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Removing the bark from a dead juniper is a task and a half in itself100_0373.jpg
After 8 hours with a pressure washer and some steaming during the lunch break most of the bark was removed 100_0389.jpg
Another days works on the jin pliers100_0398.jpg
and the mini die grinder and its ready for the lime sulfur.After it was painted and allowed to dry100_0402.jpg
i washed it down with the hose to remove the excess and to prevent it from leaching into the bonsai blend .100_0396.jpg
This Shimpaku came into my possession recently and the moment i spotted it i knew what the project would be .I checked the trunk with the movement of the juniper and made the necessary adjustments to fit the base into the stump . After man handling the dead wood stump residual sulfur was still present so it was out with the pressure washer and blast the living daylights out of it . While it was drying i se up the pot and plant in the required position 100_0406.jpg
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Considering the combined weight of the new trainer i decided i had better place it on the bench and work from there , save moving it after it was completed 100_0408.jpg
i potted the juniper then added the stump 100_0411.jpg
I have placed a few wires around the trunk and branches for a basic idea .100_0415.jpg
The trunk being too thick to bend was split with the trunk splitters and will be manipulated over time100_0412.jpg
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Well its half way there and over the next week or so i will add 2 more smaller Shimpaku Junipers to the setting then then give the whole combination and pre-style and shape for the future . This is a far cry from my first attempt quite a few years ago , but experience is only gained over time . With basic material , average things can be done as in my first few attempts , with better quality material , greater things can be achieved and that applies to any type of Bonsai . Cheers Alpineart