Library

All media is listed alphabetically or use the search bar here to apply a key word. To borrow any media listed, please e-mail Joe Lentner.

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BONUS! 
For a complete list of bonsai tree common names with their matching botanical names view the Bonsai Glossary.

A – Section

• All Japan Satsuki Exhibition, 1978:  Japan Satsuki Association is a leader of Satsuki bonsai. Satsuki is one kind of plant that has pretty pink, white or red flowers. Satsuki Association have been giving the Satsuki Festival in Tokyo every year and a beautiful, profusely illustrated photo album is published for each year of the exhibit. It contains many beautiful photos of Satsuki bonsai. There are also English preface by the association, contents and descriptions in each page. Cat# 100017

• All Japan Satsuki Exhibition, 1981:  Japan Satsuki Association is a leader of Satsuki bonsai. Satsuki is one kind of plant that has pretty pink, white or red flowers. Satsuki Association have been giving the Satsuki Festival in Tokyo every year and a beautiful, profusely illustrated photo album is published for each year of the exhibit. It contains many beautiful photos of satsuki bonsai. There are also English preface by the association, contents and descriptions in each page. Cat#100018

• Art of Bonsai Design by Colin Lewis:  It’s all about the design of these tiny and magnificent specimens. The result of years of dedication to an ancient craft, this fascinating volume offers inspiration, encouragement, and practical advice. The author profiles fifteen of his own bonsai creations–elms, junipers, pines, and larch–in fascinating narrative and glorious full-color photographs taken over a period of many years. As you enjoy the stories of how each bonsai was shaped, you will obtain valuable advice on design, pruning, and bonsai care, and you will learn from the lessons of the many mistakes made along the way. Cat.#100018

• Art of Flowering Bonsai by Peter Adams: Peter is one of the world’s leading bonsai experts and winner of numerous medals for his trees. This his seventh bonsai book could easily capture the imagination and interest of anyone with no previous interest in the topic. Flowering trees are not usually considered for bonsai, but they can be successful when specimens with small flowers and berries are selected. The 60 color photos are stunning, but the text is what makes this book a winner.

B – Section

• Basic Bonsai Design by David DeGroot:  This unique book provides a detailed look at all aspects of displaying bonsai outdoors: choosing the right spot, designing the display area, and selecting the right materials for construction. It also includes construction plans and techniques for making your own attractive and inexpensive stands and benches in many of the more popular styles. Cat #300068

• Best of Bonsai in Europe, 1997:  This book is the first of it’s kind in Europe. It immortalizes a milestone in the history of bonsai in Europe and is a wonderful memory of two fantastic days. Days of friendship, solidarity, admiration and joy.” This statement in the introduction to the book gives an impression of the feelings that the International Bonsai Weekend evoked. This event was held at the Ginkgo Bonsai Centre in Lochristi, Belgium in September 1997 and was organised by Danny Use and Ingrid Vanlommel. Cat.#100009

• Best of Bonsai in Europe 2, 1999:  Learning about bonsai involves looking at photographs of quality bonsai. This book contains high quality photographs of all the bonsai that were in the bonsai exhibition in Laarne (Belgium) at the Ginko Award in 1999. Cat.#300051

• Best of Bonsai in Europe 3, 2001:  Learning about bonsai involves looking at photographs of quality bonsai. This book contains high quality photographs of all the bonsai that were in the bonsai exhibition in Laarne (Belgium) at the Ginko Award in 2001. Cat.#300052

• Best of Bonsai in Europe 4, 2003:  The Best of Bonsai in Europe – 4 – 2003 Edition. Every two years this fabulous Bonsai event takes place in Belgium. Already 4 souvenir volumes are available. In a luxurious box. Hard cover. 128 pages, full color, over 150 photographs. Cat.#300053

• Best of Bonsai in Europe 5, 2005:  The biggest and best yet. The 200+ beautifully photographed bonsai will stop your mind. Though influenced by Asian and particularly Japanese bonsai, there is an unmistakably different flavor, something quite artistic, yet rough and unique about these remarkable trees. If you are looking for inspiration for your own bonsai and excellent value in a beautiful book, look no further. Cat.#300054

