The Formation Principles of Deadwood (Sharimiki) and a Detailed Guide to Bonsai Creation

Sharimiki is a professional term in the art of bonsai, also called deadwood, referring to the partially exposed dead wood on a bonsai tree stump. This type of deadwood mostly appears on the trunk or branches; after the xylem is exposed and weathered, it takes on a grayish-white color, forming a contrast of life and death with the lush green canopy, and it is an important technique for expressing a vigorous, ancient, and rustic mood.

In the natural environment, deadwood is mostly formed after trees suffer lightning strikes, wind breakage, snow pressure, or pests and diseases. The bark at the damaged area peels off and the branches die, and the xylem gradually weathers and bleaches under wind and sun, leaving natural gully-like textures. Old pines and old junipers in the mountains and fields often show such scenery, which is regarded as the work of nature.

When artificially creating deadwood, tree species with wood that is durable and easy to carve, such as Shimpaku juniper and Japanese black pine, are usually selected. First the direction is set, the bark is stripped off, and natural textures are carved along the wood grain, then lime sulfur mixture and other agents are applied for preservation and bleaching. During creation, it must echo the overall tree's vigor; only when the deadwood, jin, and living canopy are properly matched is there the charm of dry and flourishing complementing each other.

In the daily care of bonsai with deadwood, attention should be paid to keeping the deadwood area dry and well ventilated, and during the rainy season, be careful to prevent mold growth that causes rot and discoloration; if necessary, protective agents can be reapplied. Although deadwood is beautiful, one should not be greedy for too much; excessive carving will weaken the tree's vigor, so it should be done according to the plant's growth, and usually pay attention to the growth condition of the living part.