A sapling is a great way to start growing a Bonsai tree. There are three primary methods of growing this type of tree - you can either grow it from a sapling, from a seed (or cutting) or you can buy a ready made Bonsai tree. I think that growing Bonsai from saplings is the way to go since a) a seed is far to hard (well, it takes too long) and b) a ready made tree is too easy (not personal enough).

A sapling offers a good way to grow a Bonsai. They are ready for you to start the Bonsai-fication process and you will find the trees at your local nursery to be very well suited to your climate. Here's what to look for in a sapling.

The main thing you will look for in a Bonsai sapling is that of the shape of the tree. If it tapers upwards in a straight line then this will usually work out to be the best and easiest type of tree to grow with. Gary, what are you saying? 99% of trees in a garden shop are like this! That's true, but not as many have the ideal form of the large trunk base which tapers upwards like an arrow or point. The base is essential to get right. Look at this part of the tree more then any other part since this is such an important part of your Bonsai tree.

Look for any signs of disease on the tree. This could include dark patches on the branches or trunk (or any white patches). Look for any insects. Give the branches a gentle wiggle. If they feel good and strong this tree will be perfect. It's essential that you choose a strong tree. Bonsai trees go through a lot of stress due to the wiring and the process that you put them through and the stronger the tree, the better it will look and the more likely that it will survive what you will throw at it.

Look for nice even branch distribution. If you're going to be growing a formal or informal upright then you will do well to get a tree that has a pleasing branch structure to it, especially in the lower parts of the tree. The tree will not grow any more 'main' branches down there round the base and that's something that you should take into account. Try and imagine your tree as a Bonsai.

The Bonsai tree is something that it worth doing. In the end, you just need to go ahead and bite the bullet, buy a tree. You will turn it into something amazing.