Choosing (and Buying) Your First Bonsai Tree

I bought one of my first bonsai trees during the early days of the pandemic — a jade from a local home improvement store. I didn’t know much about bonsai at the time, but I knew there was something engaging and comforting about this hobby. 

I read a few blog posts, watched some videos, ordered a basic bonsai tool kit and took an online workshop. The process wasn’t perfect, but that little tree turned into a daily ritual and, eventually, a full-blown obsession.

If you’re thinking about buying your first bonsai, I’ve written the guide I wish I had when I started. Whether you’re shopping online or browsing in person, this will help you make a smart, satisfying, and meaningful choice.

For those just beginning the journey, understanding what a bonsai truly is — beyond the small tree stereotype — lays the foundation for a more rewarding experience.

What to Know Before You Buy a Bonsai

Buying a bonsai isn’t just about looks. It’s about lifestyle compatibility. A bit of planning ensures your new tree thrives, not just survives.

Here are a few things to think about.

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Most species demand outdoor light and seasonal shifts. Others can live happily inside. Know the difference before you choose.
  
• Climate Compatibility: Match the tree to your environment. Don’t force a tropical ficus to thrive in a dry mountain home.
  
• Watering Habits: Bonsai require consistency. If you travel often or forget to water, choose a drought-tolerant species like jade.
  
• Time Commitment: A bonsai isn’t high maintenance — but it is regular maintenance. Can you commit 5–10 minutes a day?
  
• Budget: Expect to spend $30–$150 for a solid beginner tree. You’re paying for age, health, and proper styling, not just size. Understanding what determines the price of a bonsai can help you compare trees more confidently.

How to Choose the Right Bonsai Species

Some species are perfect for beginners. Others are not. I started with a ficus because I wanted something forgiving. It taught me to water properly and showed me that even small trees can feel alive in your hands. 

Here are the best beginner-friendly options.

Species like pine, maple, and azalea — while beautiful — require more advanced care and are best saved for later. If you’re still weighing your options, it helps to compare the experience of buying pre-bonsai or a mature tree, especially when you want room to grow versus something already styled.

Where to Buy Bonsai (And What to Avoid)

Finding the right seller is just as important as choosing the right tree. Each buying channel has trade-offs. Some offer quality and guidance, others offer speed or price. Here’s what to expect.

Local Bonsai Nurseries

Best For: In-person advice, seeing the tree before buying, and starter material.

Local bonsai nurseries often have well-cared-for trees and knowledgeable staff. You can inspect root flare, trunk shape, and soil quality in person. The downside? You have to be near the nursery, and in some cases, online photos may be outdated or not reflective of the exact tree you’ll receive.

Bonsai-Specific Online Stores and Marketplaces

Best For: Curated selection, convenient shopping with nationwide shipping.

These platforms specialize in bonsai and typically vet the sellers they work with. Look for sites with detailed listings, photos of the actual tree you’ll receive, and care instructions. Some even offer live arrival guarantees or ongoing support. Compared to general marketplaces, buying a bonsai online from a bonsai-focused site increases your odds of getting a healthy, accurately labeled tree.

Broad Online Marketplaces (e.g. Amazon, eBay, Etsy)

Best For: Price and availability — but with major caveats.

These platforms are easy to browse, but bonsai listings are hit or miss. Many use stock photos or vague descriptions. In some cases you’re not even buying a tree, you’re buying a bonsai seed kit, which could take 10 or more years to train. Labels may be inaccurate, and quality varies widely.

Big Box Stores or Garden Centers

Best For: Entry-level impulse buys and practice material.

These trees are often mass-produced and styled to look “bonsai-like” but may not be properly trained or potted. Still, they can be valuable learning tools. Just know that what you’re getting is likely pre-bonsai in need of refinement.

What to Look For When Buying a Bonsai Tree

You don’t need to be an expert to spot a healthy tree. You just need to know what to look for.

• Leaf Health: No yellowing, pests, or dried tips.
  
• Root Flare (Nebari): The base should feel grounded and strong.
  
• Trunk Character: Look for taper, texture, and movement. These signal age and artistry.
  
