193/5000 It's sad to know that. I love your videos, love the way you collect and take care of bonsai. You are the one who inspired me to play bonsai. From Vietnam with love!
"It's not always easy". It's literally never easy, it takes months to see if what you did had any effect, decades to complete a project. I've raised children with less effort than tending three bonsai trees.
I have watched many videos of Bonsai propagation: these are far and away the best presented. No frills: no "fat": all lean! Intelligent, straightforward and easy to follow - unlike some of the self-indulgent nonsense on some sites! The narrative and the filming have the most important thing: clarity and a good store of knowledge. Very well done!
It's not easy to show weakness, and I almost didn't show it, but as I commented just a second ago, this happens to all of us at some point. I don't think it would be fair to say that it's all fun & games & easy, because it most certainly isn't. Hope you were able to get some good ones despite the difficulties. I was in Utah around two years ago for business, but in awe of the mountains and trees and the like. Sorta jealous you got to dig & I didn't!
I enjoyed watching you dig out that tree. That was an old established tree and knew it would be hard to excavate. I smiled at the hard work you put into the chore. I would have given up but you stuck to it. Good for you!
I had forgotten about this video. Is I almost a quintessential field dug video showing what really happens. I love the the Appalachian woods and look forward to getting back in them after a little knee surgery. Until them, I am living vicariously through your videos. Thanks so much, Steve
I love gardening, i love to make bonsai and i am learning about it more and more each day since i was 9years old.. now m 22.. u are fantastic and thank you for your contribution to my knowledge of bonsai. Hope i would learn more from you. All the best.
The persimmon reminds me of my jasmine. The 30 year old jasmine was part of a jasmine hedge around the back of a house I bought in North Palm Beach, FL. It took two years of pruning beforehand and 2 days of root cutting to wrest it from the hedge. After five years training in upright, root over rock I was pleased with it. I moved to Washington DC and gave the tree to a gardener in St Augustine FL who had admired it.
This feels so antithetical to the practice of bonsai cultivation... I could feel your impatience and frustration, and I wouldn't be surprised if the tree could too. I haven't seen your more recent videos, but I wish you well on your process.
Thats what Bonsai is all about man! Gettin dirty and working hard sometimes.. I know EXACTLY the feeling when it looks easy but it's hours of work gettin' that sweet yamadori... Some swedish steel (Husqvarna) and some american powerwill made it!
I've been watching your videos for a while. Great job. I'm exhausted from the work and frustration that went into collecting this tree. Really can't wait to see what you have planned for your new haul
I've only two more collection videos for this year - a hawthorn and a white pine. There will probably be a few other videos spread in between; I'll be describing soil mixtures, collection ethics, bonsai failures, and a few others. Thank you for continuing to support the channel, Delores!
Now this is a Persimmon of substance, love the bark and you have the makings of a stunning tree and as its an old tree, flowering and fruiting should be quick. Look forward to the updates.
Thank you, Mr. Kahn! We have several trees on the property, but all of them are so large, I didn't think I'd find anything suitable until I happened upon this. Even still, we shall see if it bears fruit or flowers only. They're so pretty - until they're ugly, then they're tasty! I'd be happy to send you seeds from some of the others, as they're bound to bear fruit sooner than this. Not sure how customs views seeds, but if no issue, I'll forward them on! Cheers
I just received my first bonsai for my birthday. I wanted to do it right, so I binged watched UA-cam videos for a couple of days. I came across this one by accident. Not only is Appalachia my favorite place on Earth, I loved your dedication to living art. This video was an inspiration, though I won't be going into the woods and digging out stumps ;-), but I'm somewhat sadistically happy that you are. Thanks.
Thanks for your videos, I started collecting trees from my property to begin learning Bonsai, it has always interested me, and videos like yours really help Take care Rob
This a very honest example of how collecting trees from the wild can sometimes be. You did really well to remain calm and get the tree out, the fact that it didn't survive is irrelevant, you tried your best for a tree that could never have thrived left where it was. I'm looking foreword to more Yamadori videos this spring but would also love to see some more of your development techniques too. Thanks for your hard work
I have been pursuing bonsai in my mind for years. I am about to take the plunge and try starting a tree. I have been growing an evergreen in my yard for a few years and looks to be my first project. Thank you for all of the knowledge you share in these videos. Peace&Love!
You've inspired me! I live on the edge of a MO Ozark mountain and there are all kinds of possibilities I've realized...right here in my own back yard! Thanks!
I haven't finished the video, just saw your comment about the tree dying. You deserve a like and my subscription, just for your dedication, hard work and passion. Truly enjoyable video 👍🏻
Hi.. I really appreciate the effort you made on collecting that tree..As a beginner i really understand how these beautiful Bonsai trees are crated with lots of effort..Great work..Looking forward to see the tree in future...
The little punk... That's Taboo. She and her sister Ace own this place. You raise them from pups, give them all the love and attention, pay their bills, and let them run free, and look how they repay you. Pffft! Dogs!
Hey, I thought she was adorable. Heck, you're already collecting bonsai with a chainsaw, an ATV, in the Appalachian mountains, off your rural mountain property -- having your cattle dog stroll through the picture is just icing on the cake. And, yes, I noticed them patiently, OHH SO PATIENTLY sitting in the background while you were trying to dig out the persimmon, day after day..... :D
I love this video. It's got met excited to collect some material of my own. I really appreciate the story behind these trees too. I can't wait to see what you do with them in a couple of years when you repot and / or wire some of them.
