What is The Best Bonsai Substrate? (Understand bonsai substrate)

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  • čas přidán 29. 06. 2024
  • All you ever wanted to ask, and did, about bonsai substrate. From what I use, my thoughts about akadama and how to go about sifting bonsai substrate, re-using bonsai substrate (Effective recycling) and a form of sort of sterilizing bonsai substrate. This video includes it all!
    0:00 Bonsai substrate!
    0:25 Recycling bonsai substrate
    1:30 Function of bonsai substrate
    2:15 About akadama
    3:30 Bonsai substrate components
    6:30 Bonsai mixture ratios
    9:40 Concluding
    9:55 What is the best bonsai substrate?
    Recycling video by Lara Jameson
    www.pexels.com/video/a-person...
    Pagoda video by The Instagrapher
    www.pexels.com/video/the-kink...
    Music by lvymusic from pixabay.com/music/corporate-c...

Komentáře • 229

  • @Darkfire1300
    @Darkfire1300 Před rokem +20

    May your trees stay healthy and stay firmly bent or straight
    May free drainage and nutrition be supplied by your substrate
    May your plants survive summer heat and winter cold
    May your designs, chops and wiring, and desires be bold
    May your tools stay sharp and shiny bright
    May your yamadori be easily dug and for transport quite light
    May your dream greenhouse or cold frame or bonsai stands miraculously appear
    May we all share green thumbs, prosperity, great health and share our good cheer!
    Whichever year you are celebrating, may be it a Happy New Year!

  • @GenericSock
    @GenericSock Před rokem +17

    This is it, the holy grail of bonsai substrate videos. This is the information I've been scouring the internet for. THIS is what beginners need to know in order to keep their first few plants healthy while they learn more specifics. THIS is the 'How to make scrambled eggs' video amongst all the videos about how to prepare a five course meal with a fancy dessert. My sincere gratitude Jelle.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      You are very welcome. I do hope it helps you and others!

  • @mattbrennan647
    @mattbrennan647 Před rokem +14

    Bonsai made understandable and logical by Jelle. Thanks as always for your straightforward approach to the hobby. Thanks, keep growing

  • @googleboy7530
    @googleboy7530 Před 2 měsíci

    I have rewatched again after a month. I bought my first sieve of 3 sets and I will sift for the first time. Thank you Jelle!

  • @bradleychalenger
    @bradleychalenger Před rokem +1

    Best video on substrate I have seen, Thank you and HAPPY New Year 🍾🥳❤️

  • @TheBonsaiGarden
    @TheBonsaiGarden Před rokem +2

    Great video Jelle. As ever clear, educational and well presented.

  • @bobcatbonsai
    @bobcatbonsai Před rokem +2

    Great information Jelle. So basically find what works for us as long as it breaths, drains, provides nutrients and holds water. Thank you for sharing!

  • @BlueJayBonsai
    @BlueJayBonsai Před rokem +2

    Great job showing the importance and benefits of recycling substrate! 👍 If a trees dies I always throw out the soil it was in… just in case. Always interesting to see what substrates people use.. it changes from country to country depending on what you can source locally and affordably too. Cheers! 🐦💙

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Hey Jay, thanks for chipping in! How are things?

  • @XaviersBonsaiRetreat
    @XaviersBonsaiRetreat Před rokem +2

    Definitely worth waiting for Jelle. I agree about mixing ratios - it gets harder once you start re-using soils. Availibility and price also plays a factor in my soil mixes some years. It was only last year that I was able to source the smaller pine bark so that now goes into the mix. I mixed up 80 litres a few weeks ago and I already know I will need a lot more than that - I hate sifting so much !!! Cheers, Xav

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      more than 80 litres? I would suspect so with your collection!

  • @Viking-ep7yg
    @Viking-ep7yg Před rokem +3

    Here in Brazil, this discussion about the substrate is endless because we have a tropical and subtropical climate for most of the year. And also the sudden variations a few hundred kilometers should be considered, after all we are a tropical country. The "caqueira" is a genuinely Brazilian substrate that surprises the entire world bonsai community.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Yeah, I think the discussions are endless, everywhere. Even if you show people trees grown without akadama that are healthy, develop well and have good roots.. People will argue that you need to use it. Caqueira..? Never seen it I think!

  • @jeffhurst4744
    @jeffhurst4744 Před rokem +1

    Another straight forward, and simply explained Bonsai video on soil for our trees. Many times I have seen or heard you HAVE to use this ingredient or that if you do not use ingredient A, B, or C from one or more general world regions - you are not a true bonsai enthusiast. You have broken it down to which ingredients serve you best. Thank you.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hey Jeff, appreciate the comment. And I agree. There seems to be this idea that if it is not Japanese, it is not the right stuff to use. I try to bring things down to the basic 95% needed to get good results. The last 5% tuning is for most of us out of our reach anyway, so the small difference some components *might* make, does not seem to matter to me.

