Bonsai Wire
One of the essential tools for shaping bonsai trees is bonsai wire. The wiring technique involves coiling wire around the branches and trunks and then bending them to the desired position. Once some growth has taken place the branches will stay in the set position and the wire can then be removed.
Most bonsai will require wiring at some stage in their development to achieve the right shape. Those new to bonsai are often nervous about wiring their bonsai for the first time but with some help and practice the skill can be mastered.
Bonsai wire sets branches in position
There are two types of bonsai wire – anodised aluminium and annealed copper. The copper wire is harder and more powerful than the aluminium wire. For this reason beginners are advised to start with aluminium wire. The plastic coated wire sold in garden centres is not recommended.
Bonsai wire comes in different thicknesses and as a general guideline the wire should be one third the thickness of the branch or trunk.
To ensure appropriate spacing of the wire on the branch or trunk aim to apply the wire at an angle of 45o. Hold the wire in one hand and the branch with the other.
Always try to anchor the wire e.g. on the trunk or by wiring two branches together. Start off with a piece of wire that is one third longer than the branch to be wired.
Once wired the branches can then be bent to shape gently. The flexibility of the branches will vary depending on their thickness and the species of tree.
The best time to wire bonsai trees will depend on the climate and the species. Also there is wide variation in the length of time required for branches to set after wiring. Generally conifers take much longer than deciduous trees.
It is important to check the tree regularly for damage and to remove the wire it it cuts into the bark. This is done using wire cutters. Some people unwind the wire so that it can be used again. But this can result in damage to the bark or the snapping of branches.
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