Most people are introduced to Bonsai by purchasing a cheap, pre-made bonsai tree. Although this is without a doubt the easiest way to get started, it's much more interesting, cost-effective, and rewarding to learn how to grow and style your own tree.

Bonsai is an art that has been studied and refined for centuries, but don't let that scare you off. With a little guidance, you're perfectly capable of growing your very own Bonsai trees without a mystical green thumb. Make sure you choose a tree species that is suited for the climate in your area and stick to the basic care guidelines. In this section, I'll explain how to start growing Bonsai and introduce you to the three main techniques: cultivation, styling, and care.

How do you grow your own Bonsai tree? The first step is to figure out which tree species suits your needs, climate, and circumstance. Whether you prefer to keep your tree indoors, or outdoors will have a big impact on your selection. Growing Bonsai indoors limits your options to subtropical trees that can survive indoors. Whereas growing your Bonsai outdoors gives you more options to choose from. Most non-tropical trees are perfectly fitted to grow outdoors, as long as they are protected from intense sunlight or freezing temperatures. Choosing an indigenous tree for your area is the safest bet. This short Bonsai orientation will help you select an indoor Bonsai, or outdoor tree that best meets your criteria.