Monthly Archives: March 2024

Outdoor:           This is the busiest month in bonsai.Once the danger of temperatures in the low twenties or less has passed, it is time to bring your trees out of winter protection and into their summer homes. For trees in mulch beds, be sure that the mulch has thawed below the pots before lifting the trees out of it. Do not force trees from a frozen mulch bed, as significant damage can result.Watering requirements will increase, so be prepared to water more frequently. Fertilization can begin…

President's Letter April 2024March 6, 2024, General Meeting – Forest Workshop:The meeting was quite productive and engaging. Creating new forests and seeking advice on old forests from senior members shows an excellent level of initiative and willingness to learn within our group. It is lovely to see such collaboration and support among members. I want to thank Linda Camp, Jim Beck, Phil Malhoit, Larry Magee, and Matt Mazza for their contributions and assistance in making the workshop successful.March 6, 2024, General Meeting - Election:Elections were conducted, and the following…

CrabappleCrabapples are small deciduous trees or shrubs with oval or elliptic leaves that can also be lobed in some cases and grow in an alternating pattern. They are native to northern temperate zones and are frost tolerant. The most popular crabapple species for bonsai are Malus halliana, Malus x zumi, Malus toringo, Malus sylvestris, Malus floribunda, Malus baccata, and Malus cerasifera, but several others can be used.Crab apple bonsai trees are a captivating choice for bonsai enthusiasts. Their delicate spring flowers and vibrant autumn fruits make them a stunning addition to any…

I met Arlene 35 years ago at Ivan Watters's house on the north side of Chicago, where he was teaching Bonsai. We were starting out in Bonsai and took classes with Ivan Jim and Kay Erlenborn for several years.      Arlene was also an early member of the Morton Arboretum Bonsai Society, which later became the Prairie State Bonsai Society. She was an active club member and served on the board for many years. She was best known for creating beautiful bonsai forests. After retiring, she assisted Ivan Watters,…