Concealing a scar in your bonsai tree
Carving is often preformed indoors during the winter dormant state from the tree. You need to firmly tie the bottom of a corner towards the container so the tree cannot move. Then, make use of a sharp carving knife, and slowly care the withered or decayed bark. Be careful not to damage any living area of the bonsai or even the leaves. Try your very best to fashion the portion of bark you eliminate to look like a natural hole found in old trees. Leave hard core, and smooth the rest of the bark of the carved area. Next apply wax cloth or adhesive plaster to avoid further decay of the bark. Once you have completed the carving, you need to place your bonsai tree in a warm room, and water it daily to assist trigger the recovery to assist the wound heal. You can also give your tree weak fertilizer if you feel necessary. This complete recovery process will often take 2 to 3 years before the scar from carving is invisible.
In Japan, some of the most dignified and sought after bonsai trees possess a weathered, lifeless branch or trunk. These functions were achieved using the carving method described above. Rugged attributes of branches and trunks assistance to foster the illusion that the tree is centuries old and it has been subject to harsh environments. Adding these elements to your tree will only further enhance its appearance.