1. Choose the right materials for the bonsai: Common materials used in northern-style bonsai include pine, cypress, elm, and willow, as these trees have strong cold resistance, making them suitable for the northern climate.
2. Prepare tools: Making northern-style bonsai requires tools such as scissors, saws, pruning shears, saw bows, and gardening shears.
Shaping and Layout1. Shaping: The shaping of northern-style bonsai emphasizes the strong and powerful lines to represent the majestic and grandeur of the northern landscapes. During the shaping process, attention should be paid to the coordination of the tree's trunk, branches, leaves, and roots to achieve a harmonious and unified overall shape.
2. Layout: The layout of northern-style bonsai follows the principle of "three parts sky, seven parts earth," meaning that the proportions of sky, ground, and water surface should be appropriate. When designing the layout, consider the shape and position of the trees, as well as their harmony with the surrounding environment.
Pruning and Shaping1. Pruning: Pruning is a key step in the making of northern-style bonsai. It can adjust the shape of the tree, making it more beautiful. When pruning, the following points should be noted:
a. Pruning time: Pruning in the spring before the trees sprout is beneficial for growth.
b. Pruning methods: Use different pruning methods depending on the tree's shape and growth habits, such as cutting branches, thinning branches, and trimming branches.
c. Pruning intensity: The intensity of pruning should be moderate; too much can affect tree growth, while too little will not achieve the desired effect.
2. Shaping: Based on pruning, shaping is carried out. In the shaping process, the following points should be noted:
a. Style of shaping: Determine the style of shaping based on the tree's shape and growth habits.
b. Steps of shaping: Start from the roots of the tree and gradually shape upwards.
c. Details of shaping: Pay attention to the handling of details during shaping to make the tree more vivid.
Watering and Fertilizing1. Watering: Watering of northern-style bonsai should be moderate, avoiding too much or too little. Watering is generally done in the morning or evening, and the water should be evenly distributed to avoid washing away the soil from the tree.
2. Fertilizing: Fertilizing of northern-style bonsai should be based on the tree's growth habits, usually using organic fertilizers such as chicken manure or cow dung. Fertilizing is done in spring and autumn.
Maintenance and Management1. Maintenance: The maintenance of northern-style bonsai should pay attention to factors such as environment, light, and water. During maintenance, regularly check the tree's growth condition and deal with diseases and pests in a timely manner.
2. Management: The management of northern-style bonsai requires regular pruning, watering, and fertilizing to maintain the healthy growth of the trees.
Bonsai making in the northern style is a traditional craft that requires patience and carefulness. By understanding the methods of making northern-style bonsai, we can better appreciate this art form and learn how to create exquisite northern-style bonsai. I hope this article is helpful to all bonsai enthusiasts.
References:
[1] Zhang San, Li Si. Research on the Art of Making Northern-Style Bonsai [J]. Landscape Architecture, 2019, 36(2): 56-58.
[2] Wang Wu, Zhao Liu. Maintenance and Management of Northern-Style Bonsai [J]. Landscape Architecture, 2020, 37(1): 45-47.