When you begin sculpting your own tree, you will need to remember that patience is necessary in order to succeed at this art. When you go to sculpt a bonsai tree, you will need an assortment of tools. Wire pliers, branch cutters and pruning tools are just among a few of the tools you will need. Most of the tools required for maintaining and growing a bonsai tree can be purchased at most hardware stores or are sold online from stores that specially handle bonsai tree care supplies. A final aspect of bonsai care, that many beginners are not aware of, is learning when the proper time to prune and pot the tree is at. Each species of tree is different, and depending on when your tree is dormant and active is when you will prune your plant. Some species need to be pruned before new buds have grown. A Challenge of Growing a Bonsai Growing bonsai is a challenge for beginners, as there are a lot of steps that are involved in the growing process. However, while there are a lot of steps, the process of growing a bonsai is extremely simple if you have patience and take your time learning what you need to know. This will make certain that you are using the right bonsai tree care tactics and ensure the long life of your plant. As you become more adept at bonsai tree care, you will learn how to properly prune your plant, pot it in larger pots, and trim the roots so you have a proper sized root mass. You will learn how to wire your plant so the branches go to the form you want without leaving unsightly scars or damaging the visual aspects of your bonsai tree. As the ficus bonsai group contains many varieties of figs, there are species that are harder to care for, and some that are easier to care for. Because of this, you can select the type of ficus bonsai that is suitable for you. It should be remembered that many fruits from ficus bonsai are not edible. Because of this, many beginners get frustrated with keeping their bonsai plants, as the leaves will turn yellow, or their plant dies. It is important to remember that traditionally, bonsai plants live and grow outdoors. They are trees, and as such, need the environment they naturally grow in. While it is becoming a trend to grow bonsai plants indoors, it is important that you select a type of tree that is able to flourish under those conditions.