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Introduction: The Relationship Between Bonsai and Humans Bonsai is a traditional Japanese art form that recreates natural landscapes in small pots. By taking nature into their hands and embodying their ideals, humans express their relationship with nature. Leaf pruning is part of this process, an act of human intervention in nature in pursuit of self-ideal. Main Body: The Philosophy of Leaf Pruning Leaf pruning is an important means of controlling the growth and shape of bonsai. However, it is not just a technical act, but a philosophical act that embodies human ideals and desires towards nature. Through leaf pruning, humans harmonize the forces of nature and pursue beauty. Furthermore, leaf pruning is a means of enabling humans to coexist with nature. Conclusion: The Significance of Leaf Pruning Leaf pruning is an act that symbolizes the relationship between humans and nature, and a means of expressing human respect and understanding of nature. It demonstrates the importance of unders

Mezutsumi is a crucial technique in bonsai that involves removing buds from the branches and leaves of a tree to shape its structure and regulate the number of leaves. The primary goals of mezumi are: Shaping the tree: By removing unnecessary buds, you can create the desired tree shape. Adjusting the number of leaves: Having too many leaves can strain the branches and weaken the tree. Mezumi allows you to adjust the number of leaves to an optimal level. Stimulating bud growth: Removing buds encourages the growth of remaining buds. Mezutsumi is typically performed in spring and autumn. It's crucial to remove buds while they are still small. Mezutsumi is an essential technique for maintaining the beauty of bonsai. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=O8f7epYG&id=FED40FE19E224A58AC6D3AE6521A19CC04E2C069&thid=OIP.O8f7epYG9Va1lu85xpWCKgHaD4&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fth.bing.com%2fth%2fid%2fR.3bc7fb7a9606f556b596ef39c695822a%3frik%3dacDiBMwZGlLmOg%26riu%3dht

  The real thing is a unique presence that brings color, vitality, and fruit flavor to bonsai. The colorful fruits and adorable shapes that change with the seasons give bonsai a new charm. Typical examples include the following: Nanten: The beautiful red fruit is popular as a lucky charm. Kumquat: The yellow fruits are cute and can be enjoyed as food. Mokkoku: The black fruits are elegant and add vivid color even during the winter season. Bayberry: The reddish-purple fruits are sweet and sour and are highly valued as food. Real fruits give us the pleasure of not only appreciating them, but also harvesting and tasting them. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=PsW0ljS3&id=CD116FDB700DB3D1F431BEDD4E718458F75DAD3B&thid=OIP.PsW0ljS3lcx5UJIw9YZNdAHaE8&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fbonsai.shinto-kimiko.com%2fkiso%2fjyuyu%2fmimono%2fimg%2ftop.jpg&exph=400&expw=600&q=%e5%ae%9f%e7%89%a9%e9%a1%9e%e3%80%80%e7%9b%86%e6%a0%bd&simid=608008971393641741&FO

  Flowers are an important element that gives the bonsai its vibrant colors and splendor. You can enjoy a variety of flowers in each season, such as cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, hydrangeas and fireflies in summer, autumn leaves and chrysanthemums in autumn, and rose bushes in winter. Flowers are not only beautiful; they also play the following roles: Creating a sense of the season: You can create a sense of the season in your bonsai by decorating it with seasonal flowers. Create a space: Depending on the color and shape of flowers, you can make a space look gorgeous or create a calm atmosphere. Harmony with the shape of the tree: The color and shape of flowers should be chosen with consideration to harmony with the shape of the tree. When incorporating flowers into a bonsai, please keep the following points in mind. Compatibility with tree species: Avoid disproportionate flower size and tree size. Flowering period: Choose flowers that bloom during the period you want to admir

