Dwarf Elephant Bush Bonsai Workshop, 2/8

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 Dwarf Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra), an evergreen succulent bonsai.

I'm 'Jade' the Dwarf Elephant Bush, a hardy stout grower native to Africa with super low water needs.

Keep me in a location that has direct sunlight a few hours a day. A southern or western facing window works well. To water, submerge my pot in water up to the rim for 5-10 minutes and then let me drain thoroughly. Do this about once every 10-14 days, or when my pot feels light. Dry, warm apartments might make me dry out quicker, so check the weight of my pot. Take me outside on nice days in summer for warm summer air.

Symbolism: Jade is a popular good luck charm in Chinese culture, thought to bring in financial energies. This beautiful succulent plant has vibrant green leaves symbolic of growth, renewal and abundance. It's round leaves resemble jade coins which is symbolic of prosperity and wealth. It is a traditional gift for businesses and many business owners place a Jade Plant near the entrance of their restaurants or shops, or in a southeast location to bring prosperity and success. During the Chinese New Year celebrations, Jade Plants are set on top of stock and investment certificates so they will increase in value during the coming year.

This class is for beginners to intermediate.

TOTAL SEATS: 6

Materials Provided: One handmade bonsai planter in medium white, 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:

Ayanna Rivera grew up right here in Ft. Greene– a block away from Dandy Farmer! Aside from being our shop apprentice, she is a visual artist with a natural love and affinity for plants.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher The Bonsai Shop by Dandy Farmer