The Potomac Bonsai Association, Inc. (PBA)
The Potomac Bonsai Association, Inc. (PBA)
non-profit educational organization
PBA Study Groups
Different from a club, a study group offers more focus and intimacy for those who want to take the next step to enhance their collection or further their bonsai knowledge
Clubs provide a fantastic platform for members to dive into bonsai through group lectures and workshops. Viewed broadly, this model works well, but on a closer (micro) level, it can leave gaps: beginners may feel overwhelmed, while advanced practitioners may crave more challenging material.
Study groups fill that niche by offering a smaller, more intimate setting. They can deliver beginner‑focused instruction to newcomers while allowing advanced members to concentrate on higher‑level topics. Because the groups are intentionally kept small, participants receive more personalized attention, and the sessions run more smoothly.
Affiliated with the PBA, study groups enjoy the same benefits as full clubs, access to resources, events, and the broader bonsai network, without the overhead of a large organizational footprint. Space is limited, so each group controls its own membership and can expand only as its capacity permits.
Browse a few established study groups' bios below to learn more.
Note: Established study group enrollment is currently closed due to capacity; however, we welcome any inquiries you may have, whether related to more nuanced experiences or general questions.
Kochi No Kai
A long-established study group of 6, founded by Jack Sustic (former Bonsai Museum Curator), intended to explore the aesthetic and cultural facets of bonsai. Additionally, this group strives to improve the quality of the group members’ individual bonsai collections and to promote Mr. Saburo Kato’s philosophy of peace and friendship through bonsai, bonsai-no-kokoru (the spirit of bonsai).
Membership enrollment is closed.
Kirima No Kai
A newly established study group for members who are serious about bonsai and committed to improving both their trees and their understanding of the art. Formed through collaboration among dedicated club members, the group meets monthly to study, work on trees, and exchange ideas. With a strong foundation of experience and practical knowledge, members share techniques, insights, and feedback to help one another grow in the art of bonsai.
Membership enrollment is closed.
Charter Your Own Study Group
A study group can be incredibly valuable for those looking to deepen their understanding and take their bonsai practice to the next level. Starting your own study group is simple and offers many meaningful benefits.
If you’re interested in learning more, please see below for FAQs and some real life examples of how a study group can benefit your needs.
Chartering Your Own Study Group
Forming your own study group is an important milestone for anyone seeking to deepen their commitment to the art of bonsai. As stated on the About PBA page, the mission of the PBA is to cultivate, share, and advance bonsai knowledge throughout the community. When members of our affiliated clubs take the initiative to organize and charter their own study groups, it represents the spirit of that mission in action. These groups foster deeper learning, collaboration, and mentorship; an outcome that truly reflects a mission accomplished for PBA.
As the saying goes, “standing on the shoulders of giants.” Many study groups have been established for decades, while others are only just beginning. Despite the difference in longevity, they share many of the same experiences. Every group encounters similar challenges along the way, while also enjoying the same rewards that come from learning, growing, and advancing in the art together. These shared growing pains and accomplishments are part of what ultimately strengthens both the group and its members.
For those ready to take the plunge, the Table of Contents below highlights some of the most common and sometimes challenging topics involved in starting and running a study group. Each topic is presented in an FAQ (frequently asked questions) format, expanding on common areas with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents (Click to Jump To):
What to expect:
Here’s a proven list of topics that are invaluable for anyone looking to start their own study group. Presented in an FAQ format, each entry addresses the most frequently asked questions and includes answers drawn from the real‑world experiences of seasoned study‑group members.
Membership
Q: What is a good, healthy size for a study group?
A: A study group works best at a size comparable to a workshop with a guest artist—small enough that each participant can be heard and individual needs aren’t lost in the crowd.
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At least 3 and at most 7 members.
Q: How is membership decided?
A: Prospective members who demonstrate enthusiasm and the potential to enrich the group should be admitted through a group vote.
Study Group Charter
Q: Why is a charter needed?
A: Recognition by the PBA is a prerequisite for the group’s official status. More importantly, this recognition provides the foundational pillar that enables the study group to define its mission and establish shared goals. It acts as a foundational document for how the team works together.
Q: What should the charter reference?
A: A group charter should define the team's purpose, goals, roles, and operational norms to ensure alignment and accountability. Essential elements include a mission statement, specific objectives, member roles, decision-making processes, communication guidelines, and conflict resolution strategies. Additional elements mentioned below are great items to include in the charter.
Meeting Space/Location
Q: Where can we meet as a group?
A: The default meeting arrangement is to rotate gatherings at each member’s home. This approach balances travel distances—some members live farther than others—while giving the host an opportunity to showcase their garden and receive feedback. It also eliminates the need to transport trees to another location for the host. The host for that monthly meeting benefits from being able to work on more trees.
Q: How often should the study group meet?
A: The study group can meet as often as needed; however, typically, a monthly meeting is the bare minimum. The frequency of these meetings should also be identified in the charter.
Q: I live in an apartment or I don't have enough space to hold a meeting, is it OK for me to not host?