Well I can't be entirely agree with Yamadori. And I say "entirely", because I collected a couple of trees my self, but they where (two Mimosa trees), from a really small hole between to cobblestones in the city, so they weren't gonna live too much there. And another one from directly bellow important electricity lines, where they don't let the trees get big because of security, so they couldn't get too old neither. But from the nature, I don't think I agree to take a tree from there. I respect what you do, but I think there are a bunch other ways to get a bonsai. And they are totally fun too.
I can agree with you there. In many ways, collecting is a bad idea, especially when it exploits rare and important species. I know that the theft of olive trees has been a major problem, and therefore illegal in many countries. I don't think they were all heading for bonsai places, but it doesn't matter, it's wrong. The trees I've collected are very common and often considered 'trash' species. But, does that make it right? Not necessarily. I've been collecting ideas for a video, and it's become so large that it will become a small series of videos discussing the ethics of collecting trees. As far as urban collecting, I'm all for it, as long as permissions are obtained. Trees in the city and sidewalks have very few chances to live long, whereas if they're cared for, as they are in bonsai, they'll outlive us. I value your input, and I hope you stick around for the videos, my friend! Thanks!
Of course I 'll stick around. I like your videos. I love your small Juniper, the one you use to make the video "How to Winterize Your Bonsai". Couldn't get the type of Juniper is though. About Yamadori, my concern is that there are some people that just don't have that limit to think about protected species, or inappropriate environments for trees to live. I can't wait to see that series of videos about collecting trees. I'll be there taking part of the discussion ;). Thanks to you for your work!
Yamadori are collected with the intent to keep the tree alive, not to destroy it. A collected tree has as much chance of living as a seedling does if taken care of properly. Do you consider a person who collects a seed from the tree a thief? If they plant that seed,and it dies, is that person also a tree killer? My house is made of dead trees. The bridge I cross to get to my house is made of dead trees, as is the paper I write on to pay the bills for it. We are all tree killers, you & I both. Mankind wouldn't be very far without them. If you don't believe that, go live under a rock and stop eating.
Pfft, tree killer my ass. There is a great bonsai saying "if you aren't killing trees, you aren't doing bonsai". And it's absolutely true. You have to kill some to get the special ones.
I agree that bonsai artists kill loads of trees (I have), but we (or at least I) live in a place where red maples and hornbeams and eastern white pines are plentiful with little chance of extinction in the near future. However, it's illegal in many countries (especially the mediterranean where I think @stampuhhSC is from) because tree theft is a major problem. 2500-year-old olive trees planted by the Romans are being dug up to sell to rich clients. That's cultural heritage - and that sucks! Most of these guys don't even know how to keep it alive, and therefore, 'Yamadori = Tree killer." I get it. If someone were to get onto my land and steal my ginseng and my lady slippers, they'd be leaving with a few holes in their clothes and some salt in their legs. It's a damned shame that some people exploit their surroundings for quick cash and trophies, as it ruins it for those with good intentions. I believe I was on a hot-streak when the initial comment was made, and for that I'm at fault for my rudeness. But, I'm still up for tree collecting. I just think there's a reasonable balance that needs to be found. I've an ethics video series that should 'hopefully be started by the end of July that can start a further discussion on it. Keep tabbed, John. I want to hear your side, too. That's what this is for!
Yeah that is reprehensible when people steal trees and especially important trees. Or when some meth head burns down an ancient, priceless and beautiful tree it is devastating. Methusale got burned down. The US Forest Service keeps location of special trees secret (like 5000 year old Bristlecone pines in California or wherever they are I forget at moment). I always plant a young sapling or two in the area of where I take a Yamadori.
Love this! I've got an Elm on our lot that's at the corner of an out building and every time I think about what a beautiful Bonsai it could be my brain thinks about how hard it's going to be to get it out. The stump is about 5" wide and about as high and it's lush with new growth. The people that take care of the yardwork (we rent) cut it back every year. I'm seriously thinking about digging out as much as I can then pulling it out with a come-along since it's right up against a cinderblock wall.
Wait until next spring, since now isn't a very good time for collecting. But, if it's going to waste and you're still around then, give it a try. If you lose it, there's isn't much loss other than some hard work and pride. Happens to us all from time to time. If you're new to bonsai, then I'll suggest this: While you're waiting until spring, read up some more on bonsai, catch a few more vids, especially the next few I do, since they concern collecting ethics and soil. I think it's important. Learn as much as you can. If you're already feeling pretty seasoned with caring for bonsai, then go for it. Great luck!
Yep. Every year I forget to do it. So far I've killed everything I've collected, though I've had a Ficus b. that's 30y old now and cuttings from it (if you can fall a ficus a Bonsai), plus a Crimson Queen Maple I'm training.
I think ficus are absolutely good for bonsai. I've seen several amazing ones. Maples are also a sweet choice. There's another video I need to do that discuss what to do after collection, because I only briefly mention what else needs to happen and why. I'll try to get that by September or before.
I gave up on my first persimmon collection this spring at around the 2 min mark for you haha so glad I didn't continue down that rabbit hole without the proper equipment
I searched for Bonsai and found your channel, so interesting, I can see why that guy in Scotland gets tired watching you lol Thanks for sharing all the best Steve
Sam!! What's up, brother!! I am having fun. Happy you found it. Maybe one of these days we'll bump into each other in some place that's actually social!
This makes my winch-pulling technique look easy. Sorry the tree did not make it, but not for a lack of busting your hump. Thanks for the video. Very nicely produced.
