This time I will show you the progress to date of this sabina that we have called “The dragon”. You will see a summary of the work done on this tree in the last two months and we will leave it to take shape and follow a project that may last several years. At Sabina Dragon Design School, we emphasize the importance of this long-term vision. I hope you like this video and remember, if you are interested in knowing more about Bonsai you can visit my page and register in the courses and workshops that we give in the garden.
The Timeless Art of Bonsai: A Deep Dive into the Long-Term Design of an Itoigawa Juniper
A Journey Through Time and Technique: The Slow Art of Bonsai
Bonsai is often misunderstood. Many people think it’s all about quick results—before-and-after pictures, dramatic styling in one day, or big changes in just a few hours. But real bonsai takes time. This story follows the years-long transformation of an Itoigawa juniper bonsai, grafted onto a creeping juniper rootstock. It shows how patience, planning, and small steps build something lasting.
At the heart of this journey is a special way of learning: the Sabina Dragon Design School. This school teaches the value of working slowly and thinking far ahead. One famous idea from the school is the “Chillán unit of time”—a decade. It’s a funny way of saying that good bonsai work is measured in years, not days.
Starting with a Long-Term Vision
Before any tools are picked up, a bonsai artist needs a vision—not just for today, but for the future. As master Haruyoshi once said, “Think not for next year, but for the next twenty.” This mindset shaped every decision made in this project.
The Itoigawa juniper in this case has been growing and developing for about six to seven years. In the early years, not much changed on the surface. But now, as the form becomes clearer, the real beauty is starting to show.
From First Ideas to Basic Structure
In the beginning, the tree was grafted with no firm plan. Some branches were placed where they seemed useful at the time. This is common in bonsai, and part of the learning process. The main challenge was a long, straight part of the trunk that didn’t quite fit.
At first, different crown styles were tested—some big and full, others smaller. But over time, the design was pruned and reshaped to bring balance and clarity. Eventually, a pleasing and stable line was found. It connected all parts of the tree into one solid idea.
Building Support and Shaping the Tree
More recently, a wooden frame was built to hold the tree steady during styling. This made it easier and safer to apply strong bends and wire the branches into place.
For about two months, the tree was allowed to grow freely. This helped it build energy and bulk. Then came a careful round of pruning and shaping. Some old branches were kept for structure. Others, like a thick downward-growing branch with weak connection, were removed to improve flow.
Only basic pruning scissors were used—showing that you don’t always need fancy tools to do good work. One of the main tasks was removing shoots that grow downward, which take energy away from the main design and block sunlight.
Refinement with Purpose
One special branch near the base, once uncertain, is now a key feature. It helps build the future canopy and gives the tree character. In bonsai, decisions like this often take time to prove their worth.
With careful wiring, the branches now rise in gentle curves. Some are still being grown longer to add volume and build strength. A common mistake is trimming new shoots too early. But for branches to get thicker, they need to grow out fully before being shaped.
Also, the base of the tree, once hidden, is now exposed and treated. This gives the tree more visual strength and shows off its character. A new front view was chosen to highlight this detail.
The Power of Simple Maintenance
One of the best lessons from this journey is how simple habits can make a big difference. Regularly removing downward shoots helps keep the design clean and clear. It also creates space between branch layers, improves airflow, and lets more light reach the inside of the tree.
This technique doesn’t take long—you can do it while walking through your collection. It keeps your bonsai healthy and helps maintain its shape without stress.
Looking Ahead: What the Future Holds
This Itoigawa juniper is still growing. It’s not finished—but it already shows what it could become. In five to ten years, the canopy will be full, the lines refined, and the tree will live in a pot that matches its style and soul.
This project is a great example of what bonsai is really about: vision, patience, and thoughtful care. It’s not just about shaping a tree—it’s about building a relationship with time.
Thanks to the teachings from Sabina Dragon Design School, this bonsai is slowly becoming a living sculpture. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that sometimes, the best things grow slowly.
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