The annual bonsai exhibition, took place at the Company’s Garden over the weekend. The festival celebrates the ancient tree art which uses cultivation techniques to produce small trees that mimic full-sized ones. There were also other activities, including a karate demonstration by the Blaauwberg Bonsai Club. The theme this year was “Bonsai for All” and the festival aimed to promote planting trees in bonsai from as well as to dispel myths about exclusivity and affordability of bonsai. Mayco member for community services and health, Dr Zahid Badroodien, said one of the benefits of growing bonsai tree is that they can grow anywhere, without taking up a lot of space. “Learning how to prune, water and shape the tree can develop discipline and detail-orientation in children, or be a relaxing hobby for adults and seniors,” he said. Some bonsai enthusiasts even brought along their trees to get expert advice on styling and cultivation.