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In this episode, I sit down with the two founders of Bonsaigers to hear their stories, learn about their backgrounds, and discover how they built the successful Bonsaigers company and virtual bonsai exhibition. We focus on Bonsaigers X 2026, an innovative online bonsai competition that continues to grow year after year, bringing together bonsai enthusiasts from around the world. Participants submit photos of their trees and compete in a bracket-style tournament, with trees eliminated round by round until a champion is crowned. With some really cool prizes up for grabs, this unique format makes bonsai competition fun, accessible, and engaging for the global bonsai community. It was awesome hearing how the founders' vision has grown into such a successful event and learning more about the people behind it! Learn more at Bonsaigers.com, and check out the Bonsaigers X 2026 competition using the link below! Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro and greetings(00:01:55) - What is Bonsaigers and the origin of the name(00:04:16) - How the founders met(00:06:21) - Starting Bonsaigers during COVID(00:09:54) - Building the Instagram community and inspiration(00:13:15) - Deeper meaning: bonsai and connecting with nature(00:15:16) - Products, services, courses and team building(00:20:01) - Shoutout to designs and early merch success(00:21:58) - DJing side passion(00:25:47) - Future vision for Bonsaigers(00:28:44) - Climate awareness and bonsai's role(00:30:40) - Orticolario fair experience and hands-on courses(00:34:19) - Engaging new generations into bonsai(00:37:32) - Tradsman inspiration and Japan comparisons(00:40:21) - Bonsai heritage project for artists' collections(00:46:49) - Switching to the Bonsaiger X competition(00:47:00) - What the virtual exhibition is about(00:52:49) - Breaking traditional exhibition norms(00:55:58) - Submission dates and bracket tournament format(00:59:15) - Judging system and community voting(01:00:48) - New best in show weekly categories(01:03:24) - Importance of participation and education(01:10:35) - Photo rules and authenticity concerns(01:14:58) - Selecting this year's judges(01:17:51) - Idea for judge commentary on trees(01:21:14) - Prizes and trophy reveal(01:24:03) - Idea of a future champions showdown(01:25:08) - Community, positivity and growing bonsai culture(01:27:02) - Final call to submit trees(01:29:53) - Closing thoughts and thanks

In this episode, Jeremiah Lee sits down with Sergio of M5 Bonsai Works for a wide-ranging conversation about bonsai, art, garden design, and the journey of becoming a serious practitioner. Sergio shares how his early fascination with plants eventually developed into a lifelong practice, how he taught himself bonsai through books, magazines, online resources, and working alongside other American bonsai artists, and how his background in art continues to influence his approach. They dive into Sergio’s personal style, designing and building his bonsai garden, creating a dedicated studio, managing light and shade, working with local stone, rock plantings, root grafting, and selecting Japanese maple cultivars that are well suited for bonsai. The conversation also explores the challenges and failures that come with experimentation, the difference between being a plant collector and a bonsai practitioner, developing trees for the long term, and knowing when it’s time to let a tree go. Jeremiah and Sergio also discuss the future of American bonsai, the importance of regional shows, display standards, workshops, and Sergio’s involvement with Bonsai Central. A thoughtful conversation about craft, creativity, horticulture, and what it takes to keep pushing bonsai forward in the U.S. ️ Featuring Sergio of M5 Bonsai Works Bonsai • Garden Design • Rock Plantings • Root Grafting • Japanese Maples • American Bonsai Chapters (00:00:00) - Bonsai Central Expo Sponsor Intro(00:02:06) - Meeting Sergio and Talk of National Shows(00:04:47) - Sergio's Early Life and Discovery of Bonsai(00:08:51) - Learning Bonsai the Hard Way and First Real Tree(00:10:48) - Becoming a Serious Bonsai Practitioner(00:14:56) - Self-Teaching Through YouTube and Modern Resources(00:17:51) - Japan Apprenticeship vs Learning in the US(00:20:43) - Going Full-Time and the Meaning