– seasonals –
The Seasonal Program is our core educational platform. Based on the idea that it’s better to study on your teacher’s trees than your own—like apprentices study—these three-day intensive workshops provide the expressive tools to make bonsai your own. Discounted rates are available for students.
I learned more in 3 days than I had in the last 12 years. He was a fantastic teacher, artist, and host while there. I would not hesitate in recommending anyone to attend his small group sessions. Thank you Michael!!!”—Ray
“Having the opportunity to work on such beautiful material replaced 100’s of lectures. I don’t believe any three days has had such a profound reawakening of my soul as to the depth and love of my trees and their lovely companion plants.”—Randi
– semi-privates –
For those within driving distance of Portland, Oregon we offer semi-private instruction, limited to 4 people for personal attention. Bring your trees and related questions and puzzlements. You’ll be working on your own trees but we’ll help with the decision making! A half-day is $120 and full day is $200. Sessions are offered monthly, so please write for our next dates!
– books –
Bonsai Heresy: 56 Myths Exposed Using Science and Tradition – $24.95 A best-selling, funny, offbeat educational book that looks into our group fallacies and offers better alternatives. Fifteen years in the writing. Featuring the whimsical illustrations of Sergio Cuan.
Praise for Bonsai Heresy
“Bonsai Heresy…is an articulate, balanced, researched, captivating — and sometimes witty — discussion of bonsai topics covering everything from techniques, to supplies, to aesthetics. So thoughtful and well written, I couldn’t put it down…I’m sure that I’ll be going back to reread portions as various situations arise. I highly and enthusiastically recommend the book!!!” —C. Brown
“This book is long overdue and certain to be a classic! If you’re serious about bonsai, you must read this book!” —Joe T.
Post-Dated: The Schooling of an Irreverent Bonsai Monk – $16.95 The whimsical story of Michael Hagedorn’s apprenticeship in Japan under Master Shinji Suzuki. Filled with lunatic anecdotal accounts of just how much trouble a foreigner can get into, it is very much a travelogue in spirit and content.
Praise for Post-Dated
“An illuminating book for those seeking the true meaning of bonsai…revealing how bonsai opens our hearts to compassion and the poignant beauty of nature.” —Felix Laughlin, Past President, National Bonsai Foundation
“… Michael’s thoughts and experiences are accurate, informative and well written. I was captivated by his book and could not put it down until I finished it!” —William N. Valavanis, teacher and publisher, International Bonsai magazine
– online courses –
Intermediate Course 2 – $59.99 Part of the Bonsai Empire universe, this is is a 6-hour deep dive into the topic of Pruning – breaking it down by tree species as well as by the developmental stages of the tree. Plus, we investigate Flowering Bonsai, Bunjin, and Winter care. Co-taught with the great Bjorn Bjorholm!
Bonsai Fundamentals – $54.99 Learn about 3 fundamental concepts of Bonsai: Plant Physiology, Japanese Aesthetics, and Design Principles from this online course that partners with Bonsai Empire and featuring the extraordinary garden of Mr. Shinji Suzuki.
– client services –
In Japan, a bonsai professional is considered to be one who styles and maintains trees owned by clients, and this remains one of the most rewarding of our services in the United States. We frequently have bonsai dropped off at the studio for styling, rewiring, or detailing. Also inquire about working on private collections on site.
– sales –
Though much of the Crataegus Garden is a study collection that students work on, we sell everything from collected conifers to chojubai.
– visit –
Much of what we offer caters to those fully invested in the bonsai hobby. But bonsai is not just for those wanting to study it, or looking to hire a professional. Bonsai is for everyone. If you wish to experience bonsai, we invite you to contact us for a garden visit.
– sanctuary –
The bonsai yard is offered as a no-fee sanctuary for those who have experienced recent loss or trauma and wish to be around trees. Some light bonsai activities are available on request.
– consultation –
Advice on the direction of a bonsai or a collection. Also inquire about phone consults.
– presentations –
Lectures and alternative presentations such as critique and seminar to organizations nationally and internationally.
