Making Bonsai from Dogwood

In this video I take Cornus Mas or Dogwood which has been left to grow in the field and create a bonsai.
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[@Mara-ss1cy]

The mundane tasks aren't boring at all. Personally I feel like otherwise I'd never have a chance to just observe someone working on bonsai and learn from how they do it, so these videos are amazing and well appreciated! And they're also very relaxing. :) Thank you for sharing.

[@msanchez7317]

Check out some books too! I learned a lot from reading about bonsai. I'm no expert, nor even that experienced at all, but it was interesting to read about the principals behind what makes one bonsai beautiful and another just a chopped up tree.

[@peterpta]

"Let me show you how I perceive beauty." - My favourite sentence of the week.

[@ingeborg-anne]

Whatever would we do without Mr. Chan, eh?

[@wshow11]

Beautiful dude!

[@emmitstewart1921]

Watching you struggle with that tough wood reminded me of how the dogwood got its name. It was originally dagwood. Back in medieval times, some people were too poor to buy steel knives to defend themselves. What they would do was take a branch from a tree with very hard wood and carve into a knife shape called a dag. You couldn't cut anything with it, but with a sharp point you could stab someone with it. Since the trees on the genus Cornus had such hard wood, they were the most frequently used for making dags, and thus were called dag wood. Over the centuries, the pronunciation and spelling changed to dogwood, but the trees have no relationship to any kind of canine.

[@wildboystv3013]

Thank you

[@peterchan3100]

Thank you for that information - I would never have known! So Dogwood is in fact 'Dagger Wood'. I will relate this piece of ancient history when I talk about Dogwood next time.

[@earthknight60]

That's one of the etymologies, but it's not a confirmed etymology, and it's not certain that it was called "dagwood" to begin with. One of the old names is "skewer wood", so there may be some connection to sharp objects (dag). Another etymology has it that the berries were considered unfit for humans to eat, being good only for dogs and the like. This etymology comes from the fruit being named "dogberry" in the past. www.etymonline.com/word/dogwood

[@emmitstewart1921]

@@earthknight60 Etymology is such a fascinating subject because nothing is totally certain. Both versions could be true in different areas. Language is a living, changing thing. The language grew one way in Yorkshire, another way in Cornwall, and another way in London. Then one branch took root in America and grew into a different tree entirely. We are like a biologist looking at a thirty year old man and trying to deduce what a three year old child looked like.

[@zimmermanlandscape9287]

Ikr. A thirty year old tree in a #3 pot….

[@hulz]

Never feel sorry for the ‘boring’ stuff peter, I love that you show everything! Thanks for all your (life) lessons!!

[@apriliaric]

Never fear... Any bits that might be perceived as boring are opportunities to spend more time with Our favourite Bonsai Master....

[@PerfectLiving_AT]

Hello Peter! Don't feel guilty. In fact, if there is something YOU find is boring it doesn't mean the audience also feels that way. And even if they do - it's a video, we always have the opportunity to run fast-forward. That's something I think you also sometimes would like to do to skip your "boring" tasks, isn't it? :-) Thanks for all the insights in your way of thinking when creating a tree. Best wishes and stay healthy! Chris

[@paularndt6111]

I could and have watched your videos all day. Absorbing all the knowledge you r giving for free. Thank u for all u do.

[@travel-warrior]

I love the boring stuff, its what makes it interesting. This is exactly what i wanted to see, thank you

[@DannyVoltaje]

I love the boring parts. To me they are not boring. I am learning. We see the entire process. What a blessing it is to learn from you. God bless you and the entire Heron family.

[@jfarrell50]

I had never thought of sawing off the roots that grow through the pots. Another brilliant tip from the master. Thank you very much.

[@darthflume2373]

Hey peter after watching back your older videos I just realised it was you who got me into bonsai from a book called creating bonsai from everyday plants so thank you very much👍

[@peterchan3100]

Nice to know - when did you start doing bonsai because that book was written in 1990.