A: Addressing any gaps is a collective responsibility, so the group should coordinate to resolve venue challenges together. In practice, most members will host meetings occasionally, with a few serving as hosts more than once per year. Outdoor meetings are also acceptable, provided they are announced in advance so participants can bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any other necessary items.
Q: What are the responsibilities of the host?
A: In addition to supplying a meeting venue as well as providing tables to work on, many study groups have an understanding that the host is to provide lunch for the monthly gathering.
Q: I'm hosting next; however, parking at my current residence is an issue, how should I accommodate?
A: As the host, you are responsible for delivering the instruction and securing an approved parking space for your group members. Plan ahead and make the necessary arrangements in advance.
Meeting Content
Q: What does a monthly meeting look like?
A: Study group meetings mainly consist of bring your own tree sessions. It's expected each member bring as many trees as they're feasibly able to work on.
Q: A guest artist is scheduled to come for a PBA-affiliated workshop, and my study group has been given a day to work with them. What should I expect?
A: One of the perks of being under the umbrella group PBA is that the organization can bring in very notable artists. These workshops can be held in place of monthly meetings or could be supplemental meetings, all based on your study group's ability to plan. Expect to pay the guest artist for the workshop, and that may or may not include your part in paying for lodging or travel. Always check with as a group with your club or with a PBA coordinator to ensure the cost is clearly stated.
Q: Does every study group meeting have to be bring-your-own-tree sessions?
A: No, there are no limits—the format of your meetings is entirely up to your group. You might hold “nursery” sessions for gathering supplies or scouting materials, or design any other style that fits your needs. Be creative; as long as the group agrees, meetings can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish.
Perks and Benefits
Q: What are some benefits of being in a study group?
A: Definitely beneficial to be in one than not.
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One of the most important is the benefit of feedback. Because bonsai is a horticultural art form, it's important to collaborate to share knowledge about growing techniques and aesthetic nuances.
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Another benefit is having access to guest artists. The study group is treated similarly to a club under the eye of the PBA. Aside from having access to guest artists, if the artist is brought in by PBA, the organization can subsidize some of the expenses to bring the guest artist, which will result in members paying less.
Q: Do I have to be part of a club to be part of a study group?
A: No, since study groups are recognized by PBA, it's not necessary to be part of a club.
Q: What benefit is it to be part of a study group vs a club?
A: Clubs are often considered as social gatherings where they focus mainly on the needs of members on a macro level. Some might not want that and favor a more intimate setting.
Q: Since a study group is similar to a club, can I display my trees at the PBA Spring Festival without being in a club?
A: Absolutely, because the study group is treated similarly, you will not need to be part of a club to display your trees.
Terms and Conditions
Q: What is expected of me when joining a study group?
A: The charter should specify that regular attendance is essential for maintaining good standing in the study group. In many established groups, missing two meetings without a valid excuse can lead to the revocation of membership.
Q: As a study group, are there any other terms and conditions needing to be met?
A: Yes, PBA requests that each member must contribute $10; the study group then pools these payments and forwards the total to PBA to maintain membership compliance.
Evolution
One of the most rewarding aspects of a study group is its natural evolution over time. As members gain experience, subject‑matter experts emerge; some excel with particular species, others have a knack for display design, and others may become skilled in propagation techniques. These experts enrich the group by sharing their specialized knowledge. A diverse membership ensures a broad spectrum of skills and perspectives, fostering mutual learning and strengthening the entire group.
Real-life example (1):
One group member recently completed an intensive workshop on forest‑style composition with a specialist artist. After the course, the group decided to explore that style, which relies on a particular cultivar of plant material that is conducive to creating forest‑like arrangements. A fellow member, experienced in propagation, produced a large batch of cuttings of this cultivar and made them available to the group. Using the knowledge gained from the workshop, the trained member led the effort, and together the group established multiple forest‑style plantings.
Real-life example (2):
The study group decided to explore shōhin‑style arrangements. After researching the proper parameters for a shōhin display, they agreed to place one tree from their collections into each of the seven positions of the arrangement. This hands‑on exercise teaches everyone where each tree belongs in the display case and which species are needed to complete a shōhin composition. By borrowing trees from one another, members also gain inspiration for styling their own specimens and filling any gaps in their personal collections.
Real-life example (3):
This well‑established study group welcomes a newcomer who is new to the art form but shows great potential and determination. Recognizing that a smaller, more focused group can accelerate learning better than a large club, the members mentor the newcomer, exposing them to advanced techniques and providing access to higher‑quality material. Through this guidance, the newcomer quickly overcomes the typical barriers that often take years to surmount, progressing far beyond the usual learning curve.
Conclusion
Bonsai is a lifestyle choice; it teaches a lot of life lessons outside of the art form. It trains the eye, disciplines the mind, and hones the dexterity of one's perception. Joining a club is often the first step, exposing you to guest artists who showcase masterful specimens and to fellow enthusiasts who share your passion. A study group takes that experience further, providing focused practice, personalized feedback, and a supportive environment for continuous improvement. For anyone serious about bonsai, forming or joining a study group is highly recommended; these groups are few in number but in great demand. Pursue the knowledge you seek, and PBA will gladly support your efforts and help expand bonsai education.