​Apart from the main attraction, the Bonsai Exhibition, various interesting activities also entertained visitors. This included a karate demonstration and a Bonsai landscaping demonstration by the Blaauwberg Bonsai Club.

All of the clubs in the Western Cape contributed to a spectacular exhibition of trees of all shapes and sizes, currently being cultivated by their members. Depending on the species, some trees even had blossoming flowers and fruit, while others boasted meticulous landscapes such as a miniature pine tree forest.

‘One of the benefits of growing bonsai trees is that they can grow anywhere, without taking up a lot of space. Learning how to prune, water and shape the tree can develop discipline and detail-orientation in children, or be a relaxing hobby for adults and seniors. Not to mention the environmental benefits of planting trees within the workplace or in living spaces, which can significantly counteract the negative effects of urbanisation. The well attended Bonsai Exhibition is testament that residents and visitors care about trees and green open spaces in the built and urban environment.

‘Bonsai is an ideal way for the community to continue planting trees, as there is no limitation caused by a change in climate. Some bonsai enthusiasts even brought along their trees, to get expert advice on styling and cultivation. After all, it’s not often that such a concentrated wealth of knowledge is made freely available to the public,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

​​​​ Last month, the City celebrated Arbor month, with a wide range of activities which included public displays, exhibitions at the Civic Centre (including a Bonsai Exhibition), interactive educational programmes at schools and eco-centres as well as various tree planting events.

The City’s Recreation and Parks Department planted more than 1 000 trees during the month of September, although the planting season officially started in June, during the winter rains in the Western Cape. This included:

• 548 trees (between 20 and 1000 litre bag sizes)
• 420 potted olive trees
• 150 flowering trees at Arderne Gardens

There were also 951 succulents (8 litre bag sizes) planted in areas across the metropole .

Some of the local events during Arbor Month included planting a Yellowwood tree at Jack Muller Park, tree planting and an educational programme at Tinkers Road Park, Summer Greens, and planting Spekboom samplings at Clay’s Lane Park in Elsies River.
‘Planting trees and caring for parks and open spaces is celebrating and acknowledging the important role that nature plays. These spaces are an important interface between nature and the urban environment. Every tree planted, every tree cared for, every park maintained is an investment in nature that will one day be to the benefit of society. I would like to once again thank all staff, community organisations and residents who participated to make Arbor Month such a  success,’  said Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

End