[@darthflume2373]

Been about 15 years all In but started taking it seriously about 10 years

[@KSignalEingang]

Count me as another viewer who loves the "boring" parts. Something awfully satisfying about watching the dirt clods & rubble break up and the roots springing free.

[@russmaleartist]

Your videos are NOT boring -- we learn, even from the mundane tasks as you call them. Thank you!

[@markstickell]

Those "boring and mundane" things may seem that way to you after 50 years of bonsai but trust me, watching every little detail of bonsai work you do is very informative and interesting to your viewers. Watching all of your steps help those of us who are beginners to bonsai and want to know everything we can do to be better at it. Thanks for everything you do Peter! Keep up the nice long detailed videos

[@valhallaproject9560]

Peter, never a "mundane task" with Bonsai. Learn something new regardless of how many times I watch you work. Thank you!

[@schuangsg]

Tree is like people. Everyone has potential. Mr. Chan, you are so humorous. Thank you.

[@danutashayler34]

This is not boring, its great watching that soil flying away,

[@beataryczek3167]

Nothing is boring in your stories/commentaries - keep doing what you are doing, and foremost stay safe!!

[@LookingupLuke2128]

NOT boring! Stop saying that! I will watch several times to make sure I don’t miss a thing.

[@sophiaangelini4368]

Exactly!

[@colefisch931]

watching you work is never boring!

[@ladyguillotine8134]

When you're doing the "mundane, boring" things, I'm watching closely and learning a lot! Thank you for showing the whole process!

[@SouthGlass]

It is never boring to see a master doing a mundane job

[@laulan1000]

Specifically in these times, watching you work with your plants and shrubs gives a peace of mind

[@PrairieDancerRose]

It is good to watch you, and how fast you work. And the end results, which increases the desire to not only do Bonsai, yet to do it well. Thank-you!

[@Shalla85]

This video answered basically every question I had left, thank you! I’m sure new questions will arrive, but for now I feel prepared to start/continue my many bonsai babies! Thanks bro!

[@khardyman1329]

I just found your video tonight if I had not seen the boring bits I would not know what to do. I would be afraid of hurting it. I have wanted a Bonsai for almost 40 years but thought it was beyond what I could grow but you have made me rethink my idea. So thank you for giving me confidence that I may also be able to do this.

[@Mharlos1]

I don't usually comment as there nothing I could say that Peter couldn't teach lol, but the mondaine tasks are wonderful to watch. Patience is not only a part of bonsai but it's an in depth look at a master doing his work. Always appreciated!🙏

[@bumblebee3358]

I like seeing the mundane tasks as well. It is informative and relaxing to watch. Thanks for all the videos.

[@thebates5938]

Amazing. I couldn't envision the finished product until they were potted. It's comforting to know that you can't over-trim.

[@Julie-sw8xv]

I have a dogwood in the ground right now, a baby. The squirrels took care of the top for me, so I guess bonsai it is!! I love your videos Peter, just a pleasure to watch.

[@JacyHart]

I just love watching you work. It is one of the only things that are calming during this wretched virus. Thankyou.

[@joshshobbies4224]

I just pruned my Maple Bonsai I bought from you in January, I love your videos

[@UncleRandy73]

That “Japanese root cutter” is also a pretty good Oklahoma staple puller, when I’m working on my fence ✌🏽

[@joshhhuagarcia1890]

Good morning, Mr. Chan, it is wonderful to be able to follow the entire process of your decision, how you cut when you are clear, how you leave various options when you have doubts, and finally how you leave the tree alone when it says nothing to nature to show you later. the way (although you have to wait a year to see how that double inverse taper can be solved, that's how you also learn). I play to study the tree before you make the decision and when I'm right it makes me happy.

[@NikChaphalkar]

Basically have been waiting to years for this Cornus Mas video mine is in a plastic pot waiting for me. Thank you for giving us confidence.