Foliage plays a pivotal role in bonsai, enriching the miniature world with vibrant hues and captivating textures. Encompassing diverse forms, colors, and textures, foliage adds depth and evokes seasonal charm. Types of Foliage: The world of bonsai foliage is vast, encompassing various categories: Flowering plants: Azalea, Japanese maple, crabapple Ferns: Maidenhair fern, Japanese holly fern Mosses: Sheet moss, pillow moss Functions of Foliage: Beyond mere decoration, foliage fulfills several crucial functions: Spatial manipulation: Foliage size and shape can be leveraged to create the illusion of a larger or smaller space. Seasonal expression: Integrating seasonal elements like cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and wintry accents in snow evokes the essence of each season. Tree harmony: The color and shape of foliage should be chosen to complement the bonsai's form. Selection Criteria: When selecting foliage, consider the following factor

  Pine trees are one of the most popular tree species for bonsai. The reasons are as follows. 1. Longevity Some pine trees can live for hundreds of years, making them one of the longest-lived bonsai trees. By cultivating it over many years, you can create your own history and story. 2. Cold resistance Pine oaks are resistant to cold, so they can be grown even in harsh winter climates. The pine tree bonsai that stands out against the snowy landscape is a symbol of Japan's winter atmosphere. 3. Shape Pine oaks can be shaped into various shapes by pruning. The expression changes greatly depending on the shape of the tree, such as straight trunk, slanted trunk, hanging cliff, etc., and you can create your own unique work. 4 kinds There are various types of pine such as black pine, five-yellow pine, white pine, and red pine, each with different leaf shapes, bark, and trunk patterns. You can have more fun by choosing the type that suits your taste. 5. Japanese culture Pine oaks have been

  徒長枝 (tocho-eda) refers to excessively long and vigorous shoots that grow disproportionately to the rest of the bonsai. These shoots often disrupt the tree's balance and aesthetic appeal. Characteristics of Tocho-eda: Length: Significantly longer than regular branches, often exceeding the desired proportions of the bonsai. Thickness: Thicker than regular branches, with a disproportionate diameter. Internode length: Longer gaps between nodes (where leaves or branches emerge) compared to regular branches. Vigor: Grow rapidly, often at the expense of other branches, weakening the overall structure of the bonsai. Causes of Tocho-eda: Overzealous fertilization: Excessive nutrient availability can stimulate rapid and uncontrolled growth, leading to tocho-eda. Insufficient light: When light is inadequate, the tree may prioritize vertical growth towards a light source, resulting in tocho-eda. Poor pruning: Improper or infrequent pruning can allow certain branches to grow unchecked, leadin

In bonsai, axillary buds (わきめ, waki-me) refer to buds located at the base of leaves. They play a crucial role in the growth and development of your miniature tree: Functions of Axillary Buds: Branching: As axillary buds grow into new branches, they contribute to a more intricate and natural tree shape. Leaf Renewal: When old leaves fall off, axillary buds replace them with new ones, ensuring continuous photosynthesis for the tree. Propagation: Axillary buds can be used for air layering or grafting, allowing you to create new bonsai. Types of Axillary Buds: Vigorous Shoots: These grow rapidly and can disrupt the overall shape, requiring removal. Upright Shoots: They grow vertically and can be nurtured to increase the tree's height or pruned if not desired. Lateral Shoots: Growing horizontally, they can be encouraged to widen the tree's canopy or trimmed if not needed. Axillary Bud Management: Pinching: Removing unwanted axillary buds redirects the tree's energy to desired br

  Benefits of pinching: Increase branching: Pinching new shoots stimulates the growth of side buds, leading to more branches and a denser appearance. Control leaf count: Too many leaves can hinder photosynthesis and weaken the tree. Pinching allows you to adjust leaf number, improving light penetration and overall health. Reduce leaf size: New leaves after pinching tend to be smaller, contributing to a balanced and scaled appearance. Refine tree shape: Pinching helps control branch growth direction and length, guiding your bonsai towards your desired design. When to pinch: Pinch new shoots as they emerge, typically in spring or early summer. The ideal timing varies by species, but generally, when shoots are 2-3cm long. How to pinch: Use tweezers or a toothpick to gently pinch off the growing tip of the new shoot. Don't remove all shoots – selectively pinch while considering the overall shape and balance of your bonsai. Important notes: Pinching can stress the tree. Avoid it on weak

