Bonsai Wire

The use of wire when caring for a bonsai tree becomes important when you are ready to manipulate the shape of the tree. Bonsai wire, when applied correctly, can influence the way the trees branches grow. And influencing the growth of the bonsai tree is part of the art of bonsai.

The two types of bonsai wire used are anodized aluminum and annealed copper. What this basically means is that in the case of the softer, more lightweight aluminum, it has gone through a process that makes it durable and resistant to corrosion. The copper has also undergone a similar process that makes it tougher and reduces brittleness.

In both cases it is important that these treatments have been carried out so that the bonsai tree is not subjected to chemical exposure and to ensure that the bonsai wire is strong enough to influence the direction that you want your bonsai to grow in.

The copper wire is much thicker and harder to bend. Less of it is usually required as a result of this, however there can be a much greater chance of over forcing the branch with the firmer wire.

The aluminum wire is much softer and easier to manipulate and therefore makes it less likely to harm the branches.

Wiring is only one aspect of how to shape a bonsai tree and the use of bonsai wire is actually a fairly modern method. It is used to help influence and shape the direction of the growth of the bonsai trees branches. In times gone by, only long term pruning was used to achieve this and later hemp rope was introduced. The wire method has been most useful (and quicker) because it has the necessary strength to hold the branch in place until it adapts to the stress placed on it and begins to grow in the desired direction.

It is important to remember, when using bonsai wire, that if it is left on for too long it can cut into the branch and cause damage to the tree, so careful monitoring is necessary. It is usually helpful to let the bonsai tree dry out slightly before applying the bonsai wire as this can make the tree a bit more flexible for wiring activity and can help avoid splitting and cracking of the wood.

As with anything to do with bonsai gardening, patience is the key element to keeping your tree healthy and achieving the desired outcome when applying the skills that make bonsai an art. That said, be sure to give your bonsai tree time to grow in the new direction. It can take many weeks for this to occur but, if you are patient, this can be a very rewarding and satisfying step in caring for a bonsai tree!