bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - Using the Trunk-Splitter Tool

I've heard of the twisting technique being done, quite dramatically to a 4 foot tall azalea during a demo. You can imagine just how the audience gasped. As a technique is seems similar in theory to using the trunk-splitter tool. Vascular bundles remain intact... a benefit over using the wedge technique (which is why as asked to begin with).

As for it looking "unnatural", these methods seem very common in nature. Trees under a heavy snow load will separate into bundles at the bend location and then twist (usually) counter-clockwise at the bend.

Seems like something worth trying to me, especially since there seems to be a dirth of information in my club on the "black-belt" bending of large material. Any other opinions/suggestions

Cheers,
Jim

14-Feb-2005	#8
malhomme bonsaiTALK Master Craftsman Join Date: Feb-2005 Location: Austin, Texas USDA Zone: 8b AHS Heat Zone: 9 Posts: 814	I've heard of the twisting technique being done, quite dramatically to a 4 foot tall azalea during a demo. You can imagine just how the audience gasped. As a technique is seems similar in theory to using the trunk-splitter tool. Vascular bundles remain intact... a benefit over using the wedge technique (which is why as asked to begin with). As for it looking "unnatural", these methods seem very common in nature. Trees under a heavy snow load will separate into bundles at the bend location and then twist (usually) counter-clockwise at the bend. Seems like something worth trying to me, especially since there seems to be a dirth of information in my club on the "black-belt" bending of large material. Any other opinions/suggestions Cheers, Jim