Bonsai How To
After one has decided on the general style of the bonsai, it is necessary to make a plan as to the desired shape. While some flexibility will be necessary, it is important to decide before starting what the shape of the bonsai will be. It may be helpful to sketch out the design.
When thinking about the design, one should take a look at full grown examples of the species in question, and observe how it grows in nature. One should consider how one will mimic the larger trees on a small scale. There are other elements to consider besides the tree itself that should be planned beforehand; these include the presence of deadwood (some bonsai artists cultivate deadwood as part of the tree to enhance the effect of the tree being aged), Nebari, (which is a spread of roots above the soil to also give the appearance of age) and also even whether to employ the 'root over rock' style, in which the roots of the Nebari are gown over a rock (although this is not recommended for beginners).
Another thing to consider in overall design is the Rule of Thirds. The Rule of Thirds is a principle of visual composition that is often employed in bonsai design. The rule states that an image can be divided into nine equal parts with two horizontal lines and two vertical lines, parallel and evenly spaced. The intersection of the lines are called power points where objects in the composition are sometimes placed.
Nothing can spur ideas for a design like experiencing existing bonsai; it would be wise to examine a number of plants (or pictures of plants) oneself to get ideas.
Bonsai Pruning
One controls the shape and growth of the bonsai by pruning limbs and foliage that fall outside of the overall design. While this is done by removing new growth, it is important not to remove all at once as this will affect the health of the tree... Learn More
Bonsai Nipping
Nipping, or 'pinching back,' is done to maintain the shape of the bonsai. Nipping not only can prevent a plant from becoming too dense, but... Learn More
Bonsai Wiring
Wiring is done to hold branches in place and train them into new shapes. It is sometimes believed that wiring is used to keep the plant small, but this is not the case... Learn More
Re-Potting Bonsai
As all plants grow, their root systems become more extensive and spread out through the soil. With plants in a container, the roots will reach the boundaries of the pot, filling the soil and choking off... Learn More
Displaying Bonsai
Most Bonsai, with perhaps the exception of tropic or sub-tropic varieties, will need to spend almost their entire time outdoors. It will sometimes be desirable, however, to bring the bonsai indoors and appreciate its beauty... Learn More
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