Hey, I bought a Carmona from a garden centre today as a tree to learn on (as a beginner). I have a few ideas on the end shape and style I am going to try, but before beginning I am wondering whether I should consider repotting. The soils seems fairly compact, and was heaped in a mound around the trunk. Alternately would it be more important to simply give the tree time to get used to the conditions in my home before attempting this?

I am unsure on the age of the tree, or when it was last repotted. I think it may recently have been submerged in water though (several others in the store were being treating when I went in).

Oh, another beginner with a carmona. I am sorry to tell you that even very experienced bonsai artists fail with this species, it is not beginner friendly and will most likelly die in your care.