- Daisugi is a Japanese forestry technique developed in the 15th century to address wood shortages by growing multiple straight trees from a single base, similar to a giant bonsai.
- The method produces taruki timber, which is 140% more flexible and 200% denser than standard cedar, making it ideal for teahouse roofs and resistant to typhoons.
- Some commentators compare daisugi to Western coppicing, noting it's a sustainable practice that avoids deforestation, though others question its necessity given Japan's abundant forests.
- Critics argue the technique is labor-intensive, requiring pruning every two years for 20 years, and debate whether it alters tree genetics or simply uses natural growth patterns.
- The discussion highlights broader themes of regenerative design, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural approaches to harmony with nature versus competition.