Geoff a Swindon and Blackmore Vale Bonsai club member has posted this on our Facebook Group. I have re posted it so that all members can see what he has been up to during this lock down. Sorry for the background as it makes if difficult to see the main trees. Something to bear in mind when taking photos.
This maple was started from a cutting some years ago [I will try and find out the date] by one of the Swindon members [Robert] He was very good at growing any trees and used pond baskets and pruning to improve the girth of the tree. He then managed to seal even big cuts. Thereby improving the size.
Raising funds on behalf of Hft, supporting adults with learning disabilities to live the best lives possible. We have a display of bonsai and Derek is there with a display of cacti…………. bring your wallets!!!
Sunday, the 18th August saw the ABBex show [All British Bonsai Exhibition], at Failands, Near Bristol, where ONLY trees that originated from British stock were considered for display. [from seed, cuttings, air layer, division and British yamadori etc] The day started a bit damp but then honoured us with quite a bit of sun, which was good for the numerous trader stands out on the grass area behind the Failands hall. The standard of tree displays was very good, with trees of all species and sizes, so there was something for everyone. Esoteric pots [Dan Barton], David Sampson and Mendip Bonsai [John Trott] were on the hall stage and the Bristol club sales in the small room off the hall. Everyone had a vote of their three best trees and there were financial awards for the top trees. Well done to all those involved.
Last Saturday, [the 17th August] saw our Annual pilgrimage up the hill to the Wanborough Show, a few hardy members of the club willing to resist the possible winds and wet weather during the day……………. In fact, it turned into a lovely warm afternoon, lots of sun which meant a big turnout of visitors and lots of interest in the display and the show in Feb 2020. The photographs of the display are a bit poor as our position in the show had been changed and the sun was directly behind the marquee, which has washed out the colours. The benefit was that we were next to the drinks and food wagons.
Not long now to this great event.
Reg and Graham volunteered to man the display at the Stratton Festival this year in Grange Drive, Swindon. A warm day and a big crowd took in the small and not so small trees. Many taking notes about Reg’s Open Garden on the 27th July and also details of the next ‘Winter Image’ Bonsai show to be held by the Swindon club on the 23rd Feb 2020.
It’s that time of year again for Jeff and Reg’s open gardens. Jeff is an RHS judge for fruit, flowers and Veg and Reg is an RHS judge for bonsai also known for the many Gold medal displays at the Chelsea Flower show. A unique opportunity to wander the gardens and get up close to the magnificent trees.
Time is running out to submit your entry for the show. Email details and some photographs to Dan Barton, soonest to be considered for the show in August
