tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31940950776005521322024-02-19T01:44:56.296-04:00Bonsai Wonders<br><br><br><br><br><br><center>This little niche in cyberspace is where I would like to share my Bonsai Adventures with you!</center>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-13652086905388262472010-01-07T12:25:00.010-04:002010-01-30T12:50:45.437-04:00Blog UpdatesSeveral updates have been carried out throughout the site, in order to provide a cleaner, fresher and uncluttered look:<br /><br />Blog roll has been added to the main page;<br />"Book reviews" main page received a total face lift;<br />"Bonsai Related Articles" main page has been refreshed; and<br />Several articles have been updated<br /><br />Not only did I think the Blog needed a new look for 2010 more important, this post sends all my 2009 posts to archive.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-56796804581087584302009-12-31T15:02:00.013-04:002010-02-15T16:41:10.915-04:00The year in review2009 was a good year amidst the poor economy. My bonsais were able to really flourish under my vigilance this year. In comparison 2008 was not a good year for my bonsais. Although I looked after them, working shift work was not conducive to good growth.<br /><br />Spring started out with the re-potting of <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/03/repotting-lazy.html">"Lazy"</a>. This tree is finally becoming something from its humble beginnings. One of my favourites and a prime example of a good feeding regimen. It has really filled out nicely during the vegetative season and will see some minor tweaking in the spring.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJEfyG6fbu3Up97yNCDYEizNXL1Qd-El_svy-t4-TgfjvMx65jmwK30vASgEE4vQt1Tq0cPuV6AqrLMMqNBDKnITIcafs9_Ev-Cd6mucdxrTrBrermpZohq_7ia1yD4VlL0A0hxLA4PsX/s1600-h/DSCF0013r.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJEfyG6fbu3Up97yNCDYEizNXL1Qd-El_svy-t4-TgfjvMx65jmwK30vASgEE4vQt1Tq0cPuV6AqrLMMqNBDKnITIcafs9_Ev-Cd6mucdxrTrBrermpZohq_7ia1yD4VlL0A0hxLA4PsX/s320/DSCF0013r.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352778046607506834" border="0" /></a><br />"Lazy" circa June 2009<br /><br />May came along and I finally found a decent <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Blue%20Spruce">Picea Pungens <i>"Montgomery"</i> (Blue Spruce)</a>, which received an initial styling and was planted out in a screen sided container. I should have read up on spruces.Although the right time of the year in my neighbourhood, it was the wrong time to work on spruces. A valuable lesson learned. The tree suffered from severe die back, which constitutes a complete re-style. Spruces should be worked on in August I came to find out later. Depending on what can be salvaged, this tree may be planted out for 3-5 years.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGx6d2neKGGMM5PfmK2oFcqf-xvIvLqrQp3l3bbO5OXdKekwWmwz22Nd_JMgvqCj5cj_ARGDNvz8cg_tTCUkOIeg6ySg8ujT4oklH6FvwX_7M_-MS4K7DVLrKHUuYX_CGYG3H5uc8W2ju/s1600-h/DSCF0049s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGx6d2neKGGMM5PfmK2oFcqf-xvIvLqrQp3l3bbO5OXdKekwWmwz22Nd_JMgvqCj5cj_ARGDNvz8cg_tTCUkOIeg6ySg8ujT4oklH6FvwX_7M_-MS4K7DVLrKHUuYX_CGYG3H5uc8W2ju/s320/DSCF0049s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331943840169460866" border="0" /></a><br />After initial styling circa May 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Lilac">This lilac</a> was obtained the spring of 2007. Not knowing much about them I was cautious in the beginning. The are prolific growers and will give 2-3 flushes in a vegetative season. I prune them early spring prior to bud break and once again in June. The remainder of the growing season is just branch re-directing with either guy wires or hard wire. This tree has filled out nicely this year and internode length has been drastically reduced. This tree need new shoes come spring.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWZ0trxjgwkR_6H9LlEmB824S5KekGrzi00FMMKDe7txdstepMwa62ENwDQUBkJ7Gj0tY4XoaCknkBG49ngtw5YB83rQNI57jkWqIXjLu8Bnar9K7Z2uuKOCOB0MunxiqfMls96IL-U-6/s1600-h/DSCF0052r.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWZ0trxjgwkR_6H9LlEmB824S5KekGrzi00FMMKDe7txdstepMwa62ENwDQUBkJ7Gj0tY4XoaCknkBG49ngtw5YB83rQNI57jkWqIXjLu8Bnar9K7Z2uuKOCOB0MunxiqfMls96IL-U-6/s320/DSCF0052r.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353139227296982882" border="0" /></a><br />The tree after trimming for a second flush<br />circa June 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/06/cotoneaster-horizontalis-coral-beauty.html">This Cotoneaster</a> was finally removed from her training pot and potted up in this gorgeous cobalt blue pot. Being a <i>var. Coral Beauty</i> this pot fits her like a glove in all seasons. This tree was part of my <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-art.blogspot.com/2008/01/warren-hill-soil-experiment.html">soil experiment of 2006</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqCIjzb4CyIKiEHK_NEnjJeX3d8a5-EUfgSAFjAahedUFsgENs8NKzaYH6BQIn5kq-3wvmpx7povIcYLXw_k1zCEWcqJQtWYE3Nw5hnnOSSbRCbiCSuwZdP_6mkL8IP9ptQ2YbfG8Osw9/s1600-h/DSCF0014r.