The Bonsai Courtyard at Hidden Lake Gardens is a gem of quiet and astonishing beauty. A wonderful variety of miniature trees in pots invite visitors to see the intimate interaction of the natural world with the human hand and artistic imagination.
Display of bonsai at Hidden Lake Gardens began shortly after the hiring of Jack Wikle as the Gardens’ first Education Specialist in 1968. Already a bonsai hobbyist, Jack readily accepted an invitation to display a few of his “little” trees in one corner of the Conservatory Temperate House.
The collection has grown over the years thanks to Jack’s personal involvement with the bonsai world and his generous capacity to share his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Gifts from numerous accomplished bonsai artists have increased the collection to more than 75 trees. Jack guides volunteer help in styling the trees and maintaining them for optimum health and beauty. The Bonsai Courtyard has display pedestals that accommodate between 18 and 20 bonsai, offering visitors an opportunity to engage at close range with a pleasing variety of impressive trees and to reflect upon the beauty and wonders of nature.
Some bonsai often on display:
[Click on the image for captions and forward/back advancement]
