Bending Branches Obviously the most common way to bend branches is with wire but there are times that you need to use different techniques for the sake of the health and the type of tree you have. Using corks to pry apart brittle branches (especially azaleas) and at repotting times to pry apart stubborn roots. […]
Anchor wire to two branches so you have maximum strength- no movement. Always use a heavier wire when in doubt. Old Japanese saying, ‘When the wind blows, the style changes.‘ Pinch last wrap and use the wire to turn-forming a coil around the branch and snug it up. Wire gently. Do not use the branch
Last month Joe did a demonstration and workshop for Bonsai Central Coast. While it is a bit of a drive to Tumbi Umbi, it is certainly worth it to see Joe in action- his easy way of explaining the how and why of his design decisions makes every demonstration a pleasure. (If you haven’t seen
A great demonstration from Ray Mackaway last month, where all things wisteria were explained. Ray’s main message was that wisterias are hungry plants that need regular fertilising and love sun (six hours plus during summer) and need good pruning to maximise their flowering. At this time of year you’re basically reducing whippy canes back to
Josie McNeilly is opening her garden on the weekend of the 16-17th February from 9.30am to 4pm both days. All members and friends are invited, so come along and relax enjoying what Josie has achieved in her own little haven. Spend as much or as little time as you wish. Meet up with other plant
Just when nothing much bonsai was happening (except for all that pruning and repotting) in January, Campbelltown Bonsai Society staged a summer show at the Studley Golf Club. There were plenty of figs, flowers and even some fruit. What a welcome relief to go and look at trees without that guilty feeling that not enough
BSA fees are due this month and are as follows: Membership Joining fee $12.00 Annual fee $35.00 Students $25.00 Family (at same address) $40.00 For your information here are the demonstrators for the first half of this year. February Ray Makaway March Joe Morgan-Payler April Hugh Grant May Ashley Brown June Tony Bebb July
Cotoneasters harden very quickly and it is next to impossible to find a more mature plant with movement enough to make a good bonsai. Therefore, I picked up a $4.50 starter plant at Ray Nesci’s nursery in September, a $5 pot and styled a full cascade. Initially the apical branches were left on as sacrifice
Back by popular demand- Joe Morgan-Payler. If you missed out last time, don’t wait to book your workshop space.
