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How to Create a Bonsai Tree

Japanese maples are ideal deciduous trees for creating beautiful bonsai. Using a method called air layering, it is very easy to make a branch sprout roots that will support it after separation from the tree. By selecting a nicely shaped branch you can create a bonsai tree that will bring years of enjoyment.

1. Select a branch with a pleasing shape as well as structure, up to the diameter of your little finger.
2. Assemble the following: a sharp knife, sphagnum moss that has been soaked in water at least 15 minutes, a small sheet of heavy plastic, string as well as rooting hormone, available at any garden center.
3. Cut around the branch where you want roots to sprout. On the branch make a circular cut through the bark as well as into the hardwood underneath.
4. Make a duplicate cut about two branch widths below the first cut.
5. Make a straight cut connecting the first two cuts.
6. Peel off the bark between the first two cuts. The bark should peel off fairly easily. Make sure none of the cambium layer (the green layer under the bark) is left.
7. Dust the top cut with rooting hormone as well as wrap the area with the wet sphagnum moss, then wrap with plastic as well as tie in place.
8. Keep the moss wet. After several weeks you should see roots through the plastic.
9. When the roots start to thicken as well as turn brown, separate your new tree by cutting it off below the new roots.
10. Place small pebbles for drainage in the bottom of a pot. Partially fill the container with top soil. Unwrap the plastic as well as without disturbing the roots, plant your new tree, adding additional soil as needed.
11. Insert a stake to keep the tree from moving as well as damaging its delicate roots.
12. Enjoy your new tree.

• Air layering Japanese maples is best done in mid to late spring after the leaves have sprouted.
• Allow your tree to continue to grow until the next season before trying to style or prune it.

• The new roots are very delicate as well as can be easily damaged. Use care when unwrapping the plastic as well as potting the tree.
• Do not remove or disturb the sphagnum moss during the process.

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Added: Thu Feb 02 2006

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