In this beginner’s bonsai workshop, kids will learn the basics of the art of bonsai and style their own dwarf Japanese garden juniper tree to take home. Students must be between the ages of 8 and 16 and accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Juniperus procumbens is a member of Cupressaceae, the cypress family. The genus name Juniperus is Latin for juniper. Its specific epithet procumbens means low-growing or prostrate.
Juniperus procumbens has a slow growth rate and is frequently used for bonsai. It needs full sun, is tolerant of a variety of soils, thrives under adversity, and is easily transplanted.
The popular cultivar ‘Nana’—known as dwarf Japanese garden juniper—forms a dense, compact mat with branches that tend to intertwine and spread out in wide sprays. Its leaves are small bluish-green needles that are a quarter of an inch long and grow in clusters of three.
This bonsai workshop will focus on initial styling and wiring of the dwarf Japanese garden juniper tree. Care instructions will be included. All skill levels are welcome.
This program meets in person at The Morton Arboretum and is presented by the Prairie State Bonsai Society in conjunction with the Arboretum’s Destination Asia Festival and Bonsai Show on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3.
Instructors: Larry Magee and Matt Mazza
Age: 8 to16, must be accompanied by parent or guardian
Course number: V121