Behind M5 Bonsai(00:23:53) - Describing His Bonsai Style(00:26:37) - 2026 Business Growth and Type of Work Taken On(00:31:05) - Building His New Bonsai Studio(00:34:18) - Designing His Bonsai Display Garden(00:38:50) - Sourcing Materials and Garden Design Philosophy(00:45:27) - Technical Tips for Building a Bonsai Garden(00:52:34) - Shade Cloth System and Garden Tinkering(00:56:03) - Long-Term Bonsai Goals and Collection Philosophy(00:59:16) - The Story of the Sentinel Cork Bark Elm(01:03:07) - Selling the Sentinel to Longwood Gardens(01:12:56) - Reflections on Losing the Sentinel Tree(01:15:56) - Approach to Rock Plantings and Stone Selection(01:21:56) - Specific Rock Planting Compositions and Collaborations(01:28:15) - Philosophy on Stone-Tree Composition Sustainability(01:32:27) - Multi-Species Plantings and Watering Challenges(01:35:05) - Root Grafting Techniques and Success Rates(01:39:05) - Choosing the Right Japanese Maple Cultivars(01:46:26) - Bonsai Central Lineup and Regional Shows' Importance(01:52:28) - Workshop Material and Bonsai Central Details(01:55:39) - Raising the Bar for American Bonsai vs Europe(02:00:48) - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work with a professional bonsai artist—and what that client/professional relationship actually looks like? For Episode 46 of The Black Pondo Podcast, I sat down with bonsai professional Julian Tsai his client, Geoff Martin, a high-level bonsai collector and enthusiast from Southern California. We talked about the benefits of working with a professional, things to consider, favorite trees in our collections, and plenty more. An interesting conversation about bonsai, collecting, and the relationships that help us grow as artists and enthusiasts.  Episode 46 — now available!  Julian Tsai- Instagram: bontsai_ Geoff Martin- Instagram: geoff_martin_ Chapters (00:00:00) - To Baby Trees(00:01:04) - Teaching Bonsai to the Professional(00:02:55) - Julian and his fiancee talk trees(00:05:46) - Julian's Bonsai Collection(00:11:30) - Bonsai and the saltwater aquarium hobby(00:12:26) - Bonsai Is For Real(00:14:32) - Jeff Stern and Julian Bonsai(00:17:03) - What are your goals in bonsai?(00:19:28) - A message from Julian Bonsai(00:21:38) - Julian Oakley's role in Southern California bonsai(00:22:24) - Bonsai Clubs(00:32:01) - Julian's Bonsai Club(00:40:34) - The Working Relationship of Julian Bonsai(00:49:54) - Julian and the(00:54:26) - Jeff and Julian's Tree Selection(01:02:04) - Julian's 2019 PBE(01:08:27) - My Top 3 Trees(01:11:38) - How to fulfill a bonsai client professional relationship(01:19:04) - The Best Trees For Your Property(01:22:00) - How To Rank Your Bonsai Trees(01:27:34) - The 3 Best Trees in Your Collection(01:29:43) - Do Chinese Quinces Bonsai Well?(01:34:23) - How to grow a deciduous bonsai tree(01:42:33) - How to grow a Bonsai with clean water(01:51:45) - How to Prevent Juvenile Growth(01:58:49) - How to Supplement Your Trees(02:09:44) - The garden as a guinea pig(02:11:36) - How to care for juniper trees--(02:20:29) - Jeff's rocky mountain juniper(02:21:49) - Rocky Mountain Juniper Grow in Southern California(02:25:47) - John Naka Memorial Bonsai Exhibit(02:30:13) - Jefferey At The Trees 2016(02:31:55) - Interviewing Julian and Jeff(02:32:47) - I'm Not 100% Honest With Clients

After a quick bathroom break, Jeremiah and Peter return to a deep-dive Q&A that shifts from practical bonsai technique into the bigger picture of the craft. Peter answers listener questions on ramification, branch structure, cut paste, and grafting, while also sharing his broader philosophy on patience, refinement, and the long game of developing trees. A major focus of the conversation is apprenticeship: Peter compares the apprenticeship model in the United States and Japan, reflects on the value of learning from skilled professionals, and talks candidly about his own apprentice Travis. He also shares that he is open to taking on a second apprentice, making this second half both highly educational and especially relevant for anyone serious about bonsai as a craft or career. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo: Auburn Water(00:00:45) - Your Bathroom Is The Best Bathroom In The World(00:02:40) - QUESTIONS FOR THE ACTIVITY(00:03:05) - US Bonsai Apprenticeships vs Japanese ones(00:07:34) - Would You Take Another Apprentice?