Bonsai Stuff

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuSeeing the end target for your bonsai in the developmental stage can be challenging. Breaking the development of your bonsai into bite size chunks can be so helpful in keeping everything on track. Perspective in any form of design is so important. When reviewing your bonsai, your perspective will allow you to see completely different designs and ultimately make the best decision for the future path you will take with your bonsai. Angle, tilt, height, distance are all valuable.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuAfter recently visiting a bonsai show and seeing some amazing bonsai that were collected trees or yamadori, I think it is important to chat about expectations when comparing these nature impacted trees with nursery or 'man grown' stock. Can we compete with Mother Nature?? Terminal issues like wilt can and do occur and the end result can be heartbreaking. While we may not be able to treat these issues we can slow the clock and do everything in our power to try and prevent them. And when it does happen, it may not be your fault so don't be too hard on yourself. Late Autumn or Fall is a time when I work on my deciduous just prior to dormancy and I'll let you know why.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuRight now is a very important time for your bonsai, they are heading towards dormancy and how you manage their needs is critical to their future development. It is also a time to be neck deep in needles while styling your conifers. I have a styling consideration checklist for you to consider that I find a valuable tool. And moss on your bonsai. Love or hate it there are a few things to be mindful of as to how it can be detrimental to your bonsai. Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWhat an experience! I was fortunate enough to spend some one on one time with the Italian bonsai master Salvatore Liporace in Milan in the north of Italy at his property. Salvatore, who originally studied under Mr Kimura in Japan, has travelled the world extensively demonstrating and presenting and is renowned for his work on conifers. While the visit focussed on advanced grafting techniques it offered me so much more. We were just two bonsai professionals chewing the fat. Not only is he a world class bonsai professional but he is one of the nicest people I've ever met.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuIs too much of a good thing bad for you? Maybe if it's chocolate, but does that apply if it's bonsai?? I don't think so…and there's a good reason for that too. Every tree provides you with the opportunity to learn and develop both personally and for your approach to future bonsai. We always have so much to learn from trees. It's also late autumn/fall and that means it is time for pine work! Finally!!!! I've got a short checklist for you to use and some of the work that I undertake at this time to maximise the development of my pines.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuHow do you overcome the fear of working on your bonsai? One backward step can shatter your confidence but you must get back on the horse and keep moving forward. Bonsai confidence comes with experience and seeing the results of your hard work over long periods of time. Only you can change you! You remember the old saying that if it sounds too good to be true it probably is? Well that certainly applies to bonsai. Those good old short cuts will take you and your bonsai longer to develop, guaranteed!Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuYour bonsai are only as good as the tools you use and the maintenance you undertake. Over time your tools will deteriorate and you can feel it as it happens. I run through the maintenance of my tool kit and how to ‘test' your tools for wear and tear. It might be time for an upgrade! Bonsai for me is everything and I reflect where I think I would be without bonsai in my life. We are all bonsai tragics and lovers in the one breath so I am sure you will relate.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuIt's time for a mid Autumn or Fall check in. There are lots of jobs that need to be done at this time of the year and plenty to keep an eye on too. I like to run through a final checklist before it's too late to make a difference. Cedars as bonsai are just brilliant, with so many variations on styling and colour of the foliage, they truly are one of my favourites. To get the most out of their appearance and development there are certain tasks I undertake now which I will run through and explain.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuUnderstanding when to commence the Autumn/Winter work on your pines as well as the work to undertake is extremely important if you are going to manage their needs correctly. There are also considerations to make if you plan on showing your pine at a later point in time. Different species of pine need different techniques and you must know what they are and master the techniques to continue their development.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuThere is nothing I enjoy more than letting my creative bonsai juices flow! It is never at the expense of the tree in front of me but it's nice to think outside of the square every now and then. What is the story behind your bonsai? Does it have one? Is it important? What if there is no story? Every great story has a start and you can be part of history.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuBranch cutters are an essential tool when it comes to bonsai but they are commonly abused and misused. I love them and have them in a range of different sizes and shapes. I want to run through how I use them to get the best results. And the old saying of ‘Practice makes Perfect' isn't necessarily correct. It should be ‘Perfect Practise makes Perfect'. The apex on your bonsai can make or break your design and I have a few ‘guidelines' that may help. As I always say, these are not rules and your design is personal but hopefully it may help provide some clarity if your design is not quite what you want just yet.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuBonsai wire and bonsai go together like Vegemite and hot buttered toast! We use wire for design and horticultural requirements for our bonsai and quite honestly I believe we would be lost without it. In this podcast I chat about all things wire, wire removal, reusing, copper versus aluminium, bending, time frames, storage and the dreaded 1mm wire roll. Our bonsai community is beautiful in every way, just like our trees. I've got a story on how mosh pits and bonsai are very similar, or they should be any way.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuAutumn is a brilliant time for your trees. They may be starting to show some colour or they may not but they are already working very hard to become a better version of themselves and they need your care and assistance. Understanding the process they go through will help you become a better practitioner. Feeding, pest management, and most importantly pruning are important tasks you need to undertake. When working a new tree or reworking one that you might be a little stuck on can be daunting. I've got a strategy for branch selection to get things rolling for you as well as a few back up plans.