• Best of Bonsai in Europe 6, 2007:  We’ve come to expect nothing but the best from the European bonsai community, and we’ve never been disappointed. The 200 plus beautifully photographed bonsai that grace the pages of this shinning new book will provide countless hours of enjoyment for any bonsai enthusiast, or anyone who simply loves all things beautiful and dramatic. Though influenced by Asian and particularly Japanese bonsai, there is an different flavor in Europe, something quite unique about these remarkable trees. Cat.#300055

• Bonsai Aesthetics, A Practical Guide by Francois Jeker:  We are delighted to introduce Francois Jeker and his wonderful new book to our readers. Bonsai Aesthetics is the first book dedicated exclusively to the major principles of Japanese aesthetics as applied to bonsai. It is practical and simple, yet full of ideas which will inspire and challenge your bonsai skills and understanding. The author, in addition to being an enormously accomplished bonsai artist–and deadwood master–is a skilled illustrator, painter, garden designer, photographer and set designer for television and theater. Cat.#300072

• Bonsai Art by Marc Nöelanders:  Marc is without doubt one of Europe’s leading Bonsai teachers, combining great natural artistic ability with a mastery of technique.” Source Willowbog Bonsai Cat.#300066

• Bonsai Art of Kimura by Masahiko Kimura:  This book explores Kimura’s artistry via progression series (photos of a potensai’s beginning, middle, and end work)and via strictly before and after photos where no progression is shown. The book is laminated and well bound. Every page is glossy and there are many high quality photos. There is a summary of the history and work of every bonsai discussed therein. The translation is unobtrusive and without pretension, making it very easy to read and to understand in its matter of factness. Cat.#100006

• Bonsai Book of Practical Facts by Jerome Meyer:  This book is for someone whose already had some hands-on exposure to bonsai and started generating questions about what they’ve encountered. An excellent practical reference that covers everything from watering to growing moss. Not much on specific species and no color pictures (or many black and whites either) but very readable and makes bonsai much less intimidating. A must for new bonsai practitioners. Cat.#200034

• Bonsai Design, Deciduous and Coniferous Trees by Peter Adams:  Growing bonsai is a beautiful art that inspires tranquility and peace, yet requires precision and patience. Comprehensive profiles on each major species used in bonsai design include information on natural habitat and plant description, soil preferences, watering instructions, transplanting tips, containers, feeding, pests and diseases, and what to expect each year in terms of structure and form. Cat # ?

• Bonsai From The Wild. The Native Trees Suitable for Bonsai Culture in the Temperate United States and Canada by Nick Lenz:  For those who have been around the bonsai scene for a while, particularly in the US, Nick Lenz has attained an almost legendary status, as an aficionado of the ancient Chinese and Japanese art of bonsai, and as iconoclastic writer, artist, and bonsai potter. His vast experience, borne of over 40-odd years of collecting native North American species, and observing and recording their suitability for bonsai, shows through clearly, in this publication. The most telling quote in his book in this regard is as follows: “I write about those few species I have found readily in nature, those that have done well for me. I try to be complete, but not to the point of tedium.” Cat.#100007

• Bonsai From The Wild, Second Edition by Nick Lenz:  Nick Lenz’s classic, one of a kind book is back in print. Completely revised, expanded and redesigned – with 90 more pages and numerous new color photos. Nick expounds in his unique style about bonsai care, styling and aesthetics – with extra attention paid to collecting and native species. Cat.#100074

• Bonsai Landscapes by Peter Adams:  Bonsai Landscapes reworks the enduring appeal of the bonsai to create whole mini-landscapes. The author, Peter Adams, has 40 years experience in bonsai design and growing and has created some of the bonsai held in the British National Collection. Cat.#300057

• Bonsai Master Class by Craig Coussins:  Noted bonsai author and teacher and friend to countless bonsai enthusiasts around the world Craig Coussins focuses on contemporary techniques that are rapidly changing the art of bonsai. Here’s what the publisher has to say about Craig’s brand new offering: Join artists around the world who are refining and changing bonsai. State-of-the-art tools, synthetic rocks, breakthrough techniques of Singapore’s bonsai masters and more. Covers both basic and advanced techniques. Cat.#300050

