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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.

I always look forward to repotting trees that haven’t been repotted in a while. It’s a great opportunity to make improvements to the surface roots and I can change the look of the tree by selecting a new container.

Snow, I hate snow, and cold weather
I Like snow on postcards and on Xmas eve. So far this season Rochester, New York has only experienced 57 inches of snow, while normal season to date is over 70 inches. Yesterday we were under a Winter Storm Warning predicting 7-14 inches of snow, only about 5 inches fell. Snow has actually fallen every month of the year here. OK, it’s going to snow, so let’s get all of it now and have it end in April so we can get back to bonsai. I remember once during a “Spring” open house on May 15th, Mother’s Day, standing outside my studio watching visitors go through three inches of snow trying to find plants to buy.

It’s been fun watching the branches develop on some of the older pines I’ve grown from seed.

Last week I received a reminder that it’s time to repot the pines in my garden.

Azaleas are well-known for having two repotting seasons – one at the end of winter before the spring growth emerges, and one after the flowers bloom in late spring.