Excellent! Next video should be from my Tampa trip to Artisans Bonsai, but another collection shouldn't be far behind. I've another hawthorn and a pine to show. Oh, editing... why do you take so much time!!
Sometime your voice reminds me of the dude from dirty jobs. Great job on your videos. Relaxing. Makes me wanna go in these Tennessee mountains and find some.
Keep us informed on the persimmon tree. To my untrained eye, I would have been afraid to do the surgery that you did. But it seems to have worked. Thanks for the vid.
I'll keep you informed. You, like everyone else, knows that this was a complicated and potential disaster. It's still on the fence. There will be an update in the fall.
it was really good video and it shows the hard work for a heavy , difficult yamadori . Keep on the good work and keep your eyes open for the next good one
your dedication for this one is tremendous....hope it bears fruit. :) its very entertaining to see the process of collecting to potting and see some ray of hope for the tree... what trees can survive collecting without root balls?
Deciduous trees are really the only ones that can be collected this way. Conifers like pine & juniper will not survive it. But even so, it's never a guarantee, especially for this persimmon. Persimmons don't like root pruning. For those that have roots, it's best to repot them in the fall time. I took this one in the spring knowing there would be few roots remaining to sustain it through the winter. I just didn't know to what extent until I dug it up. The best trees I've found that take to the hard cutting have been hawthorn, privet, and viburnum. My other species have done just fine, too. Still, I lost a really nice privet this year that had good roots, while a cutting I took from it with absolutely no roots is thriving. I'll be showing a pine with lots of roots that's doing well, plus a video showing trees that didn't make it. Dead trees are a natural, albeit humbling, part of bonsai. 'You water some, you prune some, you repot some, you kill some.'
great video..when some thing starts to become a little stress full and you start to question to stop or continue, in the end of completing the task I like to yell at it "I WIN YEAH I WIN" makes me feel better. haha
Hello from Boone. I have enjoyed all your videos and thank you for sharing. Do you harvest trees past spring time. I have had success with smaller trees living through the transplant during spring/summer time but I'm wanting to start collecting larger trees like the ones in your videos. Thanks again, you keep posting, I'll keep watching!
Boone is beautiful! If you haven't yet, get over to Asheville and check out the arboretum. Arthur has an amazing collection there. I have collected after spring with mixed success, so I don't do it anymore. If someone is doing landscaping and taking out trees, or there's construction going on that uproots material, I'd go for it. Personally, I'd hold off on collecting after spring. Autumn is the other accepted time, because this is one of the strongest seasons for roots to grow, but it can still be tricky. Temperatures can still fluctuate up and ruin a specimen. Even if repotting, most recommend slip-potting only - no root prune. That's not to say it can't work. Even Walter Pall has mentioned collecting a tree in the heat of summer, simply because he couldn't let it pass by. But Walter is also a bonsai master, and he's so tuned in with the trees, he knows what he can & can't do at what particular times.
Liked the video alot. I think i would have said a few bad words along the way. But i like the tree. I hope i can find something nice in my woods in southern Appalachian mountains in GA. Ive learned a lot from you and others. I appreciate the time and effort you put in. Thanks. SDR
I said all the words. Take a look around when you're walking, mark the ones you believe you can collect, and give it a try this spring. Keep your eye out for some pitch pines (Pinus rigida), they can do very well as bonsai, though with some different requirements than deciduous. More like a Japanese black pine. I've an eastern pine video coming up in August. Hope it's helpful for you. Thanks @Sherry_Rogers!
great work buddy. the humor kills it.. any videos on how to shape the branches and make it more look older miniature tree... and why ( brushing the trunk for.. ) TIA
Just posted a video to give a little progression advice on a different tree, with more of those type vids to come. I brushed the trunk to get rid of the moss.
I just found your UA-cam channel and this is the second of your videos I’ve seen. Sorry to hear that tree died. I’ve heard other dog around a tree and put sphagnum moss in and water it regularly to grow new and fine roots next to the trunk. Hope you can find another nice tree like that and have better luck.
Oh good lord, i understand the work you've been trough with this one! Digging something like that is a hell of a job, i hope all the work will pay off in a few years! Keep up!
Really enjoyed this video, thank you, I’m currently attempting to pot up a 20yr old hawthorn that my brother brought home from work while doing a fencing job, I really can relate to this video 👍
Dang dude! What a marathon! So sorry to hear that it didn't make it through the summer. What do you think did it in? Too much damage? Not enough roots left?
I believe that's it. Really big cuts with little root. When I first started, I thought I had lots of good surface roots, only to find none. By the time I found out nothing was there, I knew it would definitely die if I left it. Might as well continue and give it a good chance. It just didn't have enough to continue. And, it's a difficult species to boot. If it had been a maple, crepe myrtle, or hornbeam, it may have been a different story. They root very quickly, whereas persimmon is known to be persnickety.
I loved this video, I know in a later video that you note how the tree died. That reminded me that persimmons are one of those trees that do not transplant well. I once had a persimmon tree that I had multi-grafted (non-bonsai), but when I transplanted it I lost the tree.
The more I've researched, the more I see my mistakes. You're right, persimmons are persnickety! They say transplanting is better in the fall than spring. Another day...
