For the fourth year in a row, Oak Hammock at the University of Florida and the Gainesville Bonsai Club will host their Grand Bonsai Exhibition on Saturday and Sunday, May 10-11.
The free event, corresponding with World Bonsai Day on Saturday, May 11, will run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, in the Oak Room at 5100 SW 25th Blvd. in Gainesville.
Club members and participants from North Florida will display more than 60 trees for attendees who want to learn about the art of bonsai. Attendees can participate in free giveaways each hour and live demonstrations, as club members will be on hand to answer questions about bonsai.
Starter bonsai trees and supplies will also be on sale at the event.
Bonsai gardening, particularly for older adults, is an excellent activity for people of all ages. The sculpting, pruning, repotting and shaping of the trees helps maintain dexterity and coordination while connecting people with nature in a therapeutic way. People who practice bonsai gardening also report less anxiety and stress, have enhanced patience and focus and experience feelings of accomplishment and productivity.