  • @terencedixon2960
    @terencedixon2960 Před 8 měsíci

    Excellent. Informative and straightforward. Thank you.

  • @user-ro7cj4lh6x
    @user-ro7cj4lh6x Před 5 měsíci

    Very well presented and very informative.

  • @johncontract7855
    @johncontract7855 Před rokem +1

    Thank you for this video Jelle! Likes others have said very well described and easy to understand. Didn't consider that root rot is a soil condition. and not necessarily an overwatering condition.

  • @Mister_Weasel
    @Mister_Weasel Před 8 měsíci

    Nice to see someone using Seramis. I have been working with it for about 20yrs with very good results.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 8 měsíci

      Great to hear! I am always surprised at the length at which people go to get substrate from far far away, when locally suitable material is available!

  • @howardmckeown7187
    @howardmckeown7187 Před rokem +1

    super video, thank you, i'm a beginner and sick of experts who all contradict each other, i've had to watch dozens of videos to learn what i know now and this has moved me to a new level, i'm glad i started to learn before springtime, LOL!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      :) I think the thing you will learn over time that there are few hard truths when it comes to growing bonsai. Many things work in several ways and are also dependent on local conditions & personal care possibilities / plant species. This means you can get different, yet all correct, replies to the same questions. Slightly annoying!

    • @howardmckeown7187
      @howardmckeown7187 Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai i understand, bit like life, really, lol, thanks for the reply

  • @michaelmarshall9924
    @michaelmarshall9924 Před rokem

    Thank you so much posting this video, it helped answer so many questions

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      You are very welcome. You would not happen to be my colleague Michael Marshall are you?

    • @michaelmarshall9924
      @michaelmarshall9924 Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai probably not, I’m in Canada; I have made a few comments on you videos

  • @BonsaiCornwall
    @BonsaiCornwall Před rokem +1

    Really interesting video mate, thank you so much 😊

  • @michaelparkey1580
    @michaelparkey1580 Před 10 měsíci

    I love your common sense approach.

  • @tumizoomi202
    @tumizoomi202 Před rokem

    Well done, thanks for sharing!

  • @rolando10
    @rolando10 Před 4 měsíci

    Great Jelle! I don’t know how I missed it

  • @KurisuBonsai
    @KurisuBonsai Před rokem +1

    Great explanation and hard work sieving! I'm using Akadama and pumice here in UK but I do have small trees! I currently make individual mixes in a bowl to what I want for the particular tree, using small scoops of the individual components, then blending till it looks right. More pumice for pines, less for deciduous etc. I've also been adding in a bit of ericaceous soil to acid loving trees for a bit more water holding and organic content. All that said, I've bought a box of premixed small grain soil from Kaizen and intend to give that a go when spring comes, looks great in the box and is working nicely in an indoor planting test so maybe I won't need any akadama this year!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      I am so happy to see that more and more people realize that substrate has perhaps been made more mysterious than it need to be!

    • @KurisuBonsai
      @KurisuBonsai Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai I follow a lot of Japanese channels and I think Akadama is about £7 a bag there so makes sense why it's used more as it is very good. Ease of repotting is another reason to choose a more grainy mix that's not often mentioned. I also see they use a thin base later of large grains then refill with their general soil to ensure good drainage.

  • @greenmachinesweden
    @greenmachinesweden Před rokem +1

    Great vid! Not really an answer to the question all beginners have. But still so true. I have another take on the same subject coming up soon.🙂👍

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Looking forward to seeing it! I guess there is no quick and dirty solution, and that many options are valid?

  • @jerzinho92
    @jerzinho92 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing your way to do. I proceed exactly the same, in summer with the wind and a mask 😄

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Jay, great to hear I am not the only one doing this crazy stuff!

  • @HoundStuff
    @HoundStuff Před rokem

    Very helpful, thank you!

  • @BackSeatHump
    @BackSeatHump Před 10 měsíci

    A very good video!

  • @mariob.3232
    @mariob.3232 Před rokem

    Thanks for the video.
    Very educative. Didnt think about the solarization process. Quite known in the agricultural area.
    Was curious, about a good replacement for akadama, but you kinda anwsered it. Thanks!

