How to prune stump bonsai? A detailed guide to the correct pruning method

  Bonsai trees are still growing continuously. If they are allowed to grow naturally without suppression, it will inevitably affect the tree's shape and cause it to lose its artistic value. Therefore, timely pruning is necessary: long shoots should be cut short, and dense shoots should be thinned out, so as to maintain a graceful tree shape and appropriate proportions.

  Tree bonsai often produce many new branches. To maintain their attractive shape, you must always pay attention to pruning. The pruning method should be determined by the tree's form. For example, for a cloud-layer style, the branches should be pruned into a flat shape.

  Generally, dead branches, parallel branches, crossing branches and others that detract from the appearance should all be cut off promptly. When repotting, combine it with root pruning; roots that are too dense or too long should be pruned. This can be considered according to the following situations.

  If the tree's new roots are poorly developed and the root system has not densely covered the bottom of the soil ball, then when repotting you may still use the original pot, and there is no need to prune the root system.

  For tree species with well-developed root systems, where the fibrous roots densely cover the bottom of the soil ball, you should switch to a slightly larger pot, thin out the dense root system, remove old roots, and keep a few new roots when repotting.

  For some old stump bonsai, when repotting, you may appropriately raise the roots to increase their ornamental value. Also prune away old roots and part of the root ends, and cultivate with loose, fertile soil to encourage new root growth.