Bonsai Foundations Program

Program Curriculum

Lesson 1

Program introduction

Origins & philosophy of bonsai culture

History and different national identities (schools of bonsai)

Classification, Styles & Sizes

Stylistic conventions and general aesthetic principles

The art of illusion

Lesson 2

Selection of plants suitable to bonsai

Attributes

Recommended species

Tools and accessories

Physiological aspects – functions of roots, leaves, bark and how trees grow

Channeling this physiology for bonsai development

How to keep a plant alive in a pot for years

Trees to work on

Lesson  3

Potting mediums and components

Watering and general care

Seasonal influences and the annual cycle

Start on development pathways – where to begin, seed to advanced stock

Lesson 4

Bonsai development pathways continuing

Shaping & Wiring

Defoliation

Lesson 5

    Workshop for student's trees development tuition

Lesson 6

Propagation methods

Sourcing bonsai material

Cuttings and grafting, layering

Lesson 7

Fertilizer – nutrients

Pests and diseases

Insects and fungus

Lesson 8

Containers

Exhibition

Bonsai on line

Review

Lesson 9

Transplanting and re-potting

Root pruning

 Lesson 10
    Workshop for student's trees development tuition