First time styling a Callistemon

[Bonbon]

Will do some carving soon.
What else you suggest?

[melbrackstone]

To be honest I don't think you're going to do a Callistemon any favours by trying to style it like a Pine.

Take a look at Pup's Callistemons here on the forum, and you'll see how successful they can be as subjects. Here's one as an example: viewtopic.php?f=55&t=6225

David Willoughby also has an excellent progression thread. viewtopic.php?f=55&t=23157&p=233071#p233071

[Bonbon]

Thanks.

[Bonbon]

To be honest I don't think you're going to do a Callistemon any favours by trying to style it like a Pine.

Take a look at Pup's Callistemons here on the forum, and you'll see how successful they can be as subjects. Here's one as an example: viewtopic.php?f=55&t=6225

David Willoughby also has an excellent progression thread. viewtopic.php?f=55&t=23157&p=233071#p233071

Thanks. Really need to learn. Never have a Callistemon before,

[melbrackstone]

I'm only starting with Callistemon this year too, it's a huge learning curve.

[Bonbon]

Saw all Callistemon bonsai on google. Still not quite sure.
Anyone can put it in words what is the key for styling a Callistemon.
What are the differences in styling a Callistemon and say, styling a pine or fig and why?
Is there a best style for Callistemon and why？
Thanks

[melbrackstone]

I think the biggest problem with forcing the branches down is that it may weaken the tree over time. Styling native Australian trees is a very complex subject, and you'll get lots of different opinions, however I would always look to keeping the plant as healthy as possible.

[Bonbon]

All Callistemon

[melbrackstone]

yup, all looking pretty natural except for the last one.... mind you, there *are* some weeping varieties too, but I'm guessing yours is not one of those.

[Bonbon]

I think the biggest problem with forcing the branches down is that it may weaken the tree over time. Styling native Australian trees is a very complex subject, and you'll get lots of different opinions, however I would always look to keeping the plant as healthy as possible.

Like this one? Allowing all branches grow upwards?
No much styling needed

[Bonbon]

More

[DavidWilloughby]

Hi Bonbon,

I think you have given this one a good start. Being the first time you are styling this species, enjoy it and learn from it as its the best way. Then the knowledge gained can be applied to more advanced material and trees, when the opportunity arises to obtain them. Especially for your own backyards microclimate.

Read up on SIR Pups Callistemon thread as it is the gospel IMHO, as it has been linked already. A wealth of information and in time, it will reward you.

Looking forward to watching this one progress.

Cheers

Willow

[Bonbon]

yup, all looking pretty natural except for the last one.... mind you, there *are* some weeping varieties too, but I'm guessing yours is not one of those.

Yes, there is a weep variety

[Bonbon]

I think the biggest problem with forcing the branches down is that it may weaken the tree over time. Styling native Australian trees is a very complex subject, and you'll get lots of different opinions, however I would always look to keeping the plant as healthy as possible.

May I should leave it unstyled, all branches pointing upwards

[Bonbon]

Hi Bonbon,

I think you have given this one a good start. Being the first time you are styling this species, enjoy it and learn from it as its the best way. Then the knowledge gained can be applied to more advanced material and trees, when the opportunity arises to obtain them. Especially for your own backyards microclimate.

Read up on SIR Pups Callistemon thread as it is the gospel IMHO, as it has been linked already. A wealth of information and in time, it will reward you.

Looking forward to watching this one progress.

Cheers

Willow

Thanks David. Bought 6 in one go, this is the smallest one Mainly for carving practise.