 "Yago buds" or "Hikobae" refer to buds that sprout from the base or part of the root. These buds can later become vigorous branches. If left as is, the vigor of the existing small branches may weaken, and they may even wither, so it is generally recommended to remove them early. Pruning bonsai requires careful consideration. Look at the overall balance and prune accordingly. When starting bonsai, you may wonder what to do. In such cases, one of the most important tasks is the pruning of Yago buds and overgrown branches. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=hfkhSU6H&id=C6BA117D58CBE229012AA15C77C32C7BB9E9E000&thid=OIP.hfkhSU6HOmNruyjCYVpLcQHaFR&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fbonjour-bonsai.com%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2020%2f07%2fDSC_0166.gif&exph=595&expw=836&q=%e7%9b%86%e6%a0%bd%e3%80%80%e3%81%b2%e3%81%93%e3%81%b0%e3%81%88&simid=607992083598168374&FORM=IRPRST&ck=4B591816AEFEF588EF0EDEC215B6D665&selectedIndex=0&a

"Parallel branches" refer to two branches that extend from the same side of the trunk, overlapping each other vertically. In bonsai, having parallel branches can result in a lack of variation in the tree form, making it less natural and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, if branches of the same size grow parallel to each other, one branch may receive less sunlight and rain, which can hinder its growth. Therefore, when pruning "parallel branches", it's recommended not to simply cut off the lower branch from the start. Instead, look at the overall tree form and decide whether to cut the upper or lower parallel branch. This approach makes it easier for beginners to prune parallel branches. Pruning bonsai requires careful consideration. Look at the entire tree form and consider the balance when pruning. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=cDr%2b4BwR&id=9357D7B6679FCF5872E3E6242A18788DEAF74F71&thid=OIP.cDr-4BwRDi_zCwNxpamlhAHaFL&m

  “Kurumaeda” is a term used in bonsai to describe a situation where three or more branches radiate from the same point on the trunk. This is considered undesirable in bonsai because these branches can take nutrients away from other branches, causing the trunk above this point to become thin. If you find a “kurumaeda”, it’s best to remove it as early as possible, leaving only 1-2 branches while considering the overall balance of the tree. This helps maintain the beauty and balance of the bonsai. Tree species that are prone to “kurumaeda” include young Japanese black pine, Japanese red pine, Ezo spruce, and Satsuki azalea. When using these species for bonsai, it’s good to prune with an eye out for “kurumaeda”. The beauty of a bonsai comes from proper pruning. https://www.sankenplanet.jp/wp-content/uploads/aaae9c6c6ee274904944659afcad25b1.bmp

“Kannuki-eda” or “barred branches” are a type of “taboo branch” in bonsai, which require careful attention during pruning. Taboo branches are branches that could potentially detract from the aesthetic value of the bonsai. Barred branches refer to branches that extend straight out from the same position, either left and right or front and back. These branches can potentially harm the beauty of the bonsai, hence the need for pruning. Specifically, you can deal with this by cutting off one of the branches that extend from the left and right or front and back. However, every tree has its strengths and weaknesses, and it’s important to work well with the weaknesses while enhancing the strengths. Every tree has its good points, so it’s recommended to cherish the good points of the bonsai and grow it carefully. https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=aCaWmyjW&id=B5DA745929B41EF7FB13C6CAE85DCB278B5AA007&thid=OIP.aCaWmyjW08m58XPj45H7wgHaFj&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fli

