This past weekend, I had the chance to attend the 2025 San Diego Bonsai Club Spring Bonsai Show, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with fellow bonsai enthusiasts, seeing the beautiful trees on display, and participating in the club sales area.
I’m grateful for all the support — I sold everything I brought to sell except for one pot! That included many of my own handmade bonsai pots and a few imported pieces from Japan.
Selling Handmade and Imported Bonsai Pots
One of the most rewarding parts of the show was seeing people excited about my handmade bonsai pots. As someone who loves both bonsai and ceramics, it’s always meaningful to see my work find new homes with other enthusiasts.
I also brought a selection of pots imported from Japan, blending traditional craftsmanship with my own creations.
Whether you picked up a tree or a pot, thank you — and if you plant something special in one of my pots, I’d love to see it! Feel free to tag me on Instagram or send a photo.
Inspiration from the Trees on Display
Walking through the show was a source of endless inspiration. I always find it helpful to see trees of the same species I work with — especially elms, junipers, pines, and oaks — displayed in new and creative ways. It sparks ideas for styling, pruning, and even potential new acquisitions.
I also enjoyed seeing trees across the full size spectrum, from small shohin trees to larger, more dramatic displays. Each size has its own unique charm and challenges, and seeing such a range helps me stay flexible and creative in my own bonsai practice.
Of course, as a potter, I couldn’t help but pay special attention to the containers. Matching the right pot to the right tree is an art form in itself, and seeing so many thoughtful combinations gave me fresh ideas for future pot designs.
Photo Highlights from the Show
Here are a few of my favorite photos from the Spring Bonsai Show:
Elms
Junipers
Oaks
Other Inspiration
Closing Thoughts
The Spring Bonsai Show always leaves me feeling energized and full of new ideas. This year was no different — between connecting with the bonsai community, finding new inspiration, and sharing my pots and trees with others, it was a wonderful experience.
Thanks again to everyone who made the event possible, and to everyone who stopped by to support local artists and growers.
I’m already looking forward to the next show — and I hope to see even more familiar faces there!
If you picked up a pot from me, I’d love to see what you plant in it — tag me on Instagram!
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