How to Wire a Bonsai Tree
You have started to grow your Bonsai, and now you are ready to shape and guide the growth of the tree. Everything in Bonsai is learning and practice, so why not start yourself!
Before you begin….
You need to choose wire specific for bonsai that is suitable to the size and flexibility of the tree’s branches. Aim for aluminium bonsai wire that is around one-third the thickness of the branch you are wiring. Before wiring, make sure you tree is healthy, not dry or stressed tree. Trim any unnecessary foliage and prune the branches to a manageable size. This also helps with access to branches.
Simple Step Process to Wiring
- Applying wire: Start at the base of the tree, branch or trunk, and work your way up staying careful not to wrap the wire too tight. Twist the wire around the branch gently to shape it, keeping it at a 45-degree angle to the branch. Leave enough space between the wire and the branch for growth.
- Continue to wire each desired branch so you can shape them to the appropriate bonsai style. Be sure to space the wire evenly and avoid using excess wire on a branch.
- Removing wire: Check the tree regularly to see if the wire is cutting into the bark or the branch is growing around the wire. Once the branches have set into the desired shape, remove the wire by unwinding it carefully in the reverse direction. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bark or the branches.
We recommend joining your local Bonsai Club if you would like to know more and cultivate your education in Bonsai. Bonsai Shop Australia advocates for local communities, where people can share their knowledge with each other and enjoy Bonsai together!
