Thanks alot Smoke for the info. I understand what you are saying. This is only the start of my second full year of growing trees for bonsai, and i am so addicted, its hard to believe. Started in june of 09. I have collected about 25 trees, from being in the land clearing business, and have another 100 that i have purchased from bonsai dealers, and nurseries. My first year, i had 10 or so that i potted, and since then, have put them all into the ground for more development. No sticks in pots here. I have maybe 4 trees that are able to work on, and it is tough, just waiting for them to grow. I dont really want a tree that has been done by someone else, and just maintain it. Alot of the enjoyment for me has been watching them grow and develop. This spring i will have 20 trees to either chop, air layer, or repot from large containers to start development.
The shimpakus i have are of different ages, and sizes, so i am trying to study as much as possible, since it winter, and cant do much, to get ready for spring. Does anyone work on something like this while in ground, or are most potted in containers to work on? I guess as long as i dont mind working on my knees, it would be ok. I would think the advantage of being in ground would help, but if its not that much different on this type of material, and technique, then it would be much easier to work in a container. I just worked my large shimpaku, and will put up some pics tomorrow. I was told that after a hard wiring, or top pruning in winter, they should be kept protected from the very cold temps outdoors, and put into the garage until spring. Is this best for the trees?
Any technique i ask about will be applied to one or more trees. I study as much as possible, and only ask when i have detail questions, so any advice will be treasured, and appreciated that you give your time for us.
Brad