Not the first and most definitely not the last…but it is a first for my business. Last year’s successful (I thought) air layer has given up the ghost and become the first to join the queue for the ‘Bonfire of Shame’.

 

A short but eventful life, it lived it to the full. Having made it through a traumatic birth – cut from its mother without warning! It struggled to establish any real root system or leafy growth. Words of encouragement fell on deaf bark so finally I accepted the truth and said farewell…

 

The mother is also looking a little ‘stressed’ and I feel it can’t be too long before she follows her offspring into the flames. I have to admit my success with azaleas is a little disturbing – especially cuttings and air layers.  All the books suggest it is easy so any words of advice feel free to comment.

 

On a cheery note…it will mean I will have two free pots available to any new leafy prospects on the waiting list making the transition from potensai (Potential Bonsai) to bonsai

 

Happy Bonsaiing, Xav