Tiny Trees with Big Personality In Store

We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of real living art at PlantHouse Grey Lynn: a hand-selected range of bonsai, created in collaboration with one of New Zealand’s most renowned bonsai artists, Adrian Bird.

Whether you're a complete beginner or already bonsai-curious, this collection has been designed to draw you in and get you hooked. Starting with timeless favourites like classic Juniper and Japanese Black Pine, the launch range showcases traditional and contemporary styles in small to medium sizes which are ideal for Auckland's climate and perfect as meaningful gifts.

Each piece is a quiet conversation between nature and form... a moment of beauty, patience and craftsmanship. And thanks to Adrian's expertise, these aren’t just plants, they’re heirlooms in the making.

Come in and find your bonsai. The first of many, we suspect.

35 Surrey Cres, Grey Lynn, Auckland

About Adrian Bird

As a designer, artist, & musician, Adrian has always been surrounded by Art & Nature. From an early age growing up within the family's varied horticultural businesses, Adrian developed a deep understanding of nature and its aesthetic beauty. After graduating from Art School and working as a graphic designer for 10 years (whilst pursuing bonsai alongside), Adrian now works as a bonsai professional in New Zealand. 

After travelling the world in pursuit of the best bonsai gardens, Adrian is currently building his own garden, named 'Hakaru-en'. Using elements and inspiration from his favourite international gardens, Hakaru-en will showcase a distinctly New Zealand flora within the display of both traditional Japanese bonsai trees, and New Zealand native bonsai. Alongside constructing and maintaining his own bonsai garden, Adrian maintains a growing number of bonsai collections throughout New Zealand.

If you're after some expert tree design (small or large!) to organise a workshop or after something in particular, find Adrian's Instagram on @adrianbirdbonsai or check out https://www.adrianbirdbonsai.com/

Here are our top 10 bonsai care tips for new owners to help your tree thrive from day one:

1 - Identify the Tree Type

Not all bonsai are the same. “Bonsai” describes the growing style, not the species—your tree might be a Juniper, Ficus, Elm, or something else entirely. Knowing the type helps you care for it properly. Junipers, for example, must live outside in full sun, while tropical varieties like Ficus can grow indoors with the right light and warmth.

2 - Find a Bright Spot

Bonsai love light. Indoors, choose a spot with bright indirect sunlight for at least 4–6 hours a day. Outdoors, most species prefer morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter months. Avoid dark corners or low-light rooms.

3 - Water Mindfully

Bonsai trees have shallow root systems and small pots, which means they dry out more quickly than regular houseplants. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry—don’t let it dry out completely, but don’t keep it soggy either. Water thoroughly until it drains from the base, then let it settle. 

4 - Keep the Moss Alive Too

If your bonsai came topped with moss, it’s doing more than looking pretty—it helps regulate surface moisture. Lightly mist it every couple of days to keep it green and fresh, especially in warmer weather or dry indoor air.

5 - Soil Matters and Yours is Already Good

Our bonsai are potted in high-quality, well-draining mix designed to balance moisture and airflow—perfect for healthy roots. With the right watering routine and light, you won't need to repot for 2-3 years. Just keep an eye out for signs of stress (like yellowing leaves) and let us know if anything seems off.

6 - Avoid Drafty or Extreme Spots

Protect your bonsai from sudden temperature changes. Avoid placing it near heaters, air conditioners, or open windows where cold draughts could cause stress.

7 - Fertilise Lightly During Growing Season

Use a diluted liquid fertiliser every few weeks during spring and summer. This gives your bonsai the nutrients it needs to keep growing strong in its small pot.

8 - Light Pruning is Fine

If you notice a shoot growing long and leggy, you can gently trim it to maintain the tree’s shape. But avoid heavy pruning until you’ve learned more about its growth habits. Think of pruning as bonsai’s version of a haircut—less is more to start with.

9 - Check in Regularly

Make it a habit to check your tree every day or two. Look at the leaves, feel the soil, and watch for changes in colour or texture. Early signs of stress are much easier to correct than late ones.

10 - Enjoy the Journey

Bonsai is a long-term art form. Your tree will grow and evolve slowly, which is part of the magic. With just a little regular care, it’ll be a fascinating and rewarding companion for years to come.