NABF Newsletter #6

Feature #6

The Bonsai Society of Winnipeg

by Joe Grande

was begun in the early 1980's by a group of enthusiasts who wanted to get together to share their experiences, to learn from each other, to pool their resources, and to enjoy the companionship of others with a common interest. The club has grown over the years to about 70 members, has a more formal organization now, and takes part in many events in the city. However, the purpose and the approach to the subject matter continues to be the same ... we learn by sharing our experience, and pooling our resources.
The club has regular meetings, once a month from September to May. Meetings are at the Assiniboine Park Conservatory, at 7:30 PM, normally on the second Monday of the month. The December event consists of an evening get together, typically including dinner at a restaurant. There is usually a "spring dig" for native trees in the country in May, and perhaps again in the fall. A workshop with a visiting expert may also occur in early summer.

Bougainvillea

Buttonwood

Other regular events consist of:

Informal backyard meetings in early summer to work together on trees.

The Annual Bonsai Show at the Conservatory on Labour Day Weekend.

Displays/ information table at horticultural, cultural or other events

An "Introduction to Growing Bonsai" Course taught by Society members through the Conservatory, which is highly recommended for people new to bonsai. This includes theory and hands on sessions and styling a starter tree.

Hands on experience is emphasized by the club. Several workshops usually occur at meetings throughout the year, such as a soil mixing workshop, the "digs" for native trees, pot or light stand making workshops, pruning sessions, etc. At other meetings senior members will demonstrate shaping, pruning, repotting, etc., and are always open for questions on "how to... ?" Wire and materials for mixing soil, etc. are usually available for sale at the meetings, and occasionally there will be group orders for trees, pots, tools, or other material.

All members, new and experienced, are encouraged to bring their trees, styled or un-styled, (weather permitting) to the meetings to both "show off" their work and to get advice on any issues at our "problem corner". Members are also encouraged just to share experience as in something that worked, something that didn’t work (don’t feel bad, we have all been there), or to mention a book or a source of material that you located.

Cedar

Colorado Blue Spruce

Ficus benjimina