Monthly Archives: July 2024

Keaki (Japanese Elm aka Zelkova serrata)Keaki or Zelkova serrata (Japanese: 欅 (ケヤキ) is a species of the genus Zelkovanative to Japan, Korea, eastern China and Taiwan. It is often grown as an ornamental tree and used in bonsai. There are two varieties, Zelkova serrata var. serratain Japan and mainland eastern Asia, and Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis (Hayata) Li on Taiwan which differs from the type in its smaller leaves with less deeply cut serration on the margins.A medium-sized deciduous tree usually grows to 30 m (98 ft) tall. It is characterized by a short trunk dividing into many upright and erect spreading stems forming a broad, round-topped head. The tree grows rapidly when young though the…

Dear Members,The club picnic held on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Cantigny Park was a delightful event attended by many of our members. We enjoyed excellent weather, delicious grilled food, and the company of fellow bonsai enthusiasts. Our guest artist, Chris Baker, the Bonsai Curator at the Chicago Botanic Garden, styled a Black Pine which was raffled off. Chris also generously shared his expertise with members, offering valuable advice on their trees.The general meeting on July 10, 2024, was highly informative. It focused on preparing our trees for the…

Outdoor: The most important thing is to water the trees. The second most important is water. Heat and drought can have a significant effect on our bonsai. A tree in a bonsai pot can dry out surprisingly fast in the sun. Check the trees as often as possible and water them thoroughly whenever you water them. Spraying water onto the foliage late in the afternoon can help cool the foliage and container and reduce water loss. Reduce or suspend fertilization. If you are not seeing new growth in your trees,…