EMIHLE MBANGATHA
This year’s Border Bonsai Society annual show, to be held in November, will honour the legacy of its founding members, Billie Warren and Phyllis Scott, who established the society in 1972.
The show, set for November 23-25 at Little Beacons in Beacon Bay, pays tribute to these pioneers who, with limited resources, cultivated a deep passion for bonsai in East London, shaping the local gardening community.
Bonsai, a Japanese practice that involves growing miniature trees in containers, is more than just horticulture — it is a form of living art.
By carefully shaping and nurturing bonsai trees over many years, practitioners create a symbolic representation of nature’s beauty, demonstrating patience, dedication, and craftsmanship.
Cultivating an interest in bonsai also promotes mindfulness and a sense of calm. Sharing this art form with younger generations ensures the continuation of a tradition that connects people to nature, history and art.
The Border Bonsai Society believes that honouring bonsai helps us appreciate the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.
These trees are often passed down through generations, carrying with them stories of those who have lovingly tended them. In this way, bonsai plants serve as living legacies, reminding us of the importance of history, tradition and continuity in a fast-paced world and the legacy of the founders that have been retained in their bonsai will also be shared at this year’s show.
One of the society’s oldest living members, Joan Kingma, 91, reflected on how Warren and Scott started the society to gain more knowledge in bonsai at a time when only two other societies existed in the country.
“The society has since grown into a wealth of knowledge, helping many hone the art of growing miniature trees.
“With the society at 52 years old already, many shows, conventions and international demonstrators have contributed awareness to this highly prized art form,” she said.
“Master growers over the years also have such material available and at some nurseries some material is obtained.
“However, growing and training that material takes time and knowledge,” she said.
The Society member Jen Weyer said emphasized the society was a ‘living art form’, representing the legacy of past generations through inherited trees.
The show will feature bonsai exhibitions, with trees available for purchase, repotting services, and expert advice.
Vice chair Peter Strockenstron said spring was the perfect time for showcasing the finest specimens in this living art form.
