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Step 7Constructive Criticism
Here are a few points given by people with much more experience with bonsai than I:
1.) One source said that it has been largely disproven that using gravel on the bottom of the pot improves drainage as the water's surface tension keeps the water on the smaller particles above the pebbles. It is thought that a homogeneous (all particles approximately the same size) medium is best for air flow and drainage.
2.) The box easily could have been shallower. Especially if the pebble layer was removed.
3.) The box could use slats over the bottom (with more mesh) which would be much easier to construct and probably provide better drainage. The pot definitely could have more holes in the bottom especially in the corners.
4.) Bonsai "soil" rarely contains any actual soil at all but is rather composed of things such as peat or clay granules. Some options mentioned online include NAPA auto part #8822 or MVP Turface. There is a lot of debate online about soil. Most seem to agree that most of the medium should be some sort of inorganic aggregate. Google it and you'll find some opinions.
http://www.helpfulgardener.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=12677
1.) One source said that it has been largely disproven that using gravel on the bottom of the pot improves drainage as the water's surface tension keeps the water on the smaller particles above the pebbles. It is thought that a homogeneous (all particles approximately the same size) medium is best for air flow and drainage.
2.) The box easily could have been shallower. Especially if the pebble layer was removed.
3.) The box could use slats over the bottom (with more mesh) which would be much easier to construct and probably provide better drainage. The pot definitely could have more holes in the bottom especially in the corners.
4.) Bonsai "soil" rarely contains any actual soil at all but is rather composed of things such as peat or clay granules. Some options mentioned online include NAPA auto part #8822 or MVP Turface. There is a lot of debate online about soil. Most seem to agree that most of the medium should be some sort of inorganic aggregate. Google it and you'll find some opinions.
http://www.helpfulgardener.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=12677
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Mar 31, 2011. 8:26 AMpcastle-1
says:
Thank you for posting this. I have visited many a garden center searching for bonsai tools and supplies, but I have been unsuccessful so far. Do you know where I can find these products? Thanks again!
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Jul 6, 2011. 10:04 AMwiggins8472 (author)
says:
Sorry for the slow response. There are a number of bonsai tool/soil merchants online. Also, most larger cities have a greenhouse with more of an Asian theme. If I were you I'd check Google Maps. Really, you can get by with just normal tools like a good pair of pruning sheers/fertilizer (commonly used at half the recommended strength). The only thing I usually order online is soil.
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