#41 Todd Schlafer - First Branch Bonsai

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