AusBonsai

Last night we had Lindsay and Glynis Bebb at our monthly meeting. The general subject was refinement, how to obtain it. Why we do certain things at certain times.

We had a full bench of display tree's and I had forgotten my camera.

One of the tree's on display was my own Babingtonia virgata ( formerly Baekia virgata ) it was in full bloom. One of the members was es-pounding how they are prone to dying off. The history of this tree is such, but once that was halted, it has been a pleasure to me.

One thing must be remembered to keep it from dying back is to prune it. Do not let it set seed as soon as the flower's start to fade cut it back. It is the setting of seed that takes the most energy from the plant. In nature it is fine, but in pot culture it is a different story. Any way I explained what to do and he seemed happy that he had learnt something.

Now it is well and good to es-pound your thoughts, but if you can show it is even better so for your viewing.
Here is my Dragon rising though the clouds before and after

It's a lovely look after the prune. Pretty good before the prune as well.

I'll say it again, beautiful tree Pup!

Well said. I think its also important to note with trees like this (and some conifers) that sacrifice branches are not always worth it. They work for some things, but often branches are left "just for options in the future" or because people are simply lazy. Keep ontop of your foliage when you are to the stage of refinement and even building the tree and you will find you will get faster development. Only leave something to grow if you are certain it will help you get closer to your perception of the finished tree.

P.S. They changed the name again! I think its Sonantha species now. I received an email about it around 8 months ago but i have deleted it. A quick google showed nothing, but the industry usually takes a LONG time to adjust to the change. Most tags still say Baeckea!

Joel

I am going out to prune mine tomorrow Pup. Thanks for the reminder.