First Bonsai attempt (Lonicera pileata)

Would appreciate your feedback.. Any tips or pointers most welcome.

(Just a temporary pot)






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Update
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Thanks for the encouragment :p
I think bill might be right about removing the branch, it's quite sturdy. Dont think it wants to be shaped.








Looks quite rough up close

1. Serrisa ??
2. remove lower branch
3. wire

Lonicera pileata I think.. (thanks ian)

See what you mean about the lower branch.. I was hoping to give it some shape though.. Not sure now you mention it.

Hi Jay,

Showing more photo angles/side at eye level would help.


regards,
jun

Can you show a closer-view of the trunk area? And as Jun requested, views from the other sides would help us get a better idea of the 3-d structure.

Well, you've gotten very little positive "feedback" so I'll say, your first attempt is much better than many of our first attempts.

Jay, Your first try successfully turned a small shrub into a tall tree. This is what bonsai is about - illusion.
Good job!
Best,
Todd

JimLewis wrote: your first attempt is much better than many of our first attempts.

That much is certain!
-Jay

Updated now

The first branch is too low on the trunk.

Bonsai_jay wrote:Would appreciate your feedback.. Any tips or pointers most welcome.

(Just a temporary pot)




==================================
Update
==================================

Thanks for the encouragment :p
I think bill might be right about removing the branch, it's quite sturdy. Dont think it wants to be shaped.




Looks quite rough up close

For what it's worth:

Find a single trunk line on this tree which shows good movement and taper. Cut off everything else. It should pop new buds all over, which you can then wire while they're still very pliable. Get some books and study how to wire. Your loops are way too close together. They should ideally be at 45 degree angles. This offers the best holding power. Practice "air wiring," where you coil wire with no branch to learn how not to put pressure on the branch while looping the wire (which can cause damage). In short order you should be able to do a great job of it, probably by the time the plant regrows its shoots.

Good luck! It's nice material.

Zach