Bonsai Heresy by Michael Hagedorn
Michael Hagedorn, renowned bonsai artist, teacher, and author takes us deeper into the art and science of bonsai than you might have imagined possible. And he does it with disarming humor and a love for the art of bonsai.
Bjorn Bjorholm, bonsai artist and educator, who like Michael apprenticed in Japan wrote: "Not only does Michael dispel long-held bonsai myths, but he wonderfully weaves personal, often self-deprecating anecdotes into the mix. Well written, deeply researched, and perfectly timed, Bonsai Heresy is a must-read for every bonsai enthusiast."
Michael apprenticed with bonsai master Shinji Suzuki in Obuse, Japan from 2003 to 2006. He lives and practices bonsai in Portland Oregon, where he founded Crataegus Bonsai Garden and The Portland Bonsai Village. Michael is also the Bonsai Consultant for the Portland Japanese Garden. He teaches classes to students from around the world at his garden, and blogs at crataegus.com.
Michael's first book Post-Dated: the Schooling of an Irreverent Bonsai Monk was in our opinion he best english language bonsai book... until Bonsai Heresy came out.
5" x 7". Paperback. 360 pages, with color illustrations by Sergio Cuan.
You Might Like
Thomas K.
Excellent bonsai book with very insightful information that is clearly presented.
Susan N.
Enjoying the book. I was disappointed that the list of root death temps for different trees did not include any of the species I have, such as Pomegratate, elms, cherry, hazelnut or oaks. It was the main reason I bought the book.
PATRICK R.
UNIQUE is the word I think of because it describes the information Michael treats us to based on his vast experience.
David S.
Great book! Valuable discussions of all things bonsai
John E.
Great, well written and entertaining book.
Shannon M.
Great book unlike most bonsai books. It’s hard to put down.
Francois B.
Great book
Debra H.
I have several bonsai books but it's true what others have said, this book is especially helpful, so a worthwhile purchase.
Brian
A Great Read
Thomas Q.
Interesting book but I did not realize it is mainly intended for folks with mature trees.
Patricia B.
One of the BEST bonsai books I've ever read!!!
A must read, especially for an experenced bonsai artist.
Dispels all those myths we've been taught, years ago.
Steve O.
Surprisingly quick delivery (from the US to NZ). Loving the book!!!
Richard W.
I have wanted this book for ages, and finally got my hands on one. I wasn't disappointed. The writing style, wit, and detailed science and anecdotal 'evidence' make for a compelling read. This should be essential reading for any bonsai grower at any level. But particularly for those new to the art, it's a critical read that will save many years, many tears, and many trees!
Derrick L.
Really enjoy reading this. Very informative.
Barry C.
I am a new Bonsai enthusiast. Was trying to learn a bit before diving head first into the amazing wonderful world of Bonsai. Not a book for a newbie like me, however, I am learning so much and Michael has an easy engaging writing style which allows the reader to understand and learn even the more intricate and technical things about growing Bonsai.
So far it has been a great read and didn’t disappoint.
Perry B.
The most in depth discussion I have found on the science and the traditions of the art of bonsai.
There are chapters on soil chemistry, fertilizers, wintering practices, watering, pruning, etc.
All of written with both wit and scientific references.
Louis F.
Fun, well-thought out. Essential.
O J A.
Great book with some very interesting observations on bonsai husbandry. It's always refreshing for me to read when rules are "breakable" and when long-term advice can occasionally be safely disregarded.
lynn w.
Beautiful book. Recipient loved it.
Rick M.
Information packed book that helps the reader approach bonsai with a new sense of understanding. Lots of insights and information I’ve never seen anywhere else. Excellent read.
Justin G.
This is a must have for the Bonsai Enthusiast alot of truth and the layout is pretty awesome
Kevin J.
Gift
Louis B.
In my opinion, with all of the other books about bonsai I own, this one is probably the most important one I have. This book just explained so much that I either thought I knew, or things that I never have. I view it more as a manual, an instruction guide, and I know that come next spring I will be constantly referring to it. I read it in one night. Very much worth the price. I can see this being known as the "Bonsai Bible" some day.
Stephen W.
Great info and enjoyable reading!
Randall V.
Expensive way to find out it only very slightly touched on tropicals. Waste of alot of money I did not have.
Cedric N.
This is a great book for anyone who wants to learn more about why we do what we do when it comes to bonsai!
Cynthia H.
I haven't read something this entertaining in a long time! Thank you!!!
David G.
Arrived in a timely manner and was in good condition. Looking forward to doing more business with Stone Lantern!
Tim R.
Great book; it's a classic modern take on bonsai for a reason. Lots of helpful concepts with science-backed reasoning. A must-have.
Michael R.
Stayed in touch. All good.
Kathay E.
Finally got my books on April 25,2022, I ordered them in December 2021. They were sent by you as Media mail
Ingrid H.
I’m learning a lot about bonsai horticulture from this book. I highly recommended it.
Richard F.
Just starting. I have already changed the styling. A lot to learn. This book is covering things i would not have thpught about. Thank you.
Brian T.
Bonsai Heresy has been an amazing read thus far. The ordering process was smooth and I would highly recommend this to anyone
Darin M.
Fast delivery, excellent condition, awesome read can’t put it down
Larry P.
Great book with helpful insights and tips. I just wish it had been done in a traditional book size format as the fat small size make it harder to hold and keep open.
michael l.