[@erik790819]

Thank you for inspiring me to start my bonsai journey. Bonsai!!!!

[@janeteske1420]

I like the mundane stuff, helps me learn to be better with growing my trees. Thank you

[@chamindakumanayake1719]

It is not boring at all Sir. Yes, your videos are usually long. however, along all these long procedures you are talking something important. We are learning..... Thank you

[@JoseJimenez-lw5mb]

You're doing fine ! Thank you for being so dedicated to your fans ..

[@mrcool7100]

You’re an artistic,scientist,who is a botany professor who loves life and people and bonsai.yea

[@peterchan3100]

Dont embarrass me - but thanks for the compliments anyway. Much appreciated.

[@MidniteSan]

The multi trunk is my favorite, would make a beautiful shohin. More videos about updates of the trees u worked on would be cool..😇 Thx for sharing Peter and stay safe to all.

[@catherinebryant1952]

such a joy to get lost watching you work, Great distraction from this crazy time.

[@terrykinney5258]

I am so entertained by your videos and your methods! My husband calls me "Terry Scissorhands", but I have a lot to live up to after watching you! Thank you!!!

[@PrairieDancerRose]

Please don't think me silly. Yet when the trunk root junction is cleared, it is like uncovering a lovely surprise. I look at a horse the way you look at Bonsai; is this horse good for long trail rides, or for showing, for jumping, for a good companion animal, and how well built he is for any of these undertakings. So I do understand how you look at a Bonsai and see what you see it can be made into. (it seems) Every tree and bush, as you are able to! Sharing your knowledge is a wonderful unselfish act. Thank-you.

[@peterchan3100]

Very good analogy !

[@wood-youknowit]

Thanks for the video, not boring at all. 🦅🦅🦅🌲🌳🌵🌿🌱🍀☘️🌴🎍🎍

[@cielomcmeekin7296]

You are an absolute gem sir

[@eoysny7781]

I enjoy you sooo much,have a constant smile on face the whole time😍 also made 2 small bonsai here in my garden in Queens N.Y.C. THANK You. Trying to find happier times right now.Oh, also been doing origami for days. Be well and safe.

[@normatrewhella9003]

I love that last tall one. It’s all amazing.

[@alonblum4838]

Thank you for the video Peter! It's great seeing the entire process, weeds and all :)

[@ingeborg-anne]

That weed made the cutest little bonsai I've ever seen! How's it hanging on now?

[@tayh3645]

Very nice, never even thought about cornelian cherry as bonsai. Little tip for enthusiasts in the eastern US; you probably won't find these for sale anywhere. But you may be able to find something similar. The eastern US has a native plant called Lindera benzoin (northern spice bush) which is very similar to C. mas in many ways. They also produce yellow flowers in early spring, red fruits later, similar leaf, and even grow about the same size. The main difference though is that L. benzoin is dioecious meaning that there are male plants and female plants. Male plants produce larger flowers, but only female plants could possibly produce fruit. They are also a joy to prune since the stems/leaves smell strongly of herbal tea when cut. They do also host the spice bush swallowtail butterfly, but they aren't greedy, and even on bonsai they won't harm the tree unless there are a lot of them (which is uncommon)

[@mykorizzo6579]

I can't wait for the update! That weed is so beautiful!

[@heshamelmesalmy5950]

I enjoy so much ... I learn more about this video thank you very much mr Peter.

[@mehdibenaissa]

RESPECT! YOU BELONG TO CRAZY NATURE. THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH, SIR! The best movie since Pulp Fiction.

[@b2manufacturing]

I like that multi trunk, and I don’t usually like multi trunks except my triple trunk birch bonsai, but i can see this multi trunk dogwood turn into something quite attractive.

[@maryshoemaker7593]

Peter... the last dogwood that you decided to put back in it’s pot to grow, I agree so much potential... thanks once again!!

