Reading Room

A selection of articles on a variety of bonsai-related topics



BONSAI TRIVIA
101 bits of useful and not-so-useful information

WHY SHOHIN?
These days bigger seems to be better. But is it really?

THE AGING PROCESS OF TREES
Trees don't age in the same way as animals or humans.
Discover how trees mature and their various growth phases and
learn how to imitate this on your bonsai.

IMPROVED HEALTH MEANS INCREASED GIRTH
Evidence of how a wile collected tree gains health and vigour when replanted
and treated well

MOSS
Botanical notes and advice on cultivation and maintenance.

THREAD GRAFTING
Techniques for adding new branches and roots

THE NAKED TRUTH
A brief essay on the merits of deciduous species and the discipline we can learn
from working with them.

MYCORRHIZA & BONSAI
Natures microscopic miracle-workers in the soil.

BONSAI AS A WESTERN ART
Some suggestions of ways in which we can look to our western artistic heritage
for bonsai inspiration and help.

WINTER PRUNING WORKSHOP
Pruning deciduous trees in readiness for the spring rush

IMPROVING NEBARI
Coping with "flying buttress" roots on hornbeam

MAKING CEMENT SLABS
How to engineer artificial rock containers that will last

SLEEPING BEAUTY
Restoration of a neglected shimpaku juniper, with cultural and maintenance advice.

IKADABUKI WITH A DIFFERENCE
Chinese juniper raft style - or is it...?

DEALING WITH A FLACCID PINUS
How to make it stand up straight when it droops...