Monthly Archives: May 2024

Dear Members,Our general meeting on May 15, 2024, featuring world-renowned Bonsai Master Mauro Stemberger, was a tremendous success, with a great turnout from both Prairie State and Midwest Bonsai Society members. In a remarkably short time, Mauro styled two trees: Larry Magee and Mark Karczewski assisted by wiring the spruce tree, while Mauro focused on styling and wiring the Scots pine. Both trees turned out exceptionally well.For the raffle, the first winner had the option to choose between the two trees and opted for the Scots Pine.I extend my…

Outdoor: Place trees in a maximum sunlight location. Make certain to water as often as needed. As the weather warms, the trees will need to be watered more frequently, often daily. Be sure to provide enough water at each watering to thoroughly saturate the soil. Fertilize regularly to keep the trees growing and to support the new growth. Pinch new growth as needed to increase the fullness of the foliage pads. Wire as needed, but be careful when working around the soft new growth as it is easily damaged. Keep…

Bonsai leaf reduction Just how much will leaf’s reduce in bonsai soil and a bonsai pot?These are both Dwarf Umbrella Trees/ Schefflera Arboricola from cuttings I was given a meeting a year and a half ago. Once rooted the cuttings on the left were planted in a 6” deep pot with potting soil, compost, and sand mixture. The plant on the right was potted in a 2” deep bonsai pot with bonsai soil from BC Bonsai. Significant reduction of leaf size and internodes can be seen on the plant…

Japanese Quince — (Choujubai) 長寿梅 / (Kusaboke) 草木瓜  Chouju 長寿 translating as longevity/long living and bai 梅 meaning Japanese plum (quince produce large seed pods similar to ume).  The Chaenomeles, commonly known as Flowering Quince or Japanese Quince, is a cherished species in bonsai cultivation known for its beautiful blossoms. Originating from East Asia, this species captivates bonsai enthusiasts with its exquisite flowers, ornamental fruits, and graceful form. The name of the plant genus has an interesting etymology. It is a reference to the shape of the fruit. Namely, the word Chaenomeles comes from…