I remember the first bonsai plant I had in college. It was a birthday gift from a friend. Unfortunately I didn't know too much about bonsai and the plant did not survive.

Fast forward to today, and I have many bonsai trees and plants. I enjoy sharing information and resources here. Let's talk a little about bonsai. Whenever you decide to choose your first bonsai, you'll find there are many, many varieties from which to choose. In fact, with patience and care you can train almost any plant or tree with a trunk and branches to become a bonsai.

For many of us, the tropical bonsai is our first choice. But be careful, because the plants are tropical in nature, they are somewhat temperamental and very picky about their environment. But if you can balance that with the stunning flowers of the azalea, bougainvillea, and fuchsia, they are well worth the effort.

Other bonsai are less temperamental in nature. These are plants like the elm, birch, or one of the evergreen varieties. These plants like cooler temperatures and don't require as much sunlight.

Before you fall in love with the look of a bonsai plant, think about where you will place it. A tropical bonsai plant will love the direct sunlight of being on a window sill, but it won't enjoy the cold temperatures of New England winter days.

The evergreen bonsai plants, depending on the variety, can winter inside and go outside once the temperature is above freezing. Evergreens can actually 'sunburn' so you need to be careful where they are placed, both inside and out. Place evergreen bonsai in a location where they can receive indirect or shaded sunlight. This will minimize the chances of the evergreen bonsai dying in the heat or from being sunburned.

Take some time to study how to prune your plant. Pruning is essential to keep the bonsai plant's appearance as a miniature version of a fully grown tree. Some bonsai plant growers suggest starting with the tropical azalea bonsai as it can be quite forgiving when pruned.

The important thing to remember with bonsai plants is to enjoy them. These miniature trees and plants are definitely a hobby you can enjoy today and for many years to come. I look forward to hearing and seeing your first bonsai tree pictures. Please let me know what types of bonsai you enjoy growing.