    • @mariob.3232
      @mariob.3232 Před rokem

      I also have a comment though. I read that coir and pine bark overtime makes your soil more acidic. So it should be a good substrate for azaleas. Since you make a big mixture of components, most likely doesnt make big difference.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Great to hear! I am not sure how acidic it makes the substrate tbh. In general most plants prefer slightly (!) acidic over slightly alkaline soil I think to know. And yeah, Azaleas are a measure more outspoken on this!

  • @abhinav3101
    @abhinav3101 Před rokem

    Nicely explained🎉

  • @FrostBiteBonsai
    @FrostBiteBonsai Před rokem

    This is a great video! I don't have these available locally. I will have to order. I need something that doesn't dry out so quickly indoors. So far the cactus and succulent mix, sometimes with extra perlite added, seems to work best.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Yes! I have been using cactus-mix grit as well at somepoint, untill I found a better source for pumice.

  • @darrenfisherman3838
    @darrenfisherman3838 Před 11 měsíci

    This video explains a lot thanks

  • @natrjack965
    @natrjack965 Před 24 dny

    Great video again my friend.

  • @BonsaikelapaBambuApusTangsel

    Terimaksih atas sheringnya kawan.....selamat tahun baru sukses selalu.

  • @prityboy69r
    @prityboy69r Před rokem +3

    I don't subscribe to channels. I feel it only promotes the people out here making obscene amounts of money for doing nothing while half our population can't afford to put a loaf of bread on the table. That being said this video was real and I think that I now understand your approach to bonsai also I have been reading your comments and you answered every one. Respect! Not going to waist anymore of your time. I just wanted to say your my first subscription and thank you.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Well, welcome to the channel I suppose! Do have a browse around. There might be more videos you like!?

    • @delatroy
      @delatroy Před 2 měsíci

      Vast majority of CZcamsr producers make hardly anything

    • @Reblwitoutacause
      @Reblwitoutacause Před 2 měsíci

      Waist

  • @googleboy7530
    @googleboy7530 Před 4 měsíci

    Thank you sensei Jelle!!!

  • @BBsheepy
    @BBsheepy Před 11 měsíci

    I went to the bonsai museum few weeks ago in Omiya, it is incredible!!! I recommend anyone go there for a visit! Bonsai are so cool 🌳

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 10 měsíci

      I fully agree! I had the chance to see it a few years back. Gorgeous!

  • @phillipwaterman5721
    @phillipwaterman5721 Před rokem

    Bonsai phill very good video thanks jelle keep it up mate

  • @timbrockhaus142
    @timbrockhaus142 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Hi Jelle! Thank you very much, this video helps a lot!
    My additional question to the topic would be how often do you have to water the trees in this substrate in the different seasons? Thank you very much in advance and keep in with the good content! 😊

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 8 měsíci

      In summer a few days ask for twice a day. In winter, hardly ever

  • @TheBonsaiZone
    @TheBonsaiZone Před rokem +1

    Looks like a good soil!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      I think so too! I am not sure I have seen what you use Nigel. Do you have a substrate video in that massive video portal of yours?

    • @TheBonsaiZone
      @TheBonsaiZone Před rokem +1

      @@GrowingBonsai I'm using 1/2 perlite and 1/2 clay particles (SafetySorb) with a bit of bark thrown in. It seems to work well and I can get all the ingredients locally and cheaply.
      One this I find about used soil is that the pores of the particles can get clogged up with algae and organic particles. They loose their effectiveness at absorbing moisture and holding fertilizer.

  • @Bonsaicrazy
    @Bonsaicrazy Před rokem

    Happy new year Jelle 👍👍👍

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Happy new year! May all your trees grow strongly, and develop fat trunklines in 2023!

    • @Bonsaicrazy
      @Bonsaicrazy Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai thanks dude you too 👍👍

  • @GoodSamaritan1972
    @GoodSamaritan1972 Před rokem

    Hi. Thank you soo much for this video. I remember asking you about it last month...and as you promised ...here is the video. 😃
    I live in the equatorial climate belt.
    I see some people incorporating matured compost into their soil mix as a source of slow release of nutrients. At what percentage of the soil mix can we use the compost?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hey, to be fair, I would not know. I do not use compost, and in my view, this would greatly reduce the drainage capacity of the soil. Would not dare to make a suggestion here!

  • @gloriablanco7856
    @gloriablanco7856 Před 11 měsíci

    Thank you 😊

  • @martylynchian8628
    @martylynchian8628 Před rokem

    Thank you for using the F temp.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      I DO try to make it internationally accessable :). But it is a push every once in a while to think off it!

