NOVEMBER MEETING REVIEW

On a pleasant cool morning 38 members of the Greater
Phoenix Pond Society met at Berridge nursery to learn more about the use of Bonsai and the Japanese theme to refit ponds. It was so pleasant to be surrounded by so many lovely plants of all kinds. So many thanks to Berridge for letting us meet on their premises. President Dan Stough opened the meeting. The treasure’s report was given noting that Wild at Heart had thanked the GPPS for their contribution of $500 dollars. Prizes, consisting of gift certificates to Berridge Nursery, were distributed to winners of the recent photo contest. The possibility of consolidating them into a calendar is being explored. Newsletter editor Diane Evenson announced that Fran Thurber would be taking over editorial duties as of the December issue. The meeting was then turned over to Ardie Apostolos from the Phoenix Bonsai Society. Ms. Apostolos focused on the elements of a Japanese Garden and how these elements could be used to enhance existing and developing ponds. She indicated that Japanese garden styles follow certain rules or plans and that each garden, no matter what style, should blend the three basic elements of water, plant material and stone. Stone should be considered the skeletal backbone of the garden and provides mass and stability to a garden scene. Invest in large boulders when possible and let an expert move them. Plants and water are anchored around the stones. Water is the next element to be considered. A decision must be made as to how much and what type of water will be present. Will it be the major focus or a minor one? Water is the lifeblood of the garden and provides for birds, fish and man. A loud waterfall can block out unwanted noise or a small trickle can bid a welcome to people and hummingbirds. Plant material is introduced last. The Phoenix climate is different from that of Japan and therefore plants should be used that will survive in a desert area. Fine textured material such as pine and small leafed specimens should be planted in the background and courser textured plants toward the front. Finally the Japanese garden should be conducive to relaxation and enjoyment.