Bonsai 101 Series: Cascade & Semi-Cascade Styles

A hands-on workshop at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden explores the sculptural drama of cascade and semi-cascade bonsai styles through guided instruction and historical context.

Led by Glenn Hilton, president of the Bonsai Society of Miami and co-owner of Miami Bonsai Specialist, the Saturday, January 17 installment of the Bonsai 101 Series introduces participants to the fundamentals of growing and maintaining miniature trees. The session focuses on juniper bonsai and the cascade and semi-cascade forms, styles inspired by trees shaped by gravity and environment as they grow from cliffs and rocky crevices.

Participants learn about the origins of these forms in ancient Chinese design, along with practical guidelines and techniques for shaping, wiring and caring for bonsai. The workshop is suitable for beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding of specific bonsai styles, and is part of an ongoing series designed to build skills through progressive, hands-on learning.