The secrets of the coarse root technique for penjing (bonsai), how to create a sturdy and beautiful penjing root system.

This article guide:

Choosing the right materials for pruning and carving, dealing with wound healing and maintenance precautions

Bonsai, as a traditional art form in our country, is deeply loved by people for its unique shaping and profound cultural heritage. In the process of making bonsai, the treatment of thick roots is crucial. It not only affects the stability of the bonsai but also reflects the key style of bonsai art. This article will unveil the techniques for dealing with thick roots in bonsai, helping you create magnificent bonsai.

Choosing the right materials

When making thick roots for bonsai, it is first necessary to choose the right materials. Common materials include Wisteria, plum stakes, and boxwood. These materials are hard-textured, easy to carve, and have a long growth cycle, which is beneficial for the long-term maintenance of bonsai.

Pruning and carving

1. Pruning: During pruning, follow the principle of 'sparse and dense, appropriate length and shortness', trim the long branches, withered leaves, and branches that affect the appearance, making the overall shape of the bonsai more coordinated.

2. Carving: Carving is a key step in making thick roots for bonsai. The following points should be noted during the carving process:

a. Determine the direction of carving: According to the overall shape of the bonsai, determine the direction of carving for the thick roots, making the rootstock coordinate with the branches, leaves, and trunk.

b. Master the strength: When carving, the strength should be moderate to avoid excessive force that may cause the rootstock to break.

c. Pay attention to details: During the carving process, attention should be paid to detail handling to make the texture and trend of the rootstock more natural and aesthetically pleasing.

Dealing with wounds

In the process of pruning and carving, it is inevitable to leave wounds. To prevent wound infection, the following measures can be taken:

1. Clean the wound: Disinfect the wound with an alcohol cotton ball or iodine tincture.

2. Apply a protective agent: Apply an appropriate amount of plant healing agent or petroleum jelly to the wound to protect it.

Rooting and maintenance

1. Rooting: Soak the processed thick roots in rooting powder for a period of time to improve the rooting speed.

2. Maintenance: Plant the rooted thick roots in the potting soil, and pay attention to watering, fertilizing, and lighting for maintenance work to ensure the healthy growth of the bonsai.

Precautions

1. Choose the right bonsai materials: Choose the right materials according to personal preferences and the style of the bonsai.

2. Moderate pruning and carving: Avoid excessive pruning and carving to avoid affecting the overall aesthetics of the bonsai.

3. Pay attention to wound treatment: Timely disinfect and apply protective agents to prevent wound infection.

4. Water and fertilize in time: Keep the soil of the bonsai moist and fertilize appropriately to promote the growth of the bonsai.

Mastering the techniques for dealing with thick roots in bonsai is a necessary skill for every bonsai enthusiast. Through the introduction of this article, I believe you have gained a deeper understanding of the making of thick roots in bonsai. In the future process of making bonsai, keep practicing, and I believe you will be able to create magnificent and unique bonsai works.