Willow Leaf Fig Bonsai Workshop, 8/30

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 Willow Leaf Fig also known as 'Nene' (here at the bonsai shop).

I'm 'Nene' the Willow Leaf Fig, and native to India and Nepal, where I’m sometimes used as a folk remedy. I’m an important food item to the black crested gibbon. In the wild, I can grow up to 40 ft tall, but in your home I make a great indoor bonsai and I’ll stay small. I have a broom style shape which means I have an upright trunk with leaves that radiate outwards like the shape of a fan. My leaves also has a striking resemblance to the Weeping Willow, hence my name. I love bright conditions and get watered every 5-7 days.

Symbolism: After attaining enlightenment, Buddha was believed to have sat under a Ficus tree for seven days, absorbed in his new-found realization. Generally, Ficuses encourage stability and steadfastness in Feng Shui. Its Wood element feeds Fire in the productive cycle, symbolizing expansion and the chance for continuous growth and enhanced wealth or success. Moreover, its 'Zhen' Chi gives this tree the ability to amplify protective energy, especially in one's career and financial journey.

This class is for beginners to intermediate.

TOTAL SEATS: 6

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

About the instructor/s:

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.

Also check out other Workshops in Brooklyn, Arts events in Brooklyn.