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqCIjzb4CyIKiEHK_NEnjJeX3d8a5-EUfgSAFjAahedUFsgENs8NKzaYH6BQIn5kq-3wvmpx7povIcYLXw_k1zCEWcqJQtWYE3Nw5hnnOSSbRCbiCSuwZdP_6mkL8IP9ptQ2YbfG8Osw9/s320/DSCF0014r.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352769016581862610" border="0" /></a><br />Circa June '09.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT03S_9tKZoiAP4nxpVa50NTcaBZBr5tVcArk706LBXXNBuyaGDT1t4l7ESpXDOkmpTRNsJ5r_L1RaRGyQ5uDBERfxgZp52nYtBnBPVTbWBw0XmN1-qk_2Q38uDn6fQ__P_GoTEgecLBED/s1600-h/DSCF0027r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT03S_9tKZoiAP4nxpVa50NTcaBZBr5tVcArk706LBXXNBuyaGDT1t4l7ESpXDOkmpTRNsJ5r_L1RaRGyQ5uDBERfxgZp52nYtBnBPVTbWBw0XmN1-qk_2Q38uDn6fQ__P_GoTEgecLBED/s320/DSCF0027r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370785555512407122" border="0" /></a><br />"Duggy" was finally ready for a new <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/07/cotoneaster-horizontalis-coral-beauty.html">shallower pot</a>.<br />Photo circa July 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/06/acer-palmetum-bloodgood-pt-ii.html">This</a> Acer Palmetum <i>"Bloodgood"</i> was acquired in June '07. This was one of three maples that were acquired for a steal. All had suffered significant damage during the winter of 2006-07. We aren't sure what happened that winter as several enthusiasts, including nurseries loss trees. This particular one was destined for the landscape but somehow the top portion got broken off making it totally useless for the landscape.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbczDlppAp0M1V5gyiB2sfDEsiAKI601-06e1nFast_ToRH4HvLKs0qILnyojctQf-ySZnsinXKU9xtLmafEnzn3ov3DmgB_NMLMM09uZ5fJH6zu8utEj5NlzAdvY-xYM8pAG0LnQC92kB/s1600-h/bloodgood.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbczDlppAp0M1V5gyiB2sfDEsiAKI601-06e1nFast_ToRH4HvLKs0qILnyojctQf-ySZnsinXKU9xtLmafEnzn3ov3DmgB_NMLMM09uZ5fJH6zu8utEj5NlzAdvY-xYM8pAG0LnQC92kB/s320/bloodgood.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318975227132073090" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcWMMb08ooP3nemm7QhSdZo_V8spcyARRfm-pR-kgso5-s8_7gdFehmv6u_487WnDBnAm5qneWcvkbH3AS3tedUai6bM4VnkUGY33AZKzeS-h5n4IZaUi5YcCGQQLmXa_D-TSoYUG8F3Q/s1600-h/DSCF0067r.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcWMMb08ooP3nemm7QhSdZo_V8spcyARRfm-pR-kgso5-s8_7gdFehmv6u_487WnDBnAm5qneWcvkbH3AS3tedUai6bM4VnkUGY33AZKzeS-h5n4IZaUi5YcCGQQLmXa_D-TSoYUG8F3Q/s320/DSCF0067r.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353128971453224514" border="0" /></a><br />Placed in a screen sided container to help the<br />formation of fine feeder roots. Circa June 2009.<br />Come spring this tree will see a drastic reduction<br />after first flush.<br /><br />My sixth Hinoki <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/08/chamaecyparis-obtusa-kosteri.html">Chamaecyparis Obtusa <i>"Kosteri"</i></a> acquired in 2007 and undergoing training and a feeding regimen in a growing box while working on a problematic root, was finally potted up.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s1600-h/DSCF0006r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s320/DSCF0006r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370780681590220722" border="0" /></a><br />Circa August 2009<br /><br />Late summer I finally managed to get my hands on a Pinus Sylvestries <i>"Globosa Veridis"</i> <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/08/pinus-sylvestries-globosa-veridis-dwarf.html">(Dwarf Scots Pine)</a>. It was in the sale pile at the local nursery as one side was almost totally dead due to lack of light, outside of that the tree was extremely healthy. It was taken home all unnecessary and dead branches removed and left to recuperate. The tree has done well including some new buds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5uY6ia9dfkK4-xtdHRV3ZwDMEHGa66bSmleom47f6vAwt0qjtl0kDSl9UEDcC8na9Cjq1KqdgjgM9FJRBh-1EKpXud0p2ZXqGtZ_-9tTjxN5aV08nTX0vuWUnNMy3V9bla-d5TlaN381Q/s1600-h/DSCF0002r.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5uY6ia9dfkK4-xtdHRV3ZwDMEHGa66bSmleom47f6vAwt0qjtl0kDSl9UEDcC8na9Cjq1KqdgjgM9FJRBh-1EKpXud0p2ZXqGtZ_-9tTjxN5aV08nTX0vuWUnNMy3V9bla-d5TlaN381Q/s320/DSCF0002r.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372864233615607602" border="0" /></a><br />Circa August 2009<br /><br />Possible Futures<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafz5L_0pQDLKamoPF8EP_PmHGODP2Q_qMYoO1Rz6s6az4Y-_NFwXDP-J6ANKr_25hDE_LpQ5udGGaH4H3_MKmR23B-sdA75slO_fP9H9Hk1GXtigjJf91KeHmDCvLGtF_kHMxd-2iqNg-/s1600-h/pic1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafz5L_0pQDLKamoPF8EP_PmHGODP2Q_qMYoO1Rz6s6az4Y-_NFwXDP-J6ANKr_25hDE_LpQ5udGGaH4H3_MKmR23B-sdA75slO_fP9H9Hk1GXtigjJf91KeHmDCvLGtF_kHMxd-2iqNg-/s320/pic1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372872319520974258" border="0" /></a><br />This one shows the first section of<br />trunkline similar to what I have,<br />just vision it with the second photo's top.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidq_s08avpR9T-Ri2mYa8U7gc9X0p5N9d4GaAGnKbGaNGB40IHvqX17lixSwgXf1vz5thFzx3kGIbIO8HYuDp-sjqL38PafdYVtwdn3tBA3qPvNeit1HJ77-1S1rYWjDRQbbXYXeVchnGt/s1600-h/pic+2b.