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.