Page 65 - BSAM 2016 Q3

The Container
e use of a traditional container, be it an oval or a rectangle, in my opinion, depreciates the image I wanted to portray. In my mind, the untamed natural appearance of a group of trees growing in high alti- tudes would be better manifested with the use of a stoneware slab. As such, and taking advantage of the recuperation period of the trees, I ordered an irregular shaped stoneware slab of Chinese origin as the foun- dation of the group planting.
Preparing the container is of outmost importance. First of all, drainage holes have to be set, cautiously, considering the nal image, placement of the mate- rial and design. Drainage netting is also necessary, as we want to protect the soil from washing away, and prevent the ingress of insects to the root ball. Equally important, anchor wires have to be employed to fas- ten and secure the trees appropriately, using rubber or plastic material in the fastening points to avoid dam- age to the tree roots and cambium. On a side note and in order to properly identify the anchor wire ends, we recommend the use of di erent colored tape. is will save us time, assist us in identifying the correct wire and will clearly make the process easier. Remember, time is an essential ingredient in the creation process, but we should also have fun and enjoy the journey.
Top ve photos; The untamed natural appearance of a group of trees growing in high altitudes would be better manifested with the use of a stoneware slab. Drainage screens and color-coded anchor wires complete the preparation of the slab.
Bottom; Setting the main tree commands the overall image and placement of the remaining elements.
July/August/September 2016 | BCI | 63