Mentorship 101 is a six-session, cumulative bonsai course designed for those new to bonsai, as well as current Nashville Bonsai Society members who are seeking a stronger foundation to progress their skills within the art form.
This program focuses on the essential principles of bonsai—tree selection, repotting, wiring, styling, and, most importantly, horticulture—providing students with the knowledge and confidence needed to keep their trees healthy and thriving long-term.
Each class is structured to combine education with hands-on experience:
Throughout the course, six to seven experienced mentors work alongside students, offering individual guidance, answering questions, and helping students develop both practical skills and critical observation.
Mentorship 101 is intentionally small and interactive. Rather than a classroom setting, students work side-by-side with mentors in a workshop environment, learning by doing.
This approach allows students to:
Tuition covers:
Students are encouraged to bring any tools they already own. Additional tools will be available as needed.
$250 for the full course
Payment is due in full (cash or check) at the first class.
ClassesThe dates for each of the 6 classes are typically scheduled in the fall/winter before the course starts the following January. They are usually the last Saturday of each month minus weekends with major holidays (Mother's day). Below is an example of the dates for 2026:Each student must be a Nashville Bonsai Society member in good standing (dues paid).