Beginning Bonsai

Beginning Bonsai

  • Ages 18+

This class will provide the basic concepts and skills for novices to begin growing and shaping their own miniature trees.

338 followers
By The NC Arboretum: Adult Education Programs
338 followers
Lots of repeat customers 📈

Date and time

Saturday, May 17 · 9:30am - 4:30pm EDT.

Location

The North Carolina Arboretum

100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Asheville, NC 28806

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 5 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 7 hours
  • Ages 18+

Beginning Bonsai Workshop

with Rebecca Ayres

Saturday, May 17  |  9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Although it has its roots in ancient Asian traditions, the living art of bonsai now enjoys enthusiasts throughout much of the world. This class will provide the basic concepts and skills for novices to begin growing and shaping their own miniature trees. The first half of the class will cover the fundamental horticultural and aesthetic principles of bonsai. It will include such topics as tree selection, watering, pest control, pruning, wiring, and styling. In the second half of the class, each participant will receive a pot, scissors, wire, and planting medium. With guidance from the instructor, the students will create their own bonsai to take home. Materials included in registration. 

Rebecca Ayres is a ceramic artist and gardener. A longtime Arboretum volunteer, she is the assistant to the bonsai curator and helps with overseeing the exhibition garden, the collection and the Carolina Bonsai Expo. She is a member of the Blue Ridge Bonsai Society, where she has taught workshops and classes, and is a graduate of the Arboretum's Blue Ridge Naturalist program.


  • Members: Remember to enter your promo code upon checkout to receive your 10% member discount! Email adulteducation@ncarboretum.org with questions.
  • See a full listing of Adult Education Programs at the North Carolina Arboretum here! Questions? Check our FAQs.
  • We are committed to fostering a diverse, supportive learning community. If the cost of a class is a barrier for you, please complete this scholarship form and we will see what kind of assistance we can provide.
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  • Join our Adult Education Student Hub on Discord!

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay for the parking fee to enter the park for this class?

No, your registration for your program includes entry into the park for the day but does not include admission for any non-registered guests. You are welcome to stay and explore the grounds after your class is over until the park closes for the evening.

Where does this class meet?

Our classes are hosted at a variety of locations throughout the Arboretum property. Details about each class's meeting location are shared with participants two days before the class.

I heard there is a discount for members of the NC Arboretum, how do I find that promo code?

We share the discount code in our member newsletters a couple of times a year. If you are not sure what that code is, please email us at adulteducation@ncarboretum.org and we can share it with you if your membership is active.

Are there options to purchase food at the NC Arboretum?

Our Bent Creek Bistro is open from March - November 10 am - 4 pm daily and open during Winter Lights from 6 pm - 10 pm. There are vending machines located at each building with snacks and drinks available.

Organized by

338 followers
Lots of repeat customers

North Carolina Arboretum Society members receive a 10% discount on class registration fees. Join today!

Adult & Continuing Education Programs are designed for participants 18 years and older.

$248.95