America's Largest Tropical Bonsai Collection

In the fall of 2010, Heathcote Botanical Gardens in Fort Pierce will be home to the largest display of tropical bonsai in America. Bonsai is the ancient art of growing small plants in containers using grafting, pruning, and root-reduction techniques to produce what appear to be miniature trees.

In the 1950's James (Jim) J. Smith, a resident of Vero Beach, took the idea of traditional bonsai and began to experiment with tropical plants. Jim succeeded in crafting bougainvillea, small leaf jade, bald cypress, and ficus bonsai. After years of study, Jim perfected his own style and became a world renowned master of tropical bonsai. Along with Gloria Moore, Jim co-founded the Treasure Coast Bonsai Society in 1975. Since Heathcote Botanical Gardens opened in 1985, Jim and the bonsai society have volunteered to help maintain the gardens.

For years several of Jim's specimens have been on display in the Japanese Garden area of Heathcote Botanical Gardens. In August 2009, 100 of Jim Smith's finest trees were donated to Heathcote. Thanks to the financial contributions by the St. Lucie County Tourist Development Council and individual sponsors, the James J. Smith Bonsai Collection at Heathcote Botanical Gardens will be open to the public in the fall.

A private Grand Opening Gala will be held for all Heathcote sponsors who have donated $100 or more. A $100 donation also entitles the recipient to free year-round admission to the gardens, two free guest admissions per visit, discounts at the gift shop, discounted classes and tours, and a limited edition "James J. Smith Collection at Heathcote" enameled pin. To donate to Heathcote, visit www.heathcotebotanicalgardens.org or call 772-464-4672. Heathcote is a 501-C3 nonprofit organization, so contributions are tax deductible.

Hundreds of Jim's one-of-a-kind bonsai may be purchased at www.jimsmithbonsai.com or by visiting the Dura-Stone Nursery at 304 Old Dixie Highway Southwest in Vero Beach, Florida.