  • @mm6918
    @mm6918 Před rokem +2

    Thanks for this video Jelle! I think I'll try adding shale based on what you said because lava is really expensive where I'm at. Most of my trees are really early in development and I want to facilitate more growth. Sounds like I should use medium to large soil particles. How many mm should my medium and large soil particle be? Thanks again!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Look in hardware stores for the shale. The stuff I use is sold to be used under floors (!). I find everything over 10 mm is too big to be usefull. I use the standard japanese sieves, to be honest, I would have to measure what size mesh it has!

    • @mm6918
      @mm6918 Před rokem

      Thanks Jelle and Happy New Year!

  • @bimmer635csi
    @bimmer635csi Před rokem +3

    I'd like to propose another category. pH
    The substrate has strong influence on pH, and some plants prefer more acidic soils.

    • @KurisuBonsai
      @KurisuBonsai Před rokem +1

      I add small amounts of ericaceous soil to the mix for trees like this. Azelias mostly but also used in higher quantities when making forests too.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hi, thx for the comment.
      I am personally not so concerned with soil PH, but then again, I do not have many azaleas. Pretty much most species prefer a slightly acidic substrate afaik.

  • @jaguardelcielo
    @jaguardelcielo Před rokem

    Nice!

  • @brechtvhb
    @brechtvhb Před rokem

    Great video, thanks for sharing! Where do you buy the diatomaceous earth? I can only find it in powder form.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Hi, it is ot an easy thing to find. There used to be a trader in substrates that had it, but they do no longer. Then for a long time there was a local brand of kitty litter that was made of it. They stopped. I now know of only one brand, Linda Moler, which is pure diatomous earth. But.. Dificult to find yes.

  • @bobbymalta73
    @bobbymalta73 Před rokem

    Thank You.

  • @johnjanssen5076
    @johnjanssen5076 Před 7 měsíci

    Well, I’m impressed! Do you have a business that sells bonsai, or is this your hobby that you obviously love very much! Do you live somewhere in Scandinavia? It sounds like you have to deal with long and harsh winters. I live in upstate SC, in zone 7a. I have only been in this hobby about 6 months and am entering my first winter with the few Bonsai trees that I own. I hope you will come out with more videos in the future! Regards, John J in SC

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 6 měsíci

      Hey John, I am a very serious hobbiest. Been taking several advanced classes and do workshops and lectures around Europe (Well.. If someone flies me in, around the world!). But no formal business. I have a full time job on the side, one could say! Living in Germany, Munsterland.

  • @sukru91
    @sukru91 Před měsícem

    Thanks for video, this really helps a lot! Do you have the names/trademarks of the specific products? I tried to search a bit but its quite hard. Seramis is 8-16mm right?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 28 dny +1

      Not really. It varies a lot from country to country and I also get it from several different stores. Vulcatec is now my main go-to.

  • @mauroa.4993
    @mauroa.4993 Před 6 měsíci

    Great video! Question, is there any difference in substrate regarding indoor vs outdoor bonsai? Thank you for you response.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 6 měsíci +1

      For trees that go on the windowsill I usually add a bit more organics

  • @johnholloway691
    @johnholloway691 Před rokem +2

    Jelle - Coincidentally, I also recycle substrate, much like your do, even with what appear to be the same Japanese (?) sieves. I mixed the leftover fines into our garden soil until I discovered birds like to dust-bathe in it in the summer, so I now just leave it in a pile for them. Waste nothing, right? Thanks for another informative video!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Ohw that is cool. So you have bird wash baths! We have plenty of cats where we live and I suppose the birds avoid spending time on the ground!

  • @joeydupre6153
    @joeydupre6153 Před 2 měsíci

    Here in South Louisiana, U.S., our summers run in the mid 90's F for months. We need organics in our soil. I have been using about 50/50 pine bark and diatomaceous earth for 8 years. Conifers get a higher percentage of D.E. At present, I have about 25 different species and cultivars and haven't found anything that won't grow well in this mix.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 8 dny

      Agreed! The hotter and drier, the more organics.

  • @DJRobbeGer
    @DJRobbeGer Před rokem

    Hi Jelle great Video i was searching for akadama substitutes in germany. Can you please tell me the name of the Clay components in your video and where did you buy it. Thx :-)

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Hi! Sure. The clay particles I mentioned are seramis. They are for sale in many places. Supermarket, hardware store. The big bags are relatively a lot cheaper.

  • @scheers100
    @scheers100 Před rokem

    I use akadama for my tropicals that come inside for the winter, I find it a good substrate basic. Only affordable in smaller pots that not see frost.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Yeah, I hear Akadama is getting crazy expensive. Oddly enough, people always refer to cost as the main reason why people avoid the stuff. For me, I never gave the cost of the substrate the primary role in my search!

