There are many techniques in bonsai. The main one is wiring. It is very important to determine the value by making a shape of branches and trees. Fumio Ideue, Ideue Kikkoen bonsai garden in Takamatsu’s Kinashi town, is famous as a master of wiring.

Bottom to Apex by Book

Before wiring, it is better to do Sentei (cut the crowded branches) and Edasukashi (cut the overgrown branches) for ease of the work. Basically the wire is wrapped from the thick part to thin one. That is to say, it is wired from the bottom to the apex for a trunk. After it, do from the bottom to apex of the first branch, the second, and third one.

In addition, it is important to spread the branches for making a beautiful shape. Wires should be wrapped in parallel with each other not to cover the other ones. By doing this, it works more and protects tree from damage. Furthermore it is convenience to put the wires off.

Change by Professional Technique

Shinpaku (Chinese Juniper) is as popular as Matsu in bonsai. Ideue is one of the master artists of the tree and showed us the real thrill of wiring with it.

The trunk and branch of Shinpaku are more flexible than those of Matsu. So wiring works effectively to arrange the tree’s shape. He says, “I can change this tree only in a day.” Actually, he did with a 70 years old cutting tree. That’s the professional technique.

“Making the most of the tree’s characteristics, bonsai must show the natural taste in a pot by the artist’s sensitivity and technique. Moreover people have the different values. So it is really profound world. I still keep learning,” Ideue says modestly.

“I want to do my best in my strong field even if I can’t cultivate a lot. My ideal is a face-to-face business.” So he provides good after-sales care. “I know where most of the trees grown at my garden are now.

(By Shigeo Hano)