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuAutumn or Fall is an extremely important time for your bonsai and you have a key responsibility to ensure you do your bit. Fertilising is really important and now is the time to get started. The why, how and my strategy for fertilising is really simply and easily replicated. When I design or work on bonsai, one of the final steps I take is a top down view of the tree. A very common mistake is flattening the structure so your bonsai 'looks good' from the front viewing angle at the expense of the tree's overall future strength. This top down view gives you another perspective and makes you consider what is best for the bonsai.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuAs we head towards the end of the southern hemisphere Summer period, it is a great time to pat yourself on the back for helping your bonsai make it through another tough period. Have a look at what has done well and accept the satisfaction as to why. Where trees have not faired quite so well it is time to review why and take steps to correct it for next Summer. Formal upright bonsai are very difficult to develop and I have a range of consideration for the tree before I start down that path.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuCarving and bonsai seem to go hand in hand. I think everyone I have ever spoken to about bonsai over the years has mentioned carving at one time or another. And carving, good carving, takes skill and technique. Texture, the need to appear 'natural' and staying safe are all very important! How you work with an electric carving tool is crucial to your success and I'll let you know how I work with them to help minimise collateral damage to the rest of the bonsai.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuSo what got you into bonsai initially? I bet it's not what keeps you in bonsai now. I find it is important to reflect back on the start of your journey as you can sometimes lose sight of what make you happy. Do the maintenance! And do it first!! Big decisions can wait and the maintenance work will clear the path for your decision making process. Remove the unnecessary, then into the structural decisions. Late Summer is a time to review your collection and see what species are not necessarily doing quite so well but also to focus on those that are. Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWe are in the last month of Summer and while there are certain trees I will fertilise, there are also trees I will not. I run through my program right now and how it could apply to your bonsai garden. I also have a tale of a poor pomegranate that almost made it to the green waste bin but didn't thank goodness! The lesson of sometimes you just need to wait a little longer was learnt. It's always worth waiting.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuOne of the most iconic Australian species of tree is the grand Banksia and there are 173 different species (according to natureaustralia.org.au). They make the most magnificent bonsai and there are 'rules' to their successful care and I think everyone should have at least one in their collection. The Banksia has so much to offer. We all have trees in our collection that just don't develop the way we have expected or that you just cannot see the future bonsai in. What do you do with those trees? I'll discuss a few strategies.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWhen you are working on any of your bonsai, at any stage of their journey, you need to have focus. There are some key areas of my work I give particular attention to and they make all the difference. Remember it's the 1% that can have a massive impact. You need to respect the bonsai that is in front of you here and now. Be thorough, be focused, be accurate and be respectful. Simple.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWelcome to Season 7 of the Bonsai Stuff podcast! 2025 is going to be a brilliant year for bonsai and to kick things off I'll let you know my 3  step simple plan for the year and my bonsai commitment. Post holidays it is time to dust off the cobwebs and get back to bonsai. This is my time to work on my junipers too and I have a check list I work through to make sure I am thorough and don't have a need to rework the trees. I'll share this list with you as it may help or confirm what you are doing with your junipers. Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWell 2024 is done and there has been so many highlights for me personally as well as with my bonsai. I chat about a few of my podcast favourites and how small incremental improvements with my bonsai make me happy. During the year I travelled for bonsai, I travelled a lot! From one corner of Australia to the other as well as a trip to New Zealand and I loved it all. So many shiny, happy, bonsai people and so much bonsai love. It's nice to know we're not alone. Bring on 2025...Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuWith the holiday season upon us, now is the time to devote some special attention to our bonsai. I run through my pre-Christmas checklist of jobs that I look to have completed before the Summer break. With decandling now being completed, well for me anyway, I talk about sacrifice branches and how I looked at my Japanese Black Pines a little differently this year. How can I harness the strength of a new Spring candle to improve my bonsai? That was a question I asked myself constantly while decandling. Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuSo you've got a beautiful tree, lovely trunk, great foliage but how and where do you start your design process? I've got a simple procedure I use that helps you get the result without possibly knowing what the design is before starting. Australia bonsai has taken another leap forward and I have a chat with Leigh Taafe the Curator of the National Bonsai and Penging Collection of Australia (NBPCA) about an agreement between the NBPCA and Omiya Bonsai Village. Based on a recent intensive immersion experience, I think it's really important to have access to high quality bonsai to refine and develop your skills.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Contact Scott from Bonsai MatsuThe Decandling process on Japanese Black Pines can be very rewarding and often seen as the key to successfully developing them into magnificent bonsai. But it can also be disastrous. So you need to know when not to decandle. I recently had a long term student at Bonsai Matsu who undertook an immersive intensive learning program. And I must be honest and say I loved the experience and so did Aaron. We have a chat to him all about it. As we get well and truly into the Summer weather it's time to start increasing your daily watering frequency. Don't get caught by surprise!Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

