I recently returned from a trip to Japan for the World Bonsai Convention. Before getting to the show, I was able to visit a number of bonsai and satsuki nurseries that were new to me. The first of these was Koju-en. Koju-en Koju-en is a Kyoto bonsai nursery run by Tomohiro Masumi. Masumi is a […]
Japan
Exposed root black pines at the Green Club
A number of the Japanese black pines I’ve grown from seed have been developed in the exposed root style. It’s a fun style to work with as roots offer possibilities that aren’t always available for specimens whose roots are firmly secured in the pot. My first exposure to the style was at the Green Club […]
Broom-style zelkova
Seeing the deciduous bonsai on display at Kokufu is always a treat. Here’s a great example – a broom-style zelkova with strong roots, straight trunk, and many fine branches creating a full silhouette. It’s a beautiful tree. Zelkova
White pine on a slab
Slender trunks with gentle movement and full branches make the white pine below a compelling bonsai. A simple wood slab makes a good stand for the rock slab on which the tree is planted. White pine
Slant-style chojubai
Clump-style chojubai are relatively common. Less frequently seen are chojubai with single trunks. Here’s a great example of a slanting chojubai. Slant-style chojubai