How to Make a Lingzhi (Reishi) Bonsai: Methods and Techniques

1. When selecting materials, choose different types of pots 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 pine-fir lingzhi, brown or purple pots are ideal, as they make the colors harmonious, quaint and elegant. If it is black zizhi or black lingzhi, white porcelain pots should be chosen, using strong contrast to highlight the features of the lingzhi's form. Do not choose pots of the same or similar color as the lingzhi, so as to avoid a monotonous tone. The lingzhi material can be collected from the wild or artificially cultivated. During artificial cultivation, by artificially controlling temperature, light and air, lingzhi materials of diverse forms and varied postures can be grown. For example, under high temperature or oxygen deficiency, lingzhi with slender stipes or coral-like branches can be cultivated. When light is reduced, the cap becomes deformed.

2. Making the bonsai. ① Fill in quartz sand grains or other sand grains so that the lingzhi appears to grow among sand and stones, but be careful that the sand grains do not rise above the pot surface. ⑨ Weave fine iron wire into a net and place it in the pot, insert the lingzhi stipe into an appropriate mesh hole, then fill with gravel. ② Use latex, glass glue, etc. to bond and fix the lingzhi and other accessories in appropriate positions. ④ Use gypsum to fix the lingzhi and accessories in the pot. Besides sand grains, the pot can also be lined with sun-dried moss, fruticose lichen, Selaginella (spikemoss) and other plants that do not easily break down and rot, making the bonsai look natural. There is also another type of lingzhi with a very short or no stipe and a large cap, which is more convenient for making bonsai; when making it, simply flatten the base of the lingzhi and bond it into the pot. Because these lingzhi have a large and relatively flat cap surface, poetry and prose or paintings of landscapes and figures can be written on them, and various patterns can also be carved. When arranged in the pot, they can be set in singly or several inlaid together, 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"; conversely, it gives people a sense of "gilding the lily." The name can be inscribed according to a predetermined theme, or determined according to the form of the materials used. If it is a single lingzhi, growing robustly and shaped like a ruyi, it can be named "Jixiang Ruyi" (Good Fortune and Wishes Fulfilled); if it is a bonsai of two complete, unblemished lingzhi joined together, it can be named "Tongxin Xiangying" (Two Hearts Reflecting Each Other) or "Yongjie Tongxin" (Forever Joined as One Heart)...

4. Preserving the lingzhi bonsai. ① Pay attention to moisture-proofing and insect-proofing. The finished lingzhi bonsai should be stored in a dry, ventilated place to prevent it from absorbing moisture and becoming moldy; place an appropriate amount of camphor balls and other insecticides 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 is damaged or has insect holes, seal them with paraffin or adhesive tape to prevent pests from entering and reproducing. The lingzhi mycelium is most prone to maggots or insect eggs; alcohol can be injected or an alcohol cotton ball 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 it to lose its luster. ② Pay attention to lacquering and dust-proofing. Because a lingzhi bonsai can be placed for a long time, its surface easily becomes contaminated with 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, a single wipe removes it). But the lacquer should not be too thick, otherwise cracking will occur and affect the beauty of the appearance. To prevent dust and pests from entering, the bonsai can also be covered with a glass cover.