    • @scheers100
      @scheers100 Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai The first reason why I did not want to use akadama is because it’s availability. When I find some good mix for my substrate I want al ingredients to be easely available. Nothing as frustrating as having a good mix of ingredients and than not find one, that is a habit I have kept from making carp fishing bait. This summer I did the same like you with most of my old substrate. Thank for your good explanation, very helpfully! Keep growing

  • @delatroy
    @delatroy Před 2 měsíci +1

    You buy all the products on Amazon or what are good bulk suppliers in Europe? Many thanks. Great video🙏

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 8 dny +1

      I get it all at gardencentres and hardware stores locally.

  • @patrickvossen8924
    @patrickvossen8924 Před rokem

    Dag Jelle, je maakt geweldige video’s. Kan je mij zeggen welke diameters van zeven je gebruikt en eventueel merk ? Alvast bedankt, Pat

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Ha Patrick, ik durf het niet te zeggen. Ik denk dat de zeef rond de 35cm doorsnede zal zijn. Gewoon een commercieel setje van een online winkel.

  • @emy1111
    @emy1111 Před rokem

    I think that the Japanese use their local soil so we should be able to as well. however volcanic soils are so good for bonsai, but there are artificial ones available like you mentioned.
    After doing many experiments, I also broke my soil down into 3 groups, with a choice of components within those groups. Reusing the substrate also works well fo me too... although I quite like this job compared to dealing with pests and diseases.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      You touched upon my core thinking initially: So coincidental that Bonsai was developed specifically in the country where Akadama is abundent :)

    • @KidMangaX
      @KidMangaX Před rokem +1

      Try doing that in a place with very poor soil quality, such as solid clay-- you will be very sad. Poor drainage and oxygenation.

  • @snoekhoek
    @snoekhoek Před rokem +2

    For the last couple of years I’m using a mix of zeolite and pinebark.
    Not bad so far.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Sounds like a winner. Do you have a reliable source for Zeolite? I have used pumice/zeolite mix once which was sold locally but am not sure I saw any differences.

    • @snoekhoek
      @snoekhoek Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai I haven’t used pumice, so I don’t know.
      But the zeolite doesn’t deteriorate as far as I can tell.
      But for sure it’s in no way as dusty as your mix! :-)

  • @ramboke911
    @ramboke911 Před rokem +1

    What do you think about cat litter Linda Moler combined with Vulkastrat en pine bark? It's basicly the same as your composition but pretty cheap.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      I think I have all three parts in my recycled bulk. Linda Molar is harder to come bylately, but is my source for diatomous earth :)

    • @BBsheepy
      @BBsheepy Před 11 měsíci

      Interesting, I've been using kitty litter for succulent, which basically clay I think... And they work really well!

  • @davidc9324
    @davidc9324 Před rokem

    Thankyou for the great video! I struggle with a good substrate in our climate. Our summers can be very dry therefore need a substrate that will retain water, perhaps a good coir base, however our winters are very wet and therefore require good drainage! Any suggestions?

    • @Yurup
      @Yurup Před rokem +2

      Depends, can you keep your trees dry during the winter or water alot in the summer? The one thing jelle doesnt mention is the 5th thing substrate needs to do and that is be suitible for the water giver.

    • @abydosianchulac2
      @abydosianchulac2 Před rokem +3

      Are you able to put anything semi-permeable over your pots at soil level that can help water run off in the winter time? Landscape fabric or the like?

    • @davidc9324
      @davidc9324 Před rokem +1

      Cannot water lots in summer as water is limited in supply. As for winter I could move them to my small greenhouse, however I have limited space and reserve greenhouse for plants that need protection from a winter chill! The suggestion of placing a material over the substrate to minimize water sounds like an excellent idea! Going to try that for the remainder of our winter! Thanks for the suggestion!

    • @rutgerw.
      @rutgerw. Před rokem +1

      @@Yurup Isn’t that why Jelle swiched from pine bark to coco husk, because it better suits the way he waters his plants?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hey David, I think all has been answered.. I have opted for an open light substrate that drains extremely well. In summer I water twice a day, with on the hottest day an automated irrigation spray midday. The coco stays wet A LOT longer than pine bark and is therefor good for drier climates I would say. I feel I may have over-edited the video a little to keep it sort of short.. The covering of (part of) the pots is something I do for some of my pines if we get lots of rain for weeks on end.

  • @mehranashkanian2747
    @mehranashkanian2747 Před rokem

    Hi. We have something like black sand . Think it's very small Granite granules
    It's black. It it for aeration or does it have any neutrintional value? Can you pls tell me if I need to use it in the mix or not necessary?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 11 měsíci

      I would see this really just as a pot filler without any beneficial qualities, except for weighing the pot down.