• Branch Placement: A balanced shape is more important than perfection.
  
• Soil and Pot: Good drainage, proper proportion, no glue or pebbles hiding root issues. A well-chosen bonsai pot supports root health and enhances the overall visual harmony.
  
• Overall Vibe: Don’t ignore gut instinct. If it speaks to you, that’s worth something.
  

Buying Bonsai Online? Ask These Questions First

Buying a bonsai tree online has come a long way. Ten years ago it was hard to find a reputable seller, much less a tree that matched the photos. Today, dedicated bonsai distributors and nursery websites make it easier than ever to browse, compare, and order high-quality trees with confidence.

Still, use common sense. Bonsai is a living art form, and no two trees are alike. Avoid overly polished listings or vague descriptions, and make sure you’re dealing with someone who cares about what happens after delivery, not just the sale.

Questions to ask include:

• Are there clear, high-quality photos from multiple angles?
  
• Does the listing specify species, size, and growing conditions?
  
• Is the seller reputable, with real reviews?
  
• Is there a live-arrival guarantee or return policy?
  
• Do they offer follow-up care guidance?

A little due diligence goes a long way when buying a bonsai online. Look for transparency, not perfection.

Three Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Tree

There’s no shortage of opinions about bonsai, but if I could pass on just a few truths to someone buying their first tree, they’d be these:

Match the Tree to Your Environment, Not Your Wish List

It’s tempting to buy the most dramatic tree you see online. But if your apartment faces north or your winters hit below freezing, that imported maple or tropical ficus may not last long. Choose a species that thrives in your space, not just in your imagination.

Don’t Judge a Bonsai by Its Size Alone

A smaller tree isn’t always easier, and a bigger one doesn’t mean it’s better trained. Pay attention to trunk taper, branch placement, and overall health. A modest tree with good structure will bring more long-term joy than an oversized mess.

Buy from People Who Grow or Know

There’s a world of difference between a mass-produced bonsai on a retail shelf and one cultivated by someone who prunes, repots, and styles with care. Whether it’s a nursery owner or a trusted seller online, lean into people who love bonsai, not just sell it.

Thinking About Giving a Bonsai as a Gift?

Bonsai trees make stunning and symbolic gifts — living art that represents patience, care, and enduring beauty. But, they aren’t one-size-fits-all and they require consistent care.

If you’re buying a bonsai for someone else, consider their lifestyle. Do they enjoy houseplants or gardening? Will they have time to water and place it in the right light? A low-maintenance species like jade or ficus can be a thoughtful choice, especially for beginners.

Next Steps After You Buy a Bonsai Tree

Once your tree is home, the real journey begins.

Get Into a Care Routine

Start by getting into a rhythm. Your bonsai will need regular care: light, water, rotation, and observation. Get to know its habits. Check the soil daily, feel the weight of the pot, notice how the leaves respond to their environment. This isn’t just maintenance, it’s how you build a relationship with the tree.

Start Thinking About Style

Once your bonsai is settled in, begin planning its future. What style is it leaning toward? Informal upright? Broom? Cascade?

You don’t need to make drastic cuts yet, but start noticing the tree’s natural movement and branch structure. Look at reference photos, watch styling videos, and sketch ideas if that helps you visualize.

Keep Learning and Find Community

As you gain confidence, keep learning. Read care guides specific to your bonsai species. Join a local club or attend a beginner workshop. Bonsai is a lot more fun (and a lot less confusing) when you’re learning alongside others.

Sharing progress, asking questions, and seeing other people’s trees can be incredibly motivating.

Go Deeper as You Grow

When you’re ready, there are plenty of ways to go deeper.

You could invest in better tools — pruners that feel good in your hand, or root shears that cut cleanly instead of crushing. You might refine your display with a properly sized bonsai tree stand or choose a new bonsai pot to complement the tree’s shape. You might even consider selling a bonsai tree that you’ve trained yourself, freeing up space for a more advanced tree.

Whatever path you take, remember: The joy of bonsai is that there’s always a next step. And the pace? That’s entirely up to you.

Choosing Your First Bonsai FAQs