I collected this tree July 2023. It’s just been sitting in a tub since. Last fall I removed a central branch from each of the top pieces (now slingshots in the before pic), otherwise I just let it be. Our local bonsai club had a meeting scheduled for today, I thought I’d get it out and try to get a little more movement in it, potentially with the input and know how from the club crowd, so last night I put on the raffia in anticipation. Unfortunately the venue was closed today due to weather, and the meeting was cancelled. Since I had it all out and ready to go I just went for it. When I picked up this tree I was planning on a literati style. There was a little movement in the base, so I used what was there and tried to accentuate it. I cut a few needles near the sheath where they were really unnecessary and distracting. Overall I feel pretty pleased with the outcome, not so hard to practice on a young tree. Can do some more work on it in the next couple years so it looks a little more refined. Should be able to really pull in the top left two branches next year, and additional movement in the upper part of the main trunk as necessary. Might cut a spiral shari in it too (reference pic attached) before doing more root reduction. Otherwise this year I just plan on trimming out the strong central shoots on the strongest branches. Feedback welcome!

by BowHuntMuleDeer

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