Top Jin M Cut Paste - Fungicidal Bonsai Sealer Top Jin M (often called the "orange tube") is more than just a sealerit is a medicinal barrier. Unlike standard pastes that simply lock in moisture, Top Jin M contains a potent fungicide designed to stop rot before it starts. Why Professionals Reach for Top Jin M: Systemic Fungicide: Contains Thiophanate-methyl, which actively prevents fungi and bacteria from entering the vascular system of the tree. Visible Coverage: The bright orange color (which fades over time) allows you to see exactly where youve applied the sealer, ensuring no gaps are left for moisture to seep in. Rot Prevention: Crucial for species prone to heartwood rot or die-back like Junipers, Pines and certain fruit-bearing bonsai Quick Drying: It forms a durable, paint-like skin faster than clay putties, making it ideal for use in humid or rainy climates. How to Apply Top Jin M: Before applying any sealer, the cut must be clean. If you are working on a Pine or Juniper, the tree may bleed resin or sap immediately. Wipe this away with a clean cloth or paper towel. If the wood is too wet with sap, the Top Jin M won't adhere properly. Apply a small amount of Top Jin M directly from the tube to the center of the cut. Use a small disposable brush, a wooden spatula, or a gloved finger to spread the paste. This is the most important partensure the paste covers the entire exposed wood and overlaps the bark edge by 12mm. This prevents the bark from drying out and pulling away from the wood, which causes die-back. Top Jin M dries relatively quickly. It will form a "skin" within 1520 minutes and be fully cured in a few hours. Try not to overhead water the tree for at least 24 hours after application to ensure the fungicide is locked in and the barrier is waterproof. Carusmate VS. Top Jin Top Jin M is primarily a fungicidal paste. Its active ingredient, Thiophanate-methyl, is a systemic fungicide designed to prevent rot and pathogens from entering the tree through a fresh cut. It is best for Conifers (Pines/Junipers) and trees prone to fungal infections or die-back. Carusmate is primarily a physical barrier and callus promoter. It acts more like a skin that seals in moisture. While it provides some protection against infection, its main purpose is to help the bark "roll over" a wound. It is best for Deciduous trees (Maples, Elms, Azaleas) where a smooth, invisible heal is the priority. Pro Tip: Many professional artists actually use both. They will apply a very thin layer of Top Jin M first to disinfect the wound, let it dry for a few minutes, and then cover it with Carusmate to provide the waterproof seal and growth hormones.