Page 53 - BSAM 2015 Q1

Aftercare
David recommended that we keep the tree under filtered or shaded sunlight for a few weeks before putting the tree
back in full sunlight. Keeping it
cool would help reduce the stress
and help the tree heal. If the
branch bend was performed
smoothly, the branch would
have a very high success
rate. We could continue
watering normally. Once
the branch was set, the
wire and raffia could be
removed. David mentioned
he usually keeps the raffia
and wire on the tree for
about a year.
Conclusion
After everything was
complete, David stepped back
to see the finished product. We
compared the before and after photos
and noticed that the tree had indeed come down by a full two feet. It was clear from the demonstration that David had quite a lot of experience in bending large branches. The methodical approach to the bend displayed his skill and talent that is clearly evident in many of his show trees.
As artists, we’re always striving for ways
to constantly improve our own bonsai trees. David’s heavy bend technique opens up more design possibilities when working with our trees. Trees once passed over or thought to be worthless now have the potential to become great bonsai trees.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jason Chan is president of Eastern Leaf, a website catering to bonsai enthusiasts. He’s also a founding member and apprentice at Bonsai Jidai.
Top left; David refines the deadwood while the assistants wire the branches.
Top right and bottom; The finished work at the end of the session. The height has been reduced by a full two feet (60 cm).
April/May/June 2015 | BCI | 51