AusBonsai

So we all "know" that Japanese Red Pine doesn't grow here in Brisbane right? Wrong!!
This tree says otherwise
I took these pics at Tess' nursery two weeks ago, so I have seen it in the flesh. She has been growing, from seed, for 20years. Although it is the only one she has.
I REALLY want one

Only one thing to do now Nathan. Gotta go out and get yourself one. A little hard to get though.

I wonder who did say Japanese Red Pine doesn't grow in Brisbane

Tony

Tony - A Lot of people have said that to me in the last few years. That the just up and die. I was glad to find out it wasn't the case. It is the only one Tess has though.
Bodhi - Yeah mate, i think you're right!! Do you have any kicking around? LOL

Yeah, I have heard it a few times also. I remember a lady years ago, who I have a lot of respect for, that said you could not grow junipers in Ipswich.

Reds aren't very fond of the humidity, but there are precautions. Have you tried Aus. Bonsai Grower? I thought Steve had some young ones.

i too havce been told red wont grow in bris, is a nice specimen in the mt cootha botanic gardens though

i thought they would do fine there, however rockhampton was a differant story. had my 25 year old one in 3 years in rocky almost lost it, 2 years down here and its looking fine

A few years ago, Steve from Australian Bonsai Grower had a batch of advanced JRPs. They are probably still there now lined up next to similar sized JBPs. It was clear the two species faired differently in the Brisbane climate with the JBPs doing somewhat better. By comparison, the needles for the red pines appeared deformed with dieback. Steve commented he didn't think the red pine was suited to the Brisbane climate. I guess perhaps a microclimate might make all the difference.

Perhaps it's like growing certain species in a less than ideal climate - sure you can keep it alive but it will never thrive. The challenge is fun, but the risk is always there you'll lose something you've worked on as bonsai for years. Moreover, bonsai training can be stressful on a tree and this means training would have to be staged more slowly at the very least.

On the plus side, having a tree in your collection which is supposed to not grow in your climate can always earn you "wow" points with your mates.

Thanks for all of the feedback guys
I haven't been out to Steves in ages to be honest, so it's probably time for a visit

I was out at Aus. Bonsai Grower on the week end for a class and yes they still have some advanced ones for sale.