New Zelkova Acquired. What would you do?

[SirBigSpur]

Hello! I am new to the bonsai world and I came across this Zelkova 'Goblin' at my local nursery. I was wondering what you would do to get it started on the right path. Attached are photos. The photo of the nebari is at the angle of the first picture. Thank you!

 

[Hartinez]

Nice bark and shape first off. If it were mine I’d be inclined to ground layer the tree as a first step. Get yourself a nice nebari, then start your trunk growth and subsequently the branch work.

 

[Youngling]

Definitely second the layer idea. You can choose where and at what angle too. Layering opens many style options, depending on angle, location and subsequent root distribution.
+ You still get the root stock to do fun stuff with like rock puzzles around the roots or neagari etc.

 

[cheap_walmart_art]

I could be mistaken but is that a trunk graft down near the bottom or just random swelling? If it’s a graft I might consider keeping the tree as is, feeding it and getting its vigorous and air layering some branches next year. Won’t be starting with a thick trunk, but you’d have it in its own roots. That middle trunk right around where the tag is wrapped would be a good candidate.

 

[AshleyMammal]

If it were mine, as a start:

 

[penumbra]

Any advice I would offer is dependent upon you location. Please put it in your profile.