The Pruning Grounds


The Pruning Grounds is coming to the 2027 Pacific Bonsai Expo: a bonsai skills showdown with a first-of-its-kind format.

  • 16 competitors
  • Multiple rounds
  • Multiple skills measured

We invite all serious hobbyists to submit an application. The only eligibility criteria is that you are not a full-time bonsai professional.

APPLY NOW!

Application Deadline: November 30th, 2026

We are excited to have Sergio Cuan and Eddy Fernandez as panel members. Along with the competition organizer (Nick), Sergio and Eddy will review all applications and select the field of 16 competitors. The jury will balance a number of factors in selecting the field, prioritizing applicants who will be successful in the competition. 

The challenges you will face in the Pruning Grounds will be both predictable and unpredictable, but may include skills related to: 

  • general horticulture
  • pruning
  • wiring
  • styling
  • repotting
  • display
  • conifer and deciduous basics
  • deadwood design

The competition will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 6th, at the 2027 Pacific Bonsai Expo. All 16 competitors will complete the first round. After lunch, the judges will make cuts and only a select few will return for the final round.

We'll have a camera crew on hand with an eye towards sharing highlights online after the event. 

For questions, contact the event organizer, Nick Vila, at nick.vila@live.com