Certainly. I mostly use a 50-50 mix of fired clay and diatomic earth. The fired clay I use is called Turface, often used on baseball fields. You should be able to find it or an equivalent at a good landscape/garden/farm supply store. Expanded/fired shale is readily found in NC, as it's manufactured there in Salisbury (Stalite PermaTill) I like the color of it better than the Turface, but I either have to drive there or have it shipped. The diatomic/diatomaceous earth is the main ingredient in cat litter and oil spill clean-up. I use NAPA Auto #8822 or Oil-Dri, whichever is most available when I'm buying. I sift them with screens to a size of 2mm-6mm (1/16"-1/4"). I get the most use out of the NAPA product & Turface. I'll be doing a video soon to describe different soil additives and properties, my combinations, and why. I hope it will be helpful.
Hi there ! Hope it fruits in the future, you have now the base of an excellent future tree that will payoff the effort ! thanks a lot for sharing again! you are the best ! Regards from Argentina Btw the land where you live is a dream !
Looks cool man. We are digging tomorrow in a place called Klipheuwel, which means stone hill. You can just imagine. My best advice for yamadori is take bigger tools than you think you need, and do as much digging around the tree as possible to make space for working with saws or heavy duty pruners. My chainsaw went to yamadori heaven. Lol
So jealous of your beautiful property! Collecting is the most fun part of bonsai for me. Too bad this one died...been there (many times) done that. In fact I have a video of just one of my prized trees burning in my fire pit. But enough about me. YOU, my friend, are inspiring...love your explanations about how the sugars feed the branches and help grow the roots...oh, yeah, it died. Oh well, you're a youngster and have so much time left to grow more stuff! I used to live in Virginia before retiring to Florida. I miss the rolling hills...your place looks great. Thanks for the work you do!
This tree died. You can see full details about it in the Fall Update 2017. Right about the 6 minute mark.
I woulda been shocked if it lived.
193/5000
It's sad to know that. I love your videos, love the way you collect and take care of bonsai. You are the one who inspired me to play bonsai. From Vietnam with love!
:(
:( love your videos man
Appalachian Bonsai fall update 2017
"It's not always easy". It's literally never easy, it takes months to see if what you did had any effect, decades to complete a project. I've raised children with less effort than tending three bonsai trees.
I have watched many videos of Bonsai propagation: these are far and away the best presented. No frills: no "fat": all lean! Intelligent, straightforward and easy to follow - unlike some of the self-indulgent nonsense on some sites! The narrative and the filming have the most important thing: clarity and a good store of knowledge. Very well done!
I love that you said "you really start to question if this was a good idea... then you keep going" thats a great motto to live life by lol
I had a difficult experience collecting a few weeks ago in Utah USA. I really enjoy your work. Thanks for showing the frustrating side of our passion.
It's not easy to show weakness, and I almost didn't show it, but as I commented just a second ago, this happens to all of us at some point. I don't think it would be fair to say that it's all fun & games & easy, because it most certainly isn't. Hope you were able to get some good ones despite the difficulties. I was in Utah around two years ago for business, but in awe of the mountains and trees and the like. Sorta jealous you got to dig & I didn't!
+Appalachian Bonsai Yes, thanks for keeping it real, showing the good and bad aspects
Entertaining for sure....I could actually feel the frustration during the removal of that tree.
I enjoyed watching you dig out that tree. That was an old established tree and knew it would be hard to excavate. I smiled at the hard work you put into the chore. I would have given up but you stuck to it. Good for you!
I probably should have given up & let it be. Lesson learned. Thanks for watching!
Also, it's nice to see that I might not be the only person that hunts for deer and new bonsai trees at the same time. :)
YESSS!!
Hunting sheds and bonsai material is even better!
I had forgotten about this video. Is I almost a quintessential field dug video showing what really happens. I love the the Appalachian woods and look forward to getting back in them after a little knee surgery. Until them, I am living vicariously through your videos. Thanks so much, Steve
Heal up, man!
I love gardening, i love to make bonsai and i am learning about it more and more each day since i was 9years old.. now m 22.. u are fantastic and thank you for your contribution to my knowledge of bonsai. Hope i would learn more from you. All the best.
Number plz
The persimmon reminds me of my jasmine. The 30 year old jasmine was part of a jasmine hedge around the back of a house I bought in North Palm Beach, FL. It took two years of pruning beforehand and 2 days of root cutting to wrest it from the hedge. After five years training in upright, root over rock I was pleased with it. I moved to Washington DC and gave the tree to a gardener in St Augustine FL who had admired it.
That's a great story!
Great video, well presented and I love the subtle humour "fist shake at your dog cutting into the scene" and your explanation as you go is great.
Perfect summary of bonsai. Patience, dedication and sometimes frustration.
All three in one shot!
This feels so antithetical to the practice of bonsai cultivation... I could feel your impatience and frustration, and I wouldn't be surprised if the tree could too. I haven't seen your more recent videos, but I wish you well on your process.
Thats what Bonsai is all about man! Gettin dirty and working hard sometimes.. I know EXACTLY the feeling when it looks easy but it's hours of work gettin' that sweet yamadori... Some swedish steel (Husqvarna) and some american powerwill made it!
Whew! Happy it's in the pot, and love my Husqi stuff!
I've been watching your videos for a while. Great job. I'm exhausted from the work and frustration that went into collecting this tree. Really can't wait to see what you have planned for your new haul
I've only two more collection videos for this year - a hawthorn and a white pine. There will probably be a few other videos spread in between; I'll be describing soil mixtures, collection ethics, bonsai failures, and a few others. Thank you for continuing to support the channel, Delores!
Now this is a Persimmon of substance, love the bark and you have the makings of a stunning tree and as its an old tree, flowering and fruiting should be quick. Look forward to the updates.
