Hi welcome to Taiga Bonsai, in this post we look at how to design and make clamps for pre-stressing. Bringing trunks and branches closer together or applying bends on more mature trees. Introduction – the previous article concerned itself with the topic of making of clamps to keep branches and trunks apart. The aim with this practice is to improve the design of the tree and it’s overall natural appearance. Clamp design – is relatively simple working on a ‘push pull’ principle, the images below show the business end ‘the hooks’ facing the same direction, but they can be changed. So that one is ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonsai, this article includes the expansion clamp design, the materials used and the instructions of how to make it. Introduction – in the previous article we explained the problem with our Sokan Sorbus aucuparia in trying to keep the primary and secondary trunks apart. This was achieved by designing a clamp. (shown below) Expansion clamp construction – before we begin the tutorial, Europe uses the metric system as are the dimensions given here. However, there are countries that use the imperial format, the reason for this is because threaded bars have different thr ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in this article we discuss other methods of bending or pre-stressing mature bonsai, because wire on it’s own is inadequate and often cannot be used. Introduction – in bonsai regardless of whether you follow Utsubo Monogatari, John Y. Naka or anyone else, there are times when a tree requires a little alteration to enhance the design. Either by bringing the trunks closer together or by keeping them apart. Achieving this can be difficult especially with mature specimens, because of the specimen’s cellular structure. This ‘Sokan’ Sorbus aucuparia Rowan or Mountain Ash ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonsai, in this post the last on ‘wiring principles’ we discuss the properties of both copper and aluminium wire including reclaimed wire as opposed to new. Introduction – “when wiring bonsai always apply ‘new’ wire not ‘used’ because (a) used wire has lost its original properties and is inadequate (b) re-using old used wire is seen as a niggardly practice.” Well the bonsai outlets would say that for obvious reasons, but their claim of wire once used will loose its properties is incorrect. Aluminium and copper wire can be reannealed as many bonsai enthusiasts use reclaimed ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in the next few articles we discuss the principle of using wire to style trees. Introduction – Styling a potential bonsai can create complications, but much depends on the species and what are you trying to achieve. For example, do you want your tree to have a natural appearance as would be found in nature, or something completely different. To quote the late bonsai master John Y. Naka, “don’t turn your tree into a bonsai – turn you bonsai into a tree.” Deciduous – are not as tall as conifers they have more girth, large foliage areas and are much more rigid in their ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in the previous post we mentioned that additional methods or techniques are often used to aid the artist in maintaining symmetry and shape in a tree’s design; but first a few words of caution. Disclaimer – the techniques used in this article are carried out by professional bonsai artists due to complexity of application. If you are unsure whether your skill set is up to the mark, do not attempt any of these methods; mistakes are irreversible and often fatal. Introduction – the methods used in this article can be used on both conifers and deciduous species ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in this post we look at the fundamentals of bonsai design in much the same way that apprentices of the day (now masters in their own right) were instructed. Introduction – the art of design is a learning curve with many attributes that are all inter connected. Tools are not required at this stage, all one needs is a camera and computer, failing that paper and pencil. Takes pictures and load them to your computer and by using a drawing application, Paint Shop Pro or Corel Draw etc, try making alterations to shape your tree into an acceptable design. This exercis ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, we continue our discussion on ‘material for bonsai’, in this post we look at the possibilities of air layering and grafting in the production of new plants. Introduction – by using the following methods, it is possible to produce a potential bonsai in a relatively short space of time. In some cases, it can take from a few weeks to one or more growing seasons to produce sufficient roots. This is largely dependent on the species and the vigour of the parent plant. Other methods including grafting can take longer, because of the techniques used. Again, this is largely ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in this series of articles we continue to look at ways in obtaining potential bonsai material. Statement: – it matters not the source from where your tree/s originate, what is more important is your knowledge. It is a vital necessity to learn as much as you can to ensure the health and vitality of your particular species. Research is not difficult as there exist many web sites where the relevant information can be found. Juniperus squamata Introduction – material for bonsai can be obtained in various ways for example. Unwanted plants from gardens, waste sites, areas ..read more

Hi welcome to Taiga Bonzai, in this episode the first in the series ‘material for bonsai’, we look at the positive and negatives aspects of bonsai horticulture. Introduction – collecting from the wild causes arguments on both sides. Those in favour may argue that the species they lust for, cannot be found at nurseries or bonsai outlets. Moreover, seedlings and cuttings will take many years to reach maturity. We find this attitude to be rather selfish, taking from the wild just to satisfy personal whims, deprives others from seeing the beauty of nature. As for those illusive plants they ar ..read more