In this Bonsai video we are working on some Cotoneaster Trees. I'll be showing you some of my methods for pruning and shaping these trees along with how to deal with problem trees. These techniques are to improve the trees health and to take it a little step further in becoming a great Bonsai!
The Previous Cotoneaster Video: • How to Make Cotoneaste...
This video is relatively easy to follow. I demonstrate pruning techniques used to enhance taper and ramification on a Bonsai. Instead of creating a tree that is somewhat presentable, I focus on styling techniques that take into account the future growth of a tree, rather than aiming for an "Instant Bonsai." I also cover methods for addressing issues in problem trees, such as trunk rot on a Bonsai, and I share one approach to dealing with a piece of raw material that has a long trunk of uniform thickness: splitting it down the middle to create something much more interesting!
What is Trunk Splitting?
Splitting a tree trunk down the middle, known as trunk splitting, can lead to a tree's survival and potential growth due to its resource allocation and regeneration mechanisms. When a tree is split, it redirects nutrients, water, and resources like carbohydrates to heal the wound, and many tree species possess dormant buds beneath the bark that can be stimulated to grow in response to injury or stress. Trunk splitting can also improve aeration in the tree, which can promote overall health of a tree.
Not all tree species can withstand trunk splitting. Some trees are more resilient and adaptable than others. Research the specific tree species you are working with to determine if it is a suitable candidate for trunk splitting! Ficus, Juniper, Boxwood, and Elm tree species are among the ones that tolerate this particular technique best. Trunk splitting should be done typically during the tree's dormant season however I know how resilient cotoneaster is and this tree should recover well.
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00:00 - Intro.
00:27 - About The Cotoneaster Trees.
01:35 - The Bonsai Tools Used.
02:12 - Removing Moss and Liverwort.
02:57 - How To Develop Bonsai Faster.
04:05 - Slip Potting for Better Development.
06:50 - Improving The Branch Structure (Correcting Inverse Taper).
08:15 - Dealing with a Half Dead Trunk.
10:45 - Pruning Long Shoots for Better Ramification.
12:22 - Cleaning Up the Tree.
13:00 - Cleaning Up A Cut and Correcting Inverse Taper.
13:49 - Pruning for Better Taper and Removing a Wire Scar.
14:25 - Creating a Design for a Problem Tree.
17:37 - Splitting The Bonsai Trunk.
20:15 - Experimentation In The Art of Bonsai.
20:59 - Exposed Root Style Cotoneaster.
21:08 - How To Root Cotoneaster From Cuttings.
22:31 - Watering / Beauty Shots.
13:21 - Outro
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