Learn how to care for bonsai trees at online workshops this winter

Too cold outside to do gardening? The Chicago Botanic Garden is offering online webinars on caring for bonsai trees with Chris Baker, the curator of bonsai collection. The cost for each workshop is $40 or $32 for members.

On Wednesday, Nov. 17, he will lead a Deciduous Bonsai Tree Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. on Zoom.

Fall is a great time to work on deciduous bonsai trees. You will learn specific deciduous bonsai care and how it changes seasonally, including feeding, pruning, wiring, and repotting. Be sure to have your tree near to discuss its design and shaping.

On Wednesday, Dec. 15, Baker will lead a Juniper Bonsai Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. on Zoom.

Juniper bonsai require unique care including soil type, feeding, pruning, and wiring. Learn the seasonal work and general care for one of the most common bonsai species used.

On Wednesday, Jan. 12, Baker will lead a Pine Bonsai Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. on Zoom.

Explore pine bonsai care, soil type, feeding, needle pruning, de-candling, and wiring of trees. Bring your own pines to work on after an in-depth presentation on care.

These classes are taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance.

To register, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/calendar.

The Chicago Botanic Garden's collection of nearly 200 bonsai includes gifts from the Midwest Bonsai Society and from Japanese bonsai master Susumu Nakamura. Among the trees donated by Nakamura was a Japanese white pine that has been trained for at least 100 years. On rotating display, each bonsai takes the stage at the peak of its beauty. The select bonsai are on display in the Regenstein Center's two courtyards from roughly April 1 to October 1, depending on the weather.