The School of Bonsai – Year 1

Year One of the School of Bonsai will focus on building foundations of bonsai design, identifying quality material and applying technical skills on a Shimpaku Juniper to create a fine and unique bonsai. Careful attention to the projects of pruning, wiring and repotting will be conducted within the course of the year. Topics in horticulture will include nutrients, insect & fungus management, and the changes in maintenance throughout the seasons.

The School meets once every month: 6 Full-Day Seminars and 6 Evening Guided Workshops.


Full-day Seminar
The Seminar covers changing seasonal care, potting, and planning for and implementing specialized design. Each student will be dedicated to creating their own specimen Shimpaku Juniper. Developing the Shimpaku will guide every aspect of bonsai care throughout the year.

Half-day Workshop
The Workshop is an opportunity for students to work directly with Zuma. Bringing their own trees for study, students will document and develop their trees to elevate their personal bonsai collection.


Year I Schedule

(click here for 2022-2023 dates)

2023-2024 season
Workshop I
Wednesday, April 5, 2023; 5p-8p

Workshop II
Wednesday, June 7, 2023; 5p-8p

Workshop III
Wednesday, August 2, 2023; 5p-8p

Workshop IV
Wednesday, October 4, 2023; 5p-8p

Workshop V
Wednesday, December 6, 2023; 5p-8p

Workshop VI
Wednesday, February 7, 2024; 5p-8p

Seminar II
Saturday, May 13, 2023; 11a-5p

Seminar III
Saturday, July 8, 2023; 11a-5p

Seminar IV
Saturday, September 24, 2023; 11a-5p

Seminar V
Saturday, November 4, 2023; 11a-5p

Seminar VI
Saturday, January 6, 2024; 11a-5p

Seminar I
Saturday, March 2, 2024; 11a-5p

Tuition

  • Total: $1575 including shimpaku 
    • First payment to reserve spot: $575
    • Second payment on June 7th: $500
    • Third payment on October 4th: $500

NOTE: Some workshop materials are included in school tuition, but students should expect some additional purchases throughout the year (e.g.: pots, special soil blends, etc.).

Payment is non-refundable.

How to Enroll

Those interested in enrolling in the School of Bonsai can reach out to Emmy via email: emmy[at]bonsaiwest[dot]com or by calling the nursery during our normal business hours at (978) 486-3556.