July 2008 Demonstration by Don Deluca

Don gave a demonstration on a Persian Ironwood (Parrotia persica) of how to improve the style of an established bonsai


Don Deluca hails from across the NSW border in Hay
and his demonstrations are always highly anticipated by
Bonsai Northwest members.
Don--almost unrecognisable, having shaved off his beard and moustache--explained that the Persian Ironwood is native to Iran and Russia and grows well in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney. This is the red-edged form that does not flower.


This tree was collected five years ago and built up from just four buds, which
are now the main branches. The key is defoliation, which Don does fives times
a year on this species.
Don advised that after collecting a tree to refine it
straight away using wiring techniques rather than cut-and-grow.
The effort put in at that stage will pay dividends down the track.
(Don likes to joke that he wired himself when he was younger).


Don advised that Persian Ironwood is suitable to all bonsai styles, including cascades as long as you do not cascade below the root system. When wiring branches, they should follow the shape of the trunk--if a straight trunk, straight branches; if a bent trunk, bent branches as in this bonsai. Don also noted that when following the "two-by-two method" of ramification, keep in mind that it looks more natural if the branchlets are of differing lengths. Wiring the root system should also be considered to achieve the best nebari.

Video projection of close up work was trialed at this demonstration.
Wire marks grow out quickly on the Persian Ironwood.


Don Deluca's restyled Persian Ironwood bonsai.

Vencel was clear he'd be very happy to take this bonsai home with him.
Detail of the demonstration bonsai.

Detail of the intricate branching and Don's wiring to suit the style of the tree. Note the directions of the buds.


Bonsai displayed on the Members' Tables

The July meeting followed on closely from Hirotoshi Saitoh's most recent visit to Victoria and some members displayed trees they had worked on with Sensei Saitoh.



Saitoh invariably sketches his vision for a bonsai for his students to work towards, as in the case of this Pine.

 


Dave took some time to adjust the wiring on his display tree. This is a beautiful pot.

 

 

 


A very well ramified Jade bonsai in a handmade pot.

 


Quentin explained that even though this is a multi-trunk bonsai, its branch structure follows the rules of left,
right and rear branches to create the picture of a unified bonsai.

 



The August meeting is a Workshop Night and potting mix will be on sale for repotting.

 

 

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