Bonsai Tree Pruning Techniques Fully Analyzed, Revitalize Your Bonsai with a New Life

The selection of pruning tools, pruning principles, pruning methods, and post-pruning maintenance case analysis

Bonsai, as a traditional art form in our country, is deeply loved by people for its unique artistic charm. The pruning of the bonsai trees is an important part of creating and maintaining bonsai, directly affecting the aesthetics and growth of the bonsai. This article will introduce you to the pruning techniques for potted trees, helping you to create original bonsai works.

The selection of pruning tools

Before pruning a bonsai tree, it is first necessary to prepare the appropriate tools. Common pruning tools include scissors, branch cutters, saws, etc. Scissors are suitable for trimming small branches, branch cutters are for medium-sized branches, and saws are for thicker branches. It is also necessary to prepare some disinfectant solution for disinfecting the wounds after pruning.

Pruning principles

1. Retain the trunk: During pruning, the main trunk of the bonsai must be preserved to maintain the overall shape of the tree.

2. Moderate pruning: Pruning should be moderate to avoid over-pruning, which can lead to poor tree growth.

3. Timely pruning: Based on the tree's growth cycle, pruning should be carried out at the appropriate time to ensure normal tree growth.

Pruning methods

1. Basic pruning: Focus on the main trunk and main branches, adjusting the overall shape of the tree.

2. Thinning: Remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches inside the tree to ensure good ventilation and light penetration.

3. Stylistic pruning: According to the artistic style of the bonsai, pruning is performed to shape the tree, such as in the styles of a cliff or straight trunk.

Post-pruning maintenance

1. Disinfection: The wounds after pruning should be promptly disinfected to prevent the invasion of bacteria.

2. Water management: After pruning, it is necessary to reduce the frequency of watering to avoid excessive moisture causing the wounds to rot.

3. Fertilization: After pruning, it is essential to supplement fertilizer to promote tree recovery.

Case analysis

Here is a case analysis of pruning a potted tree:

Case: A pine tree bonsai with a thick trunk and dense branches, the overall shape is rather messy.

Pruning plan:

1. Retain the main trunk and prune the main branches moderately to adjust the overall shape of the tree.

2. Thin out the branches by removing dead, diseased, and crossing branches.

3. Based on the characteristics of the pine tree, pruning is performed to shape the branches and create an elegant pine tree shape.

Post-pruning maintenance:

1. Disinfect the wounds after pruning.

2. Reduce the frequency of watering to avoid excessive moisture leading to rotting of the wounds.

3. Apply an appropriate amount of fertilizer to promote tree recovery.

The pruning of bonsai trees is an important part of creating and maintaining bonsai. Mastering the correct pruning techniques can breathe new life into your bonsai. It is hoped that the introduction in this article will be of help to you, and wish you a long journey on the road of bonsai creation.