Greetings and a few questions

[Ryan R.]

Hello all, I have recently become addicted to bonsai.

I live in Detroit Michigan (6b) and sadly due to theft, I will likely have to keep my plants indoors. I currently have a sunblaster 2' t5 and will soon buy a 3' w/ reflector. How much lighting is recomended?

I have been using "hoffmans" bonsai soil; a mix of haydite, sand pebble, aged pine bark, & Turface. At $12/2qts id like to buy bulk for next year. Any local or online suggestions are appreciated.

I have have joshua roth concave cutters, shears, & tweezers- all novice.
Is that a jrl a decent brand?

I have a few books with several more on the way. I have also read as much as I can online. The lady that I buy from tells me to mix in organic, any insight as to why she would suggest that? I don't see any written support of it.

Thank you in advance for reading and replying- Ryan

Bonsai trees: tiger bark ficus, fuiken tea, cherry brush, natal plum, water jasmine, lavender star, and baby jade.

I also have some ponytail palms, small jades, ginsing ficus, & a money tree.