Sometimes the shape of the pine tree is reminiscent of a spiral staircase, sometimes it grows crooked or its branches form small clouds - the versatility of the bonsai art from Japan awakens the creativity of every gardener. Pine trees are particularly suitable for keeping them low in growth and at the same time impressive in appearance with regular topiary pruning. Japanese-style gardens are also becoming increasingly popular. The Far Eastern style of design appears modern thanks to small ponds or easy-care rock gardens. A pine tree cut in the Japanese style is a must. Try it.
How to cut a pine tree in Japanese style?
To prune a Japanese-style pine, choose a suitable pine species such as black pine or Scots pine and prune in winter (October onwards). When grooming, use concise tools such as hedge trimmers, rose trimmers, and concave pliers, and encourage growth with organic matter, complete fertilizers, potassium, and Epsom s alt.
Suitable pine species
You always read about two species of pine that are supposedly particularly suitable for a Japanese cut:
- the black pine
- and the girls' jaws
The latter only partially fulfills these conditions. The reason for this is the not entirely optimal location conditions offered by the local climate. It therefore forms a very distinctive cone base, which leaves bare spots when removed and makes the tree vulnerable. The desired appearance could suffer, especially due to the pruning required in the art of bonsai. In contrast, the “Norske Typ”, a variety of Scots pine, is particularly suitable because it is very easy to care for due to its wood, which is flexible even when it is old. In principle, you can keep any type of pine tree in the Japanese style.
The timing is crucial
Pine trees soon stop growing again after the peak phase in May. Therefore, winter (from October) is recommended for a shaping pruning. At this time you can proceed a little more radically, as you are not in danger of injuring any new shoots. Die
- Scots pine
- Mountain Pine
- and black pine
you should cut while they are still forming candles. Once needles have been created, they are particularly sensitive to bruising. At a later point in time, you should therefore no longer cut disturbing branches, but only carefully pluck them off. In general, it is gentler on the conifer if you tie the branches instead of removing them.
Fertilizer supports the development of your jaws
To improve the winter hardiness and nutrient supply of your Japanese pruned pine, the following fertilizers are recommended:
- organic matter
- conventional complete fertilizers
- Potassium
- Epsom S alt
Equipment tips
Various utensils make cutting your jaws easier:
- small hedge trimmers
- rose scissors
- concave pliers
- a special Japanese stepladder with three legs (Kyatatsu)
