With Bill
by Sam Regi
Bill, an 88-year-old bonsai enthusiast, shares his passion and knowledge about the art of cultivating these miniature trees. With years of experience, he reveals the intricate process of shaping and nurturing bonsai, from starting with a tree in a pot to pruning and wiring it to achieve the desired form. Bill's dedication to bonsai stems from his desire to keep his mind and body active during his retirement years. Now, with over 140 bonsai trees under his care, Bill cherishes the joy and challenges that come with tending to these living works of art.
Press play to listen to an extract from the conversation with Bill.
Interview with Bill
Can you tell us about the process of growing and shaping a bonsai tree?
To start, you plant the tree in a pot. Initially, it’s all about getting the tree to grow healthily. Once it's established, you trim some branches and leaves, and then wire the tree to shape it according to your design, whether it's a box tree or any other variety. After shaping, you keep the tree in a small pot. Each year, you need to prune the roots and repot the tree. If it becomes too large for its pot, you transfer it to a bigger one, always ensuring it has fresh soil. This process helps maintain the tree’s small size and desired shape.
It sounds like there’s a lot of care involved in maintaining bonsai trees. How do you keep track of all these details?
It can be challenging to remember every detail, especially with all the different types of trees. For example, I sometimes forget the names of the trees I'm working with, like that one fern-like tree we discussed. But it’s really about practice and familiarity with the techniques. Over time, you get used to the routines and specific needs of each tree.
How long have you been involved in bonsai cultivation?
I’ve been working with bonsai trees for a long time. I'm 88 years old, born in 1932, so you could say I’ve had quite a few years to perfect the craft and learn about these fascinating trees.
Bill on film.
What inspired you to start growing bonsai trees?
When I was around 50, I noticed that many of my wife’s friends were retiring and spending their days in a monotonous routine—taking their dogs for walks, buying newspapers, and then sitting in their chairs. It struck me that this kind of routine could lead to a lack of mental and physical stimulation, which I believe contributes to a decline in health. I didn't want that for myself, so I decided I needed a hobby.
I saw a segment on Burk’s Backyard—a gardening show where they featured bonsai trees—and I was captivated. I thought it would be a great way to stay engaged and active. I started visiting nurseries, experimenting with different trees, and over time, I became a bonsai gardener. I didn’t anticipate they would grow to be such a big part of my life.
How many bonsai trees do you have now?
I have around 140 to 150 bonsai trees. I’m starting to worry about who will take care of them when I’m no longer around. It’s a concern because they’ve become such an integral part of my life.
Sometimes, my mind just goes blank, and I can’t recall the name of a tree I’ve had for decades. For instance, I had one tree for 35 years, and recently, I couldn't remember its name. It’s strange how these things happen. It’s like the name just escapes me for a while, and then it suddenly comes back.
Have you noticed any changes in how your bonsai trees grow due to climate change?
Yes, climate change has had an impact. It has altered the way the trees respond to the seasons. For example, they used to shed their leaves in autumn and regrow them in spring. Now, some trees no longer follow that pattern. It’s a noticeable change in their growth and behavior.
Is there a particular tree among your collection that stands out to you?
Ah, yes, there is. It’s a juniper. I had it as a tiny sapling, and now it’s grown quite significantly. I’ve had to move some of the trees into the garden because they’ve outgrown their pots. It's quite remarkable to see how they evolve over the years.
Contact Sheet of Bill and his Bonsai