In Bonsai, "Tachi-eda" refers to branches that grow straight upwards. These branches can disrupt the balance of the tree's shape and cause overcrowding among the branches. Here are some key points about "Tachi-eda": - "Tachi-eda" are branches that grow straight upwards. - They can disrupt the balance of the tree's shape. - They can cause overcrowding among the branches. In general, it is recommended to remove these branches early on to maintain the aesthetic and health of the Bonsai. However, if you are unsure whether to cut a branch, it is advisable to observe the situation without cutting it unnecessarily. This is because unless the branch is clearly problematic, leaving it will not usually cause the tree to die. Understanding these aspects can help you better care for and appreciate your Bonsai. https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.9vArTNS7hJljkQ3_KUnPQwHaE6?w=303&h=201&c=7&r=0&o=5&dpr=1.2&pid=1.7

The ideal position for the lowest branch is said to be about one-third of the tree height for Moyogi (informal upright style), and one-fourth for Chokkan (formal upright style). Ideally, branches should alternate from left to right as you move up the tree, with the distance between branches decreasing as you go higher. For Moyogi, these branches should emerge from the outside of the curve, and the lower branches should be thicker and stronger. In Bonsai creation, understanding "Taboo branches" and "Role branches" is important. "Taboo branches" refer to unnecessary branches that hinder the beauty of the tree shape. On the other hand, branches that play a necessary role in enhancing the beauty of the tree shape are called "Role branches". By having this knowledge, you can enhance the beauty of Bonsai. Bonsai is an art that expresses the beauty of nature, and its beauty is greatly influenced by the arrangement and shape of branches. The arrangement

inching: This is done when you want to increase the volume of the tree by increasing the number of small branches. When you cut the tip of a branch, a lateral bud grows from there. When the lateral bud grows and you pinch it again, branches grow in a Y-shape. Cutting back: This is a method where you let the branch grow to a certain extent to thicken it before cutting. When the branch is thick, it gives a sturdy and magnificent atmosphere. Thinning: In daily care, unnecessary branches are thinned out to improve ventilation and sunlight. Prioritize pruning thin branches, weak branches, diseased branches, crowded branches, and branches that hinder growth. Wire training: This is a unique care for bonsai, which plays a role in shaping the branches. By following these steps, you can maintain the beautiful shape of the bonsai. However, the timing and method of pruning vary depending on the species, so you need to adjust the specific procedures according to the species. https://th.bing.com/th/

Spring: Spring is a time of vigorous growth. Pruning new shoots and roots, and shaping the tree are the main tasks. In particular, the spring pruning of pines, cypresses, and deciduous trees, which are sensitive to cold, is an important pruning period. Summer: In summer, the main tasks are to cut off overgrown branches and suckers. Also, for bonsai that bear fruit or flowers, summer is the "flower bud formation period". The point is to finish pruning by early July at the latest. Autumn: The pruning done in autumn is basically to maintain the shape of the tree. If flower buds are attached to the branches that have grown since spring, cut back the tips. Winter: The frequency of pruning decreases in winter, but it is done as needed. As you can see, the method of pruning varies depending on the season, so it is important to prune appropriately according to the type and condition of the bonsai. In addition to pruning, proper watering and fertilization are also important for the he

Pruning bonsai is an essential practice to maintain the beauty and health of the bonsai. Pruning is done to shape the tree, promote new growth, and maintain the health of the tree. Pruning of bonsai can be broadly divided into the following three steps: 1. Formative Pruning: This is to determine the overall shape of the bonsai, pruning large branches to create a basic shape. 2. Maintenance Pruning: This is to maintain the shape of the bonsai, control new growth, and remove excess branches. 3. Detail Pruning: This is to refine the details of the bonsai, pruning small branches and leaves to bring out the maximum beauty of the bonsai. Pruning varies depending on the tree species, season, and health of the bonsai, so it is important to choose the best pruning method for each bonsai. Pruning of bonsai is an essential practice to maintain the beauty and health of the bonsai. By choosing the appropriate pruning method and pruning regularly, the bonsai can maintain its beauty for a long period

