Entering the art of Bonsai is one that requires patience and creativity. An important task to master is how to trim a Bonsai tree. When deciding on how to groom it, there are several factors to consider. First, which shrub or small tree will you be using? Camellia, Boxwood, Holly and Junipers make beautiful Bonsai trees. Second, which style of Bonsai will you be choosing? There are five basic styles used by Bonsai "artists" which are Formal, Informal, Slanting, Cascade and Semi Cascade. Each of these refers to the formation of your Bonsai tree. Knowing which style you would like to encompass ahead of time will give you direction as to how to trim your tree and reach the desired result.

Now that you have decided on your "canvas", you need to have the right tools for the job. There are many specialized tools that Bonsai gardeners use. However, there are a few essential ones that every beginner should have. Most tool sets include:

1. leaf trimmer
2. rake with spatula
3. root hook
4. coir brush
5. concave cutter
6. knob cutter
7. wire cutter
8. several size shears.

Once you have the tree and the tools, it's time to get started. http://bonsaisite.com/index.html

You'll begin trimming your Bonsai before you remove it from its original container.

1. Begin trimming your plant at the central trunk.
2. Remove leaves and branches until you can see a clear portion of the trunk.
3. Be careful not to trim too much of the foliage before re-potting.
4. Once you have created your base, you are now ready to transfer your Bonsai to its new pot or tray.
5. Carefully remove your plant from its original container.
6. To remove excess soil from the roots, you should gently soak them in water to avoid damage from shaking or pulling soil off.
7. If your Bonsai roots are still too large to fit into your container, you can trim a small portion of the root system.
8. Once you have placed your tree in its new container, be sure to add fertilizer to your Bonsa soil mix and pack down tautly.

Once re-potted, you can begin to trim the foliage and form your tree. When trimming branches, be certain that your shears are sharp so that they create a clean and smooth tip.

1. Begin to eliminate "dead" branches or those that are unproductive (few buds or leaves). #Remove wilted or wilting leaves/needles. Thoroughly pruning your Bonsai will allow new growth and enhance its foliage.
2. Once you have trimmed your Bonsai, you can now "wire" it to control branch growth. By wiring a branch, you are directing the shape of your tree.
3. Carefully use an aluminum wire, found at most gardening shops, to attach and bend your branch into its desired place.
4. Gently bending a healthy branch will redirect its growth to give the desired look.

Keep in mind that your tree will need time to grow into your vision. Your first several trimmings will be in preparation of that growth. You will need to help form and guide your tree, and allow it time to develop.

In order to prune your Bonsai tree properly, you'll need to become familiar with the species of tree and when its natural growth season happens. When new growth occurs, you'll need to prune in order to maintain its desired shape and style. There are several methods to pruning that can be used. First, finger pruning can be used to remove new growth and to prevent a "cut" look. Simply, take the new growth between your thumb and finger then gently twist and pull to remove. Use scissor tip pruning to trim back shoots.

Regularly checking your Bonsai for dead leaves or removing brown growth will encourage its health. For heavier pruning, such as removing branches or thick shoots, you'll need to use a concave cutter. This imperative tool will allow for the removal of larger growth without leaving an unsightly scar on your tree. With regular care and maintenance, your Bonsai masterpiece will thrive and grow. http://www.bonsaiboy.com/