An open window into the comings and goings of students and their trees attending our regular weekend and midweek bonsai classes under the ever watchful eyes of John Hanby.
Chris’s Taxus Baccata
Chris had acquired this tree from us and had been allowing it to grow on. Together we decided that now was the right time to give the tree it’s first styling.
When the tree was first acquired we had removed a third trunk in the centre as this was not considered a good option for the future styling and it’s removal would allow more light and air into the remaining branches. We could channel the trees energy into the remaining better placed branches.
Our original idea was to use both remaining trunks and orientate the tree so that we had an upper trunk/crown and a lower cascading branch. However the lower trunk to the right was very straight whereas the left hand trunk gave a much better option especially using the first branch leading off to the left.
The problem with this trunk line was that it had a heavy straight section at the top with many side branches all emanating from one point.
So it had to be cut off.
The large branch to the right would also have to be removed but stumps were left to create deadwood and shari. The shari could also be used to create taper and movement in the live vein.
The tree at the end of the first styling with a total change in the planting angle. The tree is now much more compact and a nice mid-size bonsai. The more compact design will make the trunk and deadwood appear much more impressive.
The tree will be repotted in spring at the correct angle. It will then be allowed to grow unchecked for most of the season to help it recover from the styling and repotting work.