MABA Conference
July 10-12
Hosted by Indianapolis Bonsai Club
by Valerie Tasker & Anne Heun
Featured Artist: Suthin Sukosolvisit
Presenters: Jim Doyle, Mark Fields,
Pauline Muth, Bill Valavanis, Scott Yelich, Ken Huth, Frank Mihalic,
Brian Ciskowski, Mark Thiedeman, Paul Weishaar
14 Vendors
After months of
anticipation, we were delighted to attend the MABA Conference in
Indianapolis. Approximately 100 trees were exhibited, and each
reflected a remarkable level of accomplishment and dedication to the
principles of Bonsai.
We both signed up for a workshop with
Bill Valavanis. Hanoki Cypress was the subject tree. Several hours
were spent deciding on a possible style, then working the tree in
that direction. Bill was very helpful and fun to work with. New we
just need to keep our trees alive and healthy for years to come!
Each presenter
shared insight on technique, style, and horticulture. Following are
a few of the tips gleaned from the
presentations we attended.
~Wine corks can be used to separate the
branches of trees rather than wiring them. These can be cut to any
size needed.
~Pest control can be achieved by
putting a dog flea collar on the soil around the trunk of your tree,
then enclosing it in a plastic bag for 24 hours. Repeat this
procedure 7-10 days later. (This will not eliminate borers,
however.)
~Ant Lions can be introduced to devour
pests, and then they neatly devour each other!
~Foliage should be washed thoroughly
from time to time to help remove pests as opposed to misting which
may encourage mold growth.
The atmosphere of
the weekend was one of excitement and camaraderie. Everyone was
friendly, welcoming, encouraging, and very happy to see old friends
as well as to make new ones. Seeing the love of Bonsai reflected in
the smiles and tone of this group made us feel so very inspired!
Looking forward to future conferences!
Looking forward to future conferences!
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