The Bonsai Society of Portland has been an active group in the Portland area since 1965. It was founded to promote the art of bonsai through education, exhibits and social activities. The Society welcomes everyone interested in this unique and beautiful art form to share in the bonsai experience and develop both basic and advanced skills. Exhibits and related art forms are used to share bonsai with the public. The trees, stands, pots, stones, accents and arrangements in the exhibits are the result of many years of training and dedication by members of the Society. We meet at the Milwaukie Center, 5440 SE Kellogg Creek Drive, Milwaukie OR (map below; click the location marker to open in Google Maps and obtain directions if needed). Meeting dates and times are posted on the Events Page.
Our mailing address is The Bonsai Society of Portland, Inc., 9240 SE Philips Pl, Happy Valley, OR 97086.
Meetings — The Society meets monthly, except during the summer. Visitors are always welcome. Activities begin at 6:00PM, meetings begin at 7:00PM. Programs are informative, with lectures and demonstrations by experienced presenters and artists who offer valuable insights on the practice of bonsai. A full schedule of upcoming meetings is available on the Events Page.
Special Events — Special events are hosted outside of our regular programming. These can be ad hoc or annual events. In recent years we have hosted a variety of exhibitions, shopping and social events. Each December we host a holiday party, a social setting where you can get to know other members while participating in a range of fun activities, including a live auction. National and regional exhibitions are on the vacation plans of many members. The Society occasionally hosts these events, the last one was the 2018 Northwest Bonsai Rendezvous. To see the photo and video galleries from that event, Click Here.
Membership Dues — As with all organizations, dues are necessary to sustain the programming. Annual dues are $30 for individuals and $40 for a family membership (any number, same household). You can join on-line or download and print the application form and bring to a monthly meeting. Become a Member here.
Exhibits — The Society sponsors one or two exhibits annually which are open to the public. The shows often include demonstrations as well as a marketplace providing a fantastic opportunity to purchase high quality plants, bonsai containers and the special tools helpful in developing fine bonsai.
Learning and Collaboration — The Bonsai Society of Portland is dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging environment for bonsai enthusiasts of all levels. We provide a variety of opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with fellow members:
Peers and Shears Events: Held periodically throughout the year, these gatherings are designed for members to meet, share ideas, and discuss the care and development of their bonsai. Whether you're looking for inspiration or advice, these events are an excellent way to connect with others in the bonsai community.
Workshops: Open to all skill levels, these hands-on workshops focus on specific techniques, styles, and seasonal tasks. They’re a fun and dynamic way to enhance your bonsai skills while enjoying a collaborative learning experience.
In addition, members can explore a variety of Local Bonsai Resources, including nurseries, tools, and private instruction options. Visit our Resources page for more details.
Lending Library — The Society maintains a comprehensive library of published material and videos on bonsai and related topics. The library is open one hour before meetings for your convenience. Continually updated with newly published books and periodicals, the library provides a valuable source of information to increase the knowledge and skill of both the novice and the expert alike. Checkout the library in the Members Only (password required) section and at the monthly meetings.
Newsletter — Members receive a monthly newsletter via email (hard copies are mailed to members without email). The newsletter provides information on upcoming events, bonsai tips and other Society business. A copy of the current newsletter may be found on the NEWS page.
Organizations & Magazines — Bonsai, although still firmly rooted in Japan, is practiced by thousands of individuals throughout the world. Their creations reflect the regions, nationalities, philosophies and plants of people worldwide. Other organizations that provide more insight into the international aspects of bonsai are provided for your information. Each publishes a magazine that is attractive and informative. Subscription and contact information may be found under Other Bonsai Organizations in the Services/Other Bonsai Organizations page.