Age in Bonsai

I think one of the most fascinating aspects of bonsai is the old, rugged look that can be achieved or even naturally created through many years of growing, training and care. This aged look is vital in creating authentic bonsai that mimic something one would see growing naturally in the wild.

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Of course there are certain characteristics a tree will possess that are a portrayal of its age. This also means that we can manipulate our trees growth to create an illusion of age. Below is a list of characteristics we want to achieve to create this illusion.

• A rounded/domed apex.
• Curved and angular branches.
• Individual, dense clusters of foliage.
• Mature bark texture.

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The Japanese have 3 different techniques for ageing bonsai, these are known as Jin, Sharimiki and Sabamiki.

• The Jin technique is used for killing branches. One can also use this technique to reduce the appearance of height in a bonsai that may be too tall. To do this simply remove all foliage from the branch you wish to Jin and strip its bark (Once the branches have died/dried out, you can carve them into a more rugged shape). Then carefully apply citric acid/furniture bleach to the Jinned branch to prevent rotting.

• The Sharimiki technique is used for giving your bonsai a more interesting appearance. To do this, simply make two vertical incisions in the trees trunk, spaced relatively close together. Then take a sharp knife, working from the top downwards and remove the bark between the two incisions. The final step is to paint the strip of exposed wood with citric acid/furniture bleach to prevent rotting (Apply only to the exposed area).

• Finally, the Sabamiki technique. Sabamiki means hollow/split trunk. If your bonsai has a damaged trunk you can hollow out the damaged area (Be cautious of penetrating live veins) you will find that the carved area dies back slowly and if you are not satisfied with the depth of the carve, in time you may be able to go slightly deeper. As with the preceding techniques, any carved area should be treated with citric acid/furniture bleach to prevent rotting!