So you're given some advice about your bonsai. What should you do with it? Will it have a positive or a negative effect on your bonsai? It is possible that well meaning advice may well be the completely wrong thing for you and your bonsai. I also get to have a chat with Oscar Jonker from Bonsai Empire about an entirely new course that is very interesting as it isn't about techniques for bonsai development but rather about how we display and enjoy our bonsai. Filmed in a few locations including at the garden of Shinji Suzuki, which I consider to be the pinnacle of bonsai display. And finally what to do if you break a pot outside repotting time.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

The very first focus when 'building' a bonsai should be the trunk and the nebari. If you do not have the correct plan in place then you will never achieve the bonsai that you desire. Working on ramification will not result in trunk development. Let's have a look at what the difference is. Summer is nearly here and you need to be prepared, for the sake of your trees. We've been given fair warning and the weather has shown us what to expect, so what will you do to ensure your bonsai not only survive but thrive? And we've all made mistakes, especially when using power tools on our trees... Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

One of the most important processes I use with my single flush pines is Candle Cutting, not decandling and in this podcast I explain the process as well as the difference between these two tasks. I also chat about the species I use this technique on and more importantly which I do not. It's a must for any pine lover. We all have that moment in our bonsai journey where we ask ourselves, when does it become about quality and not quantity. We've all been there.Modem FuturaModem Futura is your guide to the bold frontiers of tomorrow, where technology,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Here's a little behind the curtain look at podcasting while travelling! After 8 weeks on the road it has meant being 'resourceful' about how and where to record this podcast. Fungal issues in trees are a bit of a nightmare and so much worse for bonsai. They are often best avoided, but you need to know what to look for, where they come from, a treatment plan and then most importantly how to try and prevent them in the first place. I'll run you through my approach and recommendations.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Western Australia is a beautiful part of the world and in particular the south west corner as a pretty special place for bonsai. They have incredible local native species which are perfect for bonsai. I have been fortunate to be involved with the clubs in Perth, Mandurah, Bunbury and Albany for over 4 weeks and have loved absolutely every second of it. So what did I learn? They grow their trees so well that there was plenty to take on and there is so much bonsai love in the west, as well as some pretty cute little quokkas.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

