2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Sat
2025-10-25 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Basic Wiring
Overview
This class will focus on basic wiring of bonsai. Wiring a bonsai is an important design technique for shaping a bonsai. The growth and shape of the bonsai is influenced by the wire that is wrapped around the trunk and/or branches. The wired parts are bent in the desired direction. Once the form has solidified, the bonsai wire can be removed.
Slightly more detailed wiring a bonsai is, besides pruning, the most important design technique for forming a bonsai. When forming a bonsai, a normal tree is designed according to a given ideal. The goal is usually that young, not yet developed bonsai tree to look old and venerable.
All materials are provided. Please bring needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and your own bonsai tools if you have them.

NOTE: Due to a rental in the Kyoudou Center, this workshop is being held on the 4th Saturday of the month.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Pruning Lace-leaf Maple Trees
2025-11-01 10:00 - 13:00 | Gresham Japanese Garden
This is a hands-on workshop where students will receive pruning techniques, instructions, and personalized feedback as you prune two overgrown lace-leaf maple tree at the Gresham Japanese Garden’s complex.

Introduction to Ikebana - November
2025-11-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s November class, you will focus on fall flowers and accents still staying with autumn colors. It will be fun to see different color combinations give different impressions. We will be using the “ordinary” plant materials that are in bloom to create an extraordinary piece of art.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

Pruning Conifers for Health and Aesthetics Course
2025-11-15 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Pruning Conifers for Health and Aesthetics course will start on Tsuru Island, GJG’s Japanese garden nestled within Gresham’s Main City Park and home to a diverse collection of conifers including spruces, hinoki, firs, pines, and more.
Limited to 15 students, so register early to reserve your spot!
Workshop Overview
This in-person class is designed to deepen your understanding of conifer pruning through an aesthetic lens. Maryann will guide participants in:

Understanding conifer growth biology and seasonal rhythms
Applying pruning techniques to maintain plant health and desired size
Enhancing landscape aesthetics through thoughtful pruning
Recognizing and preserving the natural form of various conifer species

Whether you’re a home gardener or a landscape professional, this workshop offers valuable insights into the art and science of conifer pruning.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Nov-Sat
2025-11-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Saikei (最景)
Overview
This class will focus on saikei. Saikei is a Japanese art form that combines bonsai techniques with elements of landscape gardening to create a living landscape. You can introduce trees, rocks, and other natural materials to depict a natural scene, such as a forest, mountain, or coastal area. The goal is to evoke the feeling of a large natural landscape in a small, contained space.
All materials are provided. Please bring your own bonsai tools if you have them.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Structural Pruning Pines
2025-11-16 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Watch instructor, Laura Dufala unlock the hidden character of pine trees through strructural pine pruning. She’s captivating to watch her approach to cloud pruning, and through her artistic eyes make decisions regarding which branches to keep and which ones to remove. She has a tendency to turn the class into a hands-on practicum, so bring gloves and sanitized pruners.
The class will take place at the Gresham Japanese Garden. We will meet in front of the Mural garden/Barn.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Nov-Thurs
2025-11-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

Wreath Making Workshop & More: Dec 1st
2025-12-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Monday, Dec 1, 2025, 6-8pm
Get ready for the holidays by making a beautiful wreath to hang on your front door. The wreath can span as large as 26″. The Gresham Japanese Garden offers a wide range of unique conifers and evergreen shrubs to choose from to make your wreath, complete with a handmade bow to add as a final accent.
Cost includes the ring, wire, all greenery, berries, handmade bow to make a beautiful 22″ diameter wreath. And, enjoy a glass a wine or other beverage and little bite to eat while you’re making your wreath.
COST: $60
Class will be held in inside GJG’s Kyoudou Center at Main City Park.