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidq_s08avpR9T-Ri2mYa8U7gc9X0p5N9d4GaAGnKbGaNGB40IHvqX17lixSwgXf1vz5thFzx3kGIbIO8HYuDp-sjqL38PafdYVtwdn3tBA3qPvNeit1HJ77-1S1rYWjDRQbbXYXeVchnGt/s320/pic+2b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372872875745843970" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/2009/08/rhododendrom-impenditum-mauve.html">Rhododendrom Impenditum <i>"Mauve"</i></a> This is one that I nearly lost the winter of 2007. It is once again showing promise and should flower next spring. This variety lends itself well for bonsai with it's very small flowers and leaves. The tree is only 3-4 inches high.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnb2vXYO9n7B6ogKDAPtkopK45N_J27XPO7osBz3qpwwzkjvMKgtvqUBKBWHslHyHZVzJwMe9A1vyo3cV7s1l6do4Nz-5VY35KIU1lneDIfYm_H8jEiXpRuNN5efJe7wKfiemH0A02m3wk/s1600-h/DSCF0035r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnb2vXYO9n7B6ogKDAPtkopK45N_J27XPO7osBz3qpwwzkjvMKgtvqUBKBWHslHyHZVzJwMe9A1vyo3cV7s1l6do4Nz-5VY35KIU1lneDIfYm_H8jEiXpRuNN5efJe7wKfiemH0A02m3wk/s320/DSCF0035r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370789820044539938" border="0" /></a><br />Photo circa '09.<br /><br />Juniperus Chinensis <i>"Blaauw"</i>. The <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Blauuw%20Juniper">tree </a>was acquired in May of 2006 as a lop sided bush. Under my aggressive feeding regimen it is coming along nicely but has a long way to go. My 2008 schedule was extremely hard on this tree.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISOXxMPneeEacKUXaY0BI54kJZbXojI5BbEc-sKLkA-yQGZX18lZkC5VlSB3jAQrdoAOE5zeP1wzMvZCkqvyXwwGhRgpzxNnyB4yiFGxbvN-FWw_YRTJWbWl0eF_jVFYw0Tqz3DtICzT8/s1600-h/DSCF0050r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISOXxMPneeEacKUXaY0BI54kJZbXojI5BbEc-sKLkA-yQGZX18lZkC5VlSB3jAQrdoAOE5zeP1wzMvZCkqvyXwwGhRgpzxNnyB4yiFGxbvN-FWw_YRTJWbWl0eF_jVFYw0Tqz3DtICzT8/s320/DSCF0050r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385046119067447682" border="0" /></a><br />Photo circa Sep 2009. This was the first<br />major styling since acquisition<br /><br />What did I learn in 2009. That Bonsai truely prosper from daily interaction and care.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-42098819426338430242009-12-27T19:22:00.029-04:002010-02-15T16:43:07.254-04:00Flabergasted!Santa has come and gone but the treasures he leaves behind will unfold many memories for years to come. Santa left behind Robert Steven's new book Mission of Transformation. Having previously read his first book many times over, I awaited his second book which so much anticipation it was almost like being a 4 year old again, awaiting Christmas morning.<br /><br />Robert's first book moved me in such a way that I wanted the second. This is not just another bonsai book. It doesn't cover the normal how to etc... His second book is very much an addendum to his first publishing. Leafing through the book Christmas morning while enjoying a good cup of Java, I stumbled upon page 163, I had a double take! Pictured on the page was a Chamaecyparis Obtusa belonging to Peter Evans.<br /><br />There were 3 photos on the page: the first was the tree has photographed by Peter; the second was Robert's rendition of the tree with a slight clockwise rotation; and the third was the tree planted out in a different pot.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYM14C04My13nPnOy_xZmtSA-UNjw_1tIALW8weThuP58RQuMs66wzPtNErKH3rIOftOWahx91TeLhCl8VMu3RT2xazh-mVlcMLbNWGTITQod2rjk3AqQhyphenhyphen-OJceHBBTyMG5sJDI1mwYo/s1600-h/Evans+Hinoki.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYM14C04My13nPnOy_xZmtSA-UNjw_1tIALW8weThuP58RQuMs66wzPtNErKH3rIOftOWahx91TeLhCl8VMu3RT2xazh-mVlcMLbNWGTITQod2rjk3AqQhyphenhyphen-OJceHBBTyMG5sJDI1mwYo/s320/Evans+Hinoki.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420062610932838850" border="0" /></a><br />The tree as photographed by Peter<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iDYqhrE4wI3_YMzC4-eANOpj0c_3kkbAD8TV16ZGmV0HwpRrFxxt-aj4e74JEXFMeLxE3RqO_9RtJ-bvdd3Appu4R5_d4RuijMG-oggWqmyqIAIl5jl48mXfqlATfMQV4Ign3tRjI0s/s1600-h/Evans+Hinoki_Steven+view.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 231px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iDYqhrE4wI3_YMzC4-eANOpj0c_3kkbAD8TV16ZGmV0HwpRrFxxt-aj4e74JEXFMeLxE3RqO_9RtJ-bvdd3Appu4R5_d4RuijMG-oggWqmyqIAIl5jl48mXfqlATfMQV4Ign3tRjI0s/s320/Evans+Hinoki_Steven+view.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420062788928762210" border="0" /></a><br />Robert's photograph with the new<br />viewing angle<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpGs5p8pX3Z0rifNJ_NxNuiTZ4PYlYKpXpySU1hj2soSpRzZ1gFHVpiVEP0Ny2FWQO371dW12ZttdokbyfX0jx3cWIVBfo64XHkQD_lsYY4j3N6V4P11ahE3dU6nQLw9T3Y7Lvo7hSfQ/s1600-h/Evans+Hinoki_Steven+vision.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpGs5p8pX3Z0rifNJ_NxNuiTZ4PYlYKpXpySU1hj2soSpRzZ1gFHVpiVEP0Ny2FWQO371dW12ZttdokbyfX0jx3cWIVBfo64XHkQD_lsYY4j3N6V4P11ahE3dU6nQLw9T3Y7Lvo7hSfQ/s320/Evans+Hinoki_Steven+vision.