Well actually the tree isn’t shrinking, just the bonsai pot that it is in. Last year when I potted this tree up for the first time it went into a very large bonsai pot. However because of the lack of roots close to the trunk I had no choice. This year is a different story.
Bald Cypress ready for repotting
This tree put out so many new branches in all of the right spots. I can’t wait to wire it out. It is naturally weeping a bit, so that is how I plan to style it. First I need to get it into a smaller pot.
New Bonsai pot comparison
As you can see the new pot is a great deal smaller. I remember potting the tree last year and there were very big roots so this is going to be a very tight squeeze.
Great New Roots
When I pulled the tree out of it’s current pot I was very happy to see these kinds of roots. The tree thrived this past year and these roots are proof. Also if you ever had a question about how well my bonsai mix works, now you know!!
Raked roots
After a quick rake the roots are now combed out, and the tree is ready for the new pot.
Too Big
Okay, don’t panic!!! This tree really is ver large and I knew this challange was coming. There is some growth on the tips of the roots, but still there is plenty close to the trunk. I’m pretty confident this will go in with some help.
Saws All to the rescue
Of course when I said help I was referring to my Saws All. I removed just enough of the roots to have a nice fit with a little room for new growth. You can still see loads of roots remain.
Repotted Bald Cypress
Success!!! The tree fit, and this combination pot and tree looks very good. I have still some carving, wiring, styling, etc to perform but the hard work is done. Now comes the fun!
Big Nebari
One last shot to show the nebari of the trunk. The tree is sitting a little low in the pot on purpose to let the roots heal up. Next year I’ll raise it up a bit more to really show the trunk spread.
