Year in Review 2014 – Itoigawa Shimpaku

This shimpaku was brought back from the brink of death last year, and went through its second styling this spring. I recently took the wires off and plan to cutback and rewire next spring.

Spring 2013:

Last years end of year picture:

Second styling Spring 2014:

Fall 2014 after wire removal:

Clearly, this tree was quite vigorous this year and has mightily outgrown its shape. It seems to be a hard tree to keep the foliage in proportion with the trunk size. Looking forward to updating next spring, with potentially removing a branch and compacting the tree even more.

With potential branch removal:

Year in Review 2014 – Ficus Green Island

It’s that time of year again to show progressions. I’ll start with my ficus since it is done growing for the year. The tree did well this year, and was shown for this fall in our members show. It’s come a long way since I acquired it in December of 2012.

As purchased, 2012:

Last years end of year picture:

After work, March 2014:

The tree at the show this September:

I think it’s progressed well in two years, and should really start looking good by next fall. I have decided to leave my tropicals at the tropical greenhouse at NE Bonsai instead of having them falter inside my house this year. Next year I will work on ramification and detail wiring in the apex.

I should have more end of year updates to come in the following weeks so stayed tuned.