Styling JBP....Suggestions

[bonsaiguru]

I got this Cork JBP that needs to be style. It is slanted. I allow it to grow unchecked because when I got it, it was not healthy. I did a bit of pinching and plucking, but have not wired it. This winter I want to start wiring and shaping it. Next spring I will repot it in a bonsai pot. Any suggestions will greatly help.

 

[tanlu]

I always say go with what the tree has to offer. You already have a nice slant style tree, just enhance that by refining the foliage pads. I also read an article on Brent's evergreengardenworks website and he mentioned how wired trunks look unnatural. I would have to agree for the most part. Try to emphasize the natural bends in the trunk and add taper by growing out parts of the lower branches (growing on the outer sides of the curves) as sacrifice branches. Especially the lowest ones. Take out any unnecessary branches/buds that would cause reverse taper or are on the inside of a curve.

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

Corkbark pines are "love-em-or-hate-em"...I love 'em! This one looks like it came from Dave DeWire? Any idea what variety? Maybe Gan-seki-sho?

Styling is probably best done with guy-wires to pull branches down, and then letting them kind of grow into what they want to be. Let them get a little strange, since classical styles don't always compliment the chunky bark and growth habits.

A couple years ago, I started compiling the information I could find on corkers and put it together, siting sources, and seeking permission from those individuals who originally published it, (several of whom post here frequently), just so I could have access to it in one place. It is here.

I'm also developing an article that chronicles candle-cutting, fall work for corkers; including old needle removal, bud pruning, and the subsequent growth. PM me if you want a sneak preview; it's not done, but has about 2 seasons' worth on a few of my different varieties of corkers.

Have fun!

 

[bonsaiguru]

Thanks...

I appreciate you guy's input, I noticed with cork pines they tend to need more TLC then with regular pines. thanks for the infor on cork pines

 

[bonsaiguru]

Brian, awesome collection of infornation

Brian, never read so much information on cork pines. I wish I discover the website a few years when I went through a few cork pines. I actually bought the cork pine from Dave of wabi Sabi. I think he only sells locally now, I remember a couple years ago he would use eBay to list his trees and the pricing was quite reasonable. As I am in CA it is hard to look for a place with good pre-bonsai material.

 

[rock]

A couple years ago, I started compiling the information I could find on corkers and put it together,

Have fun!

Nice effort , BVF,
Thanks