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Contrary to popular belief, Rochester, New York, has more than the two seasons of snow and construction. We do actually have four distinct seasons, and very often can “enjoy” two seasons a couple of days apart. It was over 70F last week and yesterday we got three inches of snow. Next week 80F temperatures are forecast. That is not unusual for Rochester, but does necessitate more work for those of us who enjoy the pleasure of growing and training bonsai.

The best strategy for creating junipers with interesting deadwood is to add twists to the trunk while the tree is still young.

For years I’ve wanted to write about wiring rooted juniper cuttings, but I stopped short as before and after photos aren’t always helpful.

For the last year and a half, I’ve been working to increase the branch density on a Chinese wisteria. Last fall, I was able to see the results.

When a bonsai hasn’t been repotted in a while, the broken down soil and roots can fill most of the gaps between soil particles and make for a compacted root ball.

Just over a year ago, I mentioned an idea for a regional bonsai show. It’s time for an update!

One species that I’m excited to work with over the next few years is sekka hinoki, Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘sekka’.

CORIN TOMLIINSON
Over 30 years ago Corin Tomlinson became my first (and only) formal bonsai apprentice. His father, Harry, established Greenwood Gardens Bonsai Studio in Nottingham, England 40 years ago, and became an accomplished bonsai artist, author and demonstrator. 

I hear the question a lot, and it’s a good one.
In my garden, I use mixes based on the species I’m growing and my development goals for the tree. I make adjustments for the health of the tree, my budget, and the availability of the ingredients I’d like to use.

I use a variety of containers in my garden, but over the years I’ve narrowed the types of containers I use at different stages of development.