The annual show started with the usual hectic setup on Friday with all the tables and backing boards to be set up before trees could be positioned.

There were plenty of trees on show—we had to put up extra tables at the last minute to cope with the numbers. Over 130 trees on display ranging from mame to very large!

Ian Gear and Noel added to the draw for the weekend with their sales tables and the club did very well selling off members surplus stock.
Thanks to Ian for his efforts in judging the awards. It took him several tours of the display to make his final choices. After the awards were set out Ian gave a very informative critique on the trees he chose.

1st. Two Needle Pine.
Good example of the literati style, the base of the tree is in proportion and balanced. Movement of the trunk leads you to the foliage. Wiring is neat.

2nd. Literati Juniper
A shohin sized tree which shows all the characteristics of a large tree.

3rd = Japanese Maple
Extended branch on left hand side needs to come in and the apex needs further development. Pot needs to be changed for a suitable glazed pot.

3rd = Juniper
Table is out of proportion but the tree’s character overcomes that. Needs more fine wiring. Gives the appearance of a very old tree. Will
need a change in pot to add that little bit extra.

NZ Native. Coprosma
The relationship of the tree, pot and stand is excellent. The tree tells the story of coprosmas in NZ.

Shohin Club Award.
A hard choice between the 4 displays but this one showed a better balance in both the individual trees and the overall display.

Beginner. Ginkgo
A difficult tree to get right as a bonsai.

Merit. Himalayan (Deodar) Cedar
The bottom right branch is getting weak. Possible option is to jin the branch if it does not recover.

Merit. Juniper procumbens ‘Nana’
A good balance in the tree but would prefer a plain pot.

Merit. Hollywood Juniper
A good species for use as a bonsai. A mature look to the tree.

Merit. Coprosma
Very nice small tree. Looks very much like a mature ficus or oak.

Merit. Juniper Group
The ground cover is actually a weed but here the clever use of it creates the look of a natural forest.

Merit. Himalayan (Deodar) Cedar
Well groomed tree. Bottom branch needs a slight adjustment.

Overall the trees are very good but attention must be paid to the final dressing of each tree. Make sure the soil is free of weeds, foliage is all looking good and the pot is clean—with some pots a little oil brings up a better finish.

The Peoples Choice went to Sandra with the Totara Forest.