The Best Bonsai Tree Starter Kits

Nature’s Blossom Bonsai Seed Starter Kit

Four's company

Whether you plan on getting the entire family involved or approaching the art of bonsai on your own, this four-pack has everything you need.

Best Overall

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Regardless of whether you’re shopping for yourself or others, this kit is classy and inspiring enough to elicit a sincere “thank you.” The four trees included offer the classic elegance of bonsai, and you’ll have the opportunity to nurture them from seed. Since the seeds are non-GMO, the seedling pots are biodegradable, and the kit is USA-made, you’ll feel at one with nature as you work. Best of all, the fertilized seeds have a 90% germination rate, which means you’re more likely to successfully grown them into plants.

Pros:

• Contains seeds to four classic-looking trees you can train into beautiful shapes
• Great value
• Space-efficient packaging and eco-friendly materials make for a harmonious growing experience

Cons:

• You will need to provide your own pot once seedlings are ready, but the biodegradable seedling starter pots make the up-potting process very simple

Nature’s Blossom Bonsai Tree Seed Starter Kit

From seed to tree

If you're keen on the idea of growing your bonsai trees from seed, this is a fine kit.

Runner Up

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While caring for a bonsai tree is much easier when the tree is alive and well to begin with, that takes half the beauty out of the process. This kit requires a bit more effort and diligence on your part, but the rewards are more than worth it. Included in this kit are the seeds and other supplies needed to grow four different types of bonsai trees, so all you need to do is follow the “Sow & Grow” guide to get started. Those who’ve never grown from seed have the opportunity to do so here, and we couldn’t support the endeavor more enthusiastically.

Pros:

• Directions are clear and helpful
• Parents looking to bond with their kits will find this a great medium

Cons:

• From germination to cultivation, this process takes commitment, so it’s not ideal for those with fickle interests

Planter’s Choice Bonsai Starter Kit

No green thumb? No problem

This kit sets you up for success with a variety of helpful tools and easy-to-follow directions.

Best For Beginners

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Whether you’re new to planting or you’re a gardener who frets over every aspect of your plants’ well-being, you’ll benefit from all the tools and special features of this kit. Grow four diverse plants from seed with the provided pots, soil, drip trays, and markers. You can even check the soil moisture levels with the included meter, so you’ll always know how much water your seedlings need. With this kit’s help, you’ll be enjoying the sight of your colorful trees in no time.

Pros:

• Seeds will grow a variety of dazzling trees, including the abundantly blossoming blue jacaranda and royal poinciana
• Tools include a moisture meter to help you avoid over-watering or under-watering your soil
• Good choice for beginner gardeners, or if you want a project to work on with kids

Cons:

• You will need a pot to transplant your seedlings into once they’ve grown big enough

Grow Buddha Easy Bonsai Starter Kit

So many fantastic colors

Add some color to your life with this unique assortment of tree specimens.

Best Colors

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Bonsai allows us to practice patience, and starting the trees from seed offers us even more opportunities to do so. With the help and tools provided by this kit, your seeds will grow into luscious, colorful bonsai trees that will be sure to stimulate the senses and capture the imagination. Aside from the breathtaking Japanese maple tree, you will also grow the vibrant wisteria tree, the otherworldly Judas tree, and the soothing black pine.

Pros:

• Starter kit includes seeds, planting materials, a trimmer, and more
• Keep track of your seedlings with the provided labels
• Unique variety of vibrant trees

Cons:

• You must read the instructions carefully to make sure you’re providing the seeds with the right environment

Home Grown Bonsai Tree Kit

The gift that keeps on growing

Colorful variety and high seed germination rate make this comprehensive starter kit a thoughtful gift.

Best Gift

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Why opt for a generic present for a loved one when you can gift them such a marvelous set as this? Suitable for beginners and seasoned botanists alike, this multi-pack includes an assortment of seed varieties. Your giftee will be able to grow a flame tree, spruce, bristlecone pine, and a fern tree, all from seed. Presents like gift cards and game consoles are a dime a dozen, so instead opt for this kit for a gift that keeps on growing.

Pros:

• A suitable gift for all ages
• Includes a free digital growing guide

Cons:

• A bit pricy for what’s provided

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bonsai tree?

Since bonsai is a method or practice and not a species, a bonsai tree can be any living potted tree that’s trained and trimmed into aesthetically pleasing shapes. Some tree types are better suited to this art form than others, either because they do exceptionally well in pots or because their branches are easy to shape. Any good bonsai starter kit will provide you with the guidance you need to start practicing this art form and create your very own bonsai tree.

Should I start from seed or choose a living tree?

Both options have their advantages, so it’s a good idea to consider your needs and wishes. Starting from seed is exciting and rewarding because you have control over your tree’s shape and health from the earliest stages, while mature trees have already been shaped to some extent in the greenhouses they came from. On the other hand, mature trees are already thriving and have a strong foundation to grow on, whereas seeds require careful monitoring of temperature and humidity to ensure they sprout at all. Decide whether artistic control or convenience is more important to you before choosing your bonsai starter kit.