Thanks for all the replies. My shefflera is not very big. It came from a cutting 3 years ago of a favorite aunt who passed away so it is a very special plant to us. It has two trunks - one about 10 inches tall and one about 14 inches tall. The trunks are about 2 1/2 inches apart. With that being said, does anyone have any suggestions on what they would do? Stupid question - I know I have alot of research to do - but what comes first - repotting, cutting back, or trimming roots? Also - where do y'all get your tools from? An online source? And I have a very wide array of pots, not necessarily bonsai pots, but I did start buying up pots 3 years ago at every yard sale I came accross in the anticipation of having a small greenhouse someday. Any tips on what to look for in a pot? Has anyone ever heard of a ZZ plant - it is a houseplant sitting on my desk right now, 4 trunks, growing straight up, shiny evergreen leaves. Looks like it might be a good bonsai candidate. I reckon I will go jump on google right now and research a little before work. Thanks again

Ladies, thank you for your comments. I will seal before I put it outside. I want to paint some snowmen and gingerbread men later this year along with jack-o-lanterns and maybe Christmas ornaments. I think colorful ornament pavers would be pretty across the front flower beds at Christmas. - Marylee

"lol", Using my colors again, huh Sue? Cute. Especially for Australian's? ~Urlee~

OK I'll except that. I know what you mean about getting things while the weather holds out. As great the weather was all of April and early May, the last two weeks have been so unpredictable off and on rain and high winds. So glad I got my deck and other major jobs done then. Thinking about downloading that Google 3D thing, guess I should hurry before it is no longer free. Not sure if I would have a lot of use for it, but as soon as I can't get it I'll want it. Carol