Helpie FAQ – Group Sample

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Exhibition Entries F.A.Q.

  • Is there an entry fee?

    Yes, once your submission is accepted into the show, we will contact you with instructions on how to pay for your entry.  For exhibition trees, the fee is $75.  For kusamono and suisek,  $30.

  • How many trees can I enter?

    There is no limit to the number of tree you may enter for consideration, and no limit to how many of your trees may be accepted by the jury.

  • How is prize money awarded?

    Prize money of at least $7500 will be awarded to the top displays in several categories, including $2500 for the “Best in Show”.  There will be several other categories of prizes as well.  A full breakdown of the prize pools will be provided once the jurying process is complete.

  • What are the award categories?

    A tentative list of the award categories include: 

    Joshua Roth Best in Show award $2500
    Best Pine
    Best Juniper
    Best Other Conifer
    Best Deciduous
    Best Kusamono
    Best Shohin
    Best North American Native

  • Who is jurying / judging the exhibition?

    Bonsai Central is being put on by the Bonsai Society of Greater St. Louis.  The club board has hand-selected a jurying committee made up of 5 highly qualified (non-board) club-members.  They will be responsible for selecting the trees accepted into the show.

  • When is the deadline to submit an entry? 

    For full consideration, please ensure your submissions are received before January 1, 2024.  We will begin our acceptance process on this date. 


    After January 1st, 2024, we will continue to accept submissions until the show is filled. However, there is a greater chance of rejection as we approach the date of the convention.

  • How will the show be judged? 

    The final format for the judging process is still being developed. The 6 guest artists in attendance, along with the board of the Bonsai Society of Greater St. Louis, will be involved in the judging process. 

  • What can I do to increase my chances of having my tree accepted?

    High quality clear photos taken from multiple angles that help highlight the unique or outstanding attributes of your tree are paramount to a successful entry.  

    We are aware that photographs may not depict the entire story of your tree.  If there is an aspect of the cultivation, development, seasonal appearance, or history of the tree that you would like to share, please include this in your email submission.