Sixteen months into a layering project for a large cryptomeria, it was time to separate the layer (see “Large cryptomeria air layer – part 1“). September 2012 – time to make the cut Over the previous nine months, roots had grown to fill the makeshift pot, pushing the soil almost half of an inch above […]
Bonsai Development
Bonsai Development posts form the heart of Bonsai Tonight. Learn about varieties like Black Pine, Shimpaku and Japanese Maple, techniques like Decandling and Grafting and Air Layering, and bonsai features like Deadwood.
Large cryptomeria air layer – part 1
Over three years ago, I mentioned picking up a cryptomeria at Maruyama’s Bonsai Nursery, but had yet to follow up with a post. Here’s the tree. Tall cryptomeria – about 48″ The tree was the left-over base from which a large air layer had been removed. Although there was little taper, much of the trunk […]
Hinoki air layer
When the time came to air layer two large grafted hinoki, Michael Hagedorn happened to be in town for a visit – a perfect opportunity to learn how he approaches layering. He’d last visited my garden about four years ago (see “The joys of professional work“) so it was nice to catch up. Before cutting into […]
Hinoki air layer – preparation
About a year has passed since I picked up two large Tempelhof hinoki with the aim as developing them as bonsai (see “New hinoki bonsai“). The first real bonsai work began last year when I repotted one of the trees. As I dug down to locate the surface roots, I discovered that the tree was grafted. […]
