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2001 HAS SOME EXCELLENT SPEAKERS IN STORE FOR US.
We are pleased to have been able to cover the triphyllas (Paul Heavens) and hardy fuchsias (Jim Muncaster), favourites of just about everyone.
We also see the return of Eric Coupland and welcome newcomers to our area such as George Evans, Brian Dickinson and Alan Darkins who all come very highly recommended. We are certainly in for a treat!
There is more to life than growing fuchsias though and for our February 21st meeting we will be given an insight in the growing of gladiolus by Terry Morris from Rochdale.
Then to get us all well and truly enthused for the new growing season we have, especially with the many new and relatively inexperienced members in mind, organised a Fuchsia Workshop for March 21st .
Practical demonstrations, cultural advice and a wealth of tips & tricks are on offer as some of our more experienced members each take the stage in a corner of the room to share their expertise. Members are invited to mingle freely, tune into whichever subject appeals most.
An opportunity not to be missed to ask all those burning questions! CD
Bonsai Fuchsias by David Edmond
Although Fuchsias grown as bonsai subjects are not a new idea, it is only recently that bonsai classes have been added to show schedules.
Enthusiasts displayed exhibits at B.F.S. Shows last year and lots of interest was shown by the public and the fuchsia folk.
Although bonsai fuchsias may not appeal to everyone, they do add more diversity to the show benches, giving the public a wider range of plant growth type to admire.
GETTING STARTED
Take a second year pot plant, looking for ones with misshapen growth. These will form the basis of a good bonsai subject. Remove from pot and start to tease away compost. Then prune the roots so they will fit comfortably into a suitable bonsai dish. Begin to place the roots evenly in the dish, add compost gently, teasing it in between the roots. Firm plant into place and water in. Finally prune framework to desired shape.
For another way of producing a bonsai take a cutting and grow it on in a small pot. Root prune at two monthly intervals. During early growth start to train to required shape. Soft copper wire can be used. Secure to stem and wind around the branches. Once completed carefully bend the branches where required.
Plants can also be laid on their sides, facing south. They will naturally grow towards the light. Leave in place till wood has ripened. When placed upright the plant will take on a windswept leaning shape. During the following season transfer to a suitable bonsai dish.
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