I like the premise. Was initially slightly surprised to see no live trees, but it is a wildfire aftermath scene after all.
I might have to try something like this sometime.
Others have been here before you. I've seen a couple of similar 'fire' bonsai where growers converted a recently dead group with a blowtorch.
Look forward to seeing if any dormant seeds sprout in the pot. Most forests are adapted to occasional fires so new plants sprout and thrive in the new sunny environment. Gradually the forest re-establishes and eventually returns to mature forest again.
I think it’s possible with a precise torch and the right tree.I wonder if simulating tall trees that survived would be practical.
Scorched down low, but still foliage up top.
This is inspiring, that is.
Well done on the entire composition and especially the next forest generation starting growth on the ground level. Mighty fine!Life, uh…. finds a way.
In this case, wildflower seed packets.
View attachment 489506
View attachment 489507
Unfortunately, I'm at no level of skill yet to attempt it myself. I do have a couple ponderosa seedlings, as well as rmj popping up in the yard. I might go about getting them into a big basket now with such a composition in mind for the future.I think it’s possible with a precise torch and the right tree.
Conifers would probably work best. Ones with thick bark, tall crowns, and few/no or dead branches down low.
View attachment 503139
Surface roots would need protection from the torch. Many fire susceptible trees are that way because of shallow root systems that fry even in low intensity burns.
View attachment 503140

It’s probably safer and would look realistic to scorch just one side of a trees base. It indicates fire direction and is a lower risk than burning all around a bole.
The same general side for all trees in a group but in varying amounts. High scorch marks indicate greater fire intensity that should be reflected in the health of that particular tree.
View attachment 503141

Trees with burnt hollows or cat faces could be added…
View attachment 503142

As could charred stumps or snags to portray previously dead/harvested trees that burned.
View attachment 503143