  • @henkh990
    @henkh990 Před rokem

    Beste Jesse, dank voor jouw video’s. In deze en ook in de laatste video zie ik dat je heel mooi fijn pine bark gebruikt. Waar kun je dat in in Nederland kopen? Ik heb dat nog nergens kunnen vinden. Groet Henk

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 11 měsíci

      Dag Henk, ik durf je niet te zeggen waar dat in Nederland verkocht wordt. Ik koop het in de bouwmarkt aan de andere kant van de stad, maar ik woon in Duitsland.

    • @henkh990
      @henkh990 Před 11 měsíci

      @@GrowingBonsai dag Jelle bedankt en nee in Nederlandse bouwmarkten alleen het grove spul. Dank voor je video’s succes! Grt Henk

  • @narayanbarailee9903
    @narayanbarailee9903 Před rokem +1

    I feel u are real.

  • @lovegardeningplants
    @lovegardeningplants Před 4 měsíci

    Hello Jelle I was just reading one of your articles about substrate on your Website. I think that you are suggesting to have 2mm size substrate in bonsai pots?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 4 měsíci

      I think it varies. I have VERY fine (1-2mm) leftovers which I use for cuttings & accents, but which might work for mame. For recently collected trees I use as coarse as I have (typically >1cm). And in between I have up to 5mm and over 5mm bracket. Depending on pot-size and whether I want the tree to be drier or wetter I use smaller or bigger particle sizes.

    • @lovegardeningplants
      @lovegardeningplants Před 4 měsíci

      @@GrowingBonsai Thankyou Jelle

    • @lovegardeningplants
      @lovegardeningplants Před 3 měsíci

      Can you do an accent plants video

  • @k.kees.9347
    @k.kees.9347 Před rokem

    Jelle Vraagje Waar kan ik de bims, lava en de organische substate hier in Nederland kopen. Verder duidelijke filmpjes Jij bedankt en groetjes Kees.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Dag Kees, ik durf het je niet te zeggen. Ik vrees dat ik nooit in Nederland bonsai spul koop

  • @kahve28
    @kahve28 Před rokem +1

    Thanks a lot Jelle! I live in NL and I’m not happy with akadama, it’s expensive and not good for our climate. However I have difficulty finding lava and fine pine bark in the market. Can you please share the brand names for your substrates, for lava, pine bark coco? I read all the comments, find out it’s seramis for clay but couldn’t find the brands for others. Thanks a lot.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      I use "bodengold" bark. Rigidur is the brand of blahton. And I use Bims which I get from bonsai dusseldorf, mostly.

    • @kahve28
      @kahve28 Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai thanks a lot for the reply 👍

  • @bejkee
    @bejkee Před 2 měsíci

    I wanted to ask, if you would be willing to share some brand names for the expanded shale. The only thing similar that I'm able to find here is the expanded clay balls, but not the ground clay matter. I am thinking some more direct information would be useful.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 8 dny

      I am afraid I do not really have that overview. I use rigidur if it helps?

  • @Wappie21
    @Wappie21 Před rokem

    Hi Jelle. Mag ik vragen wat je zou gebruiken voor esdoorns hier in Nederland?

  • @MarkusMh
    @MarkusMh Před rokem

    Thanks. 2 questions. Why do you ensure to have a lava component in your mix, what does it do that clay doesn't? Also did you see Appalachian Bonsai, they have a video covering this as well, testing different organic and inorganic substrates. Diatomaceous Earth came out on top for inorganic as far as I recall, is that what you use as well and if so shouldn't you be wearing a mask? DE is not good for the lungs.

    • @MarkusMh
      @MarkusMh Před rokem

      Oh yeah and happy newyears!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hi Markus, I had been using diatomous earth pure and it stayed too wet and I got algea building on the surface, which is why I mix it with the drier vulcanics. But yeah, diatomous earth has been my go-to for over a decade. I am using a mask when working with that stuff! Check the end of the video

    • @MarkusMh
      @MarkusMh Před rokem +1

      @@GrowingBonsai You were wearing a mask, my bad! I guess I will start mixing in some lava. I have been using DE + pine bark until now and have noticed green stuff on top, so I'll trust your experience and follow suit. Thanks for all the tips and advice.

  • @abydosianchulac2
    @abydosianchulac2 Před rokem

    Excellent! I'd been convinced you'd mentioned substrate components before but could never find it. Terrific overview here.
    One question I have: what do you gain from using both clay-based and volcanic materials? What properties does one group have that the other doesn't?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      I used to only use the diatomous earth, but found it stayed too wet too long. So been playing around a bit, and found the expanded shale to be much drier. Now that I have a decent source for pumice, it is ever becoming more and more core to my mix, but so ugly white!

