Hey guys. New poster, and new to bonsai. I’ve dabbled in the past but have dove in pretty hard this go around with about 11 trees.

Recently just got a Cryptomeria and Deodar cedar and was looking for advice and suggestions. The Cryptomeria I was planning on doing a topiary style, pretty much “chokkan” style and was looking for advice as to obtaining that. I’ve found a few good sources already.

The Deodar I was still unsure. I was thinking about air layering the top, but still not sure on overall style so would love to hear some input.

I’m in zone 7a and was planning on healing both trees into the ground (with pots) and covering with mulch to bottom branches next to a fence and house. Was even thinking I would wrap them in burlap.

Welcome. I would be curious to see some pictures. Could you upload pictures of the victims to the forum?

leatherback wrote:

Welcome. I would be curious to see some pictures. Could you upload pictures of the victims to the forum?

For some reason pics didn’t work. Trying again

They look healthy.

By the direction they are growing in the pictures, I surely would go Cascade Stile!
(Bad joke here. No offense meant.)

Wow some serious failing on the images. They were actually not sideways when showing up on my phone:pinch:

!

I don't think you need to airlayer it.
They need pruning, to really see the structure before doing anything drastic.
Going to the ground is a good idea if the trunks need girth; and a little wire can start the right movements even if you decide to chop some branches afterwards.
Nice material, they look healthy.

Clicio wrote:

I don't think you need to airlayer it.
They need pruning, to really see the structure before doing anything drastic.
Going to the ground is a good idea if the trunks need girth; and a little wire can start the right movements even if you decide to chop some branches afterwards.
Nice material, they look healthy.

Cool! Was planning on healing them in with the pots just for winter protection. Was going to leave them in the nursery pots to gain some more girth. I actually don’t mind the Cedars current girth but the crypto definitely needs to thicken up at the trunk.