The Western Colorado Bonsai Society was organized in 1996 to promote interest in and appreciation of the art of bonsai through education, training, and exhibitions.

Bonsai (pronounced bone-sigh) translates as tree in a pot. It is the styling, miniaturizing and containerizing of plants. There are many artistic and very old bonsai but most specimens available have been trained to look old. Bonsai are living potted plants which require water, fertilizer, adequate light, protection from temperature extremes, and pruning and wiring to maintain their artistic form.

Bonsai may be developed from nursery plants or collected from the wild. Anyone who enjoys growing plants can begin learning about bonsai as a hobby. There are plants that adapt well for living inside a home. As with any living plant, they require care on a regular basis.

The Western Colorado Bonsai Society is a group of people interested in learning about bonsai. The meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at the Library at the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens, 641 Struthers Avenue. Since meetings are subject to change, please call to check on the time and place. The meeting starts at 9 am but members come early for coffee and donuts and to share information and friendship.

Activities for the club include workshops, demonstrations, videos, and field trips which help bonsai enthusiasts with the special conditions we experience in Western Colorado. For more information, please contact Bonnie Holloway at 243-0595, or e-mail her at rowdy@wic.net. Guests are welcome!