We it's official! Summer is just around the corner and being prepared is the best approach to caring for your bonsai during a period of extended extreme heat. Planning now for that time is the only way. I also have a final word on bonsai design and to clarify it's up to you and absolutely no one else. The only real consideration I am concerned with is tree health as well as your bonsai love. And a nice story where tragedy turned into triumph for a beautiful bonsai.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

So let's talk about defoliation, it's a great technique but needs to be used with extreme caution. I discuss the various types of defoliation, the reason for the timing as well as most importantly, why. And that term Bud Conveyor gets a work out again. What should you do if you lose your bonsai spark? This is really common and happens to us all. I have a few tips that can help fan your bonsai flame.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

I don't like windswept bonsai. It's nothing personal and I want to chat about why. But more importantly I want to propose an alternative. While we manipulate trees to our will, nature is more often than not a great influencer of design and what 'looks right'. So stick with me and hear me out. Also, mid Spring has a few gentle reminders of what must be done and not left any longer. Act now for the future.Phronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders with Scott AllenPhronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders offers a smart, fast-paced discussion on all...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

As we head towards the middle of the Spring period, it's time to think about what's next. Planning for what you need to do in 3-4 weeks now allows you to take steps to ensure your bonsai continues to take steps forward. There's nothing worse than getting to a time when you need to take action but have missed the boat because of what you didn't do in the past. Ants are a nuisance, plan and simple but they are also an indicator that there are certain issues with your bonsai. We can use them to fix a problem before it becomes a problem.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

While there are lots of size classifications I prefer small, medium and large for my bonsai. Each size has its benefits but also a down side. Large bonsai always seem to take the chocolates at shows, why? Are they really better? Is bigger better? I have lots of bonsai and lots of various sizes and I want to explain where they are better and worse than each other. And which one is my favourite and why.Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Spring has well and truly sprung and with that comes a morning faceful of spider webs as I walk through the yard. Can spiders damage our bonsai? No and yes. I talk about my approach and what they are a trigger for me to do and check. In an age of AI generated information and images, I talk about what we should do to 'keep it real'. Misinformation seems to be a part of daily life and I discuss my recommendations to help you achieve your goals and stick to your plan. Support the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

I have been fortunate to travel recently again and this time up to Far North Queensland to Cairns and to Brisbane with a fantastic club called Bimer Bonsai Club. I not only enjoyed myself but learnt quite a lot about growing different species in a completely different environment to what I am used to. I love learning and these trips did not disappoint. Also, now is the time for a reminder about your plan for recently collected trees. Early Spring often shows real promise but this can end in tears if it is not managed correctly.That Wonderful StateA podcast about being an artist from a practical perspective. The series will...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Fertilising your bonsai is a must but how much and how frequent? As there are different stages of development which affect the fertilising of your bonsai so too does the period since the tree was repotted. It is a complex situation and being close to your bonsai is the key. The arrival of Spring comes with a list of responsibilities for us Bonsai Lovers, including growth management and protection of our well loved inner buds. Here's what I'm doing at the moment.The Loved One'How far would you go to find the person who means the most to you in all the...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Flowers on a prunus variety bonsai are just incredible! And to achieve these flowers I prune them in a very specific way. I discuss the method I use to successful help have my prunus flower yearly. And it's that time again where repotting has finished, the sun is shining and it's time to actively fertilise your bonsai. I chat about fertilising raw stock specifically and how to harness the strength of Spring.The Loved One'How far would you go to find the person who means the most to you in all the...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBecome a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Is it wrong to use an automated watering system? You must decide what is best for you and your bonsai. Here's a bit of a chat about living with bonsai. The nebari on your trees is one of the most beautiful features and it is developed over a very long period of time. You must work it and make it happen. When removing either a large branch or root, you must be careful and avoid unwanted damage caused by 'chipping' in. There are techniques we can use to make sure you make these cuts correctly.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

