Autumn is well and truly on us now, with cooler nights and crisp mornings. We’ve also had a break from all that summer rain, so hopefully your deciduous bonsai will be starting to show some autumn colour. Keep the trees in full sun if possible at this time, as this, combined with cooler nights, should […]
As always, the team at the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia in Canberra organised an excellent event in Bonsai Reshaped. The workshops with Scott Martin and Jarryd Bailey were full and enjoyed greatly by all those involved. All trees moved to a new level, whether in development or refinement. The simultaneous demonstrations were
While the weather remains warm, it’s a good time to repot many species, particularly evergreens like pyracantha, cotoneasters, olives and star jasmine etc. Most can also be repotted in early spring, but I prefer autumn, as the daytime temperatures are usually more stable. Recently repotted trees will need protection if the nights suddenly become cold
I got this Kunzea ambigua from the native nursery in Heathcote and lost any stying ideas when I looked at it at home. In the end, after cutting away what I didn’t feel I could use I decided to plant it at an acute angle and let it grow a bit. It delighted me with
As always, Clinton presented a very interesting and informative demonstration on dwarf species and in particular, a dwarf Banksia serrata, known as Cape York variety at the nursery. Clinton pointed out that some banksias are better than others when it comes to bonsai. This variety has a short natural internodal length and by working it
April brings the very talented Hugh Grant as our demonstrator. Well known and admired for his work with native species, particularly yamadori, Hugh is also very adept in designing and styling exotic species as well. Having trained at Mirai, with Ryan Neil, Hugh brings a western perspective to his bonsai practise. Hugh’s focus for this
Amazing to have experienced two such totally contrasting summers! This one just finished was so wet and cool, and the one before so hot and dry. I hope that you and your trees have survived both well. The main thing I seem to be doing after the recent rain is weeding! Some of my trees
Experience the beauty of Japanese culture through bonsai, ikebana and kusamono with a focus on Australian native plants. Held at the National Arboretum Canberra, home to the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia. Information and bookings here.
Andrew is a regular demonstrator, workshop leader and good friend to our club and is known for his knowledge and friendly and thoughtful style. Bonsai has been a twenty-three year obsession for Andrew and this certainly shows in his knowledge and skill. Andrew’s favourite species to work with is pine, followed closely by Australian native
This summer, we have had quite a lot of rain and cooler days than is normal for this time of the year. We have also had COVID 19 restrictions in place, possibly limiting the movements of many of us during the holiday season. I’m sure this has given most of us more time and motivation