(00:12:03) - Looking for a Bonsai apprenticeship(00:15:17) - How to Up Your Bonsai Game Most efficiently(00:20:19) - Bonsai Teacher Peter Sink on His Hobbies(00:22:44) - Should Age Be Included on the Rubric for Bonsai?(00:30:47) - What is the marker of age in bonsai?(00:34:10) - Peter Bonsai's(00:35:01) - What's the most satisfying thing you've done in life?(00:38:56) - Do Japanese Bonsai Pros Get Criticism in the US?(00:44:35) - American football fan on Japanese culture(00:48:52) - Inventing Bonsai: A Personal Style(00:54:20) - Zen and Japanese bonsai(00:59:16) - Bonsai: Worst Advice Ever Heard(01:01:42) - Cut Paste vs. Bonsai Healing Wounds(01:05:57) - How to Heal a Wound(01:08:44) - What's the Worst Advice You've Ever Heard?(01:12:41) - What is a technique that you use in your bonsai?(01:15:24) - Thread graft, approach graft, and scion graft(01:21:35) - Grafting Scion graphs(01:26:08) - Thread Gardening: Approach Graph and Thread Graph(01:30:35) - Do you defoliate the whole tree for a thread graph?(01:35:15) - Q&A With(01:35:27) - Peter the Pie Maker

Episode #44 & upcoming #45 is a two-part conversation with Peter Tea of PTBonsai.com. In Part 1, we dig into one of the biggest challenges in deciduous bonsai: building fine ramification when internode length isn't cooperating, with a particular focus on Japanese maples. Peter shares the techniques, thought process, and long-term strategies that have helped him become one of the country's most accomplished deciduous bonsai artists. We recorded this one over a pour of scotch and a slice of what we both agreed might be the nation's best pie, so the conversation is relaxed, wide-ranging, and full of practical takeaways. In Part 2, Peter returns to answer listener-submitted questions in a dedicated Q&A. Chapters (00:00:00) - Whiskey for Kids: Shield Egg(00:01:30) - The Best Pie in the Country(00:04:38) - Pecan Pie With Whiskey(00:07:49) - Peter Barton on Starting a Bonsai Business(00:10:49) - Oh yeah, Japan(00:11:10) - Insecticide and fungicides(00:16:15) - Bonsai instructor talks about life(00:17:07) - How do I get more branches on my bonsai tree?(00:21:34) - 6 Different Pillars of Bonsai Craft(00:27:07) - How to shade your yard with a 50% cloth(00:28:00) - How to grow a Japanese maemon(00:31:19) - How to get Japanese maples shorter(00:32:31) - Cutting a Japanese Maple(00:36:14) - How to Get Your Maple Shorter(00:41:44) - How to Pinching a tree during spring growth(00:44:59) - What are sacrifice branches in Japanese maples?(00:49:51) - Bonsai: Cutting Branches to Slow the Tree(00:54:04) - Have Too Many Branches For Bonsai?(01:00:40) - How do you get more ramification or short internals in your(01:04:20) - How to Get Out of Your Own Way(01:07:53) - Do Conifers Need More Branches? vs Deciduous(01:14:00) - How to fix a deciduous tree branch(01:14:51) - Japanese Maples vs Black Pine(01:20:44) - Learning Bonsai Through Reading(01:23:02) - Ramon on Ramification(01:23:17) - People Try Their Pie

This episode is a little different from our usual bonsai conversations—but I think many of the ideas we explore will resonate far beyond bonsai. I sat down with Avram Dalton, an American garden craftsman who studied the Japanese language and spent years training in Japan. Today, he designs and builds authentic Japanese gardens throughout the United States. Based in the San Diego area, Avram has devoted his career to understanding the principles, aesthetics, and philosophy behind the Japanese approach to craftsmanship. Our conversation goes far beyond trees and stone. We discuss Avram’s approach to designing Japanese gardens, how the principles of Japanese landscape design translate from Japan to projects throughout the United States, and what distinguishes truly exceptional Japanese gardens. Along the way, we explore concepts like shokunin and several other uniquely Japanese ideas surrounding craftsmanship, beauty, discipline, and the lifelong pursuit of excellence. Whether your passion is bonsai, woodworking, gardening, martial arts, or any other craft, I think you’ll find something meaningful in this conversation. