The small, shallow dishes that house bonsai trees are sized to inhibit root growth. Larger pots would hold more soil and water, allowing more space for roots to spread. That would be counterproductive ...

You can make your own bonsai soil mix by combining equal parts of akadama, pumice, and lava rock. You can also purchase pre-mixed bonsai soil from your local nursery. Juniper bonsai trees require ...

Birch trees prefer well-draining soil that's slightly acidic. You can use a commercial bonsai soil mix or make your own by combining regular potting soil with sand, perlite, and peat moss.