[@Fred13473]

I love your art sir its beautiful makes me want to get one right now

[@max10eb]

Nice, but Jack forgot to give his battle cry, after taking off the branch! Great Video, Thank you again. :)

[@peterchan3100]

Not like me - I normally abuse and curse in Hindi or Cantonese !! and the odd "Ah So" expletive !

[@janleiner1575]

I love watching your videos. I hope all are well.

[@nnayram64]

Wow , you are strong‼️. I loved this video cause I am very much a beginner.

[@luigichiodo5820]

Greeting from Canada, Love your bonsai

[@lukemckee9772]

Hey Peter, always love watching you create a bonsai, love the long asmr videos.

[@nnayram64]

The little weed looks so happy😊

[@jaxonjacobs6871]

I just created my first bonsai (from Japanese larch material). Thank to you, it looks pretty good! Thank you.

[@matejrojc7972]

Nice camera work, nice trees and as allways nice planning & process presentation from Peter. Great respect.

[@peterchan3100]

We are only amateurs when it comes to using the camera - we just use the I-Phone and the results are very good. Thank you for your comment

[@matejrojc7972]

@@peterchan3100 I know that is not made with professional equipment but it still really looks good and I also had in mind all those close-ups. To see details like that allways helps you to better understand what's going on and I don't see that very often by other bonsai makers. Best regards from Slovenia

[@ingeborg-anne]

This was really nice to watch :)

[@andromeda85]

Your videos are so interesting!!! Thank you very much!!!

[@sandrabulluck1896]

Loved the video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and ideas! Keep them coming! I didn’t think to turn a Dogwood into a bonsai?!

[@klecoxs2]

I’ve watched a few of your videos and I’m very grateful to you for passing on your knowledge, which many want to keep secret , “knowledge is power” ...... No !! “Knowledge is for Sharing” Thank you for sharing 🙏

[@danielkahn9894]

What fabulous trees Peter! I have a question. I have come across a few large Red Twigged Dogwoods in 5 gallon buckets. If timed correctly, can I safely prune them hard back to the wood on the trunks and large branches?

[@creamteam2891]

You should do an episode on propagating various mosses and their different applications with bonsai

[@benstork3867]

I love watching Peter’s videos, probably more than anybody else’s. He’s so down-to-earth and just gets on with it. I think his approach is inspirational for amateurs. Some of these other guys put you off of it a bit. Just one thing that disappointed me about this video though, the final shot of the dogwoods it looks like they’ve been potted into the bonsai soil or something very gritty. I wish they had shown the potting of just one tree so we could see what type of soil was used and why. Sometimes he will put something back in the mud that it was originally in but it looks like this is one of those occasions where he’s taken things a bit further. Does anybody know what soil he used and have any idea why?

[@MrDudedudedue]

I really like the small weed he turned into a bonsai!

[@LounoirRecords]

that is what we would call an "accent plant" for displaying in shows next to the "real" one :)

[@almac2598]

Thanks Peter.

[@R_H21]

I never thought of making bonsai out of weeds!!!

[@lucyb15]

There was nothing boring about this video! We need the everyday tasks as well as the fine arts. Think of it as "slice of life" video for trainers of bonsai.

[@gabijones2445]

thank you Mr. Chan.

[@Marceldbd]

Hi Peter, Newly subscribed and I love your videos! What kind of soil would you use in a dogwood training pot

[@MidwestSkyline]

Reusing the plastic pots is also better for the environment. Good stuff.

[@stuartbaines2843]

Following your last video i potted up a large Forsythia 👍

[@peterchan3100]

Very good - send me some pics - I'd love to see what you did

[@jimflask1164]

I have a dogwood. Someone cut to a stump and it came back. It's about 4 foot tall on the side of the stump. should I have put it in a pot first. I think it's about 25 or 30 years old. What is a good way to help it develop the small roots while it's in the ground in it's current condition.

