Workshops and Demonstrations

Christmas Craft at the Botanical Expo
Hosted by CHS Members, Gail Scrivener & Anne Gane
Delight in crafting exquisite decorations.
Enjoy a creative afternoon at the Botanical Expo and make a beautiful seasonal decoration to take home. Perfect for adding a touch of warmth to your table or mantel this winter, then bring it out again to enjoy at Christmas time.
All materials provided. Enjoy a cup of tea and light refreshment in the Tod Room.
Secure your spot by booking in advance.
Only 15 spots are available. $20
Book online:
https://events.humanitix.com/christmas-craft-at-the-botanical-expo
Saturday 26 September 3pm - 4.30pm Tod Room

Bonsai Demonstration
Presented by Lloyd Ashbey (Christchurch Bonsai Society)
Join us at the expo for a live demonstration on assembling a Japanese Maple forest and discover the art of creating miniature trees. Learn about the aesthetics principles of creating a convincing forest, the care requirements and techniques for future development. Whether you are a beginner or simply curious about bonsai, this demonstration is not to be missed!
Sunday 10.45am - 11.30am Tod Lounge

DIY hypertufa trough demonstration
Presented by Suzanne Pickford (NZAGS)
Simplicity is the key to these new slim quick-to-produce troughs. Lightweight and moveable.
Sunday 11.30m - 12.15pm Tod Lounge

Orchid Care- Growing Phalaenopsis (moth orchids)
Presented by Canterbury Orchid Society
Phalaenopsis orchids are among the easiest and most rewarding orchids to grow. With the right balance of light, moisture, and gentle care, these elegant “moth orchids” will reward you with long‑lasting blooms and reliable growth year‑round.
Sunday 27th September 1.00pm- 1.45pm Tod Lounge

Discover Kusa Bonsai & Kokedama
Presented by Naomi Goto Garrett (Bright Side Garden)
This demonstration will feature a selection of handcrafted Kusabonsai and Kokedama creations. It will start with a short introduction to these traditional Japanese-inspired plant art forms and the materials used to create them. Watch as a Kusabonsai arrangement is carefully crafted using natural elements such as moss, stone, grasses, succulents, or alpine plants, while learning about soil mixes and finishing techniques. The demonstration will include the making of a delicate fern Kokedama.
Naomi Goto Garrett is a skilled gardener and artist trained in Japan with a passion for bonsai, cloud pruning, Japanese gardens and Kokedama. Her creative interests also include ceramics and art making.
Sunday 27th September 2.00pm - 3.15pm Bright Side Garden Stand

Orchid Care- Growing Cymbidium
Presented by Canterbury Orchid Society
Cymbidiums are tough, rewarding orchids to grow. With regular feeding and good airflow, they deliver strong growth and striking sprays of long‑lasting blooms—perfect for gardeners who enjoy robust, outdoor‑friendly orchids
Sunday 27th September 2.15pm- 3.00pm Tod Lounge

Rhododendrons
Presented by Lisa Williams from Rhodo Direct
An informal talk about various rhododendrons, their use, stylings, what to plant with them and how to care for them.
Rhodo Direct Stand (Lisa’s stand)
