This evening we delved into the art of pairing bonsai trees with accent plants. These companion plants, also known as kusamono or shitakusa, add depth and context to bonsai displays. They can even be fun on their own, paired in the right pot.

Kokedama
Kokedama
Cacti & Succulent display

Derek also put on a Cactus & Succulent display to advertise his upcoming show this weekend in Melksham.

Oh, and there was the usual workshop going on in the background

Every year, the small Cotswold village of Shilton hosts an ‘Open Gardens’ under the National Gardens Scheme. Swindon club were again back with a marquee display of bonsai, with a work table alongside and even some honey sales from Mandy’s bees. The sun even made an appearance a few times during the day and it stayed dry. A number of gardens in the village were open for viewing, with plant sales and even a cream tea in the village hall…………. if you got there before they were all eaten!!! Here are a few photos to enjoy.

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Congratulations to all those involved in setting up a stunning bonsai display at the RHS Chelsea Flower show again this year under the banner of the Federation of British Bonsai. It is a lot of work to organise and plan and set up the stand as well as man the stand and then take it all down again and repatriate the bonsai trees, so well done to all. The overall show was fabulous as always and so much to see and so many stunning plants, flowers and trees throughout the gardens and stands.

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This was the follow up session run by Andy on Pines following on from last year when he let the club members wire the young pines. Since then he has removed the wire and repotted them in preparation now for pruning, early styling designs and more wiring. Thank you Andy for a fun and informative evening where everyone got to participate and join in and work on a pine.

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