Pots and Progress Repot Day
- Brad Jenks II
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
A repot workshop is a hands-on day where members bring trees, set up tools and soil, and help each other make smart root and design decisions that set the tree up for the next season. We discuss timing, select pots and planting angles, remove roots, prune as needed, then secure the tree in the pot with mesh and tie wires before working fresh, well-drained soil through the roots. Along the way, people share techniques, compare options, and learn from quick demos so everyone leaves with healthier trees and better ideas for future refinement and display.
If you have a club tree at home, please bring it to the workshop. This is a good opportunity to repot, clean up roots, refresh the soil, and ensure each tree stays on track with its long-term plan. Having the club trees together also helps us compare progress, share ideas, and decide on the next steps as a group.
Common repot workshop activities
• Root combing and root pruning
• Soil selection and soil mixing
• Pot choice, planting angle, and front selection
• Drainage screens and tie-down wiring
• Basic design review and next steps planning
• Wiring for branch placement
• Pruning for structure and balance
• Carving and deadwood ideas when appropriate
• Aftercare planning for watering, shelter, and recovery timing
Demo Tree
In this demo, we will ground layer this elm to rebuild the base and set it up for a smaller, more refined pot. The exposed roots you see now are not likely to develop into good nebari, so we will choose a new "finish line" higher on the trunk, remove a ring of bark, clean the cambium, apply rooting hormone, then pack the area with coconut core and soil so new roots form where we want them. Once a healthy pad of new roots develops, the tree can be separated below the layer, giving it a shorter trunk with a better base, a shallow root system, and a cleaner foundation that fits the tree's proportions and allows it to move into a smaller pot.
Work Space
We have plenty of room to work, indoors and out. Our outdoor benches are great for larger projects and messier work, and the garage space pictured above provides a comfortable spot for smaller work, demos, and tool setup. We will also have saws and bonsai tools available for you to borrow. There is space for all kinds of projects, small or large, and even if you just want to watch and learn, you are welcome.
Show Preparation
We can also take a short nature walk for inspiration, especially for accent plant ideas that feel true to the season. The walk is very close to the venue, and our nearby creek overlooks an almond orchard with a quiet view of local wildlife, including birds. On a recent walk, we even ran across a great horned owl. Spending a few minutes in that setting helps us notice colors, textures, and natural pairings, so any accents we choose support the display's harmony and connect our show preparations to what is happening in the landscape right now.
Hope to see you there.
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