How do you shape a banyan bonsai? A few practical tips for you

1. Pinching

The main purpose of pinching is to control the growth height of the banyan. Pinching at a suitable height can promote the growth of its side buds and make the overall shape look more tree-like. At the same time, it is also limited by the size of the bonsai, so it cannot be allowed to grow freely.

2. Bud removal

The purpose of bud removal is similar to pinching: to maintain the tree shape of the banyan bonsai and prevent it from growing dense branches. Bud removal is generally done more frequently before the banyan has taken shape; after it has taken shape, pruning is more common.

3. Pruning

Pruning mainly involves trimming branches and cutting leaves. Branch trimming is mainly aimed at some new branches, and whether to prune them is decided according to their growth. Some branches look quite attractive when they first appear, but after they grow they no longer match the overall bonsai, so they must be cut off at that point. At the same time, forked branches, diseased and dead branches, and overly dense or overly long branches must all be cut off. The leaves should be trimmed regularly to ensure the branches can sprout new leaves, which will also make the color more vivid.

4. Root raising

Root raising is generally done after the tree shape has formed, using raised roots to create the styling. It is mostly carried out in autumn when repotting, appropriately raising the banyan's roots above the bonsai.

5. Wiring

Wiring is a relatively professional operation. It requires you to have a good idea of the tree's shape in advance, and then use copper wire or aluminum wire to wire the branches and trunk so that it can grow into the shape you want.