a more traditional tree was this Japanese black pine. gotta love that old bark.

#bonsai #plants

edit: i later learned that this tree won best in show. well deserved.

my favourite tree overall was Nigel's dwarf Schefflera (umbrella tree), which is styled like an enormous banyan fig. this tree was *big*—photos don't give an accurate impression of the size. looking down at the tangled roots was amazing.

Nigel did a lot of detail work to this tree this year, including straightening many of the aerial roots which were growing at chaotic angles. that step alone went a long way toward enhancing the illusion of size and power.

#bonsai #plants

there were at least two burning bushes, and this one was my favourite. unfortunately the timing didn't work out for perfect fall colours this year, but the transition phase is still very nice.

#bonsai #plants

another highlight was this pomegranate

#bonsai #plants