Page 39 - BSAM 2016 Q2

Flat Ribbon Style
Flat ribbon style trunk and shari are among the most sought a er characteristics in weathered qual- ity juniper bonsai. Because patience is a key ingredient in bonsai creation, time is of the essence. As stated before, the natural abilities, resilience and will of sur- vival that junipers have are the main focus of attention when developing the material and employing these techniques. Taking advantage of the juniper’s natural ability to heal itself and create new wood, the bark is gradually removed as explained previously in this article. Eventually, the live veins of the tree will swell and grow new wood. A er some years of bark removal and shari extension, the live parts will grow outwards, thus creating a at-ribbon style trunk that is prevalent in naturally weathered junipers.
Concluding Thoughts
e diverse techniques that are explained in this ar- ticle require patience, careful observation and a feel for identifying the right time to perform these tasks. Always remember! Consider the general climate of your area and the tree’s physical health. One thing is certain; because these methods are gradual, the mate- rial is always allowed to recover before resuming the next steps. Why is this important? If we do not have healthy trees, we won’t have quality bonsai! e sky is the limit. Encourage yourselves to explore the world of creating yamadori-like junipers and, at the same time, preserve nature, ecology and our wild natural heritage.
Top left; Juniper Material, over 50 years old, from cutting.
Top right; Flat ribbon style. After some years of bark removal and shari extension, the live parts will grow outwards, thus creating a at-ribbon style trunk that is prevalent in naturally weathered junipers
Bottom; The interplay between life and death, Cutting-grown juniper, over 50 years old, .
When you believe, miracles will be!
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