Trimming and pruning bonsai requires shaping. You want the growth of its root to be consistent with ground. Form and shape the bonsai to your likings. You will need sharp shears or scissors to trim your tree. Light branches and foliage is best removed with shears designed to handle bonsai pruning and trimming. Concave cutters are ideal if you have heavier shrub growth. In fact, you can use the cutters on all bonsai trees for trimming.