Michigan is a state known for its natural beauty and outdoor spaces, making it a great place to grow and care for bonsai trees. If you’re looking to buy a bonsai tree in Michigan, there are several places you can check out. Local nurseries, garden centers, and specialty bonsai shops are all great options for finding a bonsai tree that fits your needs and budget. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to buy a bonsai tree in Michigan, including their selection, prices, and customer service.
Popular Bonsai Tree Varieties
There are numerous species of bonsai trees suitable for growing in Michigan. A few popular varieties include the Chinese Elm (lacebark elm), Gardenia, Juniper, Azalea, Hawaiin Umbrella, Dwarf Jade, and Ginseng Grafted Ficus. These varieties differ in terms of appearance, growth patterns, and care requirements, making them suitable for bonsai enthusiasts of varying skill levels.
The Chinese Elm is an excellent choice for bonsai beginners due to its ease of growth both indoors and outdoors. It has a rounded shape and displays multi-colored bark in shades of brown, gray, green, and orange for added visual interest. Gardenia bonsai trees are known for their beautiful white flowers and aromatic fragrance, while Juniper bonsai varieties are sought after for their unique foliage and ability to withstand cold temperatures. Azalea bonsai trees display eye-catching seasonal flowers that come in various shades of pink, red, and white.
Other popular choices include the Hawaiin Umbrella, known for its lush, umbrella-shaped canopy and low maintenance requirements, and Dwarf Jade, which features thick, succulent-like leaves and can store water in its trunk. The Ginseng Grafted Ficus is another commonly found bonsai tree characterized by its unique, thick root structure and glossy oval-shaped leaves.
Local Bonsai Nurseries
Detroit Area
In the Detroit area, one notable bonsai nursery is the Bonsai House in Westland, Michigan. They offer a variety of bonsai trees for sale, along with supplies and special orders. Additionally, they provide re-potting services for customers who need assistance with their bonsai trees.
Grand Rapids Area
While there isn’t a specific bonsai nursery in Grand Rapids, bonsai enthusiasts can find a selection of bonsai trees for sale in Canadian Lakes, Michigan on Facebook Marketplace. This provides an opportunity to browse through new and used bonsai trees, find great deals, and connect with local sellers.
Ann Arbor Area
For those in the Ann Arbor area, The Flower Market is considered Michigan’s largest bonsai nursery. They have an extensive collection of bonsai and Kusamono pots, and their location is just 29.4 miles north of Ann Arbor. Additionally, Matthaei Botanical Gardens in Ann Arbor houses a bonsai collection, which can serve as inspiration for local enthusiasts.
Garden Centers and Home Improvement Stores
For those located in Michigan, finding a bonsai tree is relatively simple as several garden centers and home improvement stores carry them. One popular store is The Home Depot, where a variety of bonsai trees can be found in their Garden Center.
Aside from major chains like The Home Depot, smaller local garden centers may also offer bonsai trees for sale. Exploring these local establishments can provide a broader selection, as well as the opportunity to support small businesses.
When considering buying a bonsai tree, take note of factors like the tree’s health, quality, and any necessary care requirements. Keep in mind that prices may vary, so it is crucial to compare different stores to find the most suitable bonsai tree for your needs and budget.
Online Options
When looking to buy a bonsai tree in Michigan, you have several online options that can meet your needs.
Bonsai Specialty Online Stores
The Flower Market is Michigan’s largest bonsai nursery, offering a wide variety of bonsai and pre-bonsai trees for different budgets. They have an extensive online inventory, and their physical location is in Dundee, Michigan. Another reputable online store is the Bonsai Outlet, which sells quality bonsai trees and supplies. They offer a selection of hand-picked trees by Bonsai Master Jun Imabayashi, ensuring a good investment for bonsai enthusiasts.
General Online Marketplaces
Aside from specialty online stores, there are general online marketplaces where you can find bonsai trees. Popular platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy offer a range of both indoor and outdoor bonsai trees from various sellers. However, be cautious when purchasing from these marketplaces and research the seller’s reputation to ensure you are getting a healthy and well-cared-for tree.
Bonsai Events and Workshops
Michigan hosts several bonsai events and workshops for enthusiasts to learn more about these unique trees and purchase them. One of the prominent events to look forward to is the Meijer Gardens Michigan All-State Bonsai Show, where visitors can enjoy stunning bonsai trees on display, shop for bonsai and related supplies, and attend free demonstrations.
For those interested in learning the art of bonsai, Telly’s Greenhouse offers bonsai workshops every first and third Saturday year-round, with private tutoring and care services available on Saturdays. Additionally, Garden Streets offers online bonsai tree workshops, providing a comprehensive kit for a hands-on experience, fostering creativity and team building.
Bonsai Tree Care Tips
Proper care is essential for maintaining healthy bonsai trees. One of the most important aspects of bonsai care is regular watering, which should be done as needed rather than on a set schedule. Placing a shallow dish of water nearby your indoor bonsai can help maintain adequate humidity levels (The Spruce).
As bonsai trees thrive in sunlight, finding a suitable location with ample natural light is crucial, especially for indoor bonsai. South-facing windows often provide the best lighting conditions, but artificial lighting may be necessary for trees placed elsewhere (Bonsai Resource Center).
Repotting is another essential aspect of bonsai tree care. It prevents your tree from becoming pot-bound and starving as it uses up soil nutrients and fills its pot with roots (Bonsai Empire). When purchasing a bonsai tree in Michigan, consider visiting The Flower Market, Michigan’s largest bonsai nursery, or Bonsai House in Westland, MI, for a wide variety of trees and supplies.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.