Automated sprinkler systems… part 2

I immediately suffered the consequences of my complacency, and suffered a casualty of over-relying on my watering system. I noticed that one of my junipers had begun to lose the waxy sheen on its needles before agonizingly deteriorating into a lifeless brown over the course of two weeks. The only change in my routine had been using my automated watering system over the weekends, so I decided to run a test. On a day I was home, I ran the system as usual and checked the soil the following day. Sure enough, it was still quite wet.

A combination of leaving my trees in the shade while I was away and watering for too long had likely left the juniper waterlogged, ultimately killing it. The "autopsy" confirmed my suspicion: the roots were a soggy mess.

The experience was a difficult reminder that there are no shortcuts in bonsai. Everything requires careful observation. At least I'll take the small victory that I only killed one tree from this ordeal.

-Keisuke

UPCOMING Club Events PROGRAMS

First thursday: summer maintenance demo

Thursday August 6th, 2026, 7:30PM
Midori Bonsai Club

Our very own Megan will share a lecture on the basics of botany that form the foundation of bonsai!

third thursday: Workshop

Thursday August 20th, 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

Midori Bonsai club show @ the quinlan community center

(10:00aM —5:00PM, Sat 10/3/2026)

Heads up! Our club show is fast-approaching and right around the corner. Join us to share beautiful trees, admire the Ikenobo Society’s fine Ikebana, and peruse vendors.

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

Editor’s Notes