The Canberra Bonsai Society and the Australian National Botanic Gardens are pleased to present Australian Plants as Bonsai: ‘The secret to looking old’. An exhibition of over 40 bonsai of Australian plants by the Canberra Bonsai Society members. Held in the Crosbie Morrison Building, ANBG.

A mature-looking tree is the aim of bonsai. There are tips and techniques to get a tree to look older than its age. Some shortcuts include starting with mature nursery stock or ‘growing on’ a tree for a few years in the ground. There are techniques for developing a wide trunk, creating dead branches or adding scars, which all give the tree the appearance of age. Many bonsai are passed from artist to artist over time, as the trees may live for decades. These tips and techniques will be explained at the exhibition and during the demonstrations at 11 am and 2 pm.

You don’t need to start the hobby of Bonsai at a young age, but it helps. If you are approaching retirement, there are shortcuts. The Canberra Bonsai Society can help you learn how to care for these amazing small trees. More information on their website.