[@verasmayhem]

I'm wondering if there are species that don't grow back if you cut the trunk below existing branches or stems. Could you do a video on which species can and cannot be drastically cut back. I'm curious because I have a few trees that I dug up that are tall with the only branches being high.

[@FC-fq5um]

Dear Peter, why are you doing this tearing and ripping thing. I thought deciduous trees will rott with wounds like this. With which species does this work? And can you please show us an example of how this might look later on at a more finished tree. Thanks and thanks for all your fantastic videos.

[@peterchan3100]

Trees are tougher than you think

[@flexican5399]

Them trees hurtin

[@raggedbreath]

Great video as ever!

[@lucellebernadettepillay]

Dear Peter, Thank you for another lovely video, I'm watching while working :) I have successfully air layered my mature Bay tree this spring after watching your video on the subject. I wanted to ask if I can air layer some mature Privet trees during winter? I live in South Africa which has a sub-tropical climate, winters are moderately cold, but rarely frost. Thank you again :)))

[@peterchan3100]

Yes - Privet air layers easily

[@kennyyardman813]

Amazing. You can even make a weed look beautiful.

[@genkibee9466]

Did we get an update on these? I looked through but did not see a follow-up video on dogwood...?

[@davidjennings9556]

I have been watching your videos for a while now. I have been inspired to include the art of bonsai in my life. I find the thoughtfull contemplation of looking into a trees future and seeing what it can become is most enjoyable. I have as yet produced only one bonsai, a small wild cedar that i found growing in my yard. Any advice for a green beginer like me?... and thank you for your videos....quite inspiring!

[@peterchan3100]

Just use simple cheap material and practice on that to start with. NO need to buy expensive stuff until you have some confidence.

[@plips71755]

I might add -- keep watching his videos.

[@msanchez7317]

Have you had any luck air layering dogwood? I'm trying with one in my yard in Georgia, USA. I can't tell if there are any roots yet - it's been about 3 months so far. Hoping to have some luck!

[@luisdanielmeraz]

Always sound the plane ✈️

[@jasper2192]

The mundane tasks aren’t boring for me to watch

[@soberhippie]

Hi, Peter. Why don't you fill those plastic flower pots (almost) up to the brim? I'd think that filling them up more would give more space for the roots to develop and less space for water to accumulate on the surface? Or is it to keep roots flat?

[@peterchan3100]

Makes watering easier and saves on soil

[@deanbrown7478]

i noticed your root cutters are quite rusty in this vid, could you make a video on maintaining and restoring and sharpening bonsai tools please, many thanks Dean :)

[@peterchan3100]

The blades are still sharp though; but I will show how to sharpen tools. If I remember right - I did talk about sharpening bonsai tools in my video on tools.

[@normandlavoie5175]

Canadian viewer. Quick question on wild harvest seedlings for bonsai. With living out in the country/bush land. Would it be advantageous to go out once the melt happens completely to find them or basically anytime save the winter.

[@peterchan3100]

Spring is a good time

[@normandlavoie5175]

Thank you for that tidbit any recommendations in regards to height and thickness of the saplings?

[@blackwhitebd1727]

sir you are something 💝

[@PSPMHaestros]

The "White Bag Of Truth" never fails hahaha

[@hasmukhpatel7972]

Thanks a lot,can you please show Bonsai of small pots,like u showed at the end of video.

[@avocado5170]

Random idea, though I'm sure you've thought about it. I've heard you say in multiple videos now that you want to show the progress of the trees but customers keep begging to buy the trees they've seen in the videos before you can show updates. Why don't you take on filming a few project trees in secret, and keep making update videos, then once you feel you've filmed enough of the progress to make it a nice little video series, you then post it on youtube along with the updates of how it transformed over time. Then you won't have to feel bad about selling the tree before we can see how it turned out

[@H_A_L_7]

Enjoy watching this....