If after a decade or 2 I decide to replant it in an appropriate location would it still reach its natural potential or would it be

Question

permanently stunted? I’m new to bonsai. I’ve read an introductory book and some online articles. My question involves a giant sequoia planting / sapling that I recently acquired that I’m considering turning into a bonsai after a year or two if that is the appropriate time frame – I have some additional research to do.

Answer 1

This question can be a little difficult to answer. The tree will bonsai well, but putting them in the ground after that long will have very unpredictable results.

Sometimes the tree will revert, slowly, to have normal growth. This tree will never resemble a normal tree after this point, though. It will shoot growth up in the most random places, and the tree may even attempt to replace itself by sending a new offshoot from the roots, and killing off the older bonsai.

In short, you can do this, but it will have very unpredictable results.

This collection of articles will help you in your research: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/bonsai

Answer 2

Hi BushDoctor, thanks very much for your clear and concise answer as well as the links to additional resources - I really appreciate it!! I understand the uncertainty aspect completely. Best,

B-Dude