As the main repotting season comes to a close it is time to reflect upon my learnings. Developing stock and the soil mix you use, does it make a difference? What if you don't repot but are worried, what should you do? There is a procedure you can use the may help. After repotting, there are times you need to be careful and protect your bonsai. I have a few tips that are useful. And Spring is nearly here! Here's what you should start preparing for.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

What started as a laugh and a chat over a meal turned into The Great Olive Dig which included 1600km round trip, some blood loss, loads of laughs and tales as well as some pretty spectacular olives being harvested to become magnificent bonsai in the future. What a weekend it was! Listen in for this adventure before the dig, the dig itself (or the hunt) and after the dig.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

When undertaking significant procedures with your bonsai, planning is the key to success as is the expectation of the outcome. I tell a story about an informal upright juniper that was made into a cascade with some serious bends. In order to improve the structure of your bonsai sometimes you need to take drastic steps and I did recently. I had to hit the reset button. Large roots can be daunting when you are repotting. How do you safely remove them? What should you do after you have removed them? I'll tell you all the steps I take to check the impact and how to manage the side effects too.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Over the years of 'doing' bonsai or more like being obsessed by them, I must say I have had my fair share of 'love related' injuries. From the old finger slice numbers 1, 2 and 3 through to high speed injuries. This podcast has something I think everyone can relate to. I hope you enjoy and more importantly learn from some of these misfortunes...Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Why must there be a compromise when it comes to the design of your bonsai? Is it better to live with it or start again? Can you split the difference? Should you? All questions I ask myself and sometimes I ignore my own advice. Australian natives are increasing in popularity and I want to chat about some styling considerations for them...according to me...not intended to be hard and fast guidelines but just an insight into what I see as perfection and how I find it.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

With bonsai repotting season well under way the pot or container you use for your bonsai is a serious consideration and I have some thoughts on sizing and design of the pot. And when you repot, in order to avoid damage or wasting the tree's resources, you really should securely fasten your bonsai to the pot. There are repercussions if done incorrectly and I run through my method and what I use. We are exactly mid way through winter and while we are busy you cannot take your eye off the ball. There are things around the year that still require your attention.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

With repotting season officially kicking off I want to start with talking about removing old soil and an experience I had recently. Wiring your bonsai to style them takes time and skill and I have a little tip that will help you do it once only. Don't wire light as you'll pay the price. I recently went along to a bonsai demonstration and there was talk about bonsai etiquette about the age of a tree. It's an interesting concept and I talk about the importance of perceived age versus the true age.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Marcela is seriously one of the nicest bonsai people you will ever meet and her passion for Australian Native trees being used as bonsai is unmatched. I have a chat with her about the Victorian Native Bonsai Club, its inception and growth as well as what it offers to members around the country (and world).  They are also hosting the  10th Symposium on Australian Plants as Bonsai in August/September and we get a sneak peak at the program and structure for the event. Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

When you're pruning it is very common that you will need to make a split decision based on the branching structure you are working through. The angle of the bud is very important as is the strength of the growth but you need to consider what is horticulturally the best choice. And in a world full of noise, it's important that you do you. Look at what's in front of you right now, plan for the future but be in the moment.Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

When wire is left on too long (and it will be), what is the best way to remove it? I discuss a few tricks and techniques I use which help minimise the damage to your bonsai. Important decisions shouldn't be rushed either, you need to buy yourself some time. I have a range of different things that I do to help take the urgency of the decision away from me and it might help you too. I also ask the question, 'Is it wrong to want a bonsai that looks like another one?' Does bonsai have to be unique?Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web

Beauty is such an individual thing and it's fantastic that we all see beauty differently. Imagine how boring it would be if we all thought the same way?? But care and respect needs to be shown as well as some special bonsai love. I chat about a recent post that created a lot of discussion. When you are looking at a serious removal of a part of your bonsai, it's important to reassure yourself it was the correct thing to do and you should also allow yourself time to get quicker when working on your trees. Like the little caboose, I think I can, I think I can...Support the Show.Become a podcast supporter and show the Bonsai Love (it's really appreciated) ❤️https://www.buzzsprout.com/263290/supportWhere to find Bonsai Matsu:InstagramFacebookYouTube Web