A Glossary/Dictionary of Bonsai Terms

The term "jusei" means the growth or vigor of a tree, indicating its state of development. It is also called "momentum of the tree's spirit". Jusei applies to bonsai as a way of evaluating the quality and health of a tree, based on its branches, leaves, trunks and roots. Different tree species have different requirements for their cultivation, training and care, so bonsai tree identification is crucial to maintain good jusei. Jusei also refers to the properties of trees concerning their growth speed, shape, resistance to pollution and suitability for bonsai.

The term "Jushin" means the top of the tree in bonsai art. It is also called "atama" (head of the tree) or "shin" (apex of a tree). The jushin is an important element in creating a balanced and harmonious bonsai shape. It should fit in with the surroundings and the overall style of the tree. The jushin can be formed by pruning, wiring, or bending the branches and trunk of the bonsai.

A "Kaede" is a Japanese word that refers to a type of maple tree that belongs to the Acer genus of the Aceraceae family. Kaede trees have leaves with three notches, while another type of maple tree, called "Momiji", has leaves with five deep notches. Kaede trees are often used in the art of bonsai, which is the practice of growing miniature trees in pots. Kaede bonsai are prized for their adaptability to different climates and their beautiful spring and fall colors. Kaede bonsai pots are usually imported from Japan and come in various shapes, sizes, glazes and artists. Some of the famous kaede bonsai pot makers are Koyo, Yamaaki, Ikkou and Bigei.

A "Kanjohakuhi" is a Japanese term that means air-layering, a technique of developing roots by peeling bark off a trunk. The process involves rooting and taking the skin completely off the area from where the peeling is done  . This technique can be used to create new bonsai material from an already mature tree, or to improve the nebari (root flare) of an existing bonsai. It can also be used to propagate rare or difficult-to-root species of plants.

Air-layering is usually done in spring or early summer, when the tree is actively growing. A strip of bark is removed from a branch or trunk, exposing the cambium layer. The wound is treated with rooting hormone and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss. The moss is then covered with plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist and prevent infection. After a few months, roots will start to grow from the cut edge and into the moss. The branch can then be cut off below the roots and potted as a new plant.

A "Kanreisha" is a shade cloth that is used to protect plants from direct sunlight or frost. It is a large and wide cloth that has been traditionally used for farming and cultivating seedlings for gardening . In bonsai, a Kanreisha can be used to cover shelves and the tops of trees, especially in summer and winter seasons. In tropical and sub-tropical areas, a Kanreisha can also help prevent damage from tropical storms, but it should be removed in advance if the wind is too strong.