Bonsai Wire

Aluminium bonsai wire is the wire you will see the most, it is easy to apply and is also cheaper then copper wire. The only downfall to aluminium wire is the fact is doesn't hold as well as copper wire does, this means to get the same holding capacity of copper you will need to use a larger size which can be cumbersome to apply in certain situations. Aluminium wire also stands out a little more then copper wire does so its not desirable for show situations. Aluminium i used to wire all deciduous species though due to its softer nature.

Copper bonsai wire is mainly used by professionals and people who are showing their trees. Copper wire is generally a little more difficult to apply for the beginner and its also more expensive. Copper wire leaves no room for error either as it work hardens as you bend it, meaning if you make a mistake it will be difficult to correct. Copper wire does blend in well with bark though making it the best choice for bonsai display if your tree requires wire. The main benefit of copper wire though is its strength, as mentioned it work hardens as you bend it so a smaller gauge will actually hold better then a larger aluminium wire would, How ever copper wire is only used on Conifers and some select few broadleaf evergreens. For everything else aluminium wire is utilised.