• Bonsai Masterclass by Peter Chan:  The author of Bonsai: The Art of Growing and Keeping Miniature Trees (Chartwell, 1985) takes a slightly different approach in this book. He stresses aesthetic principles, discussing in greater detail differences between Japanese- and Chinese-style bonsai. Chan does not include encyclopedia descriptions of different bonsai stock but does cover Suiseki, the art of viewing stones. He describes the technique of air layering more clearly here, but treats other horticultural principles and general advice on where to find bonsai stock adequately in both books. Cat.#200029

• Bonsai Miniature Potted Trees by Kyuzo Murata:  Although there are several publications on bonsai, very few books have been published for beginners. This book is designed to equip those who wish to embark upon growing their own bonsai with the knowledge and skills to do so. To this end, we have included as many photographs and illustrations as possible in the hope of giving the reader a complete and comprehensive explanation of the pleasurable and rewarding art of bonsai growing. Cat.#200030

• Bonsai Survival Manual by Colin Lewis:  Tree-by-tree guide to buying, maintaining, and problem solving. Grow attractive bonsai and keep them healthy with this one-stop source of vital information. From advice on evaluating and selecting plants, to assessing plant health and troubleshooting, Colin Lewis’ expert advice provides what any bonsai enthusiast needs for success. Colin Lewis is an internationally known bonsai artist, teacher and writer. Cat.#200037

• Bonsai Techniques I bu John Yoshio Naka:  Undisputedly the best book in the English language on Bonsai. John Yoshio Naka is our American Treasure Bonsai Master. This book will take you to a level of understanding bonsai trees that no others will, yet it’s very easy to read and simple to grasp, with illustrations that make perfect sense. This book is jammed packed with information that you won’t find other places. Cat.#200025

• Bonsai Techniques II by John Yoshio Naka:  John Naka’s two books are without dispute, the best books in the English language on Bonsai. This is Naka book 2 of 2. This book is jammed packed with information that you won’t find other places. A treasure trove of Bonsai Wisdom. 442 Pages, many, many black and white photos and drawings by the author. Included in the book are chapters on rootage, trunks, branches, apex, styling, collecting techniques, containers, displaying, complimentary plants, Suiseki and California juniper. Cat.#200026

• Bonsai Ways by Beatriz and Martha Botera:  BONSAI WAYS is an excellent book in ANY language; also available in the original Espanol as HAGAMOS BONSAI. Authored by Beatriz Botero de Borrero and Martha Olga Botero de Gomez, it is a bonsai classic. The Botero sisters were significantly influenced by John Naka, but they have many original and thoughtful ideas in this well crafted book. I think it is one of the most under-appreciated resources of the bonsai library. Cat.#200032

• Bonsai With Japanese Maples by Peter Adams:  Peter Adams is well known in the world of bonsai his Art of Flowering Bonsai and Bonsai Landscapes were quite popular (both are out of print) and this good-looking, intelligent book clearly attests to Peter’s experience and artistry. Here is what the publisher has to say about this exciting new book: Japanese maples are among the most popular and suitable plants for bonsai. In this long awaited book, internationally renowned expert Peter Adams discusses horticultural needs and illustrates techniques for creating and maintaining beautiful specimens. Cat.#300071

• Bonsai World’s, Vol. 2, Branch Selection and Pruning by Yoshio Onada: VHS Video. Volume 2 of a 5 volume series. Branch selection and pruning. Basic principles of branch selection. pruning pre-bonsai tree, fitting into design/growth control. pruning and shaping are in three different stages: pre-bonsai, semi-finished specimen and completed design. Viewing time is 60 minutes and is in English. Cat.#400085

• Bonsai Year Book by Paul Goff:  The Bonsai grower’s companion to seasonal care and maintenance. Featuring over 160 specially prepared color photographs, the bonsai Year Book is a comprehensive guide to seasonal care and maintenance produced as a month by month workbook. Featuring: monthly bonsai routines, quick reference ‘Tasks in Brief’, clear concise photographs illustrating seasonal care, and pages for your own records. Cat.#200039

