Hugh Grant is an Australian bonsai artist from the Central Coast of NSW whose work explores bonsai from the perspective of natural sculptural form and ecological references. For Hugh, bonsai is used as a medium to initiate a collaboration and a direct immersion of the landscape, creating an understanding of trees and plants. Hugh has […]
While the weather remains warm, it’s a good time to repot many species, particularly evergreens like pyracantha, cotoneasters, olives, star jasmine etc. Recently repotted trees will need protection if the nights suddenly become cold within the first couple of weeks after repotting. It is a good idea to tidy up conifers as well. Remove any
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
It has been a pleasant end to summer, with cooler nights and some good rain in recent weeks. The days are still warm though, so keep up with the watering and feeding, taking particular care in windy weather. Use a low nitrogen organic fertiliser during autumn to harden late growth and improve flower and fruit
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
