December 2025 NBS Newsletter

🎄 A Note from Our President

Dear NBS Members,

I wanted to take this opportunity to wish each one of our members a very blessed and happy holiday season! We look forward to seeing all of you again next year at our first meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026 @ Massey Hall, Cheekwood.

Grateful,

Sara

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STAY CONNECTED

👥 **NBS Facebook Page**

🌐 NBS Website

📅 NBS Calendar

IMPORTANT DATES*

⭐Jan 3 and 4 - Deadwood Workshop

🌲Feb 23 - Monthly Meeting at Cheekwood

*more info below

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❄️ Winter Tree Care: Drew’s Cold-Weather Checklist

As the Winter Solstice arrives, our deciduous bonsai enter deep dormancy. However, conifers remain active, and all trees need ongoing attention when temperatures dip. Here’s Drew Binkley’s trusted Extreme Cold Checklist to guide your winter care:

1. Watering (Day Before the Freeze):

• Check soil early in the day.
• Keep soil evenly moist—never bone dry.
• Do not water in late afternoon or evening.

2. Shelter:

• Place trees on the ground near a wall or fence, mulching up to the rim.
• Use unheated garages, sheds, or cold frames.
• Ideal cold frame temps: 28°–40°F.

3. Wind Protection:

• Shield from north and northwest winds.
• Group trees for insulation.

4. Pots & Soil:

• Small pots freeze first—add extra protection.
• Protect recently repotted trees from temps below ~10°F.
• Akadama-heavy soils freeze harder—insulate well.

5. What NOT to Do:

• Don’t bring hardy trees indoors.