Nurturing a bonsai tree is a rewarding experience that expresses creativity and dedication. But what if you let it grow without trimming?
Without regular care and pruning, the tree will eventually return to its natural state. Over time, the little tree that was your beloved bonsai will become a large, unruly shrub or sapling.
But with patience and the right tools, an overgrown bonsai can be restored to its original beauty. To do so takes skill, precision, and persistence in carrying out delicate shaping techniques such as defoliation and wiring branches.
To start you off, thoroughly inspect the trunk for possible signs of disease or infestation. Root pruning is essential for deciding which parts of the root system should be kept to shape the new dwarf tree. Commencing from the top of the plant down to its base will give it a balanced growing form resulting in aesthetic appeal.
Careful use of pruning shears is necessary in order to keep growth well-manicured as shoot re-growth occurs during this process. Wire wrapping helps guide branches into position while judiciously spacing buds on long shoots can also provide an even denser canopy with increased ramification points. General maintenance must also take place during this period, such as fertilizing alongside regular watering cycles so that optimal health continues throughout development.
Letting a bonsai tree grow without interruption requires dedication but offers immense satisfaction upon completion by following through with these tried-and-true principles of restoration gardening.