About The Bonsai Society of Portland, Inc.

Contact Board and Committee chairs via email by clicking the names below:

MONTHLY MEETINGS We meet on the 4th Tuesday of each month except summer months when we hold other group outings. (See Calendar) Members gather to network at 6:30. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. Visitors are always welcome. The programs are informative, with lectures and demonstrations by experienced members or guests who offer valuable insights on bonsai and related arts. The techniques of bud pinching, root pruning, branch wiring, trimming, fertilizing and other methods used to style and maintain a bonsai are discussed. Some meetings include hands-on workshops.

MEMBERSHIP is open to anyone interested in learning more about the art of bonsai. See benefits and application. There are currently about 130 members. 

EXHIBITS The Society sponsors at least one exhibit annually which is open to the public. The shows often include demonstrations by our talented members. Bonsai techniques, horticultural principles and the "secrets" developed by the masters are taught. A member/vendor marketplace provides a fantastic opportunity to purchase high quality plants, bonsai containers and the special tools helpful in developing fine bonsai.

NEWSLETTER the Tree Line, BSOP's monthly newsletter, is provided to members. It features upcoming events, bonsai tips and other Society business and news about special groups within BSOP.

SPECIAL STUDY GROUPS From time to time, special study groups are formed to deal with specialized information.  While open only to members, any interested person may contact a member and attend as an interested prospective member of the group and of BSOP. Additional groups focus on Mentorship and Shohin (bonsai 10" or smaller). 

ACTIVITIES Over the years, two family events have become legend. A picnic is held each summer, and the holiday season is celebrated with a party and auction each December. Occasionally, collecting trips are organized to bring back Northwest native plants from various types of locations, from nearby mountains to local nurseries. Other activities concern sister arts such as suiseki (viewing stones) and saikei (tray landscapes). National and regional conventions are on the vacation plans of many members and the Society occasionally hosts these events. in 2012, we will host the Pacific Northwest Bonsai Clubs Association Conference.

LENDING LIBRARY  The Society maintains a comprehensive library of published material and videos on bonsai and related topics for Member use. Continually updated with newly published books and magazines, the library provides a valuable source of information to increase the knowledge and skill of both the novice and the expert alike.

FORMAL INSTRUCTION The Society does not sponsor any regular formal bonsai instruction, however several members do provide lessons and some sell styled bonsai as well as pre-bonsai (plant material with minimal styling).  Members have access to a full list of resources.