bald cypress collecting trip #2 for 2021
Sneak Peek
This week we went for larger specimens.
Bald Cypress Collecting Trip #2 for 2021
This is the sort of tree I’m not supposed to be collecting anymore. But doggone, it was just something I couldn’t pass up! Isn’t the fluting impressive, and you can’t do better than a nice twisting trunk.
It wouldn’t fit in the small concrete mixing tubs I often use for BC. This is one of the big tubs. What that means is, the tree and tub weight pretty close to 100 pounds. That’s why I’m not supposed to be collecting trees this big anymore. Oh, well….
I know you’re wondering – the trunk is 8″ across when measured 8″ above the soil surface, and it’s chopped at 36″. The root spread will be around 14″ once the tree is lifted for its bonsai pot.
What a great BC specimen!
This one is more manageable. The trunk is only 5.5″ across, and it’s chopped at 31″. Also great fluting, and this one has also got a bit of a twist to the trunk.
The first tree above and especially this one came with a dense mat of fibrous roots. This one was so bad it took me the better part of an hour to work through them and cut away what I won’t need. The result was worth it, though.
The base here is 7″ across, and it’s chopped at 34″. Great taper, of course.
I thought I’d include a shot of what should be the back of this tree. The trunk has a very impressive pair of flutes from this angle. I don’t think this is a better front, just because of how the tree moves and the fact that the other angle has a great root flare at the soil. But maybe someone will give it a try.
How long until some more Bald Cypress yamadori end up for sale?
Zach, I sent you an email with some information on my BC wish list.
How about getting someone young ish as an apprentice??
Maybe some day. I’m actually in better shape today than I was a couple of years ago – so it’s all good (but fun to complain).