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420062959293608610" border="0" /></a><br />Robert's vision for Peter's tree<br /><br />So one might ask what is with the title for this particular entry? Well, as I turned to page 163 it was like deja vue or something, because...<br /><br />I had acquired a Chamaecyparis Obtusa <i>Kosteri</i> in June of 2007, brought it home, bare rooted it, planted it out in a grow box, gave it an initial styling and commence feeding and refining it. I had a vision for it's future and never thought much more of it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspsnTRq1xTqpSRZ2Mh575dEtGrn1R_pbYgDfyF5TQWwu3qKi3Xw2yDTs_b00MrgpZEPieW1bRIiwCXYEW2oOTaIoyhoIeG0xLBMehqwSdz-LTBZmEoqRhIp3wp-iVUkkEuez9usmBuVux/s1600-h/22+June+07+003r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspsnTRq1xTqpSRZ2Mh575dEtGrn1R_pbYgDfyF5TQWwu3qKi3Xw2yDTs_b00MrgpZEPieW1bRIiwCXYEW2oOTaIoyhoIeG0xLBMehqwSdz-LTBZmEoqRhIp3wp-iVUkkEuez9usmBuVux/s320/22+June+07+003r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370778643981881570" border="0" /></a><br />The tree fresh from the nursery prior<br />to initial styling circa June '07<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK_LEC-Ga0cMpHWCw-SdHE8mhUDCsHi7h16KSYkZo7r7qCw7bYPT0cNvncjLohEF2AVO0t4j9oTDfd2J73QndFixsYgML_0JjtowQr0i-4fgUd49Zk8WENtzySTpk0e9lJHTPd3cmFUmj/s1600-h/22+June+07+024r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK_LEC-Ga0cMpHWCw-SdHE8mhUDCsHi7h16KSYkZo7r7qCw7bYPT0cNvncjLohEF2AVO0t4j9oTDfd2J73QndFixsYgML_0JjtowQr0i-4fgUd49Zk8WENtzySTpk0e9lJHTPd3cmFUmj/s320/22+June+07+024r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370779315237337154" border="0" /></a><br />The tree after it's initial styling<br />circa June '07<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s1600-h/DSCF0006r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s320/DSCF0006r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370780681590220722" border="0" /></a><br />The tree finally got it's first pot this<br />summer circa August 2009<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Deja Vue!</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92MhUSTITZRjQl_jOOTw7CO7ZlKSpK0w5HyvDoYbnhoV719WYhtb4uDdWmlShRWhqDp5CMnS4k972pBhiexyKGYfUOn69omthn_SKug_qdBoyZuJrjrnIfez8Vv30EclHdE0Ad5Qn7Cs/s1600-h/our+hinoki.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 222px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92MhUSTITZRjQl_jOOTw7CO7ZlKSpK0w5HyvDoYbnhoV719WYhtb4uDdWmlShRWhqDp5CMnS4k972pBhiexyKGYfUOn69omthn_SKug_qdBoyZuJrjrnIfez8Vv30EclHdE0Ad5Qn7Cs/s320/our+hinoki.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420068559736346402" border="0" /></a><br />A side by side in scale comparison<br /><br />The similarity between the two trees is absolutely phenomenal, and at a glance, one would have a double take just as I on Christmas morning. A little background...<br /><br />Peter and I live 11,000 miles apart. I find it totally amazing that two individuals, unknown to each other, separated by an ocean would come up with similar visions. What is further astonishing, is the similar characteristics of our individual trees. They are nearly the same height, trunk size, lean etc... Peter's tree was originally posted at the Knowledge of Bonsai forum in August 2007 seeking advice in the Robert Steven "Styling Advice" section (where the photos originate from).<br /><br />My tree is far from reaching where it needs to be. It's journey is told <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Hinoki%20VI"><b>here</b></a> . As described therein I am working on a problematic root that still needs several more seasons in order to be further refined and corrected, at which time the pot depth will be reduced. Also seen in the photo (rebar) I am inducing some movement in a rather boring straight section of the upper trunk.<br /><br />Artists are first and foremost individuals and although it might prove flattering to someone to have their worked mimicked, I believe that most thrive on developing their own creations, for personal satisfaction if nothing else, and that is the route I intend to take.<br /><br />The side by side photograph demonstrates the design potential of the tree. Although both trees are similar, they cannot be duplicated. However, using Peter's tree as a template, and applying Robert's vision and introducing Robert's design principles, I believe I know have the necessary tools to develop the full potential of this Hinoki.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s1600-h/DSCF0006r.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK7tfOwm-QodTBtnw98FgyzfyLPqc5t3ZsKzWdG7p2YF32X_wpHPEJlSi4STKtVTW5oslhU0xTBVa4a29mNgb3FJoVjaR2atO78KInqqAUkoC7CALGUfOWe_xTJknTLhiMIM_FT4JmqGQ/s320/DSCF0006r.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370780681590220722" border="0" /></a><br />The foliage and branching on this tree is much fuller than Peter's. Furthermore, this cultivar is a <span style="font-style: italic;">Kosteri. </span>Kosteri's foliage is much coarser than the regular <span style="font-style: italic;">Obtusa.