December 16, 2021
I grow bonsai trees as a hobby. It’s a fitting counterbalance to my consulting work - quiet, focused, and constantly evolving. Bonsai cultivation demands attention, timing, and a deep understanding of long-term outcomes. And sometimes, “success” simply means keeping the trees alive another year. That alone is no easy feat.
What I’ve learned through bonsai is that progress doesn’t happen by chance. It’s a lifelong practice built on observing small details, adapting to seasonal change, and applying the right techniques at just the right time. There’s horticultural science involved, yes - but also a bit of art. And luck. Plenty of that too. But ultimately, what’s improved my trees most is documentation: taking notes, reviewing what worked (and what didn’t), and continually refining my approach.
There’s no universal playbook for bonsai. Every tree is different, every microclimate matters, and no two growing environments are exactly alike. Even relocating a tree across town can disrupt its health due to shifts in sunlight, water composition, or ambient humidity. That’s why I’ve spent decades recording what works best in my care, developing a system that helps me make informed decisions year after year.
Right now, it's April in Rochester, which means I’m deep into the repotting season. This is the busiest and most critical time of year for bonsai enthusiasts. Each tree needs to be repotted at a very specific moment, just as the buds begin to swell with energy. That’s when they’re at peak vitality and best prepared to endure the stress of a new container.
Every few years, depending on the species and age, I remove the tree from its pot, inspect and trim the root system, and replace the soil. Sometimes it goes into a new container, sometimes back into the same one. Either way, there are dozens of decisions to make and just as many variables to record. By pruning the stronger roots, I encourage the finer roots to develop. That leads to smaller leaves and more elegant proportions. That’s the quiet secret behind the art of these miniature trees.
Fortunately for me, I enjoy documenting and refining systems just as much as I enjoy growing bonsai. And that’s exactly why businesses hire me. Many companies are growing fast, sometimes faster than expected, but they haven’t taken the time to document their best practices. Suddenly, their operations are fragmented. Their team members aren't aligned. Key knowledge is trapped in a few people’s heads. The business is thriving, but the systems behind it aren’t keeping up.
When I help businesses document their workflows and processes, I’m doing the same thing I do with my bonsai: observing, learning, organizing, and creating a structure that supports long-term health and growth. Documentation isn’t paperwork, it’s preparation. It’s what allows a team to thrive season after season, even through change.
If you’d like to see some of my bonsai trees in person, I’ll have a selection on exhibit here in Rochester on [May 17th and 18th, 2025]. Feel free to email me at jason@henderberg.com for details. Some of these trees on display have been featured in art galleries and international exhibitions, and they’ll be looking sharp for your visit.
And now that you know what it takes to keep them looking that way, you’ll also understand why I believe that well-documented systems are the root of sustainable growth—whether you're building a business or shaping a tiny tree.
