Lectures are usually given to a group or club about the art and craft of bonsai. My lectures are informative, witty, and entertaining, and can be geared toward all levels of interest and experience, from beginners to advanced participants. A representative group of trees will be brought to each lecture with the intention of showing the audience various aspects of bonsai form and cultivation. Lectures can take place at any time of the year, but please note that late spring through early fall are the best times for lectures, when the trees are in flower and full greenery.

Lectures are $75 each. Each lecture last approximately one hour long. Some trees may be available for purchase after the lecture by attendees, or they can be ordered for home shipment and delivery. Trees available for sale are dependent upon the time of the year the lecture is given.

My demonstrations include all the best features of a lecture with the addition of the potting and styling of an actual tree from “the ground up.” The audience can easily participate in the demonstration by offering their input, asking questions, and other interactions. For demonstrations, I supply all necessary materials: tree, pot, soil, styling wire, and other appropriate accessories. After the demonstration is over, the tree is then donated to the group which may wish to use it as a fund raising raffle or to give as a gift to a member or dignitary.

Demonstrations are $300 each. Most demonstrations can last anywhere from 1½ to 3 hours in length. Due the availability of trees at different times of the year, the type tree may vary. The cost of the demonstration covers all the materials used, including the tree, the pot, the wire, soil, and other incidentals needed.

Lessons can be given to an individual or a group. I particularly like to give lessons because they provide a hands-on experience for all participants. Lessons will include all the basic information and materials necessary to create a bonsai tree for either a single individual or each participant in an entire group. I will review all the basics concerning bonsai soil requirements, care, styling, and cultivation and I will offer assistance to each participant so that they may create their own living bonsai sculpture. Bonsai tools will be available for use by participants to create their bonsai tree. Some tools may be available for purchase after the lesson is finished so that students may continue working on their bonsai creation in the leisure of their homes. Cultural information sheets will be made available to all participants so that they may continue to offer good care to their trees after the lesson is finished. In addition, I will answer personal questions about the bonsai tree’s care for lecture participants via email for the remainder of that year’s growing season.

Cost for the two-hour lesson is $100 per person, including the tree, pot, drainage screening, wire, and soil. Lessons costs for groups are per participating person. Other non-participants may attend the lesson for $15 each. Lessons for groups take longer than do lectures or demonstrations. This is so that each participant has an opportunity to receive my individual attention. Due to the personal attention I offer each participant, I must limit the size of the group to 15 participants. This does not apply to the number of non-participants.

Please note: I am always willing to travel to give lectures, demonstrations, or lessons as necessary. There is no cost for travel expenses if the distance is within 50 miles of my home. Beyond that distance, modest travel expenses (including lodging if necessary) will be quoted to the group in advance of booking.

I hope that I can be of service to you and your group, and I look forward to meeting with you and sharing my knowledge of the art and craft of bonsai.