REBS

I’m always happy to see flowering and fruiting bonsai at exhibits. Maybe I appreciate the contrast – or maybe I’d simply like to see more of these trees in my collection. Either way, flowering and fruiting bonsai sprinkle a show with color and provide good variety. Pyracantha – 30 years Ilex serrata Japanese showbell – […]

For those of you haven’t had the opportunity to visit the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society’s annual show – as you walk in the front door, you’re greeted by redwood bonsai on the left and on the right. Coast redwood More redwood bonsai Large and small redwood bonsai It’s fitting for the club to lead with […]

I’ve often heard, and likely repeated, that the most important part of a bonsai is the trunk. An impressive trunk shows character and age. It establishes movement and sets the foundation for whatever style the rest of the tree follows. I would be hard pressed to identify good bonsai with mediocre trunks. I found myself […]

I was very impressed by the broadleaf and deciduous bonsai on display at REBS’ recent show. These often difficult to develop and maintain bonsai are in great shape – strong evidence of good bonsai care. The trees are also evidence that broadleaf bonsai can be powerful. Bougainvillea – about 45 years old Korean hornbeam – about 73 […]

Bonsai exhibits are a great opportunity to see different styles and varieties at their best. As such, my visits to exhibits tend to trigger a lot of questions. Finding answers isn’t always easy. Some questions are simple matters of horticulture that I have yet to learn. Others are matters of opinion – food for thought. […]