What is Bonsai Wiring

The structure of the bonsai tree gives an extraordinary art and attraction to plant growers and even to the viewers. Bonsai structure is made possible through bonsai wiring. Bonsai wiring involves using of wires especially made for branches of bonsai trees. The wires are wrapped around the branches of bonsai tree, and the wires exert force on it so that they will grow according to the formation of wires.

Here are some facts that you need to know about bonsai wiring:

• Determine the bark of your bonsai tree. It is very important for you to identify the type of bark your bonsai tree has because this will guide you in the right type of wire to be used. This will also enhance the effectivity of the wires used to shape your bonsai tree, prevent waste of money, and prevent possible damages to the branch of bonsai tree.

• Choose the right type of wire. There are two types of wires used for bonsai wiring. Anodized aluminum is used for branches that are thin. This is suitable for beginners in bonsai wiring because this is softer than copper and it is easy to manipulate during the application of wires to the branches of the bonsai tree. Annealed copper wire is another type of wire that is recommended for tough and hard branches of bonsai tree. This is three times stronger compared to anodized aluminum, and this will effectively control the branches to follow your desired formation.

• Perform bonsai wiring during autumn and winter. It is highly recommended to do bonsai wiring during the season of fall and winter. During fall and winter, the growth of bonsai trees is usually slower than during the spring and summer. It may take several months before you can achieve your desired structure for your bonsai tree. But the slow growth of the bonsai tree will help you prevent unpleasant scar formation on its branches.

• Provide adequate supply of nutrients to your bonsai tree. You should ensure that proper amounts of fertilizers, sufficient exposure to sunlight and adequate supply of water is provided to your bonsai tree because this will help your bonsai to grow normally even though the wiring puts extra strain to it.

• Remove bonsai wiring in the right time. You should watch out for your bonsai tree especially during peak growth season because they grow faster and the wiring around the branches can cause formation of wire marks. This can be an ugly appearance to your bonsai tree. You should remove the wires using wire cutters to prevent scar formation when there is an obvious growth of the branch.

• Follow the appropriate wiring techniques. It is important to make use of the appropriate wiring techniques as these aids you in properly shaping your bonsai tree. You can use single wiring method for single branches. Before starting to wire the single branch, you should start the wiring at the trunk at least twice. Double wiring method is used for two branches that are close to each other, and have similar thickness. You should start wiring at the trunk at least once, and then you can now proceed wiring from the base of the branch up to the tip.