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for the Japanese way of thinking about craftsmanship, and I think you will too. Instagram: @daltonlandscape Website: daltonlandscape.com Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo on Chatting With Seth Nelson(00:04:08) - Phil Dalton on Starting a Landscape Company(00:10:37) - San Diego Mayor on His Home Town(00:11:37) - Bonsai Artist on His Career(00:12:56) - Japanese bonsai apprenticeship(00:24:07) - How to Become a Buddhist Temple Apprentice(00:26:38) - Multiple Specialties in Japanese Gardens(00:28:47) - Do Japanese Gardeners Plan Their Projects?(00:38:07) - How To Build a Japanese Garden in America(00:42:55) - David Suzuki's work(00:49:04) - Bonsai Apprenticeships in Japan(00:55:16) - Ex-Japanese workers speak fluent Japanese(01:00:01) - How Japanese Garden Builders came to San Diego(01:08:22) - Do Japanese People Talk About Landscape Gardening?(01:14:15) - A Taste of the Quiz(01:14:43) - Japanese Landscaping(01:24:03) - What is a tea garden?(01:32:57) - Tea gardens: A mountain life within the city(01:36:50) - When You Design a Japanese Garden,(01:38:50) - Oak and Manzanita in California(01:44:06) - Japan's plant selection(01:46:49) - Taste Japanese Traditional Arts and Crafts(01:50:38) - Using American tools in the excavations(01:52:43) - Importing Japanese stones for your garden(01:58:44) - Bonsai in the Garden(02:02:11) - I Would Love to Consult with You on My Japanese Garden(02:06:56) - Workouts on the Bay(02:07:44) - Talks of Shuhari and Zen(02:12:32) - Experiencing Japanese Culture(02:17:55) - A Shokunin(02:26:26) - In the Elevator With a Master(02:27:29) - The Importance of Japan(02:38:27) - Talking to People With Metadata(02:38:57) - A Talk About Talking(02:39:31) - Philip Glass on Working with Dalton Landscape(02:42:23) - A message from the Divine(02:43:42) - Do You Think You're an Introvert or an Extrovert(02:50:10) - Amino On Japanese Gardening(02:52:24) - Honoring Hiro Aki eto

Episode 42 of the Black Pondo Podcast features a deep and engaging conversation with bonsai professional Peter Tea. Following his recent trip to Japan, Peter shares his experience attending the historic Koku Fu 100 exhibition and visiting the renowned Aichi-en nursery. From there, the discussion dives into the technical side of bonsai design, with a detailed exploration of apex creation and how the apex influences the structure and development of an entire tree. The conversation also explores Peter’s growing study of Japanese aesthetics and why he personally feels it’s an important area of study for his own artistic development and understanding of bonsai. Along the way, we discuss oak bonsai, artistic philosophy, tree design, and much more. Whether you’re interested in advanced bonsai techniques or the broader artistic ideas behind the craft, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. You can find out more about Peter Tea at PTbonsai.com or on IG @peterteabonsai.

I sat down with Todd Schlafer of First Branch Bonsai at his studio and home in Lakewood, Colorado, for a conversation that explores both the technical and philosophical sides of bonsai in America. We discussed the influence of Jerry Morris and his contributions to dwarf conifers, along with how natural forces—like rock fissures, elevation, and microclimates—shape the growth of compact, character-rich trees in the wild. Todd also shared insights from collecting and propagating native and rare species across the U.S., emphasizing both practical techniques and responsible practices. The conversation touched on strategies for building and maintaining bonsai in severe climates, as well as the importance of legacy planning—ensuring collections are preserved and passed on thoughtfully. Todd reflected on his own career through stories of apprenticeships and collaborations, offering a glimpse into the path of a professional grower. We also explored how bonsai aesthetics continue to evolve, requiring deeper levels of appreciation as trees mature, and the vital role that community, competition, and ongoing learning play in advancing American bonsai. You can find more about Todd: Instagram: todd_schlafer_bonsai www.firstbranchbonsai.com  Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo Podcast: Your New Garden(00:02:46) - Spruce and birch in Montana(00:04:44) - Exploring a microclimate in the woods(00:08:47) - Some locals use native plants as accent plants(00:09:21) - Colorado Bonsai Background(00:12:04) - Bonsai instructor on going into the mountains(00:12:52) - Bands in the 90's(00:16:42) - Bob Dylan on Bonsai(00:17:45) - When Did You Start Studying With Ryan?