• Bonsai, A Care Manual by Colin Lewis:  With plants’ increasing availability at supermarkets and garden centers, the ancient art of bonsai is now accessible to anyone. This care manual explores bonsai history and details all of the techniques necessary to keep a bonsai alive and thriving. This complete guide includes the history and creation of bonsai along with step-by-step illustrations and 150 color photographs, giving readers the confidence to buy, feed, and trim these miniature trees into impressive displays in their home or garden. Cat.#100005

• Bonsai, Art and Horticulture by William Valavanis:  VHS Video Cat.#400084

• Bonsai, Beginning to Advanced by Susan Lang:  If you’re just discovering this exotic world, be forewarned: you're in for a fascinating but addictive journey. Bonsai, a new edition of a perennial Sunset bestseller, explores the Asian origins of this ancient art form, explains its underlying principles, and provides detailed how-to instructions. Cat.# ???

• Bonsai, Kusamono Suiseki by Willi Benz:  An important and beautiful new book rich in fascinating information. The choice of trees, stones and other materials is excellent, as is the quality of the photos. One of the handful of books that belongs in the full hands of every serious bonsai or Suiseki enthusiast. Cat.#300062

• Bonsai, Life Histories by Martin Treasure:  Martin has won a number of bonsai awards, in his pursuit of bonsai artistry. He displays a remarkable knack for turning rough urban collected and nursery stock into bonsai. This book ‘Bonsai Life Histories’ is not only easy to read but gives a brief overview of the design process of each of more than fifty bonsai trees, from urban collected stock or nursery stock which he has transformed into bonsai. Although, there are no “masterpiece” bonsai to be seen in this book, there are many on their way to being one. Cat.#300063

• Bonsai, Past – Present – Future by William N. Valavanis:  Commemorating 40 Years Of Bonsai By William N. Valavanis. Full color photo album with Valavanis bonsai masterpieces and their history from 1963-2003 Cat.#300070

• Bonsai, The Art of Living Sculpture by Jack Douthitt:  Written by acclaimed bonsai artist and former-president of Bonsai Clubs International, Jack Douthitt. It is a beautiful publication, with breathtaking color pictures of bonsai throughout. Although it is not necessarily a reference book per-say, it is a fantastic book to get inspiration and ideas for future bonsai projects and just to admire the myriad of styles and species that can be used in bonsai. Cat.#300060

• Bonsai, The Art of Training Dwarf Potted Trees by Brooklyn Botanical Garden:  VHS Video.  In this video an expert instructor demonstrates all the techniques important to the art of bonsai including trimming, repotting, root pruning, and soil preparation. Features rare bonsai from the famous C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Cat.#400082

• Bonsai, The Danny Use Collection at Ginkgo by Danny Use:  DVD Video.  This DVD features the amazing collection of Danny Use which includes some of the finest specimen bonsai in the western world. Well over 100 beautiful trees on exhibition and many in formal Tokonoma setting during a special open weekend at the famous Ginkgo Bonsai Centre, Belgium. Also featured are the Bonsai Cho Japanese style gardens that create the tranquil landscape for this magnificent private collection. Approximately 80 minutes running time. Cat.#400078

• Bonsai, Works of Divinity by Shinji Suzuki:  VHS Video.  A DVD chronicle of a year in the life of Shinji Suzuki from Japan and how he faces and overcomes challenges in the creation of masterpiece bonsai. Cat.#400091

• Botany for Bonsai, The Science Behind the Art by Enrique Castano de la Serna:  Understanding how trees grow and develop is essential to developing healthy beautiful bonsai. When you can predict, and to some extent control, your bonsai’s growth over the weeks, months and years, it is easier to plan and design superior bonsai. Unfortunately, many bonsai enthusiasts have little understanding of how trees survive and grow, and how to use this knowledge to their advantage. In this unique book the author provides the basics for deepening your understanding of what makes your bonsai grow and thrive. Cat.#200043

