On pruning a bonsai tree:

The first thing to do when pruning a tree is make sure that you prune in the right season. For some types of trees, pruning can go on almost year round. For others, there are very specific times of year that will cause the fewest problems and promote maximum results. If needed, ask some questions about your particular type of tree at a local nursery or garden shop.

Secondly, always remember that what applies to a full-sized tree of the same  type applies to your tiny tree.

Always allow your tree time to recover from a severe pruning. The tree will be with you for many years given proper care, so you will have time to improve on your design on its next pruning.

Give the majority of your time to developing the tree's trunk initially. The trunk will do more to add  to the illusion of advanced size and age than any other feature. Leaving a fewvextra branches on a weak area of the trunk will promote growth in that area.

Remove problem branches as soon as possible. These would be the branches that cross each other, grow sharply back toward the trunk or that grow from the underside of your chosen primary branches. If you don’t remove them they will clutter the clean, artistic line of the tree.

What goes on above ground affects what goes on below ground and vice versa. Heavy branch and leaf pruning without  cutback of the root system may cause a huge burst of growth the  next season as the plant will try to correct the imbalance. Roots can be allowed to be a little ahead of the branches and foliage,  but not by more than 25 to 30 percent as a general rule.

If additional root growth is needed, switch your tree to a larger pot . A larger pot encourages root spread.

Following these simple guidelines for pruning a tree should help you keep your tree healthy for a long time to come.

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