Guidelines for Entry of Show Trees - Cantigny

Tree Entry Registration and Limitations

Tree entry will be done at the show by the registration committee.  There is no entry fee.  There are no pre-registration requirements.  This is not a judged event.  The show is open for entry from the general public but entry is limited to two trees per person.  Prairie State Bonsai Society members may enter up to five trees.   All entries must follow the guidelines below.

General Health

The tree should be healthy and free of insects.  The foliage should show no signs of insect damage or disease.  The registration committee will reject from entry any trees with insects or disease problems.

Wiring

There should be no wire on the trunk of the tree.  Wire is acceptable on branches if the wiring is neat and as inconspicuous as possible.  Any wire on the tree should be either copper or copper-colored aluminum wire.

Types of Pots

All trees should be potted in stoneware or ceramic bonsai pots.  Trees in plastic or terra cotta pots will not be considered as acceptable for entry in the show.

Grooming

There should not be any dead leaves, insect shells, webs, or other debris on the tree.  The soil surface should be clean and free of weeds.  Moss or other groundcover should be in a healthy condition.  There should not be any obvious mineral deposits or smudges on the surface of the pots.   Pots may be cleaned and polished with oil or other cleaner but leave a spot on the back of the pot without oil.  This will allow the show sticker to adhere to the pot and not be lost.

Miscellaneous

Trees should be watered well before being brought to the show.  Be sure that excess water has had a chance to drain out.  Place a wooden toothpick into the soil to indicate the front of the tree.  This toothpick will be removed once the trees are properly placed in the show.

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