Living Art Bonsai Society

November is a season of transition and gratitude. As our trees slow down and prepare for winter, we have an opportunity to reflect on another rewarding year of learning, creativity, and friendship within LABS. I am grateful for the knowledge our members share, the encouragement you offer one another, and the welcoming spirit you bring to every gathering.

Club Updates & Upcoming Events

Our mentoring program continues to be an important part of the club. I appreciate Tom Pendergrass for leading this effort and thank every mentor who gives time and experience to help others grow. I encourage newer members to bring a tree, ask questions, and take advantage of the practical guidance available through the program.

Please join us for our November meeting and come ready to learn, share, and enjoy time with fellow bonsai enthusiasts. The conversations around our trees are often as valuable as the formal program, so do not hesitate to bring your current projects, challenges, and successes. John Walker will be conducting a demonstration and three workshop sections.

Please also remember our monthly work night on the first Thursday of the month. It is a relaxed and supportive setting for receiving hands-on assistance, refining a tree, or simply learning by observing others.

Seasonal Reminder

With colder weather approaching, now is a good time to review winter protection for each tree in your collection. Reduce watering as growth slows but continue checking soil moisture so root balls never dry out completely. Inspect wire, remove weeds and fallen leaves, and protect pots and roots from hard freezes and drying winds. Because winter needs vary by species, ask a mentor if you are uncertain about the best plan for a particular tree.

Final Thoughts

As we enter the holiday season, I hope each of you will take a moment to appreciate not only the beauty of your trees, but also the friendships that make our club special. Thank you for your participation, generosity, and continued commitment to the art of bonsai. Together, we are building a stronger and more connected bonsai community.

I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting. Until then, enjoy the season and take good care of your trees.

Warmest regards,
Tim Doran
LABS President

20 & 21
Nov 26
John Walker Workshop

John Walker Workshop

20 Dec (Fri) 0800 – 1200 am

1230 – 4:30 pm

21 Dec (Sat) 0800-1200 only

Presentation one on one workshop by John Walker
Saturday – John Walker will critique your tree at the meeting

Location: Huntsville Botanical Garden

4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805

Here are directions to the meeting room called Volunteer Classroom:

The Linda J. Smith Building is located to the right of the Guest Center. Drive straight to the Guest Center, take your first right in the traffic circle, and park in the parking lot (Dogwood Lot on the map) at the top of the hill. Go to the red brick building with the wooden ramp in front of it next to the pavilion. When you walk up the ramp, the volunteer classroom is the door on the right.

21 Nov 26
LABS Monthly Meeting & Annual Officers Voting

Monthly Meeting

Times 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Voting for LABS Officer
Presentation by John Walker – He will critique any tree you bring in!

Location: Huntsville Botanical Garden

4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805

Here are directions to the meeting room called Volunteer Classroom:

The Linda J. Smith Building is located to the right of the Guest Center. Drive straight to the Guest Center, take your first right in the traffic circle, and park in the parking lot (Dogwood Lot on the map) at the top of the hill. Go to the red brick building with the wooden ramp in front of it next to the pavilion. When you walk up the ramp, the volunteer classroom is the door on the right.