Bonsai, as one of the traditional Chinese arts, is loved by people for its unique shapes and profound cultural heritage. In the process of making a bonsai, pruning is a crucial step that directly affects the shape and aesthetics of the bonsai. This article will provide you with a detailed introduction to pruning techniques for various bonsais, helping you create your own unique greenery for home.
Preparation before pruningBefore pruning, ensure that the bonsai is in good growing condition. According to the growth cycle of the bonsai, it is generally divided into the growing period, dormant period, and recovery period. In the growing period, the bonsai grows vigorously, and pruning helps adjust the shape; in the dormant period, the bonsai grows slowly, and pruning should focus on removing dead and diseased branches; in the recovery period, pruning should focus on removing residual and weak branches.
Tool selection for pruningPruning tools are key to achieving good pruning results. Common pruning tools include gardening shears, branch剪, and pruning shears. Gardening shears are suitable for trimming small branches, branch剪 for thicker branches, and pruning shears for robust branches. When purchasing pruning tools, choose products that are sharp, durable, and easy to clean.
Pruning techniques1. Pruning principles: Follow the principles of "keeping the strong, removing the weak, keeping the straight, removing the curved, and keeping the inner, removing the outer" to make the overall shape of the bonsai more beautiful.
2. Pruning methods:
a. Remove diseased and dead branches: Diseased and dead branches affect the growth and appearance of the bonsai and should be removed as soon as possible.
b. Trim branch length: Adjust the length of branches according to the overall shape of the bonsai to ensure even distribution.
c. Trim branch angles: Adjust the angles of branches based on their growth direction and shape to form a beautiful angle with the trunk.
d. Adjust branch spacing: Adjust the spacing between branches to make the bonsai layered and more visually appealing.
3. Timing of pruning: The best times for pruning are in spring and autumn when the bonsai grows vigorously, resulting in better pruning effects.
Post-pruning careAfter pruning, it is essential to care for the bonsai promptly to ensure the pruning results. Specific measures include:
1. Keep the soil moist: After pruning, the soil can easily lose water, so water it in time to keep it moist.
2. Fertilize: After pruning, the bonsai grows vigorously and requires a moderate application of fertilizer to supplement nutrients.
3. Prevent diseases and pests: After pruning, the resistance of the bonsai decreases, so it is necessary to check regularly and prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
Pruning is an important step in making a bonsai. Mastering the correct pruning techniques can make your bonsai more beautiful and healthy. Through the introduction of this article, you should now have a deeper understanding of the pruning techniques for various bonsais. In the future process of making bonsais, keep practicing, and you will create unique greenery for your home.