How To Look After Your Bonsai Tools
Proper maintenance of high quality bonsai tools is essential for achieving the desired results in bonsai cultivation. Maintaining these tools not only prolongs their lifespan but also ensures that they remain sharp, clean, and in good condition, making it easier to shape and style bonsai trees accurately. Neglecting to maintain bonsai tools can lead to dull blades, rust, and other damage, which can hinder the effectiveness of pruning and shaping, as well as put unnecessary strain on the tools and the gardener's hands. By taking the time to regularly care for bonsai tools, you can enjoy more efficient and satisfying bonsai experiences.
Check out our video guide on how to maintain your bonsai tools
Here are some of the products used in this video
Bonsai Tool Oil ( Camelia Oil )
Camellia oil is a type of oil extracted from the seeds of the Camellia plant, which is native to East and Southeast Asia. It is commonly used for a variety of purposes, including cooking, hair and skin care, and, in the context of bonsai, as a protectant for high quality steel tools. Camellia oil is valued for its ability to protect steel from rust, oxidation, and corrosion, making it ideal for use on bonsai tools. The oil forms a protective barrier on the surface of the steel, helping to prevent moisture from coming into contact with the metal and causing rust or other forms of degradation. It is also commonly used to lubricate moving parts, helping to reduce friction and extend the life of the tool. Overall, the use of camellia oil is an effective way to preserve the quality and longevity of high quality steel bonsai tools.
Crean Mate
A crean mate is a type of cleaning block that is used to remove dirt, grime, sap and other debris from bonsai tools after use. It is an important part of maintaining bonsai tools because it helps to make sure the blades run true and don't separate as the grime and gunk passes. The crean mate typically consists of a soft rubber like block that can be used wet or dry. By using a crean mate after each use, bonsai enthusiasts can ensure that their tools are free of dirt and debris that could cause damage over time, and that the tools remain in top condition for optimal performance. These little blocks are praised by bonsai professionals.
Sharpening Stone ( Whetestone )
A whetstone, also known as a sharpening stone, is a tool used for sharpening and honing the blades of bonsai tools. It is an important tool for maintaining the quality and performance of bonsai tools, as dull blades can make pruning and shaping more difficult and can cause damage to the trees being worked on. A whetstone works by abrading the metal of the blade, removing small amounts of material to create a new, sharp edge. This process can be done by running the blade along the surface of the whetstone in a specific pattern, using oil or water as a lubricant. The importance of using a whetstone for sharpening bonsai tools lies in its ability to maintain the optimal cutting edge on the blades, making pruning and shaping easier and more accurate, and ultimately leading to better results in bonsai cultivation. It is important to note do not ever use a diamond based sharpening stone as these remove to much material from the blade.
