Last weekend the Yamato Bonsai Kai hosted their 50th annual exhibition in Union City, California. The event featured demonstrations both days by club sensei Johnny Uchida, vendors, club sales, and a fun mix of show trees – several of which are among my favorites in the Bay Area.
The Western juniper below was initially styled by Shinji Suzuki. The movement and deadwood along the trunk is beautiful.
Western juniper
I’ve long been a fan of the Sierra juniper below. The deadwood shows great age and detail.
Sierra juniper
I’d also like to call attention to one of my favorite Monterey pines – it’s nearly 4′ tall!
Monterey pine
Johnny Uchida working on the demo tree, a California juniper, with help from Howard
(photo courtesy Noah H.)
Tokonoma display with spruce and satsuki azalea
Trident maple
I gave a talk Sunday morning for club members that focused on preparing trees for exhibit and display conventions.
Inviting a tree to grow toward the new front (photo courtesy Noah H.)
California juniper (photo courtesy Noah H.)
Sierra juniper
California juniper
Sierra juniper
Speaking of exhibits, now’s the time to plan a trip to Kannapolis for the 2021 Winter Silhouette Bonsai Expo. The event is held at the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis, North Carolina, and features a mix of deciduous trees and select conifers. Learn more at the event website.
