarfed trees” that we have all come to love. That is, with certain growing procedures and every bit of your patience.
Most people will probably tell you that growing a bonsai tree from bonsai seeds is a clear waste of your time. But even if this is known to be the most time-consuming among all methods, this is also the one that will give you the most rewarding experience.
The Japanese has a term to define the cultivation of bonsai from bonsai seeds - misho. This process may take a lot of time, but it allows one total control of the tree’s growth right from the start.
Initially, you need to gather the “right” kinds of seeds according to the type of bonsai tree that you like to grow. Various horticultural shops have plenty of these available.
Once you have gathered the bonsai seeds, it is necessary to place them in water for the night in order to differentiate which seeds are potentially viable and which ones are not. Those that will float are not usable, but the ones that will sink are those that you will be working with.
Before sowing your bonsai seeds, make sure that you have chosen a pot that is about has a depth of 15 cm or 6″ and features a drainage hole. The lowest portion of the pot, or a quarter of the pot’s total volume should contain an earth mix, a mixture of akadama and fine gravel in equal proportions.
On top of that layer, you need to put a mixture of fine akadama, potting compost, and fine gravel in ½, 1/4, and ¼ ratios respectively. This particular layer should be about 1″ below the pot’s rim. Place the bonsai seeds on top of this layer, making sure that they are about 1″ to 2″ inch apart from.
Finally, put in the last layer which is composed of a mixture of potting compost and akadama in equal ratios. Spray water on top of the seedbed using a nozzle with fine spray.
It may take years before you can finally see a nice bonsai tree. However, what can be more fulfilling than knowing that you grew it from “scratch” yourself?
