|
Below is my own tool kit with all the tools I use on a regular basis.
From left to right, Rake/tweezers, Tooth brush, Root hook, Root cutting shears, Branch cutters, "Dibber", Leaf cutters,
Concave branch cutters. The pot in the background is on my turntable. I made the case myself.
WATERING CAN
An obvious requirement but not just any watering can will do. Choose a can with a fine rose to soak the soil without
washing it away. I have just been given a superb Haws watering can, galvanised and painted so it should last me a lifetime.
MIST SPRAYER
Bonsai lose moisture through their leaves very quickly (this is called transpiration) so daily spraying
is neccessary during dry spells to help reduce this and keep the plant looking fresh and healthy. Do not spray oaks at
any time as they are prone to mildew.
LEAF CUTTERS
Leaf cutters are used to trim off leaves and small shoots which spoil the outline of the bonsai. Buy a good quality tool as
you will be using it a lot.
BONSAI SHEARS
These are used to cut thicker branches, shoots and roots. I have a "best" pair for pruning the trees and an old pair
for the roots.
CONCAVE CUTTERS
These are used to remove branches close to the trunk leaving a round, concave cut which will completely heal leaving no tell-tale
stump.
COMBINED RAKE & TWEEZERS
A very useful and versatile for tasks including soil surface preparation, weed and pest removal.
TOOTHBRUSH
I use an old toothbrush to remove moss from the trunk and branches of my Bonsai and also to remove pests. I dip the brush
in insecticide and use it to remove scale insects rather than spraying the whole tree.
|
