Miniature Trees: Introduction to Bonsai

Grown-Up Fun

Explore one of the oldest forms of "living" art! Kathy Schlesinger, Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City, will discuss the history & design of bonsai, & techniques to keep these tiny trees healthy.

There will be a drawing at this event for bonsai plant starts and a bonsai care kit.

The translation of Bonsai simply means pot planted. However, Bonsai is one of the oldest forms of "living" art as trees are grown in containers and artistically designed. This presentation will provide an historical overview of its origins as we travel through millennia from ancient cultures to the U.S. White House, our National Arboretum and its importance in U.S. history. We will also touch on some of the design principles, where they come from and some of the techniques used to develop and keep each tree healthy. We will wrap up with picture examples, featuring various kinds of plants, a few of the oldest trees in Japan, and a question-and-answer session. Today, bonsai is found worldwide and practiced by those wishing to enjoy plants using artistic expression. 

Kathy Schlesinger is a biologist and research scientist who was first introduced to Bonsai in 1976 before moving to the KC area from the East coast. She has been practicing and studying this art with teachers from across the globe for more than 30 years. Kathy loves to share her knowledge of Bonsai with others.

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