Introduction to Ikebana - December
2025-12-02 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s December class, you will focus on the holidays, and some holiday ideas will be included in your arrangement. Still keeping the principles and core concepts of ikebana, she will share some material and design ideas for the holidays that participants can use.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

Wreath Making Workshop & More: Dec 7th
2025-12-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Sunday, Dec 7, 2025, 2-4pm
Get ready for the holidays by making a beautiful wreath to hang on your front door. The wreath can span as large as 26″. The Gresham Japanese Garden offers a wide range of unique conifers and evergreen shrubs to choose from to make your wreath, complete with a handmade bow to add as a final accent.
Cost includes the ring, wire, all greenery, berries, handmade bow to make a beautiful 22″ diameter wreath. And, enjoy a glass a wine or other beverage and little bite to eat while you’re making your wreath.
COST: $60
Class will be held in inside GJG’s Kyoudou Center at Main City Park.

Bonsai: Group Kobo
2025-12-14 13:00 - 16:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Group Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 1-4pm in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Group Kobo will end at 4pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Dec-Thurs
2025-12-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Bonsai Spruce
Overview
Nothing speaks to the holidays than a decorated spruce tree. This class will focus on spruces. Yes you can shape like a Christmas tree or take your art a different direction. Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will share insights on styling based on the spruce you choose for the workshop. Wiring will be an option as well.
Spruces requires full sun, consistent moisture, and proper drainage, but needs protection from harsh winters. You will learn about winter care, and spring care including when to prune and when to fertilize.
All materials except holiday decorations for your spruce are provided. Please bring your own pruners, snippers, needle nose pliers and gloves.
Gift certificates available here.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Dec-Sat
2025-12-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

Introduction to Ikebana - January
2026-01-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
Nana Bellerud starts out 2026 with Japanese New Year’s customs and decorations for your arrangement. Still keeping the principles and core concepts of ikebana, she will share some material and design ideas.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: Jan-Thurs
2026-01-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Deadwood Creation, Carving, Cleaning, and Preservation Workshop
In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to create and refine deadwood features that enhance age, character, and natural storytelling in bonsai. Deadwood work—when done thoughtfully—can highlight the tree’s movement, history, and resilience.
What You Will Learn:
1. Understanding Deadwood in Bonsai
We’ll begin with an overview of the three classic deadwood styles:

Jin – a branch stripped of bark to mimic natural breakage or age.
Shari – a barkless strip along the trunk representing sun exposure, damage, or weathering.
Uro – a hollowed scar or wound that suggests old injury or decay.

You’ll learn how each technique occurs in nature and how to replicate these effects artistically while maintaining the health of your tree.
2. Deadwood Creation and Carving Techniques
Using carving tools, pliers, and controlled stripping methods, you will practice shaping deadwood so it feels organic rather than man-made. The focus will be on creating natural flow, taper, and texture without compromising structural integrity.
3. Cleaning and Refining Aged Deadwood
You’ll learn how to clean old deadwood to brighten fibers, enhance grain direction, and prepare the surface for preservation. We’ll cover techniques such as brushing, sanding, and subtle re-carving to create realistic detail.
4. Preserving and Whitening Deadwood
Finally, we will demonstrate how to protect deadwood using lime sulfur and other preservation methods. You’ll learn when, where, and how to apply these treatments for long-lasting protection from rot, insects, and moisture.
Take-Home Project
Each participant will work on a practice piece and receive guidance on how to safely apply these techniques to their own bonsai at home. All tools and materials will be provided for the workshop.
Skill Level
This workshop is suitable for beginners ready to learn foundational carving methods, as well as intermediate practitioners looking to refine their technique.
Gift certificates available here.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: Jan-Sat
2026-01-31 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Deadwood Creation, Carving, Cleaning, and Preservation Workshop
THIS WORKSHOP IS RESCHEDULED FROM THE 17TH, DUE TO THE INSTRUCTOR BEING SICK.
In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to create and refine deadwood features that enhance age, character, and natural storytelling in bonsai. Deadwood work—when done thoughtfully—can highlight the tree’s movement, history, and resilience.
What You Will Learn:
1. Understanding Deadwood in Bonsai
We’ll begin with an overview of the three classic deadwood styles:

Jin – a branch stripped of bark to mimic natural breakage or age.
Shari – a barkless strip along the trunk representing sun exposure, damage, or weathering.
Uro – a hollowed scar or wound that suggests old injury or decay.