Thank you, Mr. Kahn! We have several trees on the property, but all of them are so large, I didn't think I'd find anything suitable until I happened upon this. Even still, we shall see if it bears fruit or flowers only. They're so pretty - until they're ugly, then they're tasty! I'd be happy to send you seeds from some of the others, as they're bound to bear fruit sooner than this. Not sure how customs views seeds, but if no issue, I'll forward them on! Cheers
Thanks you for getting back.
I just received my first bonsai for my birthday. I wanted to do it right, so I binged watched UA-cam videos for a couple of days. I came across this one by accident. Not only is Appalachia my favorite place on Earth, I loved your dedication to living art. This video was an inspiration, though I won't be going into the woods and digging out stumps ;-), but I'm somewhat sadistically happy that you are. Thanks.
Thanks for your videos, I started collecting trees from my property to begin learning Bonsai, it has always interested me, and videos like yours really help
Take care
Rob
Excellent to see you're giving it a shot. I wish you the very best of luck, and I hope that the videos continue to help and inspire!
Don't fucking do that, if you love nature go and get new ones and work on that
This a very honest example of how collecting trees from the wild can sometimes be. You did really well to remain calm and get the tree out, the fact that it didn't survive is irrelevant, you tried your best for a tree that could never have thrived left where it was. I'm looking foreword to more Yamadori videos this spring but would also love to see some more of your development techniques too. Thanks for your hard work
Love that video. Reminds me of collecting with a friend in Korea. Sorry to hear it didn't make it.
I have been pursuing bonsai in my mind for years. I am about to take the plunge and try starting a tree. I have been growing an evergreen in my yard for a few years and looks to be my first project. Thank you for all of the knowledge you share in these videos.
Peace&Love!
I’m surprised that was enough root for survival, glad it worked.
Wow, that was a lot of work and frustrations. I'm glad that the tree didn't die :)
You've inspired me! I live on the edge of a MO Ozark mountain and there are all kinds of possibilities I've realized...right here in my own back yard! Thanks!
I haven't finished the video, just saw your comment about the tree dying. You deserve a like and my subscription, just for your dedication, hard work and passion. Truly enjoyable video 👍🏻
Love it!
"This tree's not out of the woods yet".. I see what you did there
Hi.. I really appreciate the effort you made on collecting that tree..As a beginner i really understand how these beautiful Bonsai trees are crated with lots of effort..Great work..Looking forward to see the tree in future...
Thanks, Shanara! More to happen soon!
Great story, editing and humour :-) I loved the fact that you showed an update after the tree recovered ! Cheers 🍻
Definitely, Vinny! I'm still looking forward to seeing your documentary on pot design.
Great video, very informative. So funny at 6:45 when "spot" cuts in front of the camera and you get mad!!!
The little punk... That's Taboo. She and her sister Ace own this place. You raise them from pups, give them all the love and attention, pay their bills, and let them run free, and look how they repay you. Pffft! Dogs!
Hey, I thought she was adorable. Heck, you're already collecting bonsai with a chainsaw, an ATV, in the Appalachian mountains, off your rural mountain property -- having your cattle dog stroll through the picture is just icing on the cake. And, yes, I noticed them patiently, OHH SO PATIENTLY sitting in the background while you were trying to dig out the persimmon, day after day..... :D
Hard work my friend, but definitly worth!
Yes, indeed my friend!! It's still not a guarantee to survive, but it's got a good a chance as any. If I make it through autumn, I'll feel great!
Good lucky bro.
Hanks for this! I've been wanting to create my own bonsai for YEARS and never quite been successful. I'm learning so much from watching so thanks!
You're very welcome! You can try this on material bought at a local nursery or collect one from your yard. I wish you success this spring!
and this is why i chose tiny trees to collect... not enough tool and im weak ahah
Tiny trees are still beautiful trees, and weak trees can become strong. You got this, Haley!
Thanks, you have some nice collected trees I can't wait to see how you transform them into bonsai
Penticton BC Canada here. Love your channel. Wished I would have found this sooner. Keep up the great work!
Thanks!
thanks for the video
Thank you for watching!
I love this video. It's got met excited to collect some material of my own. I really appreciate the story behind these trees too. I can't wait to see what you do with them in a couple of years when you repot and / or wire some of them.
fun episode^^
Thanks, Tribute!
Had an interest in cultivating natives for awhile, glad to be here. Subbed
Excellent. I love natives - I don't really have any big issues with them. And they over-winter really really well
Well I can't be entirely agree with Yamadori. And I say "entirely", because I collected a couple of trees my self, but they where (two Mimosa trees), from a really small hole between to cobblestones in the city, so they weren't gonna live too much there. And another one from directly bellow important electricity lines, where they don't let the trees get big because of security, so they couldn't get too old neither.
But from the nature, I don't think I agree to take a tree from there. I respect what you do, but I think there are a bunch other ways to get a bonsai. And they are totally fun too.
I can agree with you there. In many ways, collecting is a bad idea, especially when it exploits rare and important species. I know that the theft of olive trees has been a major problem, and therefore illegal in many countries. I don't think they were all heading for bonsai places, but it doesn't matter, it's wrong. The trees I've collected are very common and often considered 'trash' species. But, does that make it right? Not necessarily. I've been collecting ideas for a video, and it's become so large that it will become a small series of videos discussing the ethics of collecting trees.
As far as urban collecting, I'm all for it, as long as permissions are obtained. Trees in the city and sidewalks have very few chances to live long, whereas if they're cared for, as they are in bonsai, they'll outlive us. I value your input, and I hope you stick around for the videos, my friend! Thanks!