(00:18:20) - How Is Your Time Divided Up?(00:19:57) - Bonsai Professional travel the world(00:24:51) - Francesco's Apprentice Tree(00:28:04) - Bonsai Garden Plans(00:32:44) - Isaiah Akigitsuni Bonsai(00:34:01) - Imagine a $200,000 greenhouse for your garden(00:38:02) - American Bonsai Champion Ryan Smith on Colorado's climate(00:41:26) - The Harder the Trees(00:45:52) - Do You Need a Dingo to Move Trees?(00:49:30) - How to Build a Dingo Stand(00:50:10) - Jerry Morris(00:55:45) - Bob Hoskins in the documentary(00:57:23) - Dwarf Conifers For Bonsai(01:01:49) - Tree collections in the Ponderosa Mountains(01:05:42) - The First Branch Bonsai(01:06:58) - Are There Any Other Environments That Dwarf Trees?(01:12:37) - Bonsai instructor talks about selling trees(01:16:22) - Jerry Morris Tree for Sale(01:18:59) - Bonsai Producers Talk About Legacy Trees

I recently sat down with the incredibly talented bonsai stand and furniture maker Austin Heitzman for a conversation that I’ve been looking forward to for a while. We got into some of the exciting projects he has in the works, explored his approach to crafting those signature bonsai stands, and talked through his perspective on pairing stands with trees in a way that really elevates the composition. I also brought in a few listener questions, which led to some great insights. It’s a conversation I genuinely enjoyed, and I think you will too. Chapters (00:00:00) - How To Dry Wood(00:04:41) - Does the thickness of a board affect its stability?(00:11:10) - How To Get A Hernia Fixed(00:18:52) - Bonsai Stand for Frank Lloyd Wright House(00:22:44) - Frank Lloyd Wright Made a Mahogany Planter(00:25:51) - Walnut and Manzanita Stand(00:29:10) - Have Your Tree Been Accepted Into the PBE?(00:30:54) - The PBE National(00:34:23) - How To Design a Bonsai Stand(00:41:34) - A Woodworker's Paint(00:42:53) - Green Felt Table Coverings(00:45:44) - How To Store Bonsai Stands(00:52:00) - Woodworker's Secret Lives(00:53:05) - Bonsai Wood Fits Well(01:01:14) - Blending OSMO and Osmo Wax(01:03:41) - ASMR: First Coat(01:06:52) - What is Joinery in Bonsai?(01:10:38) - What is a Miter Joint?(01:18:24) - Do you ever bounce ideas off of other Bonsai Stand M(01:24:41) - Tell the Bonsai Stand Story(01:29:20) - Bonsai: Less Liberal Than Some Other Arts(01:31:45) - Pacific Bonsai Entrance(01:35:27) - Frank Lord Reich on Root Stands(01:43:52) - The Secret to Trees(01:44:19) - There is one American who makes root stands(01:46:00) - Would You Take An Apprenticeship?(01:48:48) - Woodshop instructor private lessons and advanced classes(01:53:43) - Tree Stand(01:57:52) - Wood Stand(02:02:19) - Bonsai Artist's Top 10(02:07:33) - Ranking Bonsai Trees(02:10:29) - Tony Bonsai On His Surgery

Join Addison Galambos, host of the Bonsai Builders Podcast, for a special collaboration episode of The Black Pondo Podcast as he shares his journey into bonsai, from early inspiration to deep involvement in the global community. Alongside Jeremiah Lee, he reflects on lessons from bonsai experts, highlights from a transformative trip to Japan, and the artistry behind age, design, and movement in trees. The conversation dives into technical skills, experimental approaches to soil and water, and the lasting influence of master potter Gyozon, while also exploring how strong clubs and shared knowledge help the bonsai community thrive. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspective on cultivating both trees and connection. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Ponda: To Baby Trees Podcast(00:00:59) - Bonsai Builders Podcast Intro(00:07:53) - Television Interview(00:09:28) - What is a Professional Bonsai Artist?(00:12:23) - Podcasters on Their Recent Guests(00:13:08) - Bonsai Podcast: Exploring the Trees(00:19:44) - Peter Bonsai's(00:21:22) - Bob Bonsai Just Got Back From... Japan(00:24:09) - Taste the Bonsai(00:26:33) - Bonsai and Koi Pond(00:28:54) - What separates high level Japanese Bonsai from U.S.(00:31:21) - Is Age the most important thing for high-level bonsai(00:38:30) - Grafting Yamadori Junipers(00:42:32) - How to Grow Unique Trunks(00:44:46) - A Famous Bonsai Potter Has Passed Away(00:51:04) - David Tennant's Pot Designs(00:52:09) - Gyozan Potting Dead(00:53:50) - Have You Been Thinking About Bonsai?