    • @abydosianchulac2
      @abydosianchulac2 Před rokem

      ​​@@GrowingBonsai Actually, a follow-up question, Jelle. I can track what you're saying about how you use the three main sizes of substrate, but what about the remainder? After you winnow that lot to remove the sand and dust, what do you use those smallest particles for?

  • @vallvds
    @vallvds Před 4 měsíci

    Hi Jelle, what is your take on Seramis clay?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 4 měsíci

      I have been adding it to my most recent substrate blend as a replacement of diatomous earth, as this was hard to get for a bit. Works well in my opinion. I do hope to be prooven wrong some day but I am really wondering to what extent substrate components matter.

  • @yetanotherperson6436
    @yetanotherperson6436 Před rokem

    Love the video. The only problem is that I am new to bonsai and I don't know the ingredients you are using. It would be handy to see them spelt out. I can't quite catch what you are saying.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +2

      Pumice (bims), Expanded shale, pine bark, clay based (seramis) or diatomous earth are the key things I hit in the video if I recall correctly

    • @yetanotherperson6436
      @yetanotherperson6436 Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai Thank you. That's really helpful.

  • @hernandotorres1234
    @hernandotorres1234 Před 4 měsíci

    I like to use crushed pistachio/walnut/hazelnut/almond shells in my mix to add coarser "stuff". Of course crushing the shells when you've eaten the nuts is a pain in the neck.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 4 měsíci

      Do you crush by hand?

    • @hernandotorres1234
      @hernandotorres1234 Před 4 měsíci

      @@GrowingBonsai If I could do that Eddie Hall would never have held any powerlifting records.

  • @dimuthuharshana9602
    @dimuthuharshana9602 Před rokem

    ❤️❤️

  • @guybrusselaers3917
    @guybrusselaers3917 Před rokem

    I wonder if you buy the clayballs“seramis” crushed of you crushe them yourself or you use them as they are?
    For the rest: thumbs up!!

  • @kestane123chesmo
    @kestane123chesmo Před rokem

    does the clay group provide any nutrients at all ? if not, why not use more vokcanics, like pumice

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Not nutrients in itself. But clays are really good at temporarely binding nutrients

  • @fortyoddyears5295
    @fortyoddyears5295 Před 9 měsíci

    Perfect. Gotta find diatomaceous earth in pellets instead of powder now and no idea where to get volcanic pellets…..pet store?

  • @gronkotter
    @gronkotter Před rokem +1

    What substrate is good for dry climates? I never get frost or root rot, but I have intense sun & wind which dry everything out.

    • @Yurup
      @Yurup Před rokem

      Depends on the amount you can/want to water but you will want to add more water retaining soil then less dry climates. The rest is up to you and your experimentation.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      In dry, hot, windy climates often an higher percentage organics, such as cocos fibre or even sphagnum moss is used in the substrate. However, I would consider looking into shade netting and a wind-break to help a litlle. And of course.. Select species that do well in your climate, thyme, pines, junipers.

    • @gronkotter
      @gronkotter Před rokem

      @@GrowingBonsai Thanks! I did not know thyme could make nice bonsai. I mainly have figs, jades and Australian natives because they are tough.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      @@gronkotter so, in Australia? I hear trident maples do well too there.

  • @LeandroLinguidi
    @LeandroLinguidi Před rokem

    Hoi Jelle, leuke video, bedankt!
    Hoe heten deze producten in het Nederlands?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Hm.. Bims, boombast, kleikorrels bedoel je?

    • @LeandroLinguidi
      @LeandroLinguidi Před rokem

      Dat weet ik het niet@@GrowingBonsai ik woon hier, maar ik kom uit Argentinië, ik blijf nog een buitenlander!

  • @dkstott29
    @dkstott29 Před rokem

    My basic response is that beginners with only a few tree's should migrate towards commercially available bonsai mixes. A lot of the suggested individual substrates tend to be expensive to obtain. Perhaps when they have some knowledge, they can work on making their own mixtures.

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Probably location is important here. All these ingredient are dirt cheap -pun intended- here. My mix is less than half of the cost of commercial blends. But cost should not be the main concern. If you only have a handfull of trees, there is no sense in making your own mix as you would have substrate for a decade sitting there. Considerin I go through hundreds of liters of substrate each year..

  • @dirtysouthhc2936
    @dirtysouthhc2936 Před rokem

    How do you feel about spag Pete in lieu of Coco hair?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      spaghnum? Hard to source here. ALso big. And dangerous to your lungs.

