Page 9 - BSAM 2016 Q3

If we leave too many sub-branches a thick, monotonous
Branches sub-divided into smaller masses are more interesting.
and heavy mass will be the result.
This other model of branch creation, consisting of minor foliar masses, is quite suitable for broadleaf species. This type of branch formation requires more spacing between each branch; hence the tree should have less primary branches.
CREATION OF FOLIAR MASSES, WAITING FOR THE RIGHT MOMENT
The closer a secondary branch is to the main trunk, the longer the
Another tendency, quite common in a cionados, is to begin pinching way too early, before the main branch structure is completed.
Creation of the main branch structure in a bonsai may take three (3) to ve (5) years, depending on growing conditions, tech- nique and climatological factors of the zone where our wild olives grown in.
We have to bear in mind that, before we cre- ate the foliar masses, we must have conclud- ed an organized coherent branch structure which, in turn, is proportionate to the main trunk.
Remember, the longer we allow branches to get, the thicker they become.
If we begin pinching the tree too early, branch thickening is considerably hindered. As such and during the rst years of cultiva- tion, we allow the branches to grow freely; the longer the better!
As stated before, the creation process con- sists of wiring young shoots when they are still flexible and allowing them to grow freely. is way, we are able to x their posi- tion quickly and allow them su cient time to thicken up.
Even if you are tempted, refrain from pinch- ing the branches in the early stages.
Branch creation is like building a roof. First you lay a solid structure, with a strong foun- dation that can withstand the weight of the roof. e shingles represent the leaves and the foliar masses. Before adding the shingles, we must rst build the foundation structure in which they will rest on. On the other hand, if the foundation is not solid, the weight of the secondary elements will make it collapse. In the case of a bonsai tree, visual strength is achieved by means of a proportionate/thick primary and secondary branch structure..
distance between this and another secondary branch should be.
July/August/September 2016 | BCI | 7