Page 46 - BSAM 2016 Q3

Top left; The tree after several sacri cial limbs were removed. As you can see on top left, the tree has changed considerably and has acquired a branch structure that matches the aged character of the trunk.
Top right and middle right;
Remove unsightly roots and promote a radially emerging root column, comprised of numerous ne roots.
Bottom left and inset; The tree was then defoliated in summer and rapeseed fertilizer was added once the tree started
to bud.
Medium-Size Pot Development (part II)
As you can see on bottom right of previous page, the growth has reduced somewhat and the main branch- es have not grown out as they did before. Since the container is large enough, the lower le branch was allowed to lengthen, as it needs to achieve greater di- ameter. Some additional advantages of medium-size container cultivation are:
• Presents opportunity for a gradual branch structure development
• Allows a progressive growth cycle that will translate into accurate taper on trunks and branches.
The Use of Sacri ce Branches
Sacri ce branches are the key to achieve taper in bonsai structures. Although the subject of this article is a Clerodendrum, the basics we present here are suit- able to all deciduous, broadleaf evergreen and tropical species. On thing is certain, sacri ce branch removal, by itself, will not produce the desired results. A com- bination of Clip and Grow Techniques, combined with bud/leader selection and wiring will enable bonsai growers to guide our plants into the desired shape. Also, proper sealing of all open cuts with specialized orange cut paste is indispensable. Any open wounds might compromise the tree’s vascular system. Natural
Because roots require equal attention as
all other elements in bonsai cultivation, a well tapered and “rami ed” root system is a desirable asset in the creation process.
shari in Clerodendrum is hard, but new wood is natu- rally so and susceptible to rot. We want those cuts to heal as fast as possible.
Top le is an image of the tree a er several sacri - cial limbs were removed. e tree has changed con- siderably and has acquired a branch structure that matches the aged character of the trunk. However, I am still not satis ed with the appearance of the lower le branch, as it needs to be thicker. Furthermore, the number of twigs has to be increased, as this too is an important characteristic of bonsai quality and repre- sentation of age.
Root and Twig Development
Roots: As stated before, the transfer of the tree to di erent container sizes throughout its journey of cre- ation is a pivotal step in preparing the tree for a future bonsai pot. Because roots require equal attention as all other elements in bonsai cultivation, a well tapered and “rami ed” root system is a desirable asset in the creation process. Whenever we conduct repotting, it is advisable to remove unsightly roots and promote a radially emerging root column, comprised of numer- ous ne roots:
ese multiple brous roots will transport tons of nutrients to our bonsai; a guarantee of health and sus- tainability. Whenever possible, remove any downward growing roots and promote those spreading outwards, in a radial fashion.
44 | BCI | July/August/September 2016