Bonsai trimming is one of the most challenging parts of growing a Bonsai tree. This is where most beginners end up killing their plants. It is quite hard to get the hang of pruning at the first go. However, as time goes by any beginner can learn the technique. You will find that you get better as time goes.
Trimming a Bonsai tree too much will cause it to die out. Not trimming it on the other hand will make it lose its refinement and shape. The challenge lies in striking the perfect balance between the two.
It is a well known fact that a Bonsai tree does not look its best all year round. Most pictures of Bonsai are taken when it is in its best physical form. Trimming a Bonsai every other day will only spoil the tree. Most trees can be trimmed back into shape even after 3 to 4 months of free growth.
Most enthusiastic beginners tend to over-trim the Bonsai throughout the growing season. This will only damage the Bonsai. It is usually best to trim the new shoots after they become hardened and woody. Cutting them off when they are green usually stunts the tree’s growth.
Another factor to be noted is that while re-potting the Bonsai, it is usually best to run water through the root ball to wash away any soil. After this only one third of the roots should be trimmed.
During winter, most additional growth should be trimmed to make sure that when the growth resumes, it retains its original shape. In late winter, the branches should be pruned hard so as to ensure that growth happens outward.
The exact amount to be pruned and trimmed is difficult to know for beginners. However, as you get more and more practice in trimming and pruning, anybody can become an expert in this art. As long as you understand the importance of growth to the Bonsai, you should do fine.
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