Bonsai Tools - All You Need To Know

Many of you have asked for advice on the use of tools in Bonsai. So in this video I will explain the various tools used in bonsai.

Pruning and cutting is at the base of all bonsai you have to be prepared to prune and cut to make bonsai. These are some tools that help when cutting and shaping your tree.

Secateurs are a good cheap tool that you can make good bonsai with. Very good to have in your toolbag.

Tools used in bonsai (can be made of black or stainless steel):-
Bonsai scissors (for trimming)
Root cutting shears
Pruning shears
Satsuki shears (which is a very useful tool)

Top Tip: never use twig cutting shears to cut root as the soil and sand will blunt the blade.

Another useful tool is a branch cutter (this tool enables you to cut a branch close to the trunk and it doesn’t leave a snag). However the Wen or Knob Cutter goes even further and gouges a bit of wood out of the surface of the trunk.
The Hybrid Cutter amalgamates the two (the wen cutter and branch cutter)
A narrow branch cutter will help get in between branches.

Then there is the Branch Splitter, you use this to cut into the branch(split it) to make it easier to bend.

Jin Pliers are mainly used to strip bark but you can also use them to bend wire (when it is thick)

A favourite tool of mine is called a Chinta which is used in India for making chapati and it is very useful for making jJns.

Wire cutters are good when it comes to cutting through different grades of wire and much better than electrical wire cutters.

Root rake is a useful tool for raking soil.

A Sickle is helpful when you are trying to remove a bonsai from its pot. If you cut round the root ball with a sickle it is easier to get the bonsai out (especially if in an incurve pot)

Clamps or Jacks can be used to bend branches. Though bending a branch can be done effectively by using the right grade of wire in my opinion.

Tool sharpeners like sharpening stones and the diamond cutter can be used to sharpen instruments.

There are many tools that you could use in bonsai, experiment and see what works for you.

To visit the Herons website please go to http://www.herons.co.uk

If you're interested in the tools mentioned in this video https://www.herons.co.uk/Tools-Soils-...

Branch Cutter https://www.herons.co.uk/Bonsai-Branc...

Toolkits can be found here https://www.herons.co.uk/Tools-Soils-...