from the blog

Foemina Juniper Revisit, With Design Comments

Foemina Juniper Revisit, With Design Comments

July 10, 2026

A Foemina Juniper in 2023, after its first styling. Foemina in early July, 2026. Letting bonsai get shaggy is a good now and then to help build energy and momentum, especially with trees like this Foemina which is left to grow out each year. But if left too long it is hard to get back […]

Suggested Books For Bonsai Enthusiasts: Part 2

Suggested Books For Bonsai Enthusiasts: Part 2

July 3, 2026

A second selection of tree-ish books you might enjoy. None of these books are about bonsai, but like the list in Part I, they may illuminate why bonsai captivate us. The first two books I’ve read and think are marvelous, and the last one has been recommended to me many times, including by readers of […]

Correcting Water pH For Better Plant Health

Correcting Water pH For Better Plant Health

June 26, 2026

When we drink water, our kidneys adjust the blood pH to 7.35-7.45. Plants also have the ability to change pH around their roots, up to 1.5 pH points. But in more extreme pH situations, plants suffer. Water pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions. If you have more hydrogen ions, you have acidic water. If […]

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