Driving past 10901 Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables, I’d see this wall on my right as I headed north on my way to work. I knew it was Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, but didn’t really know what was there. A friend of mine invited me to a meeting there one night and I have to admit, I was the perverbial deer stuck in headlights, unprepared for what I was seeing. I took my first stroll through the gardens that night, around the lakes surrounded by trees and impressive foliage. It was all so quiet and serene. I could hear Biscayne Bay’s waves gently washing ashore as I walked toward the back and had to stop and listen a while. I’ll never forget that night.
The beauty of natural Florida filled my eyes and forever changed the way I see and feel about Miami.
The meeting I attended was for a bonsai group. I’m not sure if the setting influenced me or not, but I joined the group, totally mystified with the art of bonsai. The Miami Bonsai Society meets there at 7:30, the second Tuesday of every month.
October arrived and with it an event not many know about; the annual bonsai 
show held at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. It’s a spectacular show featuring the society member’s best trees. This year will be the 21st annual show, “Bonsai at the Garden.” There will be the main exhibit, an educational exhibit, bonsai technique demonstrations and vendors from all over the state, including Miami Tropical Bonsai, offering just about anything bonsai related.
For a peek at pictures of last year’s show, check out page 6 of the society’s monthy newsletter, Ramification.