Production of French Bonsai
Who are we ? The Bonsaï Galinou team
At Bonsaï Galinou, a bonsai nursery located in the Lot-et-Garonne region, we cultivate far more than just trees. For decades, our team has been growing and caring for bonsai, while supporting enthusiasts with an enduring passion for the living world.
Today, we invite you into our world and introduce you to the people (and dogs!) who make the heart of Bonsaï Galinou beat.
Jacques, the founder
A bonsai enthusiast for over forty years, Jacques founded Bonsaï Galinou. He laid the nursery's foundations, developed the initial stock, and passed on his expertise to Valentine. Even though he has handed over the reins, his experience remains invaluable, and his insight continues to guide the nursery's evolution.
Valentine, manager and bonsai enthusiast
At the helm of Bonsaï Galinou, Valentine is continuing a family venture started by her father, Jacques. Upon taking over the nursery, she chose to grow the business while upholding the values that define its identity: a passion for bonsai, respect for living things, and a commitment to sharing knowledge.
Constantly thinking about future projects, new trees, or nursery improvements, she particularly enjoys sharing her expertise with both enthusiasts and beginners.
Her energy and enthusiasm set the tone for the team. With her infectious good humor, she creates a warm atmosphere where everyone feels at home. And if you spend a day at the nursery, chances are you’ll also enjoy an impromptu concert: Valentine loves sharing her singing talents—whether between repotting sessions or right there in the aisles!
"What I love most about my work is keeping this family legacy alive while continuing to write the story of Bonsaï Galinou together with our team and our customers."
Carine, administrative and web assistant
Carine is often the first person you will meet at Bonsaï Galinou. Between welcoming visitors, interacting with customers, handling administrative tasks, and managing the website, she loves building connections and ensuring that everyone feels welcome and gets their questions answered.
Warm and attentive, she contributes to the friendly atmosphere that defines the nursery. And when it’s time for a coffee break, she’s even happy to step in as the official delivery person, bringing refreshments all the way to the far end of the nursery!
"What I love most about my job is seeing the interest our nursery sparks in people who are discovering it for the first time."
Zélia known as "Zézé", production manager
If the trees are beautiful, vigorous, and well-tended, it is largely thanks to Zélia.
A conscientious and meticulous production manager, she works alongside Valentine to oversee the healthy growth of the crops and the quality of the trees.
Naturally reserved, she nonetheless adds her own personal touch to the team dynamic. From the occasional Portuguese phrase dropped into conversation to spontaneous dance routines, she regularly takes us on a journey without ever leaving the nursery.
"With trees, you have to learn to observe before you act. They teach us patience every day."
Nabil, the jack-of-all-trades
In a nursery, no two days are alike, and that is exactly what Nabil loves.
Versatile and always ready to lend a hand, he is often the first to step up whenever a need arises. Repairing, moving, preparing, installing, helping out—he seems to have a universal answer for every request:
"Yes, yes, no problem!"
His kindness and helpful nature make him a valued colleague whom the whole team knows they can count on.
"I love days where you have to be able to do a bit of everything!"
Damien, part-time nursery worker
Damien plays an active role in the daily care of the trees and the many tasks that shape life at the nursery.
Naturally cheerful, he brings positive energy to the team. His love of conversation enlivens the workday, making even repetitive tasks much more enjoyable.
With Damien around, there is always an anecdote, a story, or a topic of conversation to bring a smile to everyone's face.
"Watching a tree evolve through the seasons is a source of satisfaction that never grows old."
Jules, our new recruit
Jules has recently joined the Bonsaï Galinou team.
While still keeping a low profile, he is taking the time to observe, learn, and discover the many facets of the craft. Yet, beneath this reserved manner lies a deeply committed individual who is always ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work.
Hardworking and inquisitive, he is also quick to share his own knowledge when the opportunity arises, bringing a fresh perspective to the team.
"Every tree is different; that’s what makes this work so fascinating."
Aïko and Apache, official greeters
Aïko and Apache play an essential role at the nursery: making the days a little more cheerful.
Always on hand to welcome visitors, jump on Carine, inspect the aisles, or ask for a few pets, they are an integral part of the family atmosphere at Bonsaï Galinou.
Their specialty ?
- Welcoming visitors with enthusiasm (and a few barks!)
- Jumping into the stream of water
- Demanding cuddles with great professionalism.
- Sleeping in the most strategic spots.
- Chasing after brooms... and sometimes stealing gloves !
They don't know much about bonsai, but they excel at putting people at ease.
"What we love is a bit of silliness!"
More than a team, a human adventure.
What brings us together above all is the joy of working together on a shared passion.
We love watching the trees grow, guiding clients through their projects, sharing our knowledge, and introducing people to a world that is sometimes little-known yet always fascinating.
Every bonsai that leaves the nursery embodies the work of each one of us. Behind every tree lie hours of cultivation, observation, care, and passion.
It is this human element that matters most to us and has defined the identity of Bonsaï Galinou since the very beginning.
A family-run nursery focused on the future
While our team evolves over the years, our philosophy remains the same : to produce quality bonsai, share our expertise, and welcome every visitor with simplicity. Each season brings its share of new projects, new crops, and new challenges, always driven by the same desire to see Bonsaï Galinou grow.
Come and share our passion.
Whether you have been passionate about bonsai for years, are simply curious, or are looking for your first tree, we would be delighted to welcome you.
Come visit us, discover our trees, chat with the team, and take the time to explore the nursery.
You might leave with a bonsai... but you will certainly leave with a better understanding of this living art form that we are passionate about every day.
And if you are lucky, Aïko and Apache might just agree to spare a few minutes of their precious time for you.
"When I took over the nursery my father founded, my dream was to create a place where trees, knowledge, and human connections held equal importance. Today, seeing this team grow around the project fills me with immense pride. Everyone plays a vital role, helping to make the nursery a vibrant, welcoming place fueled by passion. My thanks go to them, and to you for trusting us to share this journey." Valentine