Teaching myself to establish pads

[Kizsak]

Hi! I'm new to bonsai, and I'm trying to teach myself to establish pads on a dwarf Alberta spruce. I tried to start two on the bottom branches. Would anyone be wiling to give me some feedback? Thanks so much!

 

[Shibui]

I have not had much to do with DAS but understand they do not respond really well to the normal bonsai techniques.
Try wiring existing branches to form the basic shape - spread the existing shoots into a horizontal fan - then trim the tips to encourage more ramification.
Don't expect instant response. Even with species that are regarded as quick it takes years to get good branches.

 

[bwaynef]

DAS seems to resent a lot of bonsai culture. I doubt you'll find many resources on DAS pad development, but here are some to get you started.

 

[sorce]

I think an infatuation with pads should remain only as a stance against putting foreign stuff in our bodies.

Welcome to Crazy!

Worrying about pads is more likely to create a topiary.

Pruning for good branch structure makes "pads" happen naturally.

Sorce