Museum volunteers Akiko, Lori, and Joe.
At the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, every tree needs expert attention—watering, pruning, wiring, and daily care. Much of that work falls to a very small and highly skilled team of staff and curators. They’re joined in this effort by a dedicated group of volunteers who help care for the Museum's collections, offering support rooted in their deep passion for the art of bonsai.
These volunteers assist with a wide range of tasks, from preparing soil and weeding, to helping set up displays, to carefully maintaining the artistic and biological needs of these living artworks. They offer an extra set of hands during routine work and also assist with bigger projects that require more time and effort.
Museum volunteers David, Alex, and Mackenzie.
Museum volunteer Le Ann.
Their tasks vary by season and need: Sometimes it's repotting, styling trees, and organizing tools, and other times it's cleaning workshop areas or helping set up for special exhibits. Many return week after week just to water trees or assist with routine care—small, consistent actions that make a big difference. Whether working directly with the plants or supporting behind-the-scenes efforts, these volunteers provide a reliable presence that the curators count on.
Curator Michael James with Museum volunteer Steve.
One example was a moment when the Imperial Japanese Pine, an illustrious bonsai more than 230 years old, needed to be repotted. Not only a masterpiece work of art, the tree is large and very heavy — so the work had to be done quickly to avoid stressing it. One volunteer spent the entire day with the team outside in the elements lifting, moving, monitoring, and supporting the process until the tree was back in its display area, as if it had never been touched.
Museum volunteer Tom.
That kind of dedication shows up every week at the Museum. Volunteers step in when needed and stay until the job is done. They help the curators focus on what matters most: The precise, daily, and deeply intentional care that keeps each tree alive, evolving, and full of meaning.
To everyone who has ever spent time supporting the Museum: Thank you! Your dedicated efforts and energy help protect, preserve, and promote America's national collections of bonsai and penjing.
Museum volunteers Ryan and Paula.
Volunteers are also essential to the success of events like our World Bonsai Day celebrations during the Potomac Bonsai Association Festival — coming up May 10-12 — where their help makes it possible to welcome guests, host exhibitions and programs, and share the beauty of the art of bonsai with the public.
To see the full schedule, please visit bonsai-nbf.org/wbd2025. And if you see a volunteer while you’re there, say thanks.
Volunteers at the Museum
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