This past weekend marked the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society’s 32nd annual show. The show is well-known as one of the best – and biggest – exhibits in the area. The show always features a number of collected trees, particularly different varieties of junipers, and it boasts a surprising number of well-established trident maples. Having seen these tridents in summer shows for several years running, I’m more and more curious to see them in winter to get a better sense of how the trees’ owners are developing the branches.

I like that northern California bonsai clubs host exhibits throughout the year so bonsai can be viewed in every season, but it’s nice to see the same trees in different seasons too. Fortunately a number of local enthusiasts participate in a number of clubs and show their trees throughout the year so a good number of trees can be appreciated in and out of leaf.

As for those that are in leaf, here is a sample of the deciduous and broadleaf bonsai on display at the REBS exhibit, including those trident maples.

Root over rock trident maple

Trident maple

Japanese maple group planting

Olive

Summer provides a great opportunity to show trees with fruit. Trees with fruit add both color and interest to an exhibit.

Grape

As befits a large exhibit, there was a large shohin display. Rather than present the trees in a small number of box displays, the shohin were spread out in several large displays that ran the length of the tables.