The tree shortly after collection in the Spring of 1987. To accommodate
the root system, the tree had to be planted with the front facing the
narrow side of the pot.

(10/88)
Here it is at the end of the second growing season, and it is ready for
the start of training in 1989.

(6/89)
The tree was repotted earlier in 1989. Since the root system was still
not able to support the trunk in position, the trunk had to be propped
up with a piece of lumber.

(5/90)
The tree was repotted again, using the same pot. Instead of supporting
the trunk with a piece of wood, supports were incorporated in the root
ball to keep the trunk in the desired position.

(6/90)
The tree was repotted again, this time using a shallower pot, and
exhibited in the Spring bonsai show of the Toronto Bonsai Society.

(8/92)
Earlier in 1992, while I attended the International Bonsai Conference in
Memphis, thieves tried to steal this tree but dropped it while reaching
it over the fence. It was left behind with the top broken off.

(5/93)
Thanks to encouragement by fellow TBS member Norman Haddrick, I decided
to continue working with this tree by developing a new apex from a
branch growing forward from the top foliage layer.

(7/93)
Detail of the new apex.

(8/96)
The tree was repotted earlier in 1996. The new apex is taking form.

(11/00)
By the Fall of 2000, the apex is well on its way.

(8/01)
Mission accomplished.