It grows and spreads through several venues, either growing new parts of a tree by expanding its root system or having birds carry away the figs where the seeds will grow into new plants. Unlike other variety of fig plants, the banyan bonsai is not edible. The banyan bonsai is preferred by many, as it is easy to care for and shape compared to many of the other different types of bonsais available on the market. Japanese maples tend to be used, as this species of tree is traditionally associated with bonsai growing. However, as the art of bonsai growth has evolved, other forms of maple bonsai have come to the forefront, especially in the United States and Canada. When caring for a maple bonsai, you need to learn about maple trees in general. These trees are good for beginners who want to learn how to care for a bonsai tree without investing several years in designing the tree. If you are adventurous, or have owned a bonsai tree previously, you can choose to acquire a young seedling and sculpt your bonsai tree yourself. If you are planning to sculpt your own bonsai tree, there are several things that you will want to remember. This style of bonsai is highly popular in traditional bonsai designs, as the aerial root system of this family of fig is highly conducive towards design and styling. Suitable for the standard bonsai design, as well as root over rock styles, the ficus bonsai is a versatile, hardy tree that is relatively easy to care for. A good pair of small shears, typically made specifically for bonsai, will allow you to prune the branches and leaves of your bonsai as needed. This is an important part of bonsai care. A rake is used to work the soil of your bonsai pot, checking for clumps and otherwise maintaining this aspect of your bonsai. Bonsai soil can be found in the most unusual of places, including hardware stores, auto parts stores and pet supply stores. Bonsai resellers online will typically acquire their soils from these types of places and make blends suitable for certain types of trees. When you purchase bonsai soil, it is important that you test the soil prior to use.