Discover the Art of Spekboom Bonsai with Andre Swart
Meet Andre Swart
Andre Swart is a paediatrician with 37 years’ experience and a deep passion for bonsai, a hobby he began over 30 years ago. He sees his trees much like his patients, each with a unique personality that he incorporates into his designs. Andre has a particular focus on spekboom bonsai, a species he has worked with for 15 years. Determined to prove that spekboom can thrive as a tree rather than a shrub.
As a member of the Kat Rivier Kai Bonsai Club in George, Andre draws inspiration from fellow enthusiasts and his late mentor, Rudi Adam. His approach to bonsai is rooted in both emotion and storytelling, aiming to connect deeply with each tree. Outside of his work, Andre enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in intellectual pursuits, and exploring the outdoors.
He invites readers to explore the fascinating world of spekboom bonsai through his eyes.
Why Choose Bonsai Gardening?
Cultivate Patience and Precision
Bonsai gardening teaches the virtues of patience and precision, allowing you to create living art that evolves over time.
Connect with Nature
Experience a deeper connection with nature as you care for and nurture your bonsai trees, fostering a sense of tranquility and mindfulness.
Create Your Own Masterpiece
Unleash your creativity by designing unique bonsai landscapes that reflect your personal style and artistic vision.
My Spekboom Bonsai Services
Explore the diverse range of services offered by Andre Swart, designed to enhance your bonsai gardening skills and knowledge.
01
Spekboom Bonsai Maintenance Tips
02
Personalized Guidance
03
Online Tutorials
The Book: Spekboom Bonsai Masterclass
This book is an essential and insightful guide for spekboom bonsai enthusiasts, providing valuable information for beginners and experienced growers alike. It delves into the philosophical traditions of Oriental art and offers practical advice on how to apply these principles to the art of growing spekboom in a local context.
In South Africa, local bonsai artists are actively incorporating indigenous species, leading to a resurgence of this art form with the development of unique African styles and trees. The book serves as an invaluable reference guide, offering detailed instructions and photographs on essential growing requirements such as watering, fertilising, pruning, and repotting.
Key highlights of the book include:
- Fundamental knowledge for selecting appropriate materials
- Comprehensive training process
- Techniques for creating your own bonsai masterpieces
Acquiring an understanding of the growth behaviours specific to Spekboom is indispensable for progress within this discipline of art.
CHAPTERS
01
The world of succulents
02
Portulacaria afra is a succulent
03
The art of bonsai
04
Challenging perceptions
05
Spekboom bonsai care and maintenance
06
Bonsai techniques
CHAPTERS Cont...
07
Creating bonsai from yamadori
08
Designing styles and forms
09
Designing an African landscape: African penjing
10
Problems with spekboom
11
Important facts about spekboom
12
Time and bonsai trees
What The Readers Are Saying
“Andre’s workshop was a game-changer for me. His passion and expertise are truly inspiring!”
Jessica L.
Bonsai Enthusiast
“The personalized guidance I received helped me transform my bonsai collection. Highly recommended!”
Michael T.
Hobbyist Gardener
“Andre’s tutorials are easy to follow and packed with valuable insights. I’ve learned so much!”
Samantha K.
Beginner Bonsai Gardener
More from Andre
Join Our Bonsai Community
The South African Bonsai Association (SABA) Facebook group is about bonsai, bonsai related events and bonsai products from SABA affiliated clubs.
Connect with Andre
Click on the image above to email Andre at []