35 years of
CULTIVATING & TEACHING
BONSAI
Refine Your Bonsai Artistry with Expert Techniques
A Two-Year, Part-Time Programme for Dedicated Enthusiasts
The Advanced Certificate in Bonsai Techniques and Aesthetics: Mă-Kè Techniques is an immersive two-year programme designed for bonsai enthusiasts eager to refine their skills and deepen their artistic sensibility. With weekend sessions structured to fit around other commitments, this course offers a perfect balance of hands-on learning and personal practice.
Following The Mă-Kè Bonsai Way, students will explore advanced styling methods, species-specific techniques, and sophisticated design philosophies, all while embracing sustainable bonsai cultivation. Under the mentorship of seasoned bonsai artists, participants will develop horticultural expertise, artistic confidence, and practical skills that elevate their bonsai practice.
Why Choose This Programme?
-
Structured Training: Over 50 expert-led sessions, including 24 hands-on projects, covering advanced bonsai techniques and seasonal care.
-
The Mă-Kè Bonsai Way: Learn traditional and modern bonsai methods while embracing sustainability and regenerative practices.
-
Flexible Start: Join at any time and begin with the seasonal modules relevant to your start date.
-
Open Workshops: Practise techniques and develop personal bonsai projects with expert guidance.
-
Pathway to Mastery: Completion of this course qualifies students for professional-level bonsai training.
Course Structure
Classes are held twice a month on Sundays. To graduate, students must complete 50 sessions, including 12 project presentations over two years:
-
Year 1: 25 modules + 6 projects
-
Year 2: 25 modules, + 6 projects
-
Workshops: Mandatory attendance of at least 12 Seasonal Open Workshops per year. The Balance are to be made up of Four Core, Advanced, or Specialist Modules.
Enrollment
Due to the intensive, hands-on nature of this course, spaces are limited. Secure your place today! Call us to discuss enrollment options.
Core Modules
101: Bonsai Origins and Care
102: Botany for Bonsai Artists
103: Bonsai Pruning
104: Bonsai repotting
Advance Modules
201: Propagating and growing
202: Watering and fertilising
203: Creating Bonsai forests*
204: Choosing a bonsai pot
205: Root-On-Rock Bonsai*
206: Root Over Rock*
207: Bonsai By Design
208: Bonsai Wiring
209: Photographing Bonsai
210: Bonsai Display
211: Bonsai Tool Care
212: Growing Mediums
213: Nebari & Surface Roots
214: Bonsai Growth Patterns
215: Pruning & Ramification
216: Conifer Refinement
217: Bonsai from Raw Material*
218: Shohin & Mame Bonsai
219: Rock & Slab Bonsai*
220: Bonsai Gardens
Specialist Modules
301: Deadwood Development
302: Japanese Maples
303: Japanese Pines
304: European Pines
305: Mediterranean Species
306: Tropical Bonsai Species
307: Deciduous Bonsai Mastery
308: Lighting and Heating
309: Kokedama*
310: Grass Bonsai
311: Chinese Penjing*
312: Broadleaf Bonsai
313: Junipers Bonsai
314: Weeping & Cascading Styles
315: Multi-Trunk & Raft Styles
316: Literati Bonsai (Bunjin-gi)
317: Fruit & Flowering Bonsai
318: Indoor Bonsai Species & Care
319: Tokonoma Design
320: Yamadori & Urban Yamadori
Course Details
-
Venue: Mă-Kè Bonsai Portugal, Vila Pinheiro, Rua Projetada a Dona Maria II No. 9, Bairradas, Landal, 2500-532, Caldas da Rainha, Portugal
-
Schedule: Twice a month, typically Saturdays and Sundays, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (arrive 15 minutes early for registration)
-
Course Fees
-
Students pay for each individual module €50 per module.
-
Module marked with an * require students to bring their own materials or they can purchase them from the nursery.
-
What you need
-
Bonsai Tools: Students are responsible for obtaining their own bonsai trees, tools, and materials. Supplies can be purchased from Mă-Kè Bonsai Nursery.
-
Comfortable Attire: Sessions take place indoors and outdoors. Dress warmly and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
-
Refreshments: Tea and coffee are provided. Bring a packed lunch for the short mid-session break.
Enrollment
Due to the intensive, hands-on nature of this course, spaces are limited. Secure your place today! Call us to discuss enrollment options.
What our students say!
I have approached the bonsai world around 3 years ago, since 2, I decided to follow a course because my interest was becoming bigger. After a couple of experiences I met Mark and I have to say that I found the perfect person. He driven me through the beginners an then to the advanced course with the simplicity and professionalism that just few people have. He's not just a lovely person, he's also a really prepared bonsai teacher. During the Mark course You find yourself surrounded by so many lovely bonsais, result of so many love and knowledge for the bonsai's world. Alessandro De Maria.
One of the things I like the most about MaKe bonsai is the family atmosphere that can be enjoyed there. While sipping a nice coffee and indulging on the myriads of bonsais Mark has in his nursery, I learnt about the basic techniques every bonsai enthusiast need to master to be able to improve his/her collection. Mark is very friendly and his passion for bonsai makes him a great teacher as well as a fun person to chat with.