Hey,
I bought a bonsai a few weeks back my first one. I gave it a prune today as you can quite clearly see.
I’m wondering as I took around 60-70% of the leaves and branches back will this have a detrimental affect on the health of my new tree.
My goal was to reshape the tree as I have a vision and the previous state did not fit this.
My concern is have I cut too much off?
Thanks!
Also I have not yet sealed the cut wounds but will be applying as soon as I can.
Finn

It's OK as it is spring and your plant will take the abuse.

I'm NOT making fun of your tree, but I find it almost incredible how the chinese growers are capable of making thousands of identical mallsaiis!

So what your saying is this is not a bonsai tree.

Finnbonsai wrote:

So what your saying is this is not a bonsai tree.

Yes.
This is a tree similar to many others and is usually sold as bonsai in big chainstores like Ikea or Home Depot. These plants are known as mallsai.
It can become a bonsai some day, but it's going to take a lot of work and a lot of time.

Take a look:
www.bonsaiempire.com/forum/progressions/...-2018?start=20#38728

Thanks but I think your wrong

You have not re shaped this plant only pruned it. There is no need to seal tiny cuts. It is unfortunately one of those plants called bonsai when they really are not. Have a look at some quality trees and see the difference. Most of us have made the same mistake in the past. This plant could do with some better soil, and a lot of growing.

Finnbonsai wrote:

Thanks but I think your wrong

Depends on what your definition of bonsai is. Some people say that's 'any plant that's in a pot'. According to me - and I'm pretty practically all other regulars on this forum, who try to grow bonsai - this definition is wrong and your plant is not really a bonsai.

You wrote you had a vision about this plant. Could you share what that vision is?

Finnbonsai wrote:

Thanks but I think your wrong

Unfortunately I am not wrong.
But of course you have to realize it by yourself.

Finnbonsai wrote:

Thanks but I think your wrong

Telling others wrong while you are the wrong one is the greatest obstacle every Bonsai learner encounter and get stuck.

spacewood wrote:

Finnbonsai wrote:

Thanks but I think your wrong

Telling others wrong while you are the wrong one is the greatest obstacle every Bonsai learner encounter and get stuck.

www.growingbonsai.net/why-is-my-tree-not-a-bonsai/