How To Be Successful In Japanese Bonsai Tree Cultivation

Growing a Japanese bonsai tree may seem difficult and complicated but actually it is not like that. Japanese bonsai tree is like any other trees that requires proper lighting, sufficient moisture, right type of soil, and a container with adequate space. However, there are some techniques you should apply so that you can create a diminutive tree. The following are the techniques used in cultivating a Japanese bonsai tree:

1) Wiring. It is a technique where you will use a copper wire or an aluminum wire primarily to twist, bend, or straighten the branches of the miniature tree. Copper wire is more difficult to manipulate because it is tougher compared to aluminum wires, and most commonly professionals in bonsai propagation use this. This wire is very helpful if you are growing a hardy type of tree species. Aluminum wire is easier to manipulate and beginners in bonsai cultivation can use this instead of the copper wire. However, this type of wire is not used for rigid branches and trunks.

2) Pruning. It is a method wherein you will maintain the shape of your bonsai tree and encourage new growth of its parts. This method will also remove the unnecessary branches that cover the style you have chosen to your bonsai. After pruning, the basic design will be exposed and its beauty will now be appreciated by viewers.

3) Leaf Trimming. Leaf trimming, also known as defoliation, is a technique the same with pruning. But in leaf trimming you will remove the leaves from the branches with the use of fine scissors. The cutting should be done behind the leaf. After performing leaf trimming, you should protect your bonsai from any harsh conditions and supply its needs properly most especially water. Leaf trimming is done in the middle part of summer. You should cut off the leaves for about 60 to 90% of the entire leaf population. You need to leave some leaves on the tree so that the tree can still produce its own food and will not lose its energy, which is necessary for its growth.

4) Repotting. Repotting is another technique that will help your Japanese bonsai tree to grow healthily. It is done to prevent your plant from becoming root bound. Root bound happens when your Japanese bonsai tree grows and then there is no enough space for its roots to grow and expand. When there is no enough space and soil for the roots to grow, they become restricted inside the bonsai container. The roots cannot anymore perform its function, and the bonsai tree will starve that can possibly lead to its death if you are not able to act on it immediately.

Repotting should be done carefully because you can damage the roots of the tree if you do not perform it in the right manner. It should be done on the early part of the spring. Make sure that you use the appropriate tools and follow the repotting procedures well so that you will not cause damage or harm to the roots. But before repotting your Japanese bonsai tree, you should prepare all the necessary tools because you need to perform repotting in a quick and careful manner at the same time. This will help you prevent drying of the roots in your bonsai tree.