Showing a Tree
We ask every member to look over their trees and choose one (or two or three) to display in the judged portion of the bonsai show at the Destination Asia Festival at Morton Arboretum. The general rule is that members can show up to three trees for judging, and additional trees on the Trees in Training tables.
It is important to emphasize that your trees need not be “perfect” to display in the show. First, no trees are perfect. Secondly, one of the important aspects of showing the tree is that our Guest Artist and Judge Jim Keith will offer suggestions and comments to guide you in improving your tree. Any Trees in Training are at a preliminary stage in development as a bonsai. Most importantly, showing a tree is fun! The people viewing the show regularly comment that they think every tree is amazing.
Delivery:
Trees should be delivered to the Sycamore Room, across from the Morton Arboretum’s Visitor Center, from Noon to 5:00 PM on Friday, August 1st. Tell the gate attendant that you are delivering a tree for the bonsai show, and you will be allowed in for free. You can temporarily park along the curb near the Sycamore Room to unload, if needed. If you need to make special arrangements to deliver your tree, please contact Craig Cronquist, Event Chairman, as shown below.
Show:
The show will be from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Saturday, August 2nd, and Sunday, August 3rd. Eight workshops are offered during the weekend, and four demonstrations are scheduled in the courtyard across from the Sycamore Room. See other articles for details.
Judging:
Jim Keith will be the judge, and Jim will comment on each tree in the judging portion of the show and possibly on a few Trees in Training beginning at approximately 5:00 PM on Saturday, August 2nd. The commentary will be recorded and will normally be viewed as part of the February 2026 meeting. Members may attend the judging session and listen to the commentary for $20. In addition, Jim will be filling out a written form, making suggestions and comments on each judged tree. Those will be provided to the owner of the tree.
Dinner with the judge:
You are invited to join us for dinner on Saturday night following the judging. You will be responsible for paying for your meal.
Awards:
There will be nine awards at the show. As always, we award a trophy to the tree judged as Best in Show. We also award ribbons for Second and Third place and five Honorable Mention ribbons. Finally, everyone viewing the show is allowed to vote for their favorite tree. The tree with the most votes receives a trophy as the “People’s Choice” winner. Typically, we acknowledge the top ten vote-getters in that voting!
Pick up:
Trees must be picked up after 4:30 PM on Sunday. Again, let us know if you need special arrangements.
How can you help make the show a success? While not required, contacting Craig to let him know how many trees you plan to display, both in the judged portion of the show and on the Trees in Training tables, is very helpful. This allows us to plan and ensure adequate room for all members who want to participate. Also, we always need members to volunteer to talk to the visitors to the show, both at the
Membership table and in the Sycamore Room. There are always additional tasks to be handled, and help is needed. Thanks for participating. This event is always fun!
If you have questions or want to volunteer to help make the show successful, please contact Susan Andrese or Craig Cronquist.