</span> It has a tendency to grow in a more vertical fashion in comparison with other cultivars. It will also be interesting to see over the next couple of years of applying Robert's design principles how full this tree will remain. I can already envision loosing the top tuft of foliage at some point in the future.<br /><br />To many, working with Hinokis is a nightmare, to me a mere challenge. If nothing else it has taught me an important bonsai virtue, patience. Because of the root work, the tree will pretty much be left alone during the next vegetative season where, the tree will be abundantly fed and nurtured. I will spend the next season contemplating it's future.<br /><br />Over the years working with this species, I have come to find out the frailty of the branch-lets. Although I am terribly careful when handling my Hinokis, my inept handling does materialize with die back after the tree has been manipulated. The juncture of branch and branch-lets is extremely delicate and any mishandling of such provides unfavourable results, not readily apparent when styling, rather they materialize many months later. It is incumbent that my timing be judicial between reducing the problematic root and developing the tree, as Hinokis do not back bud.<br /><br />Robert has been a large influence on my bonsai journey. Doing bonsai in near total isolation is not an easy feat. However, Robert's creative artistic visions are easily imparted in his books. Armed with this creative knoweledge, I believe I can someday make Robert proud of this specimen.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Disclaimer:</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Permission has been sought from Peter Evans for personal use of his photographs.<br /></span>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-10765065848259573082009-11-26T14:51:00.009-04:002010-01-03T20:54:20.484-04:00Winter is upon usWell father winter's ugly head is just around the corner. I do not despise winter, au contraire I enjoy it as another season. The downfall of the onset of winter is that we must put our trees to bed and await for spring to once again enjoy our passion.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4OOux92wUdsm5WxA02yEq1jfJdlNCavkSjb-iAsMqS6W6dpb6sMkQQxUpYABNp3J4ef4NwQY75xMkrPT4PM9vtdPBFB6xIge7IkhLONjRe8t1C9J_n9CYqEOrFGufC4csVLuI_WZoXo/s1600/HPIM0345s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4OOux92wUdsm5WxA02yEq1jfJdlNCavkSjb-iAsMqS6W6dpb6sMkQQxUpYABNp3J4ef4NwQY75xMkrPT4PM9vtdPBFB6xIge7IkhLONjRe8t1C9J_n9CYqEOrFGufC4csVLuI_WZoXo/s320/HPIM0345s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408487640316692018" border="0" /></a><br />My deciduous trees and some conifers is non frost-proof pots are bedded in my cold frame. They do weel in here and have in the past. Come spring one must be vigilant of outside temperature and the height of the sun. To do otherwise results in the trees in the back being scorched.<br /><br />This has happened in the past. Last year was a first where I caught them just as bud break and placed them in my greenhouse for protection. The greenhouse filters 65% of the sun on top of the harmful UV rays. The trees didn't seem to miss a beat, as a matter of fact I was a little worried with regards to acclimatising them for the outdoors. Likely my bench is semi shaded and the trees did well.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS___5_LyOIPksvA8KbBPkEXbupVje1G3ViCpJI-OPTmeZam9aApEA9aDhLBcmq4WiiewR9hta234uWf-sfHBOCeEhyphenhypheniWBiEJ6fhmgBUUyUCwiE8m76h2NaQVAUJNEBYArS8xGtHDFRDI/s1600/HPIM0348s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS___5_LyOIPksvA8KbBPkEXbupVje1G3ViCpJI-OPTmeZam9aApEA9aDhLBcmq4WiiewR9hta234uWf-sfHBOCeEhyphenhypheniWBiEJ6fhmgBUUyUCwiE8m76h2NaQVAUJNEBYArS8xGtHDFRDI/s320/HPIM0348s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408489085074084162" border="0" /></a><br />All my conifers, trees that are too large for the cold frame and trees under development are placed in the greenhouse. Last year the greenhouse was used as a partial storage area. With the addition of shelves this is no longer possible, besides a greenhouse is for plants/trees not lawn furniture, that is what sheds are for.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuCOFgjwsx7w1QK9Ho-ugXCkWSgDHL6IS1vNxAji5fXaDMfuYT9QxnWT9A3OK4ig468OdZt3cOYGwrYEfB8rD2gMP8NQ7OOKzlpnCl9u4MACAYwNdV17guC3WSWo6D46e8pjMpzQm0bA/s1600/HPIM0349s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuCOFgjwsx7w1QK9Ho-ugXCkWSgDHL6IS1vNxAji5fXaDMfuYT9QxnWT9A3OK4ig468OdZt3cOYGwrYEfB8rD2gMP8NQ7OOKzlpnCl9u4MACAYwNdV17guC3WSWo6D46e8pjMpzQm0bA/s320/HPIM0349s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408489837632580274" border="0" /></a><br />This new set up will make watering a breeze in comparison with last year.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1RUyfdOK8YQgrnQ5HeBx23ANd2yvqHkWiMkFT_-hDAgdIFL-nY8qBkIR4ajeop67XTlstp-ALsZBaQluSVpYcG1dEIUouB5IsdV7YVmCKY8sp7w1IBtIPr_y4rG70VQh7SxOldgfZF0/s1600/HPIM0350s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1RUyfdOK8YQgrnQ5HeBx23ANd2yvqHkWiMkFT_-hDAgdIFL-nY8qBkIR4ajeop67XTlstp-ALsZBaQluSVpYcG1dEIUouB5IsdV7YVmCKY8sp7w1IBtIPr_y4rG70VQh7SxOldgfZF0/s320/HPIM0350s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408490061826694562" border="0" /></a><br />The floor of the greenhouse, trees in development.