This page explains other bonsai supplies that are indispensable for the serious bonsai artist.
Cut paste
Cut paste is essential for the fast-healing of pruning wounds. For trees that bleed heavily, this will prevent excessive sap bleeding, and will protect the bonsai against pests, diseases and dehydration. Japanese bonsai cut paste differs from regular cut pastes in that it is not excessively sticky and falls off naturally as the wound heals.
Two versions are available: one for conifers and azaleas, and another for non-conifers.
Nutrients
You will see the SUPERthrive vitamin and hormone formula mentioned in many bonsai books. These nutrients are paramount in the success of transplanting seedlings and repotting bonsai. Using a SUPERthrive solution for the first watering after repotting will significantly increase survival rates and noticeably improve vigor.
Wire
Metal wire is currently the most common method of shaping bonsai. The anodized aluminium wire that we sell has several advantages over copper: it oxidizes less, is easier to work with, and is less "springy". Though it can be reused, it is not recommended to uncoil wire from branches, since you risk damaging leaves and branches. Wire cutters should be used to remove wire.
The thickness or gauge of wire depends on the thickness of the branch you wish to bend. Branch strength will vary between species and individual trees, but one guideline is to use wire 1/3 the thickness of the branch you wish to bend. Two sets of wire can be applied to larger branches if necessary.
The length of wire should be about 50% longer than the branch you are bending.
We sell wire ranging in thickness from 1mm to 5mm, in 150g packages, as well as 5mm and 6mm wire in 500g bundles. Product pages provide length equivalencies for the various gauges (approximations only).
Drainage netting
Drainage netting or mesh is used to cover the drainage holes of your bonsai pots to keep the potting medium from escaping.
