When designing the layout and style of a bonsai forest, there are a number of art based and mathematical concepts that will enhance the visual characteristics of your landscape, accentuating the spacial elements of balance, depth and focal point. The illusion of perspective infinity is perhaps the more significant of these techniques and is generally more considered in terms of renaissance landscape art. But when these concepts are adapted within the visual frame of a bonsai forest and integrated with Chinese and Japanese number theories, the final design reflects a more symbolic and esoteric dimension. Using mature three and four year old saplings I have photographed and documented the development of forest bonsai using the above techniques. The examples that are reviewed range from non-complex succulents, to fast growing (invasive) tree species with excellent trunking and foliage characteristics, to a group planting of flowering azaleas that mimic the rhododendron forest of the Himalayas.
Additional to my discussion on forest aesthetics, I have not forgotten the important issues of root pruning and re-potting a bonsai forest, how to minimize transplant shock (the death zone) utilising the secret power of Willow Water, the significance of clay muck, the essentials of forest bonsai drainage, the use and formulation of bio-dynamic treatments for minimizing insect damage and the critical management of your forest over winter. As a bonus I have added “12 signs you’re obsessed with bonsai” Enjoy the read. I have packed together a huge amount of relevant and important material that will ensure your bonsai trees live beyond your lifetime for the future generations of family and friends to nurture. |
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