Cat Nelson

The Japanese art of manipulating the direction of how a tree grows is called bonsai and it will be presented in Washington this weekend. Cat Nelson, a resident of Keota, says she first learned about the practice at the Minnesota State Fair and has since been working with bonsai for years. Nelson has about 150 bonsai trees and will bring some to the program.

She shares one misconception is that the trees need to be indoors, but they are healthiest outside and simply need extra winter protection in Iowa’s climate. She says it is a hobby that takes time and patience, with a longterm investment. Nelson formerly volunteered at the Chicago Botanical Garden with their bonsai collection.

Sunday’s program will be an introduction to those who may want to consider it. The program will cost $10 and will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at the Washington Public Library, sign up is at the Dodici Shop in Washington. For more information listen to the full Washington Page interview with Nelson click here.