You’ll learn how each technique occurs in nature and how to replicate these effects artistically while maintaining the health of your tree.
2. Deadwood Creation and Carving Techniques
Using carving tools, pliers, and controlled stripping methods, you will practice shaping deadwood so it feels organic rather than man-made. The focus will be on creating natural flow, taper, and texture without compromising structural integrity.
3. Cleaning and Refining Aged Deadwood
You’ll learn how to clean old deadwood to brighten fibers, enhance grain direction, and prepare the surface for preservation. We’ll cover techniques such as brushing, sanding, and subtle re-carving to create realistic detail.
4. Preserving and Whitening Deadwood
Finally, we will demonstrate how to protect deadwood using lime sulfur and other preservation methods. You’ll learn when, where, and how to apply these treatments for long-lasting protection from rot, insects, and moisture.
Take-Home Project
Each participant will work on a practice piece and receive guidance on how to safely apply these techniques to their own bonsai at home. All tools and materials will be provided for the workshop.
Skill Level
This workshop is suitable for beginners ready to learn foundational carving methods, as well as intermediate practitioners looking to refine their technique.
Gift certificates available here.

Introduction to Ikebana - February
2026-02-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
Teacher Nana Bellerud’s February workshop will concentrate on Valentine’s Day Japanese style. Still keeping the principles and core concepts of ikebana, she will share some material and design ideas.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

The Science and Biology of Pruning
2026-02-11 17:30 - 19:30 | Zoom, 219 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR
Join us for this Zoom webinar, Tree Talk by Chris Roddick. Chris is an ISA Certified Arborist and a Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA). He is the author of the Tree Care Primer, a guide to care for young, mature, and veteran trees. For thousands of years, people have used the ancient practice of pruning to manipulate and enhance trees and shrubs. Yet the science and biology behind pruning is still among the most misunderstood practices in the field.
This Tree Talk will take a deep dive into the science of pruning while looking closely at the biological responses of trees. We’ll discuss topics such as cladoptosis and natural pruning, compartmentalization, and the roll of fungi and plant hormones. And last, how best to make pruning decisions understanding what the plant needs. Join us!
The webinar will be taped and available for two weeks. The link will be sent out later that evening.
NOTE: This webinar is on Pacific Standard Time.

Pruning Fruit Trees
2026-02-15 12:00 - 14:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Late winter is an ideal time to prune fruit trees. Pruning during dormancy helps invigorate growth, removes dead, weak, or crossing branches, and focuses the tree’s energy on fewer, stronger limbs for a healthier structure and better harvest.
Instructor Jonathan Faith will bring an apple tree, pear tree, nectarine tree, and plum tree to discuss their different growth habits and forms, and to demonstrate proper pruning techniques for fruit production. In addition to pruning, Jonathan will cover cross-pollination, fertilizers, and common fungicide and insecticide sprays.
This seminar will take place at the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, located at 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030.
Instructor: Jonathan FaithJonathan comes from a deep background in horticulture. For sixteen years, he helped manage his family’s small orchard in Hubbard, Oregon, working with a wide variety of fruit trees. Jonathan is currently the store manager at Al’s Garden & Home in Gresham.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: Feb-Thurs
2026-02-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Repotting Deciduous Trees
In this hands-on workshop, Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will teach you the essential techniques for repotting deciduous bonsai. He will cover how to safely remove a tree from its pot, properly prune the roots, explain soil mixes, and position the tree to encourage healthy growth and strong structure. You will repot a maple as your take-home project.
You’ll also learn how repotting differs for various deciduous species, how to identify when a tree is ready to be repotted, and tips for aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate enthusiasts looking to build confidence in one of the most important bonsai maintenance skills.
All tools, soil, and materials will be provided.
Gift certificates available here.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: Feb-Sat
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Repotting Deciduous Trees
In this hands-on workshop, Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will teach you the essential techniques for repotting deciduous bonsai. He will cover how to safely remove a tree from its pot, properly prune the roots, explain soil mixes, and position the tree to encourage healthy growth and strong structure. You will repot a maple as your take-home project.
You’ll also learn how repotting differs for various deciduous species, how to identify when a tree is ready to be repotted, and tips for aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate enthusiasts looking to build confidence in one of the most important bonsai maintenance skills.
All tools, soil, and materials are provided.
Gift certificates available here.

