Detailed Explanation of the Making Methods and Steps of Lingzhi (Reishi) Bonsai

1. Selection of materials

Different types of pots should be chosen according to the species, color, form, and size of the lingzhi (reishi). Generally, dark-colored ceramic pots are better. If it is red lingzhi or Matsutake lingzhi (Ganoderma tsugae), brown or purple pots are ideal, as they make the color tone harmonious, simple and elegant. If it is black zizhi (Ganoderma sinense) or black lingzhi, white porcelain pots should be chosen, using strong contrast to highlight the features of the lingzhi's form. Pots with the same or similar color tone as the lingzhi should not be chosen, to avoid a monotonous color tone. For lingzhi materials, wild-collected or artificially cultivated ones can be used. During artificial cultivation, temperature, light, and air are controlled artificially, which can produce lingzhi materials of diverse forms and varied postures. For example, under high temperature or oxygen-deficient conditions, lingzhi with slender stipes or coral-like branched forms can be cultivated. When light is reduced, the pileus (cap) becomes deformed.

2. Making the bonsai

1) Use quartz grains or other sand grains to fill in, so that the lingzhi appears to grow among sand and stone, but note that the sand grains should not be higher than the pot surface. Weave fine iron wire into a mesh and place it in the pot, insert the lingzhi stipe into an appropriate mesh hole, and then fill with gravel.

2) Use latex, glass glue, etc. to bond and fix the lingzhi and other accessories in appropriate positions.

3) Use gypsum to fix the lingzhi and accessories in the pot. In addition to sand grains, the pot can also be accompanied by sun-dried moss, fruticose lichen, Selaginella (spikemoss), and other plants that do not easily break down and rot, making the bonsai appear natural. There is also another type of lingzhi with a very short or no stipe and a large pileus (cap), which is more convenient for making bonsai; when making it, simply level the base of the lingzhi and bond it into the pot. Because these lingzhi have a large and relatively flat pileus surface, poetry and prose or paintings of landscapes and figures can be written on them, and various patterns can also be carved. When placed in the pot, they can be inlaid singly or in groups, or stacked together. Coating their surface with transparent lacquer allows long-term preservation and viewing.

3. Naming the bonsai

Giving a finished bonsai an appropriate and profoundly meaningful name is one of the artistic techniques in making bonsai. A good name can play the role of "adding the finishing touch"; otherwise, it gives a feeling of "gilding the lily." Naming can be done according to a predetermined theme, or determined according to the form of the materials used. If it is a single lingzhi that grows robustly and resembles a ruyi (ruyi scepter), it can be named "Auspicious Ruyi"; if it is a bonsai of two complete and flawless lingzhi joined together, it can be named "Kindred Spirits Reflecting Each Other" or "Forever United in Heart"...

4. Preservation of lingzhi bonsai

① Pay attention to moisture-proofing and insect-proofing. The finished lingzhi bonsai should be stored in a dry and ventilated place to prevent moisture regain and mildew; place an appropriate amount of insecticide such as camphor balls in the pot to prevent insect damage. If insects are found, fumigation, freezing, or drying treatment should be carried out, and it can also be exposed to sunlight. If the lingzhi has wounds or insect holes, seal them with paraffin wax or adhesive tape to prevent pests from invading and reproducing. Lingzhi mycelium is most prone to breeding maggots or insect eggs; alcohol can be injected or alcohol cotton balls can be used to wipe it. But be careful not to spray alcohol on the surface of the lingzhi, otherwise it will damage the surface and cause loss of luster.

② Pay attention to lacquering and dust-proofing. Because lingzhi bonsai can be placed for a long time, its surface is easily contaminated by dirt and dust and loses its luster. To prevent contamination and maintain brightness, clear lacquer can be brushed onto the surface of the lingzhi body; this can prevent insects and moisture, maintain the original luster, and also avoid contamination (even if dust sticks to it, it can be wiped off with one wipe). However, the lacquer should not be too thick, otherwise cracking will occur, affecting the beauty of the appearance. To prevent dust and pests from invading, the bonsai can also be covered with a glass cover.