Trimming and Shaping Styles on Juniper
by Hatsuji Kato
The purpose of trimming and shaping bonsai is not only to heighten the appreciative
value of the bonsai, but to provide the best growing conditions withing
a limited space. Bonsai are grown in small containers in the open air. Ideally,
their branches should be well ventilated and exposed to sunlight.
Please understand that each tree is different, and the basic skills for trimming and shaping introduced in this article are not absolute - they are just examples.
This juniper tree was collected by Mr. Fukuji Suzuki, a well-known professional plant gatherer, in 1993. It was found in the "Itoigawa" mountainous area, which used to be famous for producing the best quality of juniper in Japan. Bonsai masters and enthusiasts have been preferring the materials produced form this area.
Photo 1
This juniper is classified as a "large" type. It is about 1000 years old, measures 90cm in height, 130cm in length, and has a girth of 80cm.
The tree is thought to have been nursed in its pot for 60-70 years. Its present form is a typical bonsai style and it has probably undergone many shapings and trimmings. The latest wiring was done five years ago, so the wires should be taken off the tree. It looks to be in very good condition because its leaves and branches are well grown. Now it is the best time to alter its form.
Photo 2
First, unneccessary branches such as the inward, upward, and downward pointing twigs and many crossed, parallel, or bent branches should be cut off according to the nature of the leaves. Also, overgrown branches should be cut off. The balance between the size of the trunk and the trunk lines should be taken into consideration when deciding on the total volume of the tree.
The strict rules for forming a good tree are not decided, but each creator should brush up his or her aesthetic sense by taking up opportunities to appreciate bonsai masterpieces.
Photo 3
Taking leaves of a big branch can have a dramatic effect on "jin" (deadwood branches) when perfecting a tree. Do not make jin that go against the nature of the tree. Making too many jin seriously damages the tree and its total balance. Peel the bark carefully to make a jin that will last longer and be more resistant to natural rotting.
Photo 4
After trimming, wire the tree for shaping. According to basic techniques, the wiring should start at the lower and bigger branches and end at the higher and smaller branches. Juniper branches grow irregularly, so the wiring should be carefully done in accordance with the characteristics of each tree. Do not wire tightly.
Photo 5
The form before trimming. Too many branches and leaves cover the tree. The downward-facing branch looks untidy.
Photo 6
"Shari" (exposed deadwood on the trunk) appears after removing branches and trimming leaves. When you are forming a big bonsai like this, always consider the total balance of the whole tree.
Photo 7
Compare with photo 6. "Shari" trunks displaying dynamic movement appear more clearly. There are more spaces at the top of the tree. Trimming is almost finished in this photo.
Photo 8
Shaping a style with wires. With the wiring technique, if you wire branches right up to the tips of the twigs, the shape of the tree gives off a more classical atmosphere. When the wires cut into the bark, it is time to remove them immediately. A bent branch will grow faster than the other branches. When you remove the wires, if changes are not apparent, please rewire the branches immediately.
Photo 9
The front of the tree. The dynamics of the turnk are brought out by a restored volume of branches and leaves. Branches behind the trunk balance the depth and volume of the tree.
Photo 10
The reverse side. This side could also be considered as the front. The floating part is shown at the bottom. Such elements as figures, dynamics and floating patters of branches should be taken into consideration when choosing the front side.