Bonsai on the cheap - tips from Peter

I show some great ideas on creating bonsai and cuttings using disposable items found in any household.

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[Squirrelfiend]

As I’ve been saying since I watched Peter’s video about bonsai pots:
“Four criterion of bonsai pots- style, size, depth, and colour. And the secret fifth one- what is free”

[crankycat]

I'm new to bonsai and this channel, and I really appreciate these tips and the reuse-recycle philosophy they represent. Not only do they help the environment, but they also make this hobby more affordable and accessible to people with lower income (such as myself). I'm currently unable to work due to mental health issues, and caring for my plants brings me so much joy and peace. I'm sure there will always be people who buy the more expensive pots and supplies, as well!

[MDMARaver]

In one of the first videos I saw of you at the time, you straightened the wire and used it again. It was immediately clear to me "I like this man"! 👍🏻

[clwest]

I'm in SW US - when traveling I purchase water in plastic bottles. They come home to become mini-hot houses and propagation planters especially for my houseplants. I do not put holes in the bottom because they are clear, I can see when the soil dries out and they need water. These are not permanent 'homes' just until I see the roots and then pot up to a proper pot. I have several trees started in these also - maple, elm, red bud and mimosa. This is my favorite hobby and I spend almost nothing on it. Thank you Peter!

[palatina]

Hello Peter, the very expensive bonsai pots have always stopped me from starting bonsai. But then I just started improvising and recycling. Now I enjoy my trees in their funny pots. Thank you so much for your encouragement.

[andrewclack]

I currently have ceder seedlings growing in Flora margarine pot, Japanese black pine growing in last years Christmas pudding pot and a dawn redwood group growing in carton that used to have chicken thighs in it! And so it goes on. You never have enough pots when you need them.

[growclipbonsaiforseniors]

You can also use the pouring end for a funnel

[digitalice]

Been doing the same for most of my life. I have even made pots from old car parts. Brake drums work great for bonsai pots! I've also used hub caps and oil pan. Box fan housing. Many things will work when you just need a container.

[mikec]

i go to thrift and re-stores for bowls to drill holes in the bottoms. it makes great pots for .50 cents to 1.00$. i got a cheap amazon diamond drill hole bit set. also i use the terracotta under trays they sell at garden centers. a little paint and they are perfect. thanks for all the years of teaching us peter! happy newyears !

[tenfour]

Thank you Herons people. Peter's videos seem to consistently represent all the good things about bonsai culture.

[stevemurray]

Good morning Peter. I so appreciate your videos with my Sunday tea. Thank you. Stay well and remain positive.

[growclipbonsaiforseniors]

The plastic cups, I use a ice pick, heated by a candle and when hot, the pick goes right through making a nice hole or holes on the bottom.

[growclipbonsaiforseniors]

I like to recycle containers into containers for cutting, seed starters, bonsai pots. Superb idea Mr. Chan.

[robertjones]

I thought I was the only one using plastic food containers! My favorite is the thick black plastic meat containers. I have had bonsai's in these for years! I also make wood containers. There is no need to go broke especially for people who are just tinkering in the hobby.

[TheBabyPatch]

😮😮 wow, I would never have dreamed of trying that 👏👏👏

[vickikay]

I rarely use plastic as bonsai containers, simply because I rarely buy anything in plastic. But I do scour op shops and find some beautiful ceramic or pottery bowls of various sizes. My husband drills holes in the bottom and then glues a couple of small ceramic tiles on the bottom for "feet".
I'm probably your age Peter and I've never liked the idea of single use plastic. Unfortunately, it's impossible to escape plastic completely, but I do my best to avoid it.

[ebbceramics]

I completely agree with You, Mr.Chan. I use many recycled container, for my little trees. Thank You for always sharing Your precious experience. Happy new Year!!! Eli from Italy

[Hollylivengood]

All my bonsai stuff is from what I randomly find like this. But this is why we like your channel so much, because even though this is your livelihood, you give us these hints as to how to save money.

[DavesBonsai]

Great to see you taking care of mother earth! Thanks Peter!

[greasylimpet]

Thank you for all your great videos. I watch you a lot of the time, but don't get round to commenting very often.
I wish you a very happy New year, best wishes from Australia.