Hi everyone,
This is my first real bonsai project. I have no formal training and no technical background — just pure curiosity and intuition.
I found this Buxus in an abandoned nursery and bought it for $7. It looked forgotten, but something about it felt meaningful.
Since then, I’ve been working on it slowly, guided only by feeling and observation. On the left is the current state of the tree, and on the right is my final vision sketch — exposed roots like claws, a scarred trunk, and a windswept canopy that tells a story of survival.
It’s not perfect, but it means a lot to me. I’d really appreciate your honest thoughts, feedback, or suggestions.
Thank you for reading 🙏
by Dr3d3r_bnsi
7 Comments
Is it… alive?
Seems like an awesome drawing, but im pretty sure the tree is completely gone…
If that tree is dead you might be able to use it for a tanuki if the wood is hard enough and create a similar design to what you’ve imagined
Trees are pretty hardy… But I don’t think 0 foliage in the middle of summer is a good sign, and I’m very curious how you paid $7 for something at an abandoned nursery. Trees in pots don’t live long if neglected
I think you have a talented eye for bonsai aesthetics, but you’re going to need some more hands on experience to acquire the skills to take material there. Pay close attention to the relative scale of your design and foliage pads, and the size of the leaf and ramification of the species you’re working with – it would be difficult to get juniper to be this obedient, never mind boxwood. Unfortunately I think that your tree is also dead, which greatly limits its future as a bonsai.
Good luck, having vision is a very solid place to start the hobby at.
This all feels, real weird
From a brand new account, I take it this post is satire. Good one, you almost had me.