Of course I 'll stick around. I like your videos. I love your small Juniper, the one you use to make the video "How to Winterize Your Bonsai". Couldn't get the type of Juniper is though.
About Yamadori, my concern is that there are some people that just don't have that limit to think about protected species, or inappropriate environments for trees to live.
I can't wait to see that series of videos about collecting trees. I'll be there taking part of the discussion ;).
Thanks to you for your work!
Well said!
I love Yamadori, have absolutely no problem with it.
I don't see a problem as long as he plants another tree at its place.
What a super video. Anxious to see the outcome in future years. Thanks for capturing the agony for us.
No worries, Steve! I'll let everyone know as the months and years go by.
No yamadori please
I have several videos coming up that aren't about yamadori, but there are still two more to show this year, probably late summer/early fall.
Way more yamadori please
Great video! Love the humor! One of the most entertaining bonsai videos I've seen yet! Looking forward to seeing updates!
Yamadori = Tree killer
Yamadori are collected with the intent to keep the tree alive, not to destroy it. A collected tree has as much chance of living as a seedling does if taken care of properly. Do you consider a person who collects a seed from the tree a thief? If they plant that seed,and it dies, is that person also a tree killer? My house is made of dead trees. The bridge I cross to get to my house is made of dead trees, as is the paper I write on to pay the bills for it. We are all tree killers, you & I both. Mankind wouldn't be very far without them. If you don't believe that, go live under a rock and stop eating.
Pfft, tree killer my ass. There is a great bonsai saying "if you aren't killing trees, you aren't doing bonsai". And it's absolutely true. You have to kill some to get the special ones.
I agree that bonsai artists kill loads of trees (I have), but we (or at least I) live in a place where red maples and hornbeams and eastern white pines are plentiful with little chance of extinction in the near future. However, it's illegal in many countries (especially the mediterranean where I think @stampuhhSC is from) because tree theft is a major problem. 2500-year-old olive trees planted by the Romans are being dug up to sell to rich clients. That's cultural heritage - and that sucks! Most of these guys don't even know how to keep it alive, and therefore, 'Yamadori = Tree killer." I get it. If someone were to get onto my land and steal my ginseng and my lady slippers, they'd be leaving with a few holes in their clothes and some salt in their legs. It's a damned shame that some people exploit their surroundings for quick cash and trophies, as it ruins it for those with good intentions. I believe I was on a hot-streak when the initial comment was made, and for that I'm at fault for my rudeness. But, I'm still up for tree collecting. I just think there's a reasonable balance that needs to be found. I've an ethics video series that should 'hopefully be started by the end of July that can start a further discussion on it. Keep tabbed, John. I want to hear your side, too. That's what this is for!
Yeah that is reprehensible when people steal trees and especially important trees. Or when some meth head burns down an ancient, priceless and beautiful tree it is devastating. Methusale got burned down. The US Forest Service keeps location of special trees secret (like 5000 year old Bristlecone pines in California or wherever they are I forget at moment). I always plant a young sapling or two in the area of where I take a Yamadori.
Don't like killing trees? Try wiping off our ass with plastic bags.
Sou do Brasil e estou muito agradecido pelo cuidado em inserir legendas! Belo vídeo!
Obrigado a você e ao Brasil pelo amor e apoio que você me mostrou !!
Love this!
I've got an Elm on our lot that's at the corner of an out building and every time I think about what a beautiful Bonsai it could be my brain thinks about how hard it's going to be to get it out. The stump is about 5" wide and about as high and it's lush with new growth. The people that take care of the yardwork (we rent) cut it back every year. I'm seriously thinking about digging out as much as I can then pulling it out with a come-along since it's right up against a cinderblock wall.
Wait until next spring, since now isn't a very good time for collecting. But, if it's going to waste and you're still around then, give it a try. If you lose it, there's isn't much loss other than some hard work and pride. Happens to us all from time to time. If you're new to bonsai, then I'll suggest this: While you're waiting until spring, read up some more on bonsai, catch a few more vids, especially the next few I do, since they concern collecting ethics and soil. I think it's important. Learn as much as you can. If you're already feeling pretty seasoned with caring for bonsai, then go for it. Great luck!
Yep. Every year I forget to do it. So far I've killed everything I've collected, though I've had a Ficus b. that's 30y old now and cuttings from it (if you can fall a ficus a Bonsai), plus a Crimson Queen Maple I'm training.
I think ficus are absolutely good for bonsai. I've seen several amazing ones. Maples are also a sweet choice. There's another video I need to do that discuss what to do after collection, because I only briefly mention what else needs to happen and why. I'll try to get that by September or before.
I gave up on my first persimmon collection this spring at around the 2 min mark for you haha so glad I didn't continue down that rabbit hole without the proper equipment
I probably should have quit day 1. Better luck to us both next time around!
It's really good effort to bring almost dead trees into life. Appreciated.
I searched for Bonsai and found your channel, so interesting, I can see why that guy in Scotland gets tired watching you lol
Thanks for sharing
all the best
Steve
i have a new fav bonsai channel. very cool. nothing beats some hard working and awesome bonsai collecting
You have a lot of patience, dedication and love for what you are doing...I will subscribe..definitely!
Thanks, Annie! Hope to see more of your comments in future videos!
Your hard work has really paid off...
I'm going to start my hunt because I now have an appreciation for downed trees thanks to you.
Just make sure you wait until spring to dig. Good luck!
Your dedication is admirable! Keep on doing what your doing. Gob bless.
Thanks, gary b!!
