Hello to All,

Jerry,

fortunately the experience I gained from growing the Grewia
Caffra,off set the premature death somewhat.I can focus
on growing for a large trunk with thick branches,knowing that
the finer branching can be easily had down the road on this
second specimen.

What I had hoped to hear from someone was that they had
actively tested the sharp particle idea and seen a difference
in the branching,or root response.Basically more branches/roots
and finer.
I tend to prefer the open tree branching with movements of
branchlets being up,down,across and not the layered shape.
Takes longer with clip and grow[alphabetical order],but it is
much more satisfying to achieve.Also looking very natural.

Your correct about the "barrier",as I observed in the "autopsy"
a very few fat roots in the clay soil ,with the finer feeders
occurring in the bonsai soil mix used in potting on the shrub.

I have put the "corpse" aside for the standard ashing,and then
to be used as a glaze on a pot.Gone but not forgotten.
Khaimraj
[Caribbean/West Indies,
Sempre Spring Zone.]

-----Original Message-----
From: Jerry Meislik
To:
Date: 23 April 2003 12:14
Subject: [IBC] collecting trees


Khaimraj
My gut feeling is that sharp or dull is not the critical feature. Particle
size is, as well as sifting out the fine materials.
Your plant may have failed because anytime there is a major difference in
particle size from one area to another roots will not easily move across
that "barrier".
Just my guess. Anxiously awaiting the many other views.
Jerry Meislik
Whitefish Montana USA
Zone 4-5
http://www.bonsaihunk.8m.com/

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