(00:57:12) - How to Identify a Bonsai Pot Chop(01:00:38) - How Do You Get Feedback From Your Teachers on Your Junipers?(01:06:11) - Working with Peter Bonsai(01:08:05) - Peter's Tree Training(01:09:32) - Peter Glass on His Goals vs. Mine(01:17:53) - Bonsai Level 7 Goals(01:20:49) - Submit a Tree for the PBE(01:23:56) - The Science of Bonsai(01:27:47) - Lava to pumice: Does akadama hold water(01:33:39) - Bonsai Test Quality(01:37:18) - How to Tell Which Water Is Good or Bad?(01:41:43) - Water Quality in Bonsai(01:42:47) - Do RO Systems Make Better Water For Trees?(01:47:45) - Have You Tested Any of Your Trees With APical?(01:49:20) - What Would You Do If You Had Unlimited Funding?(01:52:52) - Shohin Bonsai: Twisted Junipers(02:00:08) - How to make junipers by hand(02:01:18) - How To Twist Junipers(02:07:47) - How to Cull Down Your Bonsai Trunks(02:10:48) - Bonsai Clubs(02:13:07) - Jiu-itsu Clubs and Bonsai(02:20:38) - Ideas for a Good Bonsai Club(02:26:57) - What Keeps You in the Bonsai Club?(02:31:47) - PODCAST: Jeremiah on Friendship

Episode #38 – Seth Nelson is a Nippon Bonsai Association Certified bonsai professional currently located in Birmingham, Alabama USA.  In Episode 38 of the Black Pondo Podcast, Jeremiah Lee and Seth Nelson take a deep dive into the layered world of bonsai—exploring everything from the subtle politics of exhibitions to the transformative power of photography in presenting trees at their highest level. They unpack the many subcategories within bonsai and how shows shape artistic standards, while also discussing the growing role of AI in refining technique, documentation, and creative process. Seth shares insights into his current work with a patron supporting his bonsai career, opening up about the realities of selling trees, building a sustainable practice, and navigating family dynamics alongside professional ambition. The conversation expands into innovation and tradition—examining experimental techniques, alternative materials, and the critical influence of soil mixes on tree health and development. Seth reflects on the meaning of “oyakata” and the cultural differences between bonsai in Japan and the United States, drawing from his apprenticeship experience and the personal growth it demanded. They also explore the emotional connection between artist and tree, and the story behind a massive trident maple with multi generational history currently being offered for sale at the Kokufu 100. This episode is an honest, thoughtful look at craft, culture, mentorship, and the evolving future of bonsai. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo: Austin Heitzman Bonsai Stand(00:02:48) - Tree Decorating With a Black Background(00:04:03) - Trees need backdrops(00:08:45) - Bonsai Expo 2017: Color and Lighting(00:11:50) - Bonsai: Key Categories and Subcategories(00:19:40) - How To Apply Fungicide To Tender Growth Trees(00:27:40) - Forbid.com on ChatGPT(00:28:51) - Japanese bonsai grower loses weight(00:33:04) - Do You Have To Spray Your Fruits?(00:38:40) - Seth on His Current Situation(00:46:29) - In the Elevator With Oprah(00:46:47) - The story of my patron's bonsai(00:52:47) - This Alabama Bonsai Guy Grows Massive Trees(00:55:42) - How To Work a Full Time Job(00:57:03) - The Art of Gardening(00:59:48) - How to Get Your Wife Her Residency(01:04:02) - Seth Nelson Bonsai: Selling Trees(01:09:58) - Tree Farming in the Future(01:10:19) - How to Put Together a Bonsai Auction(01:19:38) - Bonsai in the US(01:24:01) - Joint A(01:29:59) - Stainless Steel Wire For Trees(01:33:26) - What did the term oyakata mean to you?(01:40:23) - Was Mr. Tanaka Trying to Make You A Good Man?(01:44:38) - The Zen of Bonsai(01:50:44) - The Secret Life of Aichan Apprentices(01:54:54) - Is My Oikata A Real Japanese Person?(02:00:22) - What Is The Best Garden Hose?(02:04:34) - "I hate my nail polish"(02:04:50) - Q&A With Lil' Wayne(02:05:16) - The World's Coolest People(02:05:39) - Soil Mix(02:15:02) - Regarding akadama, for anybody that's really serious about b(02:16:06) - Tree growth in the US vs. Japan(02:18:20) - Do Arakawa Maples Need More Care?(02:21:16) - Does Culture Influeness Bonsai?(02:28:53) - Bonsai and Emotion(02:29:43) - Talking to myself(02:30:09) - Can Copper Wire Dust Be Harmful?(02:31:58) - Bonsai Teaching 101: Copper Wire(02:37:43) - Ichi Stood Next To A Giant Trident Maple(02:40:34) - Kokufu height limit(02:46:11) - In the Woods: Healing the Trunk(02:46:47) - Derek on Chatting About Bonsai

