History of the Collection

The growing interest in bonsai has resulted in the setting up of the Federation of British Bonsai Societies which, in turn, helped establish this, the National Bonsai Collection in 1991.

Though established in 1991, it was not until 1993 that the National Bonsai Collection was officially opened by the Japanese Consul-General Mr. Yamazaki. This represented a big step in British bonsai, as it was the result of many years of hard work and fund raising to turn an idea into reality.

Aims of the Collection

One of FoBBS's (Federation of British Bonsai Societies) original objectives was to establish a national collection of bonsai, to bring together some of the finest trees in the UK.

The collection is open not only for the dedicated enthusiast, but also for the casual visitor to the gardens to enjoy. A majority of the trees present in the collection have been donated or bequeathed, although a few have been purchased by the collection. A few trees on display during specific periods (ie. flowering) are on loan.

The trees on display reflect examples of the different species and styles associated with this living horticultural art form.

Maintenance of the Collection

Day to day watering and care of the trees is carried out by staff at the Botanical Gardens. General maintenance of the collection is carried out by volunteers from local societies. More specialised training of trees owned by the collection and FoBBS is now carried out by a group of local expert volunteers. There is a continuous programme of improvements in the display area, including most recently, completely new podiums, designed by local craftsman Roy Cupples.

Future projects are already being planned, including a development of the courtyard area in conjunction with the Japanese Garden Society, which require continuous fund raising. This is organised by an educational charity (Charity no. 1008203) called the Friends of the National Bonsai Collection