Bonsai Seasons

VIDEO LIBRARY

THANK YOU

As the Online Shohin Bonsai School comes to an end, I would like to send out my gratitude to everyone who has supported the school. It has reached a broad audience worldwide. I appreciate all your kind comments, questions, chats on the Live Q&A, and private messages.

The time has come to slow down and focus on other things besides running this very demanding task.

THANK YOU. KEEP IN TOUCH

The current videos are available until May 1st.
The final episode has been published ( a little earlier than normal) on Tuesday. Enjoy.

SPRING

Repotting a Callicarpa – Root Control – FINAL EPISODE

In this final episode, the focus is on repotting a Callicarpa. Looking into the root structure and aesthetic considerations when arranging a tree in a pot.

Repotting flowering bonsai – how and when?

In this repotting video, I look at flowering bonsai, how and when to repot.
Flowering bonsai need extra attention on timing, growth planning and pruning.

Repotting and planning strategy for Itoigawa Juniper

I continue the repotting of bonsai, and this time an Itoigawa juniper is on the table. We look into the delicate root work and strategy for the future. It is important to go slowly with junipers and know their limits.
We look at positioning the tree and how changing the angle influences the branches and roots.

Repotting a Pinus mugo, Mountain pine

The repotting season has started, and the first bonsai up is a Pinus mugo. It’s time to remove organic soil and start the transformation to bonsai soil. We look at roots, a bit special on the Neagari style, and how to handle roots.

WINTER

Bonsai Q&A February 2026

The panel discussed the following topics guided by Morten:

Air-layering updates on trees that missed setting roots.

When to repot and how to approach roots on a tree that has been growing for a long time in the same container.

Cascade and semi-cascade bonsai, aethetics and species suitable.

Kokofu-ten members’ experience.

The upcoming Shohin Bonsai Book sneak preview.

From Tanuki to Kengai: Styling a Needle Juniper Cascade

Transforming tanuki material into a convincing cascade (kengai) Needle Juniper. In this step-by-step styling, we read the deadwood, set the line, and integrate the foliage and flow. We’ll refine and discuss timing and seasonal considerations, and cover aftercare so the tree rebounds with vigour. A clear, honest look at the phoenix graft method—designed to help you make bold, believable cascades.

Wire Smart, Not Fast: The Timing That Shapes Bonsai

Wiring a bonsai may seem straightforward, but the real artistry lies in timing and a thoughtful, step‑by‑step approach. Rather than wiring an entire tree in one session, working gradually allows the bonsai to adjust, stay healthy, and respond more quickly to training.

By adding and removing wires in stages, you reduce stress on the tree and increase your chances of achieving the shape and movement you want. In this new tutorial, you’ll be guided through each step of the process, learning how careful timing and technique create stronger results and more refined bonsai design.

Bonsai Q&A January 2026

The panel discussed the following topics guided by Morten:

Don’t give up a bonsai too soon if it didn’t set new growth in spring.

Training pots and pot selection for trees exhibited.

Selection of pots and trees, aesthetic considerations, as well as a practical approach.

The usual weather information, which isn’t without meaning, because bonsai growing is very much influenced by seasonal changes.

Carving Natural Hollows in Deciduous Bonsai—Safely with Power Tools

Deciduous deadwood is a delicate art: it can add age, drama, and story—but it must look grown, not ground. In this week’s episode, I’ll show you how to use powertools safely and sensitively to create natural hollows and deadwood features on deciduous trees—without leaving the telltale “carved” look.

Runtime: 35minutes

What you’ll learn

Design first: Reading grain, live veins, and how decay naturally develops on deciduous species.
Tool selection & control: Which heads/burrs for shaping vs. texturing, and how to avoid chatter and ruts.
Natural transitions: From entrance to interior hollow—soft edges, believable flow, and negative space.
Aftercare for deciduous: Hardening, subtle colouration (not chalky white), sealing cuts, and seasonal timing.

Twin Trunk Yew

The twin trunk bonsai design is a method of creating bonsai with a gentle and calm appearance.

In this case, two leftover trees from a forest planting, rearranged, are set together to make an image of two trees growing closely connected.

Visual balance is essential, as well as growing techniques, which are explained during this tutorial.

Japanese Red Pine styling

Japanese Red Pines are not as usual in the western part of the bonsai world as they are in Japan.
The JRP has softer, longer, and lighter green needles than the Jap. Black pine and other differences make it worth looking into this species. Here in Shohin size.
This episode focuses on styling and how to manage the Japanese Red Pine when trimming and pruning this species.

Creative deadwood grafting

Focus on deadwood techniques—a traditional art form that adds age, drama, and character to bonsai.

Deadwood features like jin and shari are inspired by nature’s own forces—wind, snow, and time—that shape trees in the wild. They reflect the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, celebrating imperfection and resilience.