Today I had the opportunity to attend a demonstration sponsored by the Canberra Bonsai Society featuring Mauro Stemberger. I had a great day.

The usual suspect of a juniper that looked like it was grown around a pole was presented, a juniper procumbens. It was an interesting subject  and one that could be “transformed” in the allocated time of two hours, so appropriate for the day.

However, the best part of the day was the information that was delivered by Mauro. He discussed the design principals and how to go about achieving them, he talked about his own personal preferences and about good horticultural techniques to help this tree become a bonsai. He then demonstrated those principals and ideas, together with some discussion about wiring which was well received by the audience.

I think the Canberra Bonsai Society may well have been a bit disappointed with the number of members who attended this demo, but I for one thought it was an excellent day for a very modest sum.

I didn’t take many photos, but here are a few, and probably most importantly, a before and after. Hope you enjoy.

The man himself.

Before

During

After