Hey Ben!!! Sam Jones here. Happened to stumble across your channel. Looks like you're having fun.
Sam!! What's up, brother!! I am having fun. Happy you found it. Maybe one of these days we'll bump into each other in some place that's actually social!
This makes my winch-pulling technique look easy. Sorry the tree did not make it, but not for a lack of busting your hump. Thanks for the video. Very nicely produced.
You deserve a new subscriber for all that hard work. very much appreciated...
This is frigging hysterical... and brilliant. Wonderful.
Looking forward to see any updates on this.
I did a basic update in the Fall 2017 update. It died, and I give the reasons why. Very ambitious, but some things were overlooked on my part.
Love your videos and I can't wait for the next bonsai you're going to tackle.
Excellent! Next video should be from my Tampa trip to Artisans Bonsai, but another collection shouldn't be far behind. I've another hawthorn and a pine to show. Oh, editing... why do you take so much time!!
Znakomity film , pod każdym względem pomocny. / ...można było się nawet uśmiechnąć /
Cieszę się, że mi się podobało! Uśmiechnij się do ciebie!
I'm just getting started in bonsai. I love it so far. I have lots to learn but I'm excited. Thanks for this video. It was helpful.
You're welcome, Broseph!
Impressive work. Glad I came across your UA-cam channel! Have a blessed day.
Sometime your voice reminds me of the dude from dirty jobs. Great job on your videos. Relaxing. Makes me wanna go in these Tennessee mountains and find some.
I'll take that compliment. Good luck this spring if you do!
Keep us informed on the persimmon tree. To my untrained eye, I would have been afraid to do the surgery that you did. But it seems to have worked. Thanks for the vid.
I'll keep you informed. You, like everyone else, knows that this was a complicated and potential disaster. It's still on the fence. There will be an update in the fall.
it was really good video and it shows the hard work for a heavy , difficult yamadori . Keep on the good work and keep your eyes open for the next good one
Hard work and dedication! Gotta love it
Thank you so much for posting this video. I love bonsai, but I don't know who would take care of them after I'm gone.
Nice tree. I love the fall color of persimmons and think they are very under utilized in bonsai.
I agree. Alas, this one didn't make it through the summer. It posed too much in the end. It does happen from time to time.
That one looks crazy! Any update vids on it?
There will be in the fall time. It's still struggling at this point. Half of the foliage is gone where no roots are growing. I'll let everyone know.
It sounds like Mike Rowe narrates your videos, awesome man!
I'd love it if Mike Rowe narrated them!! Thanks!
awesome video dude, that hard work paid off
Sorta paid off... it suffered a hard summer and not looking good for autumn. The others did just fine. Bummer on this one.
your dedication for this one is tremendous....hope it bears fruit. :) its very entertaining to see the process of collecting to potting and see some ray of hope for the tree... what trees can survive collecting without root balls?
Deciduous trees are really the only ones that can be collected this way. Conifers like pine & juniper will not survive it. But even so, it's never a guarantee, especially for this persimmon. Persimmons don't like root pruning. For those that have roots, it's best to repot them in the fall time. I took this one in the spring knowing there would be few roots remaining to sustain it through the winter. I just didn't know to what extent until I dug it up.
The best trees I've found that take to the hard cutting have been hawthorn, privet, and viburnum. My other species have done just fine, too. Still, I lost a really nice privet this year that had good roots, while a cutting I took from it with absolutely no roots is thriving.
I'll be showing a pine with lots of roots that's doing well, plus a video showing trees that didn't make it. Dead trees are a natural, albeit humbling, part of bonsai. 'You water some, you prune some, you repot some, you kill some.'
Hope to see more about this tree in months to come.
I should have a fall update some time in September
Ahhh ok it was worth it !!!’
seeing the new growth and most I enjoyed seeing the 🐕 walking in front of the camera
awesome work boss! You made it such a fun video. Loved it!! :)
Thanks bimal!
Really enjoy your videos - I love the way that using native species melds the far East with right at home.
Absolutely. Make it your own.
Parabéns 👏 um grande trabalho, força de vontade e muita dedicação. Não devemos desistir. Você teve um grande resultado.
great video..when some thing starts to become a little stress full and you start to question to stop or continue, in the end of completing the task I like to yell at it "I WIN YEAH I WIN" makes me feel better. haha
Haha!! I won for the day, that's for sure. It's still struggling, so we'll see who get's last laugh, or last tear... Oh no!!! Thanks Juan!
Hello from Boone. I have enjoyed all your videos and thank you for sharing. Do you harvest trees past spring time. I have had success with smaller trees living through the transplant during spring/summer time but I'm wanting to start collecting larger trees like the ones in your videos. Thanks again, you keep posting, I'll keep watching!
Boone is beautiful! If you haven't yet, get over to Asheville and check out the arboretum. Arthur has an amazing collection there.
I have collected after spring with mixed success, so I don't do it anymore. If someone is doing landscaping and taking out trees, or there's construction going on that uproots material, I'd go for it. Personally, I'd hold off on collecting after spring. Autumn is the other accepted time, because this is one of the strongest seasons for roots to grow, but it can still be tricky. Temperatures can still fluctuate up and ruin a specimen. Even if repotting, most recommend slip-potting only - no root prune. That's not to say it can't work. Even Walter Pall has mentioned collecting a tree in the heat of summer, simply because he couldn't let it pass by. But Walter is also a bonsai master, and he's so tuned in with the trees, he knows what he can & can't do at what particular times.
