Gresham Japanese Garden

Introduction to Ikebana - October
2025-10-14 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s October class, you will focus on color combinations, in particular, 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. Please join us!
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.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Thurs
2025-10-16 18:00 - 20:00 | 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: This bonsai workshop will be taking place in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s greenhouse behind the Kyoudou Center.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Sat
2025-10-25 13:00 - 15:00 | 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.

Introduction to Ikebana - February
2026-01-13 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.

2026 The Art of Bonsai: Jan-Sat
2026-01-17 13:00 - 15:00 | 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-Thurs
2026-01-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

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.

Spring Candling Pines
2026-05-03 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Join Laura Dufala, owner of Bentwood Tree Farm, as she guides you through the why’s and how’s of candling pines. Learn about the importance of timing, balance, and health in creating beautifully structured trees.
Learn how to:

Identify and manage the apical candle
Determine which candles to remove for ideal structure
Know when to break versus when to remove the entire candle
Combine candling, needle pruning, and branch pruning for healthy growth
Understand how each technique affects the tree’s energy and growth pattern

Laura will work on a variety of pine species at the Gresham Japanese Garden during this in-person workshop. Get ready — Laura may turn the class into a collaborative session!
Whether you’re a home gardener or a landscape professional, this course offers high-level pruning techniques to candle pines for successful structure.
Licensed landscapers will earn 3 CEH credits.
