The Art of Natural Bonsai: Replicating Nature's Beauty

The absolute irony of this being called "The Art of Natural Bonsai" is about as British as one can get. The author absolutely strong arms trees with extreme manipulation techniques. There is nothing "natural" in his methods as he uses toxic epoxies and wire mesh to make plant environments, cuts down and throws away entire trees to use one branch, and generally torments his specimens into the desired forms. Calling his techniques "natural" is akin to calling the items in the British museum "locally sourced." HOWEVER: his results are unparalleled. The striking beauty he is able to achieve is amazing. The book's many case studies has pictures that span 30 years of his tree manipulation, and it's the best representation of the actual length of time, hard decisions, and tough cuts one has to employ to create sublime, beautiful bonsai. I am currently employing several of his techniques, and they are all on 7 to 9 year time spans. It is exciting to see my trees at home growing in the forms that will give the stunning results he teaches. I recommend this book, though the title is far from accurate. It should be called "don't be afraid to be severe with your trees and shape them over 10 years," but that's decidedly not as inviting. Buy this book!