Bonsai Education Hub
Class Grades:
Level One: Beginners (Suitable for students with little to no experience)
Level Two: Intermediate (Suitable for students with some basic knowledge and experience)
Level Three: Advanced (Suitable for students that have a high level of knowledge and practical experience)
Introduction to Bonsai Class (Level One)
Our Introduction to Bonsai class is a one day course designed to provide participants with the basic principles and horticultural knowledge necessary to design and maintain bonsai.
Our classes are hands-on and relevant to people of all abilities. The student will learn to wire, shape and pot a bonsai that is theirs to take home at the end of the day. All material is provided and the instructors will walk each student through the process (tree, pot, tools, wire, potting medium).
Classes run roughly every 6 weeks throughout the year and are held at the Chojo nursery.
Fundamentals Classes
After 15 years of leading bonsai enthusiasts on their journey through this art form, we are excited to introduce a new series of classes to our education program. These classes are designed to deepen the understanding of bonsai for practitioners at any level.
Feedback from our students over the years has helped us to identify the specific areas that have enhanced their grasp of the craft, and create an ideal stepping stone after completing our Introduction To Bonsai class, or any level of practitioner wishing to advance their skills and understanding to a higher level.
Our highly experienced instructors will lead students through theoretical lessons, live demonstrations and hands-on techniques. These classes take place at the Chojo nursery, home to the country's most distinguished collection of advanced bonsai, nestled within the scenic Cloudehill Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges.
This historic property, which features trees imported from the Yokohama Importing Company in the 1920's, now includes a newly completed workshop providing an ideal learning environment.
We are also thrilled to announce the availability of on-site accommodation within the gardens of Cloudehill at Woolrich Estate, offering a perfect retreat for couples, groups, clubs or organisations.
In addition to the ancient Dandenong Ranges National Park, students can also explore nearby attractions such as the Botanical Gardens, RJ Hammer Arboretum, Alfred Nichols Garden and Pirianda Gardens, all at no extra cost.
Intermediate Fundamentals (Level Two):
Design/Development Class - How to develop your bonsai from an early (or late) stage with appropriate techniques and knowledge to push your material to a much higher quality and sophistication.
Learn the many different styles of bonsai and how to achieve them, along with ceramic decisions and more in-depth coverage of wiring and deadwood techniques.
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Private Lessons
One-on-one bonsai lessons are available for those who are interested in improving their trees and knowledge at the same time. Typically, a student will bring their bonsai (or raw stock) to the nursery and together we make a plan for your tree, and with guidance and instruction complete the necessary work, with all skills and knowledge tailored to your particular tree.
Any level of experience is welcome. Wire and tools are included in the lesson.
To book a private lesson please contact via email at shawn@chojo.com.au or call Shawn on 0447 040 330.