Group Kobo: Repotting
2026-02-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Gresham Japanese Garden Greenhouse, 219 N Main, Gresham, Multnomah, 97080, United States
We’re excited to unveil Group Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai to work on, alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
February’s focus is the repotting. Repotting should happen between February and March, just as buds swell, yet before leaves fully emerge.
Bring your bonsai, and a couple options for containers (if possible) to Group Kobo. You will have full access to Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Soil will be available for purchase.
Drop in are welcomed. Group Kobo will be in the greenhouse.

Introduction to Honey Beekeeping
2026-03-09 18:30 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Taught by beekeepers Bruce Janes and Jim Buck.
There is a lot to learn about starting your own beekeeping. Start by learning the basics of residential honey beekeeping. Why do people become beekeepers. What you need to consider and the differences between beekeeping in a rural vs urban setting. What equipment and tools do you need. Hive terminology and where is the ideal spot to place a hive. The different types of bees, workers, drones and queen and what their responsibilities are in the hive. Also, hear a bit about the financial responsibility to get started.
Bruce Janes volunteers in a commercial apiary, and is a member of three bee clubs. Bruce is excited to teach this class because his philosophy is that the first step to becoming a successful beekeeper is to learn as much as you can about the bees themselves. Competent honey beekeepers require hands-on training and mentorship. Before purchasing honey bees or equipment, new beekeepers should seek as much training as they can.
Co-instructor Jim Buck will talk about Flow Hives. The Flow Hive was developed in Australia by father-son entrepreneurs, Stuart and Cedar Anderson, who have sold thousands of them all over the world. They have designed a honey super with plastic comb and levers which allows the honey to flow out of comb with the turn of the levers. This ingenious design circumvents the need to remove frames and extract honey through centrifuges. Jim has used the flow hive successfully for three years and enjoying sharing my experience and tips with others.
LOCATION:Gresham Japanese Garden Kyoudou Center219A S Main AvenueGresham, OR 97030
Inside Main City Park. Drive to farthest parking lot at the south end of the park. The Kyoudou Center is the building adjacent to the parking lot closest to Springwater Trailhead.
Please register below.

