Juniper Bonsai Intensive Workshop - Saturday, April 26th

Date: Saturday, April 26th

Time: 12pm to 4pm

Class Overview:

In this intensive 4-hour workshop, participants will refine their bonsai skills by exploring advanced techniques specifically for junipers, one of the most iconic species in bonsai. Known for their graceful movement and ability to develop striking deadwood features, junipers allow for artistic expression through careful styling. This hands-on class will focus on the essential techniques needed to enhance a juniper’s structure, movement, and overall aesthetic.

Students will learn how to create Jin (deadwood branches) and Shari (deadwood trunk features) to mimic the natural aging process seen in ancient trees shaped by harsh environments. Instructors will also guide participants through the fundamentals of canopy refinement, wiring, and foliage positioning to develop well-defined pads that create depth and balance. By the end of the session, students will have a beautifully styled juniper bonsai, along with the knowledge and techniques to continue its development.

Workshop Structure:

1. Tree Selection and Initial Preparation

○ Choosing the Right Juniper Tree – Each participant will receive a high-quality juniper tree suited for detailed refinement. Learn how to assess trunk movement, branch structure, and natural deadwood potential before beginning work.

○ Identifying Live Veins – Junipers have distinct live veins that transport nutrients while deadwood features add character to the tree. Learn how to correctly identify and trace live veins, ensuring the health of the tree while carving Jin and Shari. Understanding live veins is essential for maintaining vitality and achieving a natural deadwood contrast.

○ Tree Health and Preparation – Understand the importance of tree health when applying stress techniques such as carving and heavy wiring. Instructors will guide you through proper cleaning, pruning, and selecting branches for deadwood features or styling.

2. Jin & Shari Creation

○ Deadwood Carving Techniques – Learn how to create Jin (deadwood branches) and Shari (deadwood trunk features) to mimic the natural aging process of a tree exposed to harsh environmental elements such as wind, lightning, and drought.

○ Refining the Aged Appearance – Use hand tools to carve and refine deadwood, creating natural-looking transitions between live and deadwood. Instructors will demonstrate techniques for treating and preserving these features with lime sulfur to enhance contrast and longevity.

3. Wiring and Styling for Dynamic Movement

○ Primary and Secondary Wiring – Master proper wiring techniques to shape both primary and secondary branches, allowing for precise control over the tree’s movement and silhouette.

○ Foliage Pad Development – Learn how to structure and space foliage pads for an open, natural look that enhances depth and perspective. This section will focus on avoiding overly dense growth that hides the tree’s form while maintaining balance and negative space.

○ Positioning for Balance and Aesthetic Appeal – Instructors will guide participants in branch selection and positioning to create a harmonious flow that follows traditional bonsai design principles.

4. Final Refinements and Aesthetic Enhancements

○ Adjusting the Canopy for Proportion – Shape the apex and define branch layers to create a visually pleasing silhouette, ensuring that the tree's movement is well-balanced from all angles.

○ Final Branch Placement and Tweaks – Students will make final adjustments to their trees, refining angles and ensuring that the bonsai’s structure highlights its best natural features.

5. Maintenance and Long-Term Care

○ Caring for Carved Deadwood – Learn best practices for preserving and maintaining deadwood features, including protective treatments and environmental considerations.

○ Seasonal Care for Juniper Trees – Understand the specific care needs of juniper trees, including watering, fertilization, and maintenance techniques to keep your tree healthy and thriving long after the workshop.

Materials Provided:
Each participant will receive a high-quality juniper tree, wire for styling, and access to essential bonsai tools, including wire cutters, jin pliers, and carving tools. A bonsai care booklet specific to juniper styling and maintenance will also be provided.

Prerequisites:
Completion of the Wiring and Introduction to Bonsai class is required to ensure a foundational understanding of bonsai techniques.

Exception: For the purposes of this class completion of the Wiring and Introduction to Bonsai class requirement may be waved if student is already experienced in bonsai wiring technics.