1
This impressive shohin maple is due a repot. Its nebari covers the surface of the pot and now water is struggling to penetrate.








 
2
Detail of the nebari. This is a very high quality tree.
 
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3
Only one wire holds it in place and a thin one at that. I was always amazed that deciduous trees were not held as securely as I would have wired it in perhaps.
 










4
Using a small hook to loosen it from the pot, it comes away easily.
 




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4
The surface moss is cleaned away first to expose more of the nebari. Better this way rather than start on the sides which would leave fine roots to dry out. 
 










5
Now the sides are tackled. removing as much as the old soil as possible. 
 




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6
And now the underneath.  
 












7
Before trimming. To be honest, this repot is very straightforward with no nasty surprises. 
 






 




8
After pruning








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9
Pot prep. Two wires as I am doing it!
 













10
Drainage layer










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11
Potting soil. A sieved mix of akadama and kiryu. Well sifted.
 





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12
Secured tightly on the mound of soil,
 









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13
Places in the container of soil, you can see when the soil level stops dropping. This prevents spilling soil and over working. 












14
Finished! It will be watered now until the water runs clear . 
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Footnote - The images in this article were taken a long time ago during my first trip to Japan at Taisho en to learn under the late, great Nobuichi Urushibata. A man who has left a lasting impression on me as he has for many bonsai enthusiasts all over the world.