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPS3RtV7aYGUbYkOGqqTY3JflVrOhotkZICf9r8CN508621P3RgCEzVyGGMRTJTBtBzv8oIs7zLUhfFocZ_9fwykq_qsYyeXpnkUonte1-0deV_lEgAnuIlLbATkwnetgJLaV6m1TkVps/s1600/HPIM0353s.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPS3RtV7aYGUbYkOGqqTY3JflVrOhotkZICf9r8CN508621P3RgCEzVyGGMRTJTBtBzv8oIs7zLUhfFocZ_9fwykq_qsYyeXpnkUonte1-0deV_lEgAnuIlLbATkwnetgJLaV6m1TkVps/s320/HPIM0353s.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408490207799534882" border="0" /></a><br />The back of the greenhouse. Yes there is a dead branch on the Mugo Pine. It was the result of the tree loosing an important root. There was nothing to do with this problematic root so it was removed. I fretted a greater loss of foliage than what is apparent. Hopefully the lost willbe limited to this only branch. A re-design is possible with only this lost, but more could indicate a design problem. I took a gamble, so far so good. I got my fingers crossed.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-48948332037142612922009-09-24T12:07:00.004-03:002010-01-03T20:54:37.513-04:00A rainy dayToday it's raining so I decided it would be a good time to take some pictures. <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Updates">My Blauuw's Juniper was updated.</a>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-35922387013910270682009-08-26T12:27:00.004-03:002010-01-03T20:54:53.250-04:00Summer summationWell summer has been good to me. I have accomplished many things this season in comparison with last summer.<br /><br />Only 3 acquisitions this year. A Hinoki a Blue Spruce and a Scots Pine. I find myself acquiring less and less each year, and focus my energy on present stock.<br /><br />A tabulation of this vegetative season as seen the purchase of <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Hinoki%20V"><b>Hinoki V,</b></a> another <span style="font-style: italic;">Gracilis</span> that was quite a find. Even in it's early stages it is going to be a credible bonsai in a few years.<br /><br />My <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Hinoki%20VI"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kosteri</span></a> has finally received its first pot. The foliage on this one is proven to be quite a challenge. Now that I have it in a proper bonsai pot, growth should stabilize, and I should be able to tame it. It is been developed as a slanting tree and the branches are finally coming into the proper plane. Although the trunk had some movement, it still very much appeared too straight, that is why you can still see the bending appendage attached in the photos.<br /><br />The Mhugo that was acquired in '07 has also received it's first pot and styling this summer. This tree is not seen on the site. It is not ready to be seen publicly. I am following some expert advice with regards to August re-pottings of Mhugo versus traditional spring. I don't remember the details only that the success rates are greater in August, especially when serious root work needs to be carried out. This tree is now recovering in a semi-shaded location. So far there seems to be no indication of problems, but time will tell and I am keeping my fingers crossed.<br /><br />The <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Blue%20Spruce">Blue Spruce</a> was acquired in early spring and an initial styling was carried out. I come to find out Picea is another species that prefer to be potted and worked on in August. Some serious die back has occured in one area, that is going to require an almost complete re-style.<br /><br />My Acer was dug up and placed in a screen sided container. I am glad this was carried out this summer. The tree is coming along nicely but the roots require attention. The tree when acquired late in '07 was planted out and the roots were no thouroughly examined. The roots were growing on 3 different planes. One plane has been reduced this summer with the remainder in subsequent re-pottings.<br /><br />The Dwarf Rhodie that suffered winter damage in '07 has recovered and we should se it bloom next spring.<br /><br />Several Cotoneasters are finally coming in to their own as well as my burning bush. The Lilac is in it's 3rd season and after comprehending its intricacies should prosper in upcoming years.<br /><br />August is also the month where I start my fall feeding regime.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-55313851018379195212009-07-04T22:17:00.003-03:002010-01-03T20:55:14.578-04:00Supersize meAn <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-art.blogspot.com/"><b>addendum</B></a> to my fertiliser article <i>"Would you like fries with that"</i>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-82939756842030011242009-06-29T23:53:00.006-03:002010-01-03T20:55:29.592-04:00Trees developing...Several trees have been refined and new trees have been added in ... under development. <A href=http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/search/label/Updates>Updates</a>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-26355538882187378942009-05-04T11:59:00.006-03:002010-01-03T20:56:20.248-04:00Spring updateSpring work can be found under <a href="http://bonsaiwonders-dev.blogspot.com/">"Trees in Development"</a> and its sub-section "Updates". It has been a rather busy spring so far. The trees survived their winter and are doing good.