Bonsai, being grown in pots, cannot obtain sufficient nutrients from the soil alone. Therefore, the use of appropriate fertilizers is essential for the healthy growth of bonsai. Bonsai fertilizers mainly contain three major nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each of these nutrients plays a role in aiding plant growth. There are types of fertilizers such as liquid and solid, each with specific advantages. Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting, allowing roots to absorb nutrients immediately. On the other hand, solid fertilizers have a slow effect, providing nutrients over a long period. The timing of fertilization depends on the type and health of the tree, but generally, it is optimal from spring to autumn . Fertilizer management for bonsai is important for maintaining the health and growth of the tree. By understanding the type of fertilizer, method of fertilization, and timing of fertilization, you can promote healthy growth of bonsai and maintain beautiful bonsai. https://t

Bonsai, being grown in pots, cannot obtain sufficient nutrients from the soil alone. Therefore, the use of appropriate fertilizers is essential for the healthy growth of bonsai. Bonsai fertilizers mainly contain three major nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each of these nutrients plays a role in aiding plant growth. There are types of fertilizers such as liquid and solid, each with specific advantages. Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting, allowing roots to absorb nutrients immediately. On the other hand, solid fertilizers have a slow effect, providing nutrients over a long period. The timing of fertilization depends on the type and health of the tree, but generally, it is optimal from spring to autumn. Fertilizer management for bonsai is important for maintaining the health and growth of the tree. By understanding the type of fertilizer, method of fertilization, and timing of fertilization, you can promote healthy growth of bonsai and maintain beautiful bonsai. https://au

Watering your bonsai is crucial. Provide an appropriate amount of water to ensure the plant thrives. Watering should be done when the soil has dried out. The frequency of watering varies depending on the season and the type of bonsai. Be cautious of overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. For more detailed information on bonsai watering, consider seeking advice from experts. 🌿🌱 https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRTd40rlS1Tlo5FqMQsf64THBBuvQqACtbin8od_Gw4yXqvs3fr7QxxVYY5AWd8r2vsZdRxc7p3yo2Xu4_qSBOZiVD0W-RLGeaZcXX9C7E20DAfIWa42xgwGjIx5qABSFHWlRImofyVQ/s1600/IMGP0130.JPG

Taking care of a moss ball involves careful watering and attention to the environment. When the moss ball becomes light, immerse it in water to allow it to absorb enough water. As for the environment, place it in a shady place with good ventilation to prevent the growth of mold and insects. For more details, please refer to the following website. In English, this translates to: Caring for a moss ball is important and involves attentive watering and environmental considerations. When the moss ball feels light, it should be soaked in water to ensure it is fully hydrated. The moss ball should be placed in a shady location with good air circulation to prevent the occurrence of mold and pests. https://d3pbyuzcd27kd.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2021/01/25042338/1602417140213_919094_photo.jpg

The process of making a moss ball involves preparing the right materials, creating the soil, preparing the seedlings, forming the moss ball with the soil around the root ball, attaching the moss, and securing it with a thread. Finally, watering and fertilizing are done appropriately. Through these steps, you can create a beautiful moss ball. https://kaikaen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/DSC_0343-scaled.jpg

The moss is known as Brachymenium exile, commonly found throughout Japan. It's often seen in both urban and rural areas, particularly on concrete surfaces or in the cracks between them. The moss forms plump colonies that resemble rice cakes, with small leaves that have a transparent quality when observed closely. Brachymenium exile is resistant to dry conditions and can grow in direct sunlight. When it dries out, the leaves draw closer to the stem to prevent water loss. This moss is often mistaken for Bryum argenteum, another common moss, but they can be distinguished by their differences. In terms of care, while Brachymenium exile is drought-resistant, it displays a beautiful velvety green when well-watered, so it's recommended to water it generously with a spray bottle every day. It's more accurate to say that this moss is not fond of high humidity rather than it's resistant to dryness. If you're growing Brachymenium exile indoors, avoid using a sealed container a

