LATEST NEWS: After the encouraging news last month, it looked like our Club would be able to meet again from late June, albeit with a reduced format. But the release of the most recent Covid-19 restrictions, brought some unwelcome news. Our Committee had to rethink our position, and after careful and responsible consideration, decided to CANCEL all YVBS Meetings until August 2020. Hopefully by then the situation will be a little clearer.

This has come as a disappointment to our members, but it was felt to be the safest and best way to proceed. They are still able to continue work on their trees at home using their own knowledge and with reference to books and training DVD’s.

July is the middle of Winter in Melbourne. so, we can expect continuing cold weather, foggy mornings, and possibly even snow in some outer areas. Occasional bursts of Winter sunshine will however brighten these days. We humans can enjoy open fires, hot drinks and heated houses, but our bonsais are usually out in the weather. Although our climate rarely reaches zero or sub-zero temperatures, providing some protection for our trees from the winter elements may still be necessary.

Most tree species we use for bonsai in this area are hardy and able to withstand freezing conditions. However, when grown in containers they do not have the ability to bury their roots deep into the ground, which they would normally do to insulate them from the cold. Also, we need to be wary of extremely wet weather. Bonsai’s need to be kept as well drained as possible. Placing bricks or blocks of wood under the pot ensures that water escapes and allows the air to circulate around and under them. Having trees saturated for extended amounts of time may also lead to problems through rotting of the roots, which is invariably fatal.

Now is also the ideal time to carefully inspect deciduous trees. Performing wiring and pruning tasks now, will make things less hectic in Spring. Check that the correct tools are available, and that they are cleaned, sharp and ready for action. Check also the stock of pots, wire, and of course the correct soil.

Avoid the temptation to repot too early, wait until the buds start to swell. Due to changes in the weather patterns, some trees might even be starting to do this now - so take the lead from what they are doing, and not the calendar. Let their actions be your guide.

Do not hesitate to email us if you require further details about our Club. Just because we are not meeting regularly at present doesn’t mean the Club is not operating. We are alive and well andlook forward to catching up with you somewhere in the “world of bonsai” later in 2020