This year we’ve had a steady stream of soaking rain, but very little sticking as snow pack in the mountain watersheds which may create a problem later in the year. Still I hope there is more on the way in February and March.

This month’s first program will be on Transplanting. This is a vital activity that jump-starts the bonsai year.

The nights are going to be cold in the mid 30’s and ideal to set good flower buds on fruiting trees. We had little rain in November so I hope we get some storms this month.

It actually seems like fall is here. Cooler days and nights. Growth is slowing down.

In late October, as the deciduous trees turn color, they signal that the tree is cutting off contact with the leaves.

Take out your cell phone. Put in a new reminder for the same time and day each week: “Check Trees for Weeds and Needs.”

When working on trees that you will want to show this year (September 30th) remember that it takes a number of weeks for cutting back to produce new shoots and a few more to have them harden off.

Now is a good time to think about which trees you want to show for our September 30, 2023 show.

Tree tips for us as the weather starts to get hot.

The days are longer and warmer, and the sun angle has been sneaking up on us, so we need to get into watering mode now, in earnest, as the growing season is in full swing.

Spring doesn’t wait on storms. Its pushing everywhere.

Best rain year in recent memory. And snow at the higher elevations! Even with the cold weather most trees are popping and we only have a short window open to transplant certain trees.

We should have plenty of water this year even if we don’t see much in the next couple of months. Still I hope there is more on the way in February and March.

Each time we transplant gives us another opportunity to improve our tree’s nebari and accelerate the growth and development of our trees.

We had decent storms in November to start the rainy season, here are some tips to prepare your trees for the winter.

This month there will be a show you will not want to miss: The Pacific Bonsai Expo. Also, Fall Tree Tips and more.

Like last year, do remember to water up to two times a day if you see wilting on these hotter days. So far, this has been a brutal year again, heat wise.

Use every opportunity to improve the trees. Every time you touch or water your trees ask yourself what you can do to make them better.

We just had two days of almost 100-degree heat and then wild winds. Both can dehydrate and damage trees quickly, so pay attention to the forecasts because these conditions are becoming more normal.

Spring doesn’t wait on storms. Its pushing everywhere.