Late spring is the perfect time for part of the pine maintenance pruning in niwaki cultivation. It is the action of pinching buds (also called cones, candles …) or process “midoritsumi”.
This action favours a second vegetation in the year, however, less important, but it is sought result in the context of a denser vegetation. These buds are removed entirely or in part according to where they are located, if they are many in one place or not, depending on the total thickness of the vegetation, to obtain a compact and uniform mass.
This action can be done incidentally by hand, between the thumb and forefinger, if the bud is small in diameter and when it is very tender. However, this time is very short. When one cultivates many niwaki and large figures, when the size of the candle is more important and/or they have begun to be stiff, it is preferable to use sharp tools, specially designed for this, running efficiently work with a more clean and neat result.
The Niwaki et niwashi.com shop has selected for you two new products perfectly fitted to the action, with a matching leather cover that provides you security and ensures the longevity of your tools.
To watch the video about the pinch of pine buds, please join the e-learning Platform of JAPANESE GARDEN INSTITUTE.