Hi there,
I am wondering whether it is possible to have an outdoor bonsai in Nova Scotia, Canada? I would like to plant a native species in our planter, and just prune it to stay small. Is this possible, or do the roots need to be constrained as well?
Thanks so much for any tips and info.

Yeah, of course that's possible. Just shield it from the frost.
For native species you should check a local arboretum, a botanical garden or nature (also, I have no idea what is native over there )

Greetings,
Contrainer

Nova Scotia has a temerpate, most sea-climate. Winters are not ridiculously cold as I can tell. You can therefor grow just about any species commonly used for bonsaiin a container outside. I do not expect frost related problems with species such as pines, junipers, picea, maples etc.

Note: You will not get to a 'true' developed bonsai if you do not work the roots, and just put it in a large container outside. But you wold be able to use bonsai techniques on the canopy and create a pleasing image.

Thank you both for the input, I appreciate it.
Typically the frost here is about 4'below grade. The planter we are thinking of is above ground so it will freeze/thaw over the winter several times.
I will choose a native species (likely a maple or pine) and see what happens! Maybe I will put it in a container within the planter so the roots have less room.