Concealing a scar on your bonsai tree

Any true bonsai trees for sale should be free from visible scarring. Just one scar on a bonsai can significantly reduce the value and visual appeal of the tree. There are many places that have bonsai trees for sale, and knowing how to keep your tree free from scars will be an important factor in the trees growth. There is good news. If your tree has been damaged by insects, disease, or simply has a scar from branch arrangement, it can be concealed with a useful technique called carving.

Carving is often preformed indoors during the winter dormant state of the tree. You should firmly tie the base of the trunk to the container so the tree cannot move. Then, use a sharp carving knife, and slowly care out the withered or decayed bark. Be careful not to damage any living part of the bonsai or the leaves. Try your best to fashion the section of bark you cut out to resemble a natural hole found in old trees. Leave the hard core, and smooth the rest of the bark of the carved area. You should then apply wax cloth or adhesive plaster to prevent further decay of the bark. After you have completed the carving, you should place your bonsai tree in a warm room, and water it daily to help trigger the recovery to help the wound heal. You can also give your tree weak fertilizer if you feel necessary. This whole recovery process will often take two to three years before the scar from carving is invisible.

In Japan, some of the most dignified and highly valued bonsai trees have a weathered, lifeless branch or trunk. These features were achieved by using the carving method described above. Rugged attributes of branches and trunks help to foster the illusion that the tree is centuries old and has been subject to harsh environments. Adding these elements to your tree will only further enhance its appearance.

 

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