Dwarf Banyan Bonsai Workshop, 05/31

Learn basic bonsai techniques to start transforming plants into bonsai. Learn why it is important to have a good soil mix, root-prune, repot, and choose the right angles when repotting. Take this knowledge home and apply it to other plants as well.

In this class we will work on the Caribbean Banyan also known as 'Birdie' (here at the bonsai shop).

'Birdie' the Caribbean Banyan, a hardy stout grower native to the tropics and the Caribbean. Characterized by a thick trunk and curly, pointed leaves that droop down, directing water to the ground in a gentle way. This banyan can take lower light locations so is easier to place around the home in places farther away from windows. Ficus are often considered a beginner's bonsai for the relatively easy care and wide range of indoor conditions it can tolerate. To water properly, submerge my pot in a bowl of water up to the rim for 5 mins. Do this every 5-7 days.

Growth style: Birdie has a thick main trunk that divides into many branches that support a dense canopy. With enough humidity, it will sport aerial roots that hang from the lower branches. There are lots of opportunities to style and wire the branches.

Symbolism: After attaining enlightenment, Buddha was believed to have sat under a Banyan tree for seven days, absorbed in his new-found realization. Generally, the Banyan encourages stability and steadfastness in Feng Shui. The Banyan's Wood element feeds Fire in the productive cycle, symbolizing expansion and the chance for continuous growth and enhanced wealth or success. Its 'Zhen' Chi gives this tree the ability to balance out transformative energy, promoting a stability amidst change.

This class is for beginners to intermediate.

TOTAL SEATS: 6

Materials Provided: One handmade bonsai planter in extra small speckled white or midnight black, one bonsai tree, soil, decorative rocks, necessary tools for repotting. Other materials on site available for purchase.

About the instructors:

Sam Azanza

Matthew Puntigam lived and worked in Tokyo for 7 years learning bonsai techniques and garden skills while apprenticing at a garden design and bonsai shop. He opened Dandy Farmer in 2016 to bring the art of bonsai to the NYC community.

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