top of page
Marks Bonsai Logo

Welcome to Mark's Bonsai 

Branch with leaf
Connaught Bonsai Club Founder Marek Zemla

My name is Marek. I’m a bonsai enthusiast, horticulturist, and founder of the Connaught Bonsai Club- Galway, Ireland.

I find meaning in the natural forms around us, and believe true harmony begins with a deeper connection to nature — bonsai is a beautiful way to nurture that bond.

With a background in horticulture and a passion for artistic expression through living trees, I see each bonsai as a living work of art.

At Mark’s Bonsai, I share my trees, knowledge, and a lifestyle rooted in nature’s rhythm. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, I help others explore bonsai and the values it teaches: patience, mindfulness, and balance.

Join me on this journey — one of greenery, focus, and the joy of small things

 

Bonsai is more than art – it’s a way of seeing the world.

MarksBonsaLogo

 If you’re curious about bonsai—or ready to go deeper—you’re in the right place. Through Mark’s Bonsai I help new and returning growers plug into the Connaught Bonsai Club, a welcoming community serving Galway City and the West of Ireland.

Membership is free. Beginners and families are welcome.

What you’ll find here:

  • Practical sessions that focus on wiring, styling, repotting, and tree health.

  • Seasonal workshops so you learn the right job at the right time of year.

  • Peer critiques in a kind, constructive atmosphere—everyone learns, every time.

  • Mentoring: one‑to‑one guidance available via Mark’s Bonsai when you want extra help.

How our meetups work:

  • Our schedule flexes with the season and member interest. Dates and venues are confirmed collaboratively and posted on the club’s Events page. Typical sessions run 2–4 hours and include a short demo plus lots of bench time.

  • Bring: yourself, a tree if you have one, any tools you own, and your questions. If you’ve no tree yet—come anyway and learn what to look for.

  • Venues: Galway City and County locations, with occasional pop‑ups further afield. Accessibility details are shared on each event listing; if you have specific needs, let us know and we’ll plan accordingly.

Who is it for?

  • Everyone. Total beginners, returning hobbyists, and experienced collectors. Parents with young enthusiasts are welcome (sharp tools require supervision).

Quick answers:

  • Costs: There’s no membership fee; some workshops may have a small materials cost.

  • Equipment: We provide shared tools at group sessions. Bring your own if you have them.

  • Species for Ireland: Hawthorn, larch, Scots pine, beech, juniper, Japanese maple—and many more suited to the local climate.

  • Photos & privacy: We sometimes take photos to document learning and progress. If you’d rather not be photographed, tell us on the day—no problem.

Ready to get involved?

  • Say hello and introduce yourself.

  • Check upcoming meetups and pick a date.

  • Drop in—with a tree or just your curiosity.

bottom of page