The legendary César Ordóñez of Cen Cal Bonsai once shared a simple but powerful truth: “It sucks to buy a tree and cut off all the branches, but it also sucks to have a s****y tree.” In this episode of the Black Pondo Podcast, we dive deep into all things deciduous bonsai. I got to pick Peter’s brain about César’s quote—discussing when it makes sense to completely restart a deciduous bonsai and when it’s better to continue refining the existing design. We explore what truly makes a great deciduous bonsai, common pitfalls seen in the U.S., Japanese aesthetics, and much more. I really appreciate you tuning in, and I hope you enjoy the conversation. Chapters (00:00:00) - Bonsai 101(00:00:11) - Deciduous Bonsai(00:03:51) - Bonsai is like putting money in your 401k(00:07:00) - What is a Good Deciduous Bonsai?(00:07:55) - The secret to good Bonsai(00:14:54) - Tree Decorating: Is it worth chopping off an old branch(00:19:08) - Bonsai Trees: Age Is Very Important(00:19:48) - What other things are you looking for in a deciduous tree(00:25:17) - Tree trunks change color(00:25:45) - What does good taper look like throughout the tree?(00:31:43) - Bonsai Basics: Taper and Reverse Taper(00:35:01) - Not dense enough(00:40:17) - Deciduous Trees(00:43:42) - Taper in trees--(00:45:14) - What's happening in the US with taper?(00:53:52) - Is it faster to grow a tree than to wire a bons(00:55:05) - Growing trees in the ground(00:55:29) - How to grow Umay Bonsai(00:58:41) - Developers' trees(00:59:58) - Bonsai 101: Density and Branch Length(01:06:05) - Open mind in the world of bonsai(01:10:03) - Bonsai Is Not Cookie Cutter(01:15:45) - Experiencing Japanese Bonsai(01:20:45) - Can a Japanese Maple Ever Look as Old as a Black Pine?(01:24:15) - How to grow a 1000 year old Japanese maple

I just got back from four days of working on trees up at Peter Tea’s place, PTBonsai.com. While I was there, after some long but really fun days working on a bunch of trees, we sat down one evening, grabbed a drink, and just talked. I got to pick Peter’s brain about what really goes into building a high-level bonsai collection—how to think about ranking your trees, the ideal number of trees to own, and his plans for attending Kokufu 100. We also talked about some of the questions he’s planning to ask his teacher, Mr. Tanaka, and a whole lot more. This is part one of a two-part conversation, so keep an eye out for part two coming soon. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo Podcast(00:01:50) - What is Cognac?(00:02:43) - Bonsai shows in Japan(00:04:12) - Bonsai Tour of Japan(00:07:09) - Bonsai instructor talks orchids(00:08:50) - Peter's Way of Learning(00:11:57) - Bonsai Professional: Open Minds(00:16:28) - Bonsai Master Tanaka(00:20:25) - Double Cheers in Japan(00:20:35) - Interview with Bonsai Legend Tanaka(00:24:21) - What is it that Japanese Bonsai Like?(00:30:24) - Bonsai Expert: Mr. Tanaka's Perspective(00:33:25) - How to Rank Your Bonsai Trees(00:37:35) - Have You Got Too Many Bonsai Trees?(00:40:57) - The Best Bonsai Trees(00:45:52) - Bigger Trees(00:50:03) - Tree Gardener: Do Trees Grow Well?(00:51:25) - How to Choose Good Water for Bonsai(00:54:49) - Choosing the right Korean hornbeam or Chinese elm(00:57:33) - Gardening 101: Deciduous Trees(01:01:00) - The Secret to Building a Bonsai Collection(01:04:49) - How Do You Grade a Tree?(01:08:01) - Louis XIII Drinking Remy Martin 1738 Accord Royale

In this engaging episode, Jeremiah Lee interviews Randy Knight, a renowned bonsai collector, about his journey into the world of bonsai, the evolution of his customer base, and the intricacies of collecting diverse tree species. Randy shares valuable insights into the differences between Rocky Mountain Junipers and Sierra Junipers, the challenges of collecting Utah Junipers, and the importance of building strong relationships with customers. Randy also dives into the challenges of growing various tree species, the critical role of proper aftercare, and highlights from his personal collection. He emphasizes the importance of community within the bonsai world and reflects on his future aspirations, including mentorship and refining his techniques. The conversation rounds out with discussions on his interests outside of bonsai, fitness tips for outdoor work, and the joy of exploring and connecting with nature. Randy Knight's email address: [email protected]  Chapters (00:00:00) - Peter T. Bonsai(00:02:19) - Bonsai Collecting in the Rocky Mountains(00:08:23) - John Eads on Bonsai(00:11:34) - What kind of trees are you selling?