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.  But I guess that depends on your perspective. You may enjoy skiing or other winter sports and really like these current conditions. Bonsai enthusiasts realize winter is inevitable, and a necessary part of the growth cycle of a tree, but it is also a time when they need to keep up the vigilance and care of their “babies”. They need to be cautious and not to let their guard down just yet. 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 containers 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.

The presentation at last month’s Monthly Meeting on “Suiseki”- the Japanese Art of stone appreciation, by  Victor B, was extremely informative. With his comprehensive power point presentation and the examples he brought along, he inspired all those present. So much so that I’m sure they’ll all be seeking interesting specimens for themselves wherever they go in future..

This month’s Monthly Meeting will open with a Bonsai Basics session presented by Alan H. His subject is Re-potting. 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 Workshops continue to be well supported with more and more members getting together with like-minded enthusiasts for and afternoon to work on their trees, and to enjoy some fellowship over a cuppa. A number of people that attended our Bonsai Show in June have used our workshops as an introduction to Bonsai, and have now become members. The next one will be on Saturday 25th August.

On Saturday September 1st. 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 potters house to view a range of exclusive handmade bonsai pots. These will be available for sale too.

Yarra Valley Bonsai Club was formed in 2008, we will therefore be 10 years old this year. The actual anniversary of the first meeting coincides with our AGM, so we plan to celebrate on September 11th.. Apart from 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 years AGM. They have been asked to report on the progress made with the development of their trees over the last twelve months. This should bring some interesting listening and viewing experiences.

There is always something happening in the world of Bonsai, so we invite you to sign on now! And remember to keep enjoying the “Little Things” in life, they bring “Big” joy