Liked the video alot. I think i would have said a few bad words along the way. But i like the tree. I hope i can find something nice in my woods in southern Appalachian mountains in GA. Ive learned a lot from you and others. I appreciate the time and effort you put in. Thanks. SDR
I said all the words. Take a look around when you're walking, mark the ones you believe you can collect, and give it a try this spring. Keep your eye out for some pitch pines (Pinus rigida), they can do very well as bonsai, though with some different requirements than deciduous. More like a Japanese black pine. I've an eastern pine video coming up in August. Hope it's helpful for you. Thanks @Sherry_Rogers!
uau! Nunca pensei ser tão exaustivo fazer uma coleta de bonsai. Obrigado pelo vídeo.
Seja bem-vindo! Não são tão difíceis. A maioria é muito mais fácil! Abraços!
great work buddy. the humor kills it.. any videos on how to shape the branches and make it more look older miniature tree... and why ( brushing the trunk for.. ) TIA
Just posted a video to give a little progression advice on a different tree, with more of those type vids to come. I brushed the trunk to get rid of the moss.
I just found your UA-cam channel and this is the second of your videos I’ve seen. Sorry to hear that tree died. I’ve heard other dog around a tree and put sphagnum moss in and water it regularly to grow new and fine roots next to the trunk. Hope you can find another nice tree like that and have better luck.
Oh good lord, i understand the work you've been trough with this one! Digging something like that is a hell of a job, i hope all the work will pay off in a few years! Keep up!
Really enjoyed this video, thank you, I’m currently attempting to pot up a 20yr old hawthorn that my brother brought home from work while doing a fencing job, I really can relate to this video 👍
have you ever made a beginner series , step buy step , for the indoor and out door enthusiast ?
I haven't yet, but I will definitely take the suggestion to make them. Excellent idea.
Continue in the same spirit, your experience is priceless :)
Thank you very much! I hope it's helpful for your own collections or interests!
Leaving tree to forest was better thing to do...but I love your bonsai too, good work!
Yeah, I should definitely have left this one in the ground. If it's too much work, then maybe we should just leave them alone. Thanks for watching!
Dang dude! What a marathon! So sorry to hear that it didn't make it through the summer. What do you think did it in? Too much damage? Not enough roots left?
I believe that's it. Really big cuts with little root. When I first started, I thought I had lots of good surface roots, only to find none. By the time I found out nothing was there, I knew it would definitely die if I left it. Might as well continue and give it a good chance. It just didn't have enough to continue. And, it's a difficult species to boot. If it had been a maple, crepe myrtle, or hornbeam, it may have been a different story. They root very quickly, whereas persimmon is known to be persnickety.
Vielen Dank für das tolle Video....sehr aufwendig aber es hat sich gelohnt 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Bad days happen, your hard work and persistence paid off
I loved this video, I know in a later video that you note how the tree died. That reminded me that persimmons are one of those trees that do not transplant well. I once had a persimmon tree that I had multi-grafted (non-bonsai), but when I transplanted it I lost the tree.
The more I've researched, the more I see my mistakes. You're right, persimmons are persnickety! They say transplanting is better in the fall than spring. Another day...
I laughed so hard. That tree gave you a hard time. All the best. i hope its come good. Thanks for your lovely storytelling. im subbed
Just found your page. Love this. I thank you for your time in posting such videos.
May I ask what is in your bonsai soil? love your vids! There isn't too many people in this area posting bonsai videos. Right below you in NC.
Certainly. I mostly use a 50-50 mix of fired clay and diatomic earth. The fired clay I use is called Turface, often used on baseball fields. You should be able to find it or an equivalent at a good landscape/garden/farm supply store. Expanded/fired shale is readily found in NC, as it's manufactured there in Salisbury (Stalite PermaTill) I like the color of it better than the Turface, but I either have to drive there or have it shipped. The diatomic/diatomaceous earth is the main ingredient in cat litter and oil spill clean-up. I use NAPA Auto #8822 or Oil-Dri, whichever is most available when I'm buying. I sift them with screens to a size of 2mm-6mm (1/16"-1/4"). I get the most use out of the NAPA product & Turface. I'll be doing a video soon to describe different soil additives and properties, my combinations, and why. I hope it will be helpful.
Appalachian Bonsai thanks! looking forward to the soil vid keep up the good work!!!
Really great video you sure persevered to finally get it out but it's rewarding to see growth beginning so soon
Hi there ! Hope it fruits in the future, you have now the base of an excellent future tree that will payoff the effort ! thanks a lot for sharing again! you are the best !
Regards from Argentina
Btw the land where you live is a dream !
I think BOTH of our lands are dreams. I see images of your country and wish to go. One of these years or lives, my friend.
Looks cool man. We are digging tomorrow in a place called Klipheuwel, which means stone hill. You can just imagine. My best advice for yamadori is take bigger tools than you think you need, and do as much digging around the tree as possible to make space for working with saws or heavy duty pruners. My chainsaw went to yamadori heaven. Lol
Best of luck to you, Pip! It's too late in the season here for collection.
I've literally been waiting for this one, nice!
Thanks for sticking around KB!
So jealous of your beautiful property! Collecting is the most fun part of bonsai for me. Too bad this one died...been there (many times) done that. In fact I have a video of just one of my prized trees burning in my fire pit. But enough about me. YOU, my friend, are inspiring...love your explanations about how the sugars feed the branches and help grow the roots...oh, yeah, it died. Oh well, you're a youngster and have so much time left to grow more stuff! I used to live in Virginia before retiring to Florida. I miss the rolling hills...your place looks great. Thanks for the work you do!