Tiny trees will get huge attention at Lake Merritt next weekend (Feb 27-28). It's the annual mammoth fundraiser for the lovely Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt. This event draws bonsai enthusiasts and vendors from all over the state, and offers a rare inside glimpse into an ancient Japanese art.

"These plants are truly special," said volunteer John Edwards. "This will be a great opportunity to learn anything you want about bonsai, buy whatever you need for your own projects, get to know other bonsai artists, and see some of the most beautiful bonsai work from around California. People come to this event from all over."

The fundraiser begins Sat. Feb. 27 with an auction of bonsai creations at the Lakeside Garden Center (666 Bellevue Avenue) in Lakeside Park, on the shore of Lake Merritt in Oakland. The doors open at noon, and the auction begins at 1 pm.

Then on Sun. Feb 28, the event runs from 9 am to 4 pm. Bonsai vendors and artists will be selling materials and tools. The garden's curator Kathy Shaner will demonstrate bonsai styling technique. There will also be a silent auction and a bonsai garden cafe.

"If you want to know anything about bonsai, you'll have many of the foremost US experts right here in one place, and they're all happy to show off their work and answer questions," said Edwards.

If you haven't seen it yet, the Golden State Bonsai Collection is a hidden gem in Lake Merritt park. This free public garden opened 10 years ago and is staffed by volunteers from the Golden State Bonsai Federation and local bonsai clubs.

I stumbled across this garden when strolling around Lake Merritt this morning, and was entranced by its beauty and grace. The docents were helpful and friendly. This is, by far, one of the most lovely spots I've found in Oakland so far.

The bonsai garden is open to the public Tuesday-Friday 11am-3 pm; Saturday 10 am-4 pm, and Sunday 12 noon-4pm. They also offer monthly bonsai demonstrations and other events. It's at 650 Bellvue Ave in Lakeside Park -- right next to the "Sensory Garden" (full of scented herbs and plants, also worth a stroll). Please, no photos in the bonsai garden without permission.