An interesting book with some useful information I have not found elsewhere.
I'm still waiting for someone to produce a comprehensive care guide with details from best soil pH to best times to prune, repot, etc, on a species by species basis.
Deborah V.
He is going to be speaking to our Bonsai group this Saturday!
Dana D.
Definitely a great read. Every chapter increase my knowledge. I am going to have to read it a second time because of all the great information.
Marjorie B.
This book was specifically requested by my bonsai-loving husband. I like that purchasing it here helped a small business. Their website was very easy to search and it provided the ability to purchase and ship. The package arrived in time for the holiday, including text shipping updates, and my husband is now very excited to start reading!
Rob R.
Never received the book
Valerie M.
Just received it.
I was curious to see if Bonsaï legends are the same in France and US.
I looked at the table of contents, not deceived
Now I will read it
John K.
Very good book and a quick read...
Kristin L.
If you are someone who has been doing bonsai for years, you need this book ... more concise information than you can shake a stick at, more good reasons to rethink some of what you probably were taught or have been doing for years - OR a delightful vindication of the ways in which you had already decided what you were taught in bonsai just must be certainly wrong but you weren't about to say it out loud ... :)
Plus Hagadorn is a delight to read, just plain fun.
Alek M.
Easy read, great information and it will clear up a lot of miss-information about our beloved hobby. You want to be a better Bonsai devote? read this book.
Gonzalo A.
Really excited to receive the book, all the way down to Argentina! Had to ship it to Miami to then get it at home, but finally I got it!
I like Michael Hagendorn's approach on facts, methods, empirical results and tradition. Well done.
MIchael G.
Great book! Packed with useful info for both beginners and experienced. I would purchase the hardback if ever published.
Paul K.
This is the book for which I have been waiting for all my bonsai life. First, it is not a book for beginners looking for technique tips. It is a book for the bonsai artist looking for the why of what he/she does. It addresses critical problems such as, “when do I water.” As I texted Mike, the book is “dense”. If 35 pages of “why understanding soil” is critical appeals to you, this is your book. If you are wondering why water drops on a leaf can’t cause a burn with a four page scientific, referenced explanation, this is your book. After reading the first forty pages, I realized that there are no pictures. No diagrams, no charts or lists of actions to take. What? It is impossible to describe the breathe of the book and how Mike softens the “density” with good old German/Scandinavian humor. Think Garrison Keillor converts to bonsai. Eg, When discussing the protest against akadama, he gives the following image he had of “a grandmother fending off hordes of advancing red balls was irresistible-the fierce, desperate lady swinging her broom right and left with the energy of the defiant English maid, Miss Pross, in “A tale of Two Cities” stopping the militant Madam DeFarge, only this time she’s the stand against an invasion of foreign soil.” This a book that attempts to answer all the questions that we all have and facilitates the beauty of our trees by steering us through the morass of bonsai anecdotes. I love this book. Thank you Michael.
Ron D.
I agree with the previous reviews that this is the best book, to date, on why we should and how we can cultivate bonsai. So I won't repeat the superlatives, but will offer other reasons for reading Bonsai Heresy. Michael Hagedorn is a quiet philosopher, devoted horticulturist, insightful artist, and crafty wordsmith. He has an uncanny ability to describe the mystery, science and satisfaction of knowing what to do with trees in pots. He also, and this is just as valuable, suggests an aesthetic of bonsai that will deepen our enjoyment of this living art.
Todd E.
What I’ve read so far is fantastic! I love Michael’s writing!
Joe T.
This book is long overdue and certain to be a classic! If you're serious about bonsai, you must read this book! Thank you Michael !
Brown C.
Bonsai Heresy, by Michael Hagedorn, is an articulate, balanced, researched, captivating — and sometimes witty — discussion of bonsai topics covering everything from techniques, to supplies, to aesthetics. So thoughtful and well written, I couldn't put it down. It's a serious book, more than 300 pages, substantive for the longtime practitioner as well as accessible to the bonsai beginner. Personally, I agree with Michael's assessment and conclusions regarding — well, everything. I'm sure that I'll be going back to reread portions as various situations arise. I highly and enthusiastically recommend the book!!!
And I should also put in a plug for Michael's previous book, Post-Dated: The Schooling of an Irreverent Bonsai Monk; it's quite a different book — a story — but equally as wonderful.
Ron M.
Second great book by Michael Hagedorn, just fantastic!
Jeremiah L.
I'm going to have to give this book the highest of recommendations for any Bonsai geek out there! One of the most challenging things i've experienced as a hardcore Bonsai enthusiast is sorting out good info from the bad.
Michael does a phenomenal job of breaking things down so they are clear and concise, easy to follow and gives a thorough explanation either based on science or generations of trial and error. Personally, I think his Bonsai specific horticultural knowledge of conifer, deciduous and broad leaf ever green is among the best in the US and is evident by the pics of his garden. I highly recommend it and believe this book will help many to level up their Bonsai game.
James T.
Well written and provides both specific and in depth explanations for the some fifty-six so-called myths concerning bonsai practices and corroborations for the best practice recommendations. Finished reading this book in few days but shall be using it as a future reference I'm sure. Truly this book did answer questions raised due to conflicting information I have picked up reading many bonsai books, magazines, lecturers and from other bonsai enthusiasts.