LATEST NEWS:Winter rolls on, but we are now at least in August, a little closer to the start of Spring and the promise of some better weather. Most of us are hoping to see some finer, warmer days. Bonsai enthusiasts realize winter is inevitable, and a necessary part of the growth cycle of a tree, but that it is also a time when they need to keep up the vigilance and care of their “babies”. Bonsai trees still need protection from any remaining “winter wildness” that may be thrown their way.  Most species that are used for bonsai are hardy and able to stand most Melbourne weather conditions. However, as they are grown in shallow pots they don’t have the ability to bury their roots deep into the ground, which could insulate them from the cold.  They also need to be protected from extremely wet weather. Pots should be kept as well drained as possible. Bricks or blocks of wood can be placed under them to ensure that the water is escaping, and that air can circulate around and under the trees. Preparation for the repotting season should also be well under way. A visit to one of our advertisers or sponsors businesses for supplies will ensure that you’re not caught short. You will be more satisfied with your work, and the trees will thank you with healthier foliage and more colourful blossoms and flowers in Spring, and all year round.

The presentation at last month’s Monthly Meeting on “Flowering Quinces” by  Michael Simonetto, was extremely interesting and informative. With his professional style and approach, Michael took us through all aspects of raising these trees from their initial propagation through to their final training and ongoing care. There is always something to learn from Michael, and he certainly gave us plenty to think about on this occasion. Some of the trees he brought to illustrate his points and to demonstrate with were in flower and were a wonderful sight on a dreary winter’s day.

This month’s Monthly Meeting will open with a Bonsai Basics session presented by Howard W, entitled “Tree Progression”. This is an ideal opportunity for even the most experienced bonsai enthusiasts to brush up on their knowledge and technique in time for the busy Springtime ahead. This segment will be followed by a General Workshop. Some of our own Club’s more experienced members will be on hand to advise and guide those less experienced members requiring assistance.

The Monthly Saturday afternoon Workshop will be on Saturday 31st August.

On Saturday September 7th our Club will hold a Nursery Trip visiting three Nurseries in the southern suburbs. They will be Din San Wholesale Nursery, Bonsai Art Nursery and the Collectors Corner at Garden World. We have also been invited to visit a potter’s house to view a range of exclusive handmade bonsai pots. These will be available for sale too.

Our September Monthly Meeting will be on Tuesday 10th. It traditionally takes the form of our Club’s AGM, and will again this year. As well as conducting the Club elections, and hearing reports from our Committee members on this night, we will also have presentations from members who received free tube stock trees at last year’s AGM. They have been asked to report on the progress made with the development of their trees over the last twelve months.  Some members have trees given out at earlier AGM’s that we have been watching for the past few years, and are keen to see where they are at now. This should bring some interesting listening and viewing experiences
The September Saturday Workshop will be held on the 28th at our usual venue in Chirnside Park.

And remember to keep enjoying the “Little Things” in life, they bring “Big Joy”.