Archive for ◊ February, 2009 ◊

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• Saturday, February 21st, 2009
I have had this tree for years, and knew that there were things about it that bothered me.  However I just never did anything about them, and over time I got used to it.  Recently I took this tree to my local club for a critique.  If you haven’t done this, you’re missing out.  They are a great opportunity to get opinions from other members on how to improve your collection.

As I put the tree in the front of the membership I pointed out the large root in the back of the trunk and the low left branch.  Before I knew it, Mike Rogers had grabbed a saw and removed them in full agreement.  It changed the look of the tree immediately for the better. 

Removed branches

Here is the tree after the branch and root had been removed.  You can see the hole it left in the canapy to the right of the trunk, but the lower left branch is not even missed.

Trunk Line close up

The trunk line is now more simple, and the scars will cover quickly.  In fact in a couple Florida months this tree’s canopy will be filled in once again.

Quick wiring

I wired a few branches in order to move them into the open space so that they can begin to fill in.  It won’t be long before I can post an updated shot of this much improved tree.


Category: Ficus Nerafolia | Tags: , , Comments off
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• Saturday, February 14th, 2009

Well for a person that doesn’t do small trees, I sure have been doing a lot of small trees lately.  However I couldn’t pass this one up.  Great price and absolutely perfect.  I’m not sure how I actual got it out without a struggle.  So many people we looking at this tree and once it was styled there were jaws dropping left and right. 

Inital styling

Inital styling

Examining the roots

Examining the roots

These roots were in perfect condition and loaded with mychorrhizae.  It is just the most healthy tree I think I have ever worked with.
mychorrhizae

mychorrhizae

As I slowly raked the roots I noticed even more mychorrhizae.  The roots had great drainage and were very condensed, feeder roots.  I just can’t get over how amazing these roots were.
Repotted

Repotted

 Well here it is in its bonsai pot,  all 5 inches of it!  Amazing how much power a little tree like this can project.  I’ll keep you posted as its begins to fill in.