Pruning is something that can’t be avoided with bonsai, and it serves two purposes in bonsai tree care. Firstly, pruning removes branches that clutter and hinder the aesthetic design of the tree. Secondly, pruning directs and controls the growth of the tree. There are pruning forms such as Branch pruning which include pinching (finger pruning) and leaf pruning to help encourage branching. There is also root pruning where roots are pruned.

Here are some tips to help you out when pruning your bonsai tree:

* Pick the branches that you wish to keep and then carefully remove the others.

* To improve the chances of your bonsai’s survival, wait until the trunk has developed before you start doing pruning.

* Make a sketch of the general shape or form that you want for your tree, to help you choose which branches are cluttering or obstructing the design.

* Less is more – prune lightly to start with, then allow a couple to three weeks for regrowth. You’ll then have a better idea if more pruning is necessary.

* If you need to redirect growth, then prune one area heavily and another much less. Thus, growth will be directed to the less pruned area.

* Always remember when you are pruning your bonsai that you can always remove something later but it is very difficult to get it to grow back after you have cut it. So if in doubt leave it for now.

* Root pruning is necessary to keep your bonsai from becoming root bound. Never take more than 2/3′s of the root ball, and remember that smaller, finer roots absorb water more efficiently than the large roots.

* When pruning you need to keep the branches and roots balanced for optimum results.

Tags: Bonsai Trees

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