Introduction to Ikebana - March
2026-03-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
instructor Nana Bellerud’s will concentrate March’s ikebana workshop on some early spring flowers, along with their symbols and meanings. Still keeping the principles and core concepts of ikebana, she will share some material and design ideas.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trailhead. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: March-Thurs
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Gresham Japanese Garden Greenhouse, 219 N Main, Gresham, Multnomah, 97080, United States
Repotting Conifer Trees
In this hands-on workshop, Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will teach you the essential techniques for repotting conifers. He will cover how to safely remove a tree from its pot, properly prune the roots, explain soil mixes, and position the tree to encourage healthy growth and strong structure. The specific conifer has not been selected yet. This will be your take-home project.
You’ll also learn how repotting differs for various conifer species, how to identify when a tree is ready to be repotted, and tips for aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate enthusiasts looking to build confidence in one of the most important bonsai maintenance skills.
Due to the nature of this workshop it will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s greenhouse, located behind the Kyoudou Center.
All tools, soil, and materials will be provided.
Note, Fee Increase: $40 plus $15 tree, container and other supplies. To continue offering a high-quality bonsai program and covering material costs, the Garden has made the difficult decision to increase the fee for this project-based workshop.
Gift certificates available here.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: March-Sat
2026-03-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Gresham Japanese Garden Greenhouse, 219 N Main, Gresham, Multnomah, 97080, United States
Repotting Conifer Trees
In this hands-on workshop, Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will demonstate the essential techniques for repotting conifers. He will cover how to safely remove a tree from its pot, properly prune the roots, explain soil mixes, and position the tree to encourage healthy growth and strong structure. The specific conifer has not been selected yet. This will be your take-home project.
You’ll also learn how repotting differs for various conifer species, how to identify when a tree is ready to be repotted, and tips for aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery. This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate enthusiasts looking to build confidence in one of the most important bonsai maintenance skills.
Due to the nature of this workshop it will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s greenhouse, located behind the Kyoudou Center.
All tools, soil, and materials will be provided.
Note on Fees: The workshop fee is $40, plus $15 for trees, container and other supplies. To continue offering a high-quality, project-based bonsai program and cover material costs, the Garden has made the difficult decision to adjust the workshop fee. Class size has also been reduced to allow for more individualized instruction.
Gift certificates available here.

Introduction to Ikebana - April
2026-04-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
Instructor Nana Bellerud will lead April’s ikebana workshop with a focus on popular Japanese spring-blooming plants such as cherry and pear blossoms, including their symbolism and seasonal meanings. While maintaining the core principles of ikebana, she will share material selection and design ideas rooted in the Sogetsu approach.
Bellerud will also cover fundamental Sogetsu School ikebana concepts, techniques, tools, and equipment, as well as basic plant care. The workshop emphasizes more than simply creating a beautiful floral arrangement—it offers insight into ikebana as an expressive and mindful art form.
Supplies and tools will be available on-site for use during the workshop. After completing your arrangement, participants are encouraged to photograph their work before dismantling it. Plant materials may be taken home. If you would like to take your arrangement home intact, or plan to continue practicing ikebana, kenzan and containers will be available for purchase at the workshop (see details below).
The class will be held at the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, located at 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is at the south end of Main City Park, closest to the Springwater Trailhead. A parking lot is located adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: April-Thurs
2026-04-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Making a Kusamono
For this project, the kusamono features Vaccinium ovatum (Evergreen Huckleberry), a refined and seasonally expressive companion plant. As a kusamono, Vaccinium ovatum offers balance and softness beside a bonsai display, suggesting a natural woodland setting. Its compact growth habit and fine branching make it especially suitable for small containers, where it can convey elegance, seasonality, and a sense of place without overpowering the main tree. Enjoy making your kusamono.
This workshop it will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s beautiful Kyoudou Center at 219A S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030.
All tools, soil, and materials will be provided.
Note on Fees: The workshop fee is $40, plus $15 for trees, container and other supplies. To continue offering a high-quality, project-based bonsai program and cover material costs, the Garden has made the difficult decision to adjust the workshop fee. Class size has also been reduced to allow for more individualized instruction.
Gift certificates available here.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: May-Thurs
2026-04-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Spring Pine Work
In this hands-on workshop, Bonsai Master Bobby Curttright will demonstrate how to manage pine growth for bonsai this spring. He will cover single and multi-flush species, with a focus on decandling techniques to shape and maintain healthy, beautiful pines. Your take-home project will be a Pinus thunbergii.
This workshop it will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s beautiful Kyoudou Center at 219A S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030.
All tools, soil, and materials will be provided.
Note on Fees: The workshop fee is $40, plus $15 for trees, container and other supplies. To continue offering a high-quality, project-based bonsai program and cover material costs, the Garden has made the difficult decision to adjust the workshop fee. Class size has also been reduced to allow for more individualized instruction.
Gift certificates available here.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: April-Sat
2026-04-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
