2026 contest ideas?

[Desert O'Piñon]

Are there some kinds of trees that don't form rafts?

My guess is that any species that can be air layered or rooted from cuttings would probably be good candidates. I assume hardwoods will be easier/quicker than conifers. I hope to try F. benjamina for a tropical, and I have several options for temperate species.

 

[darzuo]

Just to clarify for those of us who have never done a raft, does the main trunk have to remain visible? Are there some kinds of trees that don't form rafts? This looks like an interesting contest. It would be nice to get some pointers from BNut raft experts.

Im no expect, but in my opinion the trunk being visible and rooting along the trunk is what makes a raft a raft. As far as species, I think anything that roots easily should work alright.

 

[DeepSouth]

Just to clarify, what does “collected material, as long as it is not clearly set up as raft bonsai.” mean? Does this mean no collecting of material that is already growing parallel to the ground due to tree falling?

It’s not a big deal either way, I just want to make sure that I target the right material.

 

[JoeWilson]

Can't wait to get my life jacket on.

 

[The Barber]

Just to clarify, what does “collected material, as long as it is not clearly set up as raft bonsai.” mean? Does this mean no collecting of material that is already growing parallel to the ground due to tree falling?

It’s not a big deal either way, I just want to make sure that I target the right material.

I think it is just a way to keep it fair. Keeps people from using material that they already have set up as a raft. It keeps it more about the creation of a raft vs us starting with a raft, which also keeps people from using rafts they may have already started on in the past. If not for this rule, I would show you exactly why it is unfair...I know where a gnarly hollowed tree stump is that has broken off low to the ground, and healed/rolled over and is already a raft, all for the cost of a treated deck board, a few screws, a bucket of pumice, and gas to make the 15 minute drive to my friend's property. The raft style is a fantastic way to take even a boring, ramrod straight tree, and create something fantastic, and I can't wait to see this contest get started.