M – Section

• Magical Technician of Contemporary Bonsai by Masahiko Kimura:  Mr Kimura is a pioneer in the development of new bonsai techniques, reveals through his fiercely beautiful works his deep love for the art of Bonsai. He has become even more well-known not only in Japan but also throughout the world. Cat.#100011

• Magician, The Bonsai Art of Kimura by Masahiko Kimura:  Every bit as good as the first volume. Though both show the master at work, the focus in volume 2 is more on how-to, step-by-step transformations and the thinking that goes into creating some of the world’s greatest masterpieces. Master Masahiko Kimura, also known as “The Magician,” is the most famous bonsai master ever. Because of his willingness to break with convention, many in Japan refused to take him seriously, at least in the early years. Now, no one disputes Kimura’s genius or his pioneering position in the bonsai world. Cat.#200047

• Maples of The World by Oterdoom Van Gelderen, De Jong:  There have been very few–if any–books devoted to maples, the genus acer. This truly comprehensive one is the result of 19 years of work by the scholar-authors. The largest section is a proposed revision of the genus, combined with a detailed description of hybrids and cultivars. Other chapters cover such subjects as the history of maple names, maple structure, native habitats and distribution, pests and diseases, propagation, paleobotany and evolution, and reproduction and taxonomy. The book will be of interest to botanists because of its taxonomic and nomenclatural data and its thorough (69-page) bibliography. There are 207 color photographs of significant species and cultivars, as well as 5 black-and-white photos and numerous line drawings by George Cohen. Cat.#100010

• Master Bonsai Techniques by Chase F. Rosade: Shaping Techniques, Volume I by Chase F. Rosade:  DVD and VHS Video. Cat.#400079

• Master Bonsai Techniques: Carving Deadwood, Volume II by John Naka: VHS Video. (2 copies) Cat. #400081, 400080

• Master Bonsai Techniques: Rock Planting, Volume 3 by Marion Gyllenswan: VHS Video. (2 copies) Cat.#400098

• Master Bonsai Techniques: Group Planting Bonsai, Volume IV by William N. Valavanis:  VHS Video. (2 copies) Cat.#400097

• Masters’ Book of Bonsai by Japan Bonsai Assoc:  Many lifetimes of experience are represented in this compendium of the techniques practiced by the Bonsai masters of Japan today. Cat.#200038

• Miniature Bonsai by Herb L. Gustafson:  Unlike their larger relatives, these palm-size trees can be potted, shaped, and pruned in only an hour or two, are easy to manage, and require little space. “A guide for the novice that explains the preparation, watering, weeding and seasonal care of bonsai as well as which pests and diseases may affect the plants….A list of 200 plants presents specifics.”—The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Cat.#300058

• Mountains in the Sea, The Vietnamese Miniature Landscape Art of Hon Non Bo by Phan Van Lit:  No one knows when Hòn Non Bô., or Vietnamese miniature landscape art, began, but creating a scenic landscape in miniature has been a special pastime for Vietnamese people for hundreds of years. The duplication of nature in an artfully reduced scale is now appreciated by many Westerners as well. Lít Phan and Buller’s unique new book is a comprehensive and exciting introduction to this elaborate natural art form that is akin to—but different in essential ways from—the more familiar art of bonsai. Cat.#300064

N – Section

• Native Treasures Volume One by Edwin and Rhena Symmes: Cat.#200031

P – Section

• Penjing, The Chinese Art of Miniature Gardens by Hu Yunhua:  This book is an English translation of a Chinese book on the Penjing subject. Penjing; the forerunner of bonsai has a more relaxed form, compared to how Japanese people style there trees. Still, as a bonsai enthusiast, I really love this book!Showing how to style trees, work with rocks, constructing rock landscape’s and grafting (bud grafting pine!) this book will inspire, even the most advanced bonsai lover. Cat.#300059

• Penjing, Worlds of Wonderment by Qingquan Zhao:  The study of Penjing can benefit both bonsai and Japanese gardening enthusiasts. Mr. Zhao is a living master and this is by far the best Penjing book we have seen. Cat.#100003