What is bonsai wire?
Bonsai wire, also known as training wire or metal wire, is used to bend branches in the right direction and hold them in place. After a few weeks or months, the tree grows into that shape, and you can remove the wire.
Why use wire?
- You decide the shape of your tree yourself—how fun is that?
- Branches grow evenly in the correct position
- Helps young trees develop faster
- Makes your bonsai visually stronger and gives it a little more character
What types of bonsai wire are available?
There are two types of bonsai wire: aluminum and copper. We consciously choose aluminum wire for the following reasons:
- Aluminum is flexible and easier to apply, even for beginners
- It does not rust and is safe for roots and trunks
- Lightweight, putting less strain on your tree
- Strong enough for both young and thicker branches
What types of bonsai wire do we offer?
We have various types of bonsai wire in our range, available individually or in a bundle.
Aluminum wire (100g)
Our standard roll is 100 grams of black aluminum bonsai wire.
- For light to medium-weight branches
- Easy to cut and bend
- Perfect for both beginners and advanced enthusiasts
Wire Bundle (3 rolls in different thicknesses)
Our bonsai wire bundle is ideal if you have multiple bonsais or want to shape branches of different thicknesses.
- Contains 4 types from 1–4 mm thick
- Suitable for every type of bonsai
- Convenient for always having the right size on hand
Care Kit (wire + scissors + fertilizer)
All-in-one starter set for pruning, shaping, and strengthening your bonsai.
- Includes aluminum wire, pruning shears, and liquid fertilizer
- Ideal as a gift or for new hobbyists
What thickness do you need?
A useful rule of thumb:
- Thin branches: 1.0 mm wire
- Average branches: 1.5–2.0 mm wire
- Thicker or older branches: 2.5 mm or heavier
You can also use two thin wires side by side for extra strength.
How long should you leave the wire on?
It depends on your tree and its growth rate, but on average:
- 4 to 8 weeks during the growing season
- Up to 3 months in winter
Always check regularly that the wire is not cutting into the bark. If it is, it is time to remove or reapply it.
Apply wire as follows
- Choose the right wire thickness
- Start at the trunk or main branch
- Wrap the wire in a spiral (not too tightly)
- Carefully bend the branch in the desired direction
- Leave it in place until the branch has developed ‘memory’
Always use bonsai scissors or bonsai pliers to remove the wire neatly and safely.
Want to order bonsai wire? Get it from Bonsaiwonder
- Strong aluminum wire in various thicknesses
- Choose from individual spools, bundles, or complete kits
- Always shipped directly from stock
Buy bonsai wire from Bonsaiwonder!