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-69992996307409463302009-03-29T14:36:00.010-03:002010-01-03T20:56:37.100-04:00Spring is hereToday spring re-potting has begun (see trees in development). The winter has been favourable. Unfortunately a major branch was broken off one of my boxwoods (while in the cold frame) that will require a complete re-style.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-85799399040949900682009-01-29T11:45:00.005-04:002010-01-03T20:56:58.222-04:00UpdateWell it's been a while since I have updated this site, and so today in a moment where I find myself with some time on my hands, I decided to update this site.<br /><br />2008 was an extremely eventful and busy year for me, so much so that I did not have the time to photograph any progressions during the last growing season.. My collection is coming along nicely. On a positive note, I was able to finally rid my tropicals of any pests that has plagued them at one point in time or another. A good spraying of "Sevin" a couple of weeks before bringing them back in last fall, followed by a spraying a couple of days before actually bringing them in was sufficient. The latter titbit I got from Jim Lewis from IBC, he is always recommending "sevin" and thought that since the cautious "bonsai approach" didn't provide positive results in the past, I had nothing to loose. It paid off and now 5 months later no sign of any pests on my beloved tropicals.<br /><br />Although retired I found myself working once again in order to pay for large projects that required to be done, hence why my participation in this "blog" and on the net has been sporadic. Furthermore, finding something of substance these days on the forums, worth the time and effort of a good discussion is almost next to impossible. There has been some worthy discussions and events that transpired last year, but generally it was pretty quiet.<br /><br />The outdoor collection is coming along quiet nicely. My main Hinoki will be repotted this spring and styled towards the end of the growing season. The maple I acquired a couple of years ago will probably see a pot next spring, choosing this upcoming season for growth once again or a screen sided pot for root development.<br /><br />Cotoneasters grow like weeds in my climate and I will be focusing on their development in years to come. I have 2 planted out that will get their initial styling this spring. Because of the relative ease and responsiveness of the tree to the clip and grow techniques, I will be adding several more to my collection in the future. These along with boxwoods will be my main if not my entire focus in years to come. I have dabbled with many species during this apprenticeship and have come to the conclusion that it is not worth battling a tree if it simply won't go were it needs to be taken.<br /><br />My pines are coming along slowly with '09 being the moment of truth for several of them. As you know all my conifers were on the Persiano "Superfeeding Program". This year they will all be placed on the maintenance program. Last year was the third year for many trees and although positive results were achieved, the prolificness was not has readily apparent in comparison with subsequent years, hence the rational to get them on a maintenance system.<br /><br />Having gained sufficient funds to finally finish major projects that were placed on hold, I see myself retiring permanently towards the end of June. This will permit me to focus entirely on this years growing season and taken my trees where they need to go.<br /><br />This year I plan to be wed in October followed by a 2 week sojourn to Hawaii. I am looking forward to a Penjing trip with Robert Steven to China, if ever this event actually takes place (cost permitting). Stay tuned this year should prove to be interesting!Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-32952807634244249632008-04-05T20:01:00.007-03:002010-01-03T20:57:17.746-04:00Spring is finally hereBrought the trees out yesterday, spring has finally arrived. It has been a miserable past couple of weeks, all kinds of crazy weather that delayed bringing the trees out from their winter haven. It seems this year they all survived compared to last.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-70753617385544384802008-02-01T12:35:00.001-04:002010-01-03T20:57:32.439-04:00What's that smell?Well... I believe it is spring! To date winter as been fair in our neck of the woods, but it isn't over yet, February is usually a pretty bad "winter month" here in the Maritimes. But, spring is about 6 weeks away and I am looking forward to it.