Adult Opportunities

Introduction to Bonsai Workshop: Dwarf Alberta Spruce

In this bonsai class, participants learn the basics of the art of bonsai and leave with a styled Chinese dwarf Alberta spruce.

Content Detail

Picea glauca ‘Conica’ is very hardy, with small needles well suited for bonsai. It is a slow-growing tree that needs to live outdoors, preferably in full sun during the summer, and enjoys dormancy brought on by the winter cold. The material for this workshop has trunks up to an inch in diameter.

The focus of this workshop will be on initial styling and wiring the tree. Care instructions will be included. This class is specifically designed for participants with limited or no bonsai experience.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum and is presented by Prairie State Bonsai Society in conjunction with The Morton Arboretum’s Destination Asia Festival and Bonsai Show on the Arboretum’s East Side on Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4.

Instructor: Phil Malhiot

Age: 16 and older

Course number: V104

Instructor

Phil Malhiot

Phil Malhiot has studied and taught bonsai for 44 years. He has been a member of Prairie State Bonsai Society for 28 years and has served as its president three times. In recent years he has studied pottery, making interesting and unusual bonsai pots, along with other items.

What to Know

Price includes materials.

Students are asked to bring in the tools they have on hand. Extra tools will be provided by Prairie State Bonsai Society.

Material selection is by lottery drawing.

Program Schedule

Saturday, August 3, 2024, 9:00 a.m. to noon

Thornhill Education Center, West Side

Donate

Your support is vital to the Arboretum, where the power of trees makes a positive impact on people’s lives.

Make a gift