Weekly Wire #4

The Adachi Museum Garden is featured the Japan Journey’s Gardens of Japan tour next month (Nov 11-22). Though I’ve never been to the Adachi gardens, judging from the photos, I just might agree with those who say it’s among the world’s most glorious gardens; Japanese or otherwise. Bonsai clubs. Looking for a Bonsai Club near you? Here’s the ABS Bonsai Club Directory. Calendars. Our 2012 Bonsai calendars are coming soon. Stay posted. The Mid-Atlantic 2012 Spring Festival is scheduled for April 20-22. This excellent show has long been a premier East Coast bonsai event. … Continue reading Weekly Wire #4

Green Workshop: ABS’ Wiring Basics

This simple and clear illustration (from the ABS website) shows how to use a turnbuckle to lower a branch. The turnbuckle is made up of a single strand of wire, a short stick (or short piece of heavy wire) and two rubber pads to protect the branches. Beyond that, it needs no explanation. Thanks to ABS and George Buehler The American Bonsai Society has one of the best basic wiring articles you’ll find anywhere, courtesy of George Buehler (George is the current Vice President of ABS). If you are new to wiring or just want to brush up, you could … Continue reading Green Workshop: ABS’ Wiring Basics

The Great Debate part 3: More from Walter

A naturalistic Norway spruce (Picea abies) by Walter Pall (from Bonsai Today issue 106). This tree was awarded third place overall in the Bonsai Today/Art of Bonsai 2006 photo contest. Walter also won first and second place in the overall category. The Naturalistic Bonsai Movement? In the expanding galaxy of accomplished Western bonsai artists, Walter Pall’s bonsai skills and dedication to teaching and promoting the art of bonsai make him one of the brightest stars. Walter is also one of the most prominent proponents of what could be called the Naturalistic Bonsai Movement (or something like that). In our last … Continue reading The Great Debate part 3: More from Walter

Protect Your Bonsai from Two-Legged Pests

This splendid Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus) is from the ABS Stolen Bonsai Registry. It’s an unfortunate fact that there are confused people with bad intentions (often arising from bad addictions) that sometimes steal bonsai. ABS (American Bonsai Society) recommends that you keep an up-to-date file, with photos, of your bonsai. Not a bad idea. It’s also not a bad idea to periodically check the ABS registry to see if you’ve come across any stolen trees. Anything we can do to help each other and make it a little more difficult for people who steal, is a good thing.