Bonsai tools & supplies
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12 recommendations
Sharp bonsai scissors for everyday pruning
Thomas's practical choice for clean, controlled work on shoots and fine branches.
A comfortable pair of scissors that closes cleanly and can be sharpened reliably matters more than a large tool set.
A solid, work-ready concave cutter
For stronger branches where a controlled cut and room for later callusing are needed.
The joint should run without play and the cutting edges should meet cleanly. The tool does not replace judgement about timing and tree health.
Aluminium wire in several gauges
A manageable set for initial styling, small repairs and anchoring during repotting.
Match the gauge to the branch and inspect it regularly. Do not unwind wire that has begun to bite; remove it carefully in short sections.
Substrate sieves for even particle size
Walter's point is to understand the principle: stable, airy particles without dusty fines.
Sieves remove fines and prepare a reasonably even particle size. Substrate, watering and feeding must always be treated as one connected system.
Pumice and lava as modern substrate
Walter's technical recommendation: structure and particle size matter more than searching for a secret ideal mix.
Pumice and lava can form part of a stable, well-aerated substrate. Never apply this recommendation in isolation: frequent thorough watering and suitable feeding belong to the same system.
Watering can with a fine, even rose
For thorough watering without washing fine substrate out of the pot.
A fine rose distributes water gently across the whole surface. Water according to the tree, location, weather and substrate, not a rigid calendar.
Wire cutters with short, strong jaws
Thomas uses a dedicated tool here: it cuts wire close to the branch without placing unnecessary stress on the bark.
The short jaws should cut thicker aluminium wire in a controlled way. Cut biting wire into sections and never unwind it from the branch.
Root hook for controlled repotting
A simple, sturdy tool Thomas uses to open the root ball carefully from the outside towards the centre.
A single hook often gives more feel than a broad rake. Do not tear: loosen the root ball gradually and keep the fine roots in view.
Mesh for pot drainage holes
A small preparation Thomas completes before repotting: substrate stays in the pot while water can drain freely.
The mesh must cover the opening securely without blocking it. Fix it with wire and anchor the tree separately and firmly in the pot.
Coarse pine bark as an organic component
Walter uses organic components according to the tree, climate and watering system, not from a fixed recipe.
Use structurally stable, low-dust particles only. The proportion changes water retention and feeding behaviour, so never copy someone else's mix blindly.
Fertiliser with a clear NPK declaration
Walter favours verifiable information over bonsai myths: what matters is what the fertiliser contains and how the whole care system works.
Adapt dosage to growth, season, substrate and watering. Never copy a high dose from another care regime; follow the label and observe the tree.
Small pressure sprayer with adjustable nozzle
Thomas uses a handy sprayer for targeted care tasks, never as a replacement for thorough watering.
The nozzle should spray evenly and be easy to clean. Use suitable products only, label the container and rinse it thoroughly after every use.
There is no recommendation for this selection yet.