At the April BSV Monday meeting, John and Dave talked about collecting Yamadori in Australia and the issues you face when collecting. John had several recent Yamadori on display to illustrate the types of trees that could be collected.

They covered a very wide range of issues that you will need to address if you are to be successful at collecting Yamadori.  Some of their comments are included below.

• Make sure your planned activities are legal. There are Federal, State and Local Government laws that apply in various circumstances and permits may be required. Urban Yamadori on private property may be an easier option.

• Risk management plans are necessary to ensure diggers and the public are kept safe.

• Yamadori can range from small to very large.

• Digging and caring for Yamadori are time intensive activities so choose carefully before you start to dig.

• Dave suggests you select your tree based on nebari, movement, taper and bark. Branches can be grown later.

• Some species such as Hawthorn can be temperamental so timing and aftercare are critical.

• Different techniques such as the "Sweating Technique" and open soil mixes are being experimented with to improve success rates. The roots need to be kept moist until the tree can be potted. Some species such as Jade need special treatment to avoid wood rot.

• Equipment needed depends on many things but could include hand saws, secateurs and a sharp shovel. A chain saw may also be an option. Pre-dig preparation can assist.