hello Youri,
I'll take some pictures of Schizophragma to make you see the trunk and make you wait ... here is the fall coming, soon all the leaves have fallen. Then I could make you see the tree and decide the course of action.

I think it is time to introduce myself. I am founding Gen.Secretary of Kerala Bonsai Association in India . We have a large number of Bonsai professionals and beginners. I have post graduate degree in Horticulture from Agricultural University in Kerala. I have authored a book on Bonsai written in our local language published by Govt and 3 editions are over and is now out of print. I have 25 years experience. I started the Bonsai club 18 years back and done several exhibitions here and one exhibition during 1998 visited by 100000 people which laid a strong base for Bonsai here. I am happy that i could act as catalyst in Bonsai culture in this small state of India.
But I know climate in your area is entirely different and many plants may not thrive easily as in Asian countries. But temperate plants may not survive in our climate. Best wishes to all.

I'm happy to share the experience of people from different countries. Unusual trees still fascinates me. It's a way to travel virtually: through the trees distant lands!
This is an extra richness to a forum although the trees and the climates are different. We just need to think about when responding to a post and it is hard sometimes ...:blush:

Welcome Sai, great to hear your history in doing bonsai!

@ Daniele I totally agree, we all live in different climates, in my country there are oaks, maples, beech, birch, but also pines and spruces. But in other climates there are ficus, and more tropical trees. It's great to see those bonsais because you don't see them in your own country but sometimes you must think about what to answer for example when people are asking how they should protect their trees for winter.

But it's great to see that so many people are helping each other here altough they live in a really different country!

Welcome to the forum, Sai...so glad you joined us. I would like to say "thank you" for playing such an important role in creating and developing bonsai culture in your homeland which adds to the richness in experience of the ancient art of Bonsai world-wide. Your knowledge and expertise in Bonsai is a great asset to our forum.

Daniele, you expressed the beauty and richness of experiencing cultures from every corner of the earth so perfectly. Thanks for sharing.

howdy sai,
welcome to the forum.i am antisapating seeing your projects and receiving your advice
this is so cool that we are bringing the world together through this wonderful artform.

Thats awesome Sai, I think its incredible that we have yet another well qualified specialist. Its cool to have another person from a place that no one would imagine bonsai existed. No offence! Your help on these forums will definately be greatly appreciated!

I am currently living in Texas, USA. I plan on moving to mid-Missouri in February. I recently started Bonsai last month.

I have a Juniper, approximately 2 years old -- I think. Need to do more research. :S I "rescued" her from a grocery store. Hopefully she will prosper in my care.

:side: I spent 20 years in the United States Army, deployed to Iraq twice. I am now retired and enjoying the extra time.

Angie welcome to our and happy retirement. You will have time (maybe) to take care of bonsai: is exciting and Juniper is very enjoyable to work

Hi Aklister71,

Welcome to the forum. So glad you could join us!

Congratulations on your new endeavour in the art of Bonsai. If you have any questions, this is the place to ask. We have a great group here who are willing to offer suggestions, guidance and/or direct you to the information you require through various links. Perhaps the most important thing to do when beginning bonsai is to research every specimen that comes into your care. Each plant has it's own unique needs and requirements to grow stong and healthy.

Bonsai is such a fascinating and rewarding art to learn. What wonderful way to enjoy your hard earned and well deserved retirement. My hat is off and I salute you!