All Articles

The Bonsai NorCal Blog

Honest, climate-specific guides, techniques, and species profiles written for Bay Area growers โ€” from first repot to exhibition ready.

All Uncategorized
๐ŸŒฟ
Mar 12, 2026Techniques

Juniper Styling Basics for Bay Area Growers

Learn the essential techniques for styling your first Juniper โ€” from branch selection to wiring and bend mechanics.

๐ŸŒฟ
Feb 28, 2026Repotting

When and How to Repot in NorCal

Timing repotting correctly is critical. Here's our comprehensive Bay Area repotting calendar and step-by-step guide.

๐ŸŒฟ
Feb 10, 2026Beginner

Best Beginner Species for the Bay Area

Not all bonsai are equal for our climate. These five species give Bay Area newcomers the best chance of early success.

๐ŸŒฟ
Jan 25, 2026Techniques

Candle Pruning Black Pine: A Visual Guide

Candle pruning is the single most important Black Pine technique. Here's exactly how to do it with confidence.

๐ŸŒฟ
Jan 8, 2026Soil & Pots

Building the Perfect NorCal Soil Mix

Akadama, pumice, and lava rock โ€” the precise ratios that perform best in our dry Bay Area summers.

๐ŸŒฟ
Dec 18, 2025Styling

Wiring Season: When, Why, and How

Wiring dramatically opens your design possibilities. Here's how to approach it without damaging delicate bark.

๐ŸŒฟ
Dec 5, 2025Species

Japanese Maple Bonsai in Northern California

Acer palmatum thrives in NorCal with the right care. Learn sun exposure, watering, and fall color optimization.

๐ŸŒฟ
Nov 22, 2025Collecting

Finding and Collecting Yamadori in the Bay Area

Wild-collected trees carry extraordinary character. Here's how to source legally and transition yamadori successfully.

๐ŸŒฟ
Nov 8, 2025Techniques

Introduction to Jin and Shari Deadwood Carving

Deadwood adds age and drama to any design. This beginner-friendly guide covers tools, technique, and lime sulfur application.