"Physcomitrium eurystomum", commonly known as "Hirokuchigoke", is a small moss belonging to the Physcomitrium family. The plant body is small, presenting a fresh green to yellow-green color. The stem stands upright at a height of 2-5mm, with leaves gathered at the top of the stem. The lower leaves are small, about 1.5mm long and 0.8mm wide, while the upper leaves are ovate-lanceolate, about 2.5-3.5mm long and about 1.3mm wide. It can be commonly found in fields and paddy fields before rice planting, and is widely distributed in Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, Okinawa, China, Russia, India, Vietnam, Europe, Africa, etc. In bonsai, the role of moss is very important, as it begins to take on the appearance of an old tree that has been standing in the dense forest for hundreds of years. However, depending on the type of moss, it can impair drainage or even detract from the beauty. Therefore, it is important to choose the moss suitable for bonsai. Hirokuchigoke may not be suita

  The Hygoke is a type of moss that grows naturally in various parts of Japan, including mountains and gardens. It's relatively hardy, with long, thin leaves that densely cover the ground. It's a type of creeping moss used in bonsai. Its natural atmosphere makes it popular as an interior decoration, and it's often used in moss balls and terrariums. Here are some tips for growing Hygoke: ・Location: Hygoke prefers places with poor sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause them to wither. The ideal location is a bright shade. ・Soil: Hygoke prefers soil with good drainage. Soil mixed with Akadama soil, Kanuma soil, and leaf mold is suitable. ・Watering: Hygoke is weak to drying out, so water generously when the surface of the soil dries. https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.5RUkidTkdvS0GQr6XqHTzAHaFj?w=258&h=193&c=7&r=0&o=5&dpr=1.2&pid=1.7

Sphagnum moss, also known as "sunagoke" in Japanese, is a type of moss that forms colonies in places like riverbeds, sandy areas, and on rocks in Japan. It is characterized by its light green, star-shaped leaves. Sphagnum moss prefers well-lit locations with good drainage. It is also resistant to dry conditions, so it's recommended to water it when the tips of the leaves have closed and become string-like. If you want to propagate sphagnum moss, the "maki-koke" method is recommended. This involves crumbling the moss into small pieces and scattering it on the soil like seeds. Sphagnum moss can be used to cover the soil of bonsai or moss balls, creating a beautiful bonsai covered in lush green. https://www.bing.com/th?id=OSK.3c31f2680e30c12fe71ce107514ddc8a&pid=cdx&w=252&h=189&c=7

Shiragagoke, or White Hair Moss, is a type of moss that has green leaves with a white hue, which becomes more pronounced when the moss dries. It grows naturally in a mat-like formation in shady areas throughout Japan, particularly around the base of trees where it is not directly exposed to rain. Due to its relatively large size within the Shiragagoke family and its aesthetic appeal, it is often used for decoration in bonsai and miniature gardens. In terms of care, it is recommended to keep it in the shade. It can be kept indoors, but it is sensitive to heat and humidity, so care must be taken when choosing a location. Avoid places with too much sunlight, such as windowsills, and choose a location where it is not directly exposed to sunlight, such as the center of a room. It likes humidity, so it is also suitable for sealed terrariums. For soil, a standard moss soil mix of 7 parts akadama soil to 3 parts river sand will suffice. Bark culture soil is also acceptable. If you are planting

  Shinobugoke is a plant widely distributed from all over Japan to Southeast Asia, preferring moist environments. It is found in forests, along rivers, and under trees. Its leaves are triangular, giving a delicate impression. It grows sideways, making it useful for moss gardens, bonsai, terrariums, and moss balls. Here are some points on how to grow Shinobugoke: Location: It prefers semi-shade or shade. It doesn't like direct sunlight and should avoid places with too much ventilation. Soil: Use soil that retains water and stays moist for a long time. Watering: It is characteristic to absorb water from the leaves, so water the leaves well. Keeping the leaves wet and maintaining a moist state will help it grow healthily. Fertilizer: Fertilizer is not necessary. There is a method called "Makigoke method" to increase Shinobugoke. This is a method of sowing and spreading Shinobugoke on the soil, covering it with a small amount of soil, and planting or replanting. Please enjoy