<br /><br />Although, winter is a good time to catch up on other bonsai related activities, it is also a time to worry. Last year several Canadians lost many trees to the wrath of Mother Nature and Father Winter. February in the Maritimes can be a funny month. I remember one year my Quince was pushing flower buds by mid-month. She rolled over and went back to sleep, after shutting the alarm off and greeted us come spring with some gorgeous crimson blooms.<br /><br />Last year, the same Quince suffered die back in the cold frame, along with an Alberta Spruce, a dwarf Rhododendron, my "twisty baby", Chinese Elm and Amur Maple. They all eventually budded out and survived but not without extensive damage and years of development lost to Mother Nature. Hopefully they will fair out better this year. To date knock on wood, they seem to all be doing fine.<br /><br />What occurred last year was not isolated to fellow enthusiasts, but extended to nurseries as well. I questioned the owners as to plausible causes and all they could do was shrug and state, things happen. Having said that, it did lead me to acquire 3 Acers of various cultivars for a fraction of the cost.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-33560002867927442822008-01-25T15:35:00.001-04:002010-01-03T20:57:48.913-04:00UpdatesWell it's been a miserable week to date. I am just getting over a bout with the flu. So I used this opportunity to sit at the keyboard and continue to build the content of this site. Several reviews have been added in the "book review section" for your viewing pleasure, and an in depth article on <a href=http://bonsaiwonders-art.blogspot.com/><span style="font-weight:bold;">Taming the "Hinoki" Cypress</span></A>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-53617415536838023322008-01-21T14:52:00.001-04:002010-01-03T20:58:03.353-04:00It's cold outsideWell with the wind chill today's temp is a balmy -27 degrees C, what a better day than to continue building this site. Several galleries have been added as well as sharing several progressions. Stay tuned folks more to follow...<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">PS: Should you stumble across something that does not function, write me a comment so I can fix it. Your help in these matters is greatly appreciated. Thanks,</span>Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-78050696377500226402008-01-20T15:30:00.001-04:002010-01-03T20:58:19.931-04:00Humble beginnings...My bonsai journey began in the summer of 2004 with the purchase of a Chamaecyparis Obtusa "Nana" (Hinoki Cypress) acquired from the local nursery. With the exception of knowing that the foliage needed to be quite small for aesthetic reasons, I was pretty much clueless. I had selected 5 trees which seemed suitable for my intended pursuit. Out of the five, two had definite possibilities out of which one had the greatest potential. I took it home and gave it a quick styling. At this time I had no experience with regards to styling but knew what a bonsai should look like. It was relatively easy as the layout of the tree spoked volumes. I removed all dead inner foliage, unsuitable branches and gave the tree its original shape. This tree was never destined for a bonsai pot but rather to fit prominently in a Japanese dry garden design I had envisioned for our new home.<br /><br />During the same winter I had stumbled across several tropical trees at the local Home Depot. I purchased a couple of Carmona Macrophyllas "Fukien Tea", an Adenium Obessum "Desert Rose" and a Ficus Microcarpa "Green Island". I was quite proud of my purchases, they looked like bonsai, well at least the perceived impression of what a bonsai was supposed to look like to uninformed Westerners.<br /><br />... and I have been hooked ever since.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-28525756576152437132008-01-20T15:27:00.001-04:002010-01-03T20:58:32.918-04:00A little about myself...I was born in Montreal Canada in 1956, where I spent my entire childhood. In 1973 I joined the Armed Forces as a Marine Engineer where I embarked on a wonderful 32 year journey, that lasted until my retirement in April 2006. Traveling the world was an enriching experience which I enjoyed tremendously.<br /><br />I was always intrigued and fascinated with bonsai. My original curiosity dates back to the mid-eighties. Unfortunately back then the information available on the subject was scarce or ambiguous at best. These wonderful dwarfed trees required what was deemed "special needs" etc... as time went by, the Superhighway came about with a plethora of information on the subject and albeit these trees have special needs, I came to find out that, they can be cared for by the average individual with modest means.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3194095077600552132.post-31168426944594863602008-01-19T15:02:00.002-04:002010-01-03T20:58:49.080-04:00Welcome... to Bonsai Wonders, my little cyberspace niche where I wish to exchange Bonsai related information with fellow enthusiasts.Rick Moquinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01646570509357205833noreply@blogger.com0