Pat: It is helpful to consider the source. Who is saying that
there should be more moisture in the soil? And what is their
basis or reasoning for this?
As others have mentioned, it is better to have the tree a
little on the dry side when you wire to reduce your risk of
branches snapping as you bend them.
Other answers seemed to be directed to general soil
humidity rather than at the time of wiring, so I guess the
questions weren't quite as clear as hoped. Of course, general
soil humidity requirements will vary by tree. Some like it pretty
wet and others prefer a more arid soil environment.

Alan Walker
http://bonsai-bci.com http://LCBSBonsai.org


-----Original Message-----
From: Pat Patterson

G'day all...
I guess the question should be "how damp should my soil be?".

However, to the point...traditional wisdom tells us that our soil
should be
relatively "dry" when wiring. For example, Tom Zane says in his
Syllabus (4th ed., 2001) that the soil "...should be relatively
dry..."; and, Deborah
Koreshoff says the soil should be "dryish" (to the point that it
is due for
watering), not turgid. I've heard the same thing several times
in lectures,
classes and workshops as recently as 5 years back.

Now, I have recently been told that this thinking is
changing...that there
should be more moisture than previously thought, in the soil.

I have researched at least 15 books, plus other sources, and
curiously, the subject is seldom discussed.

Is the traditional wisdom changing? Is there, in fact,
significant evidence
that indicates more moisture?

Would like to hear your thoughts.
Have a good day...
Pat Dez of the Arizona High Dezert, at 4550', Oracle, AZ,
2000' above Tucson Sunset Zone 10 USDA Zone 8
aka: Pat Patterson 'riding off in all directions'

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