More than 60 different bonsai plants will be on view at Windward Mall over the Labor Day weekend. Small world of bonsai
at Windward MallThe Hawaii Bonsai Association hosts its annual show beginning 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. tomorrow; and continuing 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday. The display will be in the exhibition area next to the Disney store.
California botanist Dennis Makishima will give a presentation at 1:30 p.m. Sunday.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hawaii Bonsai Association, which was founded to foster the art and culture of bonsai through its educational program and community displays.
The art of dwarfing trees originated in China about 1,700 years ago, but it was the Japanese who brought the art to its present state. Japanese merchants and students who traveled to China brought home the miniature plants, which were first cultivated by Japan's elite. Today, the art of bonsai is enjoyed by thousands of Americans.
"Bonsai" is translated as "tree in a pot." These plants, miniaturized by constricting their root systems, can grow in containers not much bigger than a thimble. The outside number to be considered bonsai is 2 feet.
Those who care for bonsai tread a fine line between too much care and too little care. Too much soil and growth area will result in a large tree. Too little, may kill the plant.
You will probably find someone at the exhibition to answer your questions about these little gems. Call Marynne Lee at 623-1070 for more information.