While this is a blog about all things bonsai, what it actually encompasses is my journey or continued story. Saying that, there are challenges we face along the way that don’t always evolve around techniques or horticulture, rather other things such as culture, change/ evolution.

Some call me stubborn, once I’ve set my mind to something I’m difficult to move and well this can be a hindrance at times it also helps me in sticking to my guns sort of speak.

I believe bonsai as practiced in New Zealand is at the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in its journey. Standing on the shoulders of those that have come before us, we are now a handful of extremely passionate individuals that get to call this our profession. Yes, what that may look like is unique to that individual and rightly so as our journeys are unique but our love for bonsai is shared.

With a new chapter means change! Yes change is difficult, trust me it’s one thing I’ve always battled with, but we have a choice, continue to hit the nail that sticks out, that doesn’t do things according to the old ways, or unite and lift up all these professionals empowering them to continue their development and allowing them to then give back to the community and ultimately the next generation.

I might be living in a dream world where I don’t accept unrealistic deadlines/ ultimatums, categorisation (labelling/ boxing) low cost, accepting exposure as part payment, lack of engagement with what a professional can offer by allowing them the time to plan and bring new and exciting ideas; maybe so. Just maybe.

There’s always two sides to a coin and I’m fully aware of what the extreme to this may be, but I think knowing who that person is, what they stand for, the daily sacrifices they go through and their underlying drive in pursuit of this profession should sway any need for extremities.

If there is any organisation that wants to engage with not only myself but other professionals I really hope you take the time to communicate, talk, understand their offerings there’s plenty to be accomplished together.