What is Bergen Bonsai Society?
Updated
Bergen Bonsai Society (BBS) is a bonsai association whose members share an interest in the art and horticulture of bonsai — Japanese for "tree in a container." According to its website, BBS exists to promote bonsai artistry, horticultural knowledge, and appreciation, and it does so by encouraging communication and education among members and the wider community. If you are looking for a group in the Bergen, New Jersey area that welcomes everyone from complete beginners to advanced artists, this is what the organization describes itself as offering.
What BBS says it does
The society describes its mission as creating a forum where people can develop the artistic skills and knowledge behind bonsai. Its stated focus areas are:
- Promoting the artistry of bonsai
- Building horticultural knowledge
- Encouraging appreciation of the art form
- Fostering communication and education among members and the community
Who can join
BBS states that its members span a wide variety of ages, backgrounds, and experience levels — "from the very beginner to the advanced artist." The site says everyone is welcome, and that the diverse membership and activities create opportunities to exchange information that helps members develop in the art of bonsai.
Membership dues
The website lists annual dues as:
| Membership type | Annual dues | Payment methods noted |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $50 | Cash or check |
| Family | $65 | Cash or check |
What the site covers
The website functions as a blog and communication hub for the society. Its content centers on upcoming events, workshops, and exhibitions rather than instructional articles. The homepage highlights an "Up Coming Event" section and a calendar of workshops and events.
2026 calendar of workshops and events
The site lists the following schedule, noting that workshops and events are generally held on the third Sunday of each month:
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| February 8 | MABS Tree Selection | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| March 15 | Lacebark Elm Forest Workshop – Bob Hunter | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| April 17–19 | Mid-Atlantic Bonsai Societies | Grantville, PA |
| May 17 | Guest Artist Bob Mahler Workshop | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| June 24–29 | Longwood Gardens Bonsai Show | Longwood Gardens |
| July 19 | Guest Artist Bob Entrekin Workshop | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| August 16 | Picnic Potluck | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| September 20 | Guest Artist Bob Mahler Workshop | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| October 3–4 | New Jersey Bonsai Societies Exhibition & Sale | Lincroft, NJ |
| November 15 | Open Workshop & Annual Meeting | Teaneck Greenhouse |
| December 6 | Annual Holiday Luncheon | — |
The site also notes that holiday weekends are moved to the second Sunday.
How to use the site
If you want to attend an event or join, the calendar above is the main reference point. The recurring pattern — monthly workshops at Teaneck Greenhouse, plus larger regional exhibitions and shows — tells you what a typical year looks like. For current details, confirm dates and locations directly with the society, since schedules can change.