(00:19:24) - How to Buy a Bonsai Tree From Me(00:27:59) - Meet the Bonsai People(00:28:21) - How to care for an ancient juniper tree(00:32:08) - Rocky Mountain Junipers vs Sierra Junipers(00:38:03) - How to find yamadori trees in the Rocky Mountains(00:42:11) - Do Pines Have Corkscrew Trees?(00:46:09) - Sierra Junipers vs Utah Junipers(00:48:27) - Rocky Mountain, Utah junipers in bonsai(00:55:11) - Trees grow in sandstone and basalt(00:55:46) - Do You Know Every Tree in Oregon?(00:59:24) - Bonsai 101: Collecting Trees(01:05:04) - Mountain Mahogany and Manzanita Trees(01:10:55) - Bob Marai's Bonsai Trees(01:15:49) - Do You Have A Tree Collection?(01:17:33) - Keep a Tree or Sell It?(01:22:21) - Bonsai at the(01:24:20) - Bigger than a caribou(01:25:35) - Randy Hayworth on His Hobby Hunting(01:29:55) - Honoring the dead(01:34:50) - Sen. Rand Paul on His Dog(01:35:01) - Lodge Poles in the Sierras(01:38:55) - How to Get Prepared for the Mountains(01:43:06) - How long do you travel on a bonsai trip?(01:49:05) - Rocky Mountains Tree Recuperation(01:54:45) - How to screen pumice from trees(01:57:47) - Bob Yamadori on Leaving a Legacy(02:04:28) - Randy Knight on Tree Collection

Seth and Michael chat with Jeremiah about their paths in the bonsai world and what life’s been like since finishing their apprenticeships. They talk about cultural differences—especially food and daily life—as Seth adjusts to living in Alabama after spending time in Japan. Along the way, they get into what it takes to start and grow a bonsai business. They also share some personal thoughts about family, future goals, and where they hope to take their bonsai work, showing just how committed they are to learning, growing, and teaching others. The conversation also dives into the hands-on side of bonsai. They talk about why passion and real experience matter, how community shapes the craft, and some of the technical details like leaf size, quality, and overall tree health. They touch on current trends in the bonsai world too, including globalization and how regulations affect the market. Overall, it’s a mix of practical advice, personal stories, and a shared belief that strong horticulture skills, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment are key to creating great bonsai. Seth Nelson- Instagram: seth.nelson.bonsai Michael McTeague  Instagram: bonsaiharmony Chapters (00:00:00) - Peter T. Bonsai(00:01:56) - Bonsai in my Garage(00:04:20) - Canada's first week in Alabama(00:07:37) - Back to American Food in Japan(00:11:20) - Michael and I Both Graduate Our Apprenticeships(00:12:45) - Jeremiah's Traveling To St. Louis(00:13:51) - Interviewing a Bonsai Guy(00:15:15) - Japanese tree trimmers talk(00:16:27) - Podcast Star Seth on His Life in Japan(00:20:24) - Bonsai Champion Jeremiah and His Family(00:23:41) - Seth and Michael: The Japanese Friendship(00:27:32) - How To Rest Your Back(00:31:33) - Alabama Bonsai Artist Seth on His Journey(00:36:26) - Birmingham Bonsai Nursery(00:42:54) - Looking for a house to buy in Japan(00:44:09) - Looking for an Abandoned Home in Japan(00:48:58) - Tree Wires in the US(00:52:25) - Japan is where everything's happening(00:53:45) - The Real Life of Bonsai(00:56:45) - Getting Better at Bonsai With A Professional Experience(01:01:58) - R.I.P. To ""(01:02:11) - Did Ien and Fujikawa Koka interact with their bons(01:06:18) - Bonsai community is small(01:09:33) - Japanese bonsai:(01:10:59) - Bonsai: The Science of Bonsai(01:15:50) - Meet Avram, the Niwaki Guy(01:16:43) - Bonsai: The Art of Horticulture(01:21:23) - "Shuhari" in Bonsai(01:24:50) - Box vs ceramic pot(01:30:06) - Do You Need To Repot Your Bonsai?(01:34:16) - Tommy Lee on Working With Seth Seth(01:36:04) - Leaf Size and Bonsai Trees(01:41:16) - Chinese Quints and Twigging Quality(01:49:03) - Michael Jackson meets Bjorn Oakley