This
oriental method of pruning trees accentuates the plant's form
and branch structure. The stems provide as much interest in
cloud pruning as the foliage. Trees and shrubs are pruned
to reveal the stems, with the remaining foliage sculpted into
rounded shapes or clouds. This method of pruning should not
be confused with bonsai, where plants are grown in pots and
manipulated from a young age.
Choice of species
Plants seen as cloud pruned specimens include box (Buxus), yew (Taxus), and pine (Pinus).
How to cloud prune
Selecting a suitable plant is the first step. Choose a plant that has an interesting formation of branches as these will be the basis of the design.
It is important to plan ahead as once a branch has been removed it cannot be replaced.
Make a plan of how the final piece will look and what is to be removed or kept.
Cut
away the unwanted growth to expose the stems.
Shape the remaining growth into rounded shapes to form the clouds.
Keep clouds clipped as with topiary plants and branches clear of growth.