November 2026 – Tree Development Studio
Sunday, November 15, 2026 | 1:00–5:00 PM
UNCW OLLI – Truist Hall
Free for CFBS Members
What's the next step for your tree?
The CFBS Tree Development Studio continues in November as we take the plans and questions identified during our first Studio and put them into practice.
We'll revisit specific trees from August, look at how they've responded, and work through some of the skills and techniques those trees need for their next stage of development. We'll also look ahead to winter and spring—what should be done now, what should wait, and what we need to prepare for upcoming work.
Didn't attend the first Studio? Jump in here.
The Tree Development Studio is designed as a continuing series, but each session stands on its own. Bring a tree at any stage of development and we'll start wherever you and your tree are today.
New to bonsai? Bring a workshop tree and figure out what comes next. Have an auction find that needs a direction? Bring it. Have a tree you've been developing for years that needs its next refinement decision? That's exactly what the Studio is for.
Experienced members will be available to offer ideas and different perspectives, but you are the artist and the final decisions are yours.
The idea remains simple:
Every time you work on a tree, make a thoughtful improvement that moves it one step closer to a refined bonsai.
Part of a Four-Session Development Series
Across four Studio sessions, we'll follow trees through the seasons—from planning and development through repotting, styling, refinement and, for trees that are ready, preparation for our annual exhibition.
You can participate in all four sessions, bring the same tree back as it develops, or join the series at any point.
What to Bring
Bring one primary bonsai or pre-bonsai you'd like to move forward, your normal bonsai tools, and any wire or materials you expect to use. Previous photos and your Tree Development Record from August are helpful if you have them.
You may bring a second tree as time permits.
Not sure what your tree needs? Don't go shopping yet. We'll help identify the appropriate soil, wire, pot or training container, tools and materials—and where to find them—before you need them.
No Tree? Come Anyway.
Join the conversation, watch techniques as they happen, ask questions, and learn from the variety of trees and experience in the room.
Bring a tree. Bring a question. Let's figure out what comes next.