rockm
Spuds Moyogi
Yamadori collecting vandalism - Bonsai Empire
An attempt at collecting a tree from the wild has cost a handsome pine its life and sent a wave of outrage across the Bonsai world. One example among many of a practice that is unworthy of the art of
www.bonsaiempire.com
I ran across this article on collecting a while back. it's from 2016 or so, but mostly timeless--overwrought and pretentious as the article is-it has an extremely valid point. It struck a nerve, so up on my soapbox...
It shows how inexperience and disregard for others impacts collecting and collectible trees. The mindless inept and selfish BS exhibited with this attempt is not as uncommon as it should be. There are many instance of similar things happening all over the planet with asshole/greedy bonsai collectors overestimating their abilities, taking advantage of situations, and generally not giving a shit or any thought about what they're doing. Similar thing have happened in the U.S. from Fla. to the Rockies over the years. Some areas of the Philippines outlawed collection of certain species on their coastlines because of overcollection and destruction.
The age and qualities of this tree here aren't really germane. Inept, destructive and selfish collection not only kills spectacular trees, but also mediocre trees. It can destroy habitat and most of all, reflects on ALL OF US--like it or not.
Yamadori isn't "free" material laying around for you to take. It's a resource for all of us. Get permission (yeah--it's hard) Think before you dig
(how is this going to impact the site? Leave no trace of your activity--fill in your holes for God's sake). Know what you're doing (including WHAT you're digging up for crying out loud before you take it), know how to care for it (do your homework). Don't take more than you need (no, it's not 'free' and all of it doesn't belong to you).