  • @natrjack965
    @natrjack965 Před rokem

    My soul mix is mola clay ,pumice ,perlite, lava rock and pine bark ...

  • @daniel_do
    @daniel_do Před rokem

    If I were to buy 1 from every 3 categories what ratios should I use?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      I just dump them 1:1:1 together, typically. I always have some unmixed components to adjust substrate if I think it needs it but.. To me.. Substrate is made overly complex by many..

  • @hanskleinjan
    @hanskleinjan Před rokem +1

    Try stack seeving. It saves you a lot of energy 😇😎👌🏻🌹.

  • @bonsaitherapy1468
    @bonsaitherapy1468 Před 11 měsíci

    I reuse mine. No akadama at all. Mostly lava rock, perlite, regular garden soil and sandy grit. Summer is really hot and humid in New Jersey and cold in the winter. My trees are doing well with the coarse and organic mix...lol, and I also don't really care about percentages.

  • @JodyGrogu
    @JodyGrogu Před rokem

    Hoi Jelle, gelukkig en gezond 2023. Ik ga dit jaar mijn boompjes in substraat planten zonder akadama, ik ben benieuwd of ik verschil merk.

    • @scheers100
      @scheers100 Před rokem

      Zelf gebruik ik akadama (rond 50 procent)enkel nog voor mijn tropische planten/boompjes die binnenshuis komen in de winter. En meestal ook in kleine potten staan.Voor mijn buiten planten ga ik voorlopig voor lava steen, vulkaan steen,perlite en gewone potgrond(in ongeveer 30/30/30/10 verhouding). Voorlopig tevreden van, maar waarschijnlijk nog veel verbetering mogelijk. Veel succes met jou zoektocht naar jou ideale substraat!

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      Beste wensen! Laat je weten hoe het gaat?

  • @JesusChrist4ever
    @JesusChrist4ever Před rokem

    U forgot to mention how akadama is the best to produce ramification it definitely does have its pros n cons

  • @brucedeacon28
    @brucedeacon28 Před rokem +1

    👍👌🙂

  • @moot8107
    @moot8107 Před rokem

    Where is the sifter from?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem

      One of the best known online multinational stores :)

  • @fs6230
    @fs6230 Před 10 měsíci

    Zur Info, in Deutschland kannst du Seramis auch direkt mit Lava kaufen ;-) Grüße

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 10 měsíci

      Danke. Ich verwende aber kein lava im mischung

  • @Riverangler78
    @Riverangler78 Před rokem

    Dag Jelle..ik zoek mij scheel naar fijn dennen schors. Weet jij waar ik dit kan bestellen of krijgen?

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před rokem +1

      Dit haal ik n de bouwmarkt bij ons, en find ik prettig spul: www.amazon.de/Bodengold-PINIEN-DEKOR-Pinienrinde-Rindenmulch/dp/B087QLB1NM/

  • @smack09
    @smack09 Před 11 měsíci

    Back breaking work sifting through all the grades.. Seeing all the dust and super fines fall through the big grader thinkin, Ill be sifting through you another 3-4 times..

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 10 měsíci

      Yeah, I have been thinking a lot how to do this better but.. none found.

  • @angry9901
    @angry9901 Před 11 měsíci

    You deserve a 🍺

  • @niccat7051
    @niccat7051 Před 5 měsíci

    I’m leaving a comment 😅

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you so much. I am leaving a response!

  • @onizukateacher7992
    @onizukateacher7992 Před rokem

    ZEOLITE BLUE AND/Or BROWN. + POMICE . less pollution + € + QUALITY .

  • @thepoppunx
    @thepoppunx Před 6 měsíci

    i live on a very hot tropical area, akadama and kiriu are not the best for my tropical trees... they grow naturaly on a very organic and fertile soil... so its not the best to use 100% inorganic substrate... i use 70% minileca or similar and 30% Worm·Humus... i try to use a a soil that matches the soil you could naturaly find in nature for each species, but taking care of the drainage...

  • @ogt62
    @ogt62 Před rokem

    Sure you deserved a shower--and hopefully a cold one 😉.

  • @mzondi1970
    @mzondi1970 Před 10 dny

    Anyway you can put a list of the things you use some of your language is hard for me to understand with your accent that is

  • @Viking-ep7yg
    @Viking-ep7yg Před rokem +1

    No finally...

  • @ayehodgy5675
    @ayehodgy5675 Před 10 měsíci

    theres no such thing as the best everyone lives in completely different environments and have different trees

    • @GrowingBonsai
      @GrowingBonsai  Před 10 měsíci

      I would recommend watching the video, and pay attention to the conclusion at 9:55