of Bonsai Mag

I just added a link to the of Bonsai Magazine on the left margin.  There are some excellent videos of Ryan Neil's demonstration and critiques in Chicago last weekend.  I've been told that our very own Scott Luke makes a cameo.

Ouwinga Seminar and Workshop

Myself, Haidar and Dave participated in Matt's workshop courtesy of the Iowa Bonsai Association.  Here are some photos I took of the day.  The Magruder's graciously hosted the event at their beautiful home and gardens.  I wanted to share some of the unusual/key points from Matt's presentation on Trident Maples and offer the presentation to those who missed the event.

- Matt uses Turface only for his soil.  He may add some Akadama or use strictly Akadama for his nicer trees.
- Matt suggests thoroughly rotating an air layered tree to encourage root development from all sides.
- Uses a washer to establish a "melting" nebari.  The portion that grows above the washer is maintained, while the portion below the washer is discarded.
- Matt fertilizes once a week, alternating between a 7-9-5 solution and Fish Emulsion and Seaweed.
- Does not believe in defoliation!
- Uses a floral tape or equivalent to wrap over a freshly cut wound after applying sealant to encourage lateral healing only and avoid an unsightly bulge. 
- Practices both thread and approach grafting on a regular basis to create an ideal branch location.  He advised it is best to drill a bit larger when doing a thread graft since additional space may be needed for branch/bud passage.