Déjà vu: a second sugi

Getting a second bonsai of the same tree species is a lot like having a second child… or so I imagine, I don’t have children. When I acquired my first sugi at the Mammoth Auction two years ago, its unruly back-budding combined with its tendency to brown with even the most slightly misaligned cut quickly convinced me I had bought a nightmare tree. Months passed, however, and I learned its rhythms and nuances: how to tell the difference between the normal, waxy bronzing of the winter from the dull browning of dehydration, how to “rotate” new growth from top-down to conceal cuts, and more.

My first sugi continues to be a constant source of joy and motivation—as I’ve increased my confidence in crafting singular, block-like pads, I am learning to break up that profile further into smaller pads, for example. It is very much a work in progress, but I am eager to apply my lessons to yet another sugi. I’ll keep a close eye on this new tree, but I hopefully won’t fret as much with every minor change or obstacle that comes this tree’s way.

- Keisuke

UPCOMING Club Events PROGRAMS

First thursday: Black pine demonstration

Thursday May 7th, 2026, 7:30PM
Midori Bonsai Club

We’re back to our normal schedule, with demonstrations on our first Thursday. Our very own Juan Cruz will be sharing some tips on black pines!

third thursday: Workshop

Thursday May 21st, 2026, 7:30PM
Midori Bonsai Club

Settle in with some snacks, coffee, and company, and let’s all work on our trees.

UPCOMING BONSAI EVENTS

San mateo bonsai club show

(10:00AM —4:00PM, sunday 5/17/2026)

Visit the San Mateo JACC Gardener's Hallto view beautiful bonsai! In addition to the show, their member sales area will offer items for purchase, and provide a clinic to share guidance and suggestions for your trees.

bay area satsuki aikokai & yamato bonsai show

(10:00AM-5:00PM, saturday—sunday 5/30—31/2026)

Visit the Lakeside Park Garden Center at Oakland’s Lake Merritt for a show featuring the beautiful colors of Satsuki azalea bonsai as well as Pines, Junipers, and other living art. Round-robin demonstration on Saturday from 1pm-3pm. Vendor and member sales.

For an up-to-date list of more events, check out the Golden State Bonsai Federation events page.

Editor’s Notes