Cheshire Bonsai Society wins best exhibit in flower marquee at RHS Tatton

Cheshire Bonsai Society won a gold medal and best exhibit in the flower marquee at the RHS Tatton Flower Show.

“We’re over the moon,” said membership secretary Matt Wood.

“We won gold last year but to be declared best exhibit in a marquee full of professionals is incredible. We’re shell shocked.”

The society was established 35 years ago and creates opportunities for bonsai growers across Cheshire to meet, work on trees and develop their skills.

Judges were bowled over by the painstaking attention to detail and precision of their display.

“It is a labour of love,” said Matt. “You never stop learning.

“It’s all about choosing the right tree.

“Each tree has a different set of rules, trees need to be understood.”

Matt Wood, membership secretary of Cheshire Bonsai Society at their award-winning display at the RHS Tatton Flower Show

Contrary to what people think, the club says there is no mystery involved in growing bonsai trees.

They are not dwarf varieties of tree, kept small by not watering or given a potion to stunt their growth.

The tree species chosen for bonsai are the same as those that grow in the countryside, such as oak, elm, maple and larch.

They are kept small by continual pruning, both of the branches and the roots.

“You can never become a master because there is so much to learn,” said Matt, explaining that it can take up to five years to learn the basics and start specialising.

“We get people into the hobby.”

Cheshire Bonsai Society meets on the third Monday of the month, except December, from 7.30pm at Little Budworth Villlage Hall.

Beginners and experienced growers are welcome.

A variety of meetings are planned throughout the year with demonstrations, workshops, guest speakers and opportunities to buy Bonsai and accessories.

For more details visit cheshirebonsaisociety.org.uk