Soil/hardiness zone

[Jluke33]

Looking around the site I haven't found much other than suggestions about soil for particular locations. I was wondering if anyone had something like a cheat sheet for soil ratios based on hardiness zone. Some folks recommend bonsai Jacks soil mix as a good all around soil, But I'm just wondering if hotter areas (I'm in 8a) should have slightly slower draining soil. thanks in advance!

 

[MaciekA]

I don't have direct advice here, but just want to equip you a little better in your quest for information. Broadly-speaking, on a global forum like this, people will disagree over soil choices, sometimes vehemently, so even in terms of receiving advice per se, your mileage will vary greatly. The choice of soil, containers, micro-positioning in your garden, and even which species are appropriate to grow can be very different between your zone 8 and my zone 8.

One thing that very few experienced growers will disagree over though is the following advice: Seek out folks in your geographic area that successfully grow a certain species that you are interested in, and if in doubt about Internet advice, emulate the techniques of people you've actually met and whose trees you've seen thriving.

My success rate with soil and container choices really improved when I sought out advice from folks who were active in the local bonsai sphere (folks from BSOP, Michael Hagedorn, etc).

 

[Jluke33]

I don't have direct advice here, but just want to equip you a little better in your quest for information. Broadly-speaking, on a global forum like this, people will disagree over soil choices, sometimes vehemently, so even in terms of receiving advice per se, your mileage will vary greatly. The choice of soil, containers, micro-positioning in your garden, and even which species are appropriate to grow can be very different between your zone 8 and my zone 8.

One thing that very few experienced growers will disagree over though is the following advice: Seek out folks in your geographic area that successfully grow a certain species that you are interested in, and if in doubt about Internet advice, emulate the techniques of people you've actually met and whose trees you've seen thriving.

My success rate with soil and container choices really improved when I sought out advice from folks who were active in the local bonsai sphere (folks from BSOP, Michael Hagedorn, etc).

This is really great direction! I appreciate it! I'm near charlotte NC just south of the border in SC. It's on my list to get around to a couple of nurseries that sell bonsai to ask for some advice.