Bonsai Tree Tools
People who are relatively new to bonsai often ask ‘What tools do I need to care for my bonsai?’ The good news is that you don’t need that many. The best idea is to start off with the basics and then develop your toolkit as you go along.
Although there is what might appear to be an almost bewildering array of bonsai tools and equipment available, many of the tools that are on sale will not be needed until you get involved in more advanced techniques such as carving, grafting or branch splitting.
Hence, a lot of the tools that are available are not really necessary when you are first starting out, and of course, by sticking to a basic tool collection to get started, you keep your initial outlay to a minimum.
If you have bought your tree or shrub from the garden centre or nursery your priority should be to let the plant grow naturally before you start to limit its growth by potting. So, other than a little pruning and trimming, at this stage all you are really involved in is basic plant maintenance.
From this, it follows that all you need in the beginning are the basic maintenance tools. These include wire cutters, scissors, secateurs and a root hook.
As you look around for bonsai tools, you will note that the prices vary considerably. As a general rule, most of the cheapest tools tend to be from China and you will find that many of these tools are made from mild steel that becomes damaged and less useful very quickly.
Japanese bonsai scissors
On the other hand, buying Japanese tools will mean spending a little more money but the quality of the steel used is generally far higher, meaning that your tools will last an awful lot longer.
Once you have your basic kit, the next thing is to make sure that you keep all of your tools in tip-top condition.
Regular cleaning and maintenance not only increases the life of tools but it also means that their pristine condition makes them more efficient as well.
This relatively small collection of bonsai tools will certainly be enough to get you started. However, on top of a basic kit, some beginners find that adding a few additional tools helps them to develop their bonsai skills more quickly. As you start to train your bonsai tree you will use techniques that will require other accessories e.g wire to help shape branches and cut paste to seal wounds.
A lot more information about bonsai tools can be found in Beautiful Bonsai Secrets.
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