Page 18 - Flathead Beacon // 7.23.14

18 | JULY 23, 2014 NEWS FLATHEADBEACON.COM
Jerry Meislik trims a tree in his bonsai collection. GREG LINDSTROM | FLATHEAD BEACON
A BONSAI GARDEN
GROWS IN WHITEFISH
Jerry Meislik, an expert in the field of potted trees, shares his knowledge about the ancient art
By MOLLY PRIDDY of the Beacon
WHITEFISH – Up on Big Mountain, in a room overlooking the many ski runs and buildings of Whitefish Mountain Resort, lies a tiny jungle of tropical trees. The scent of figs, water jasmine and kumquats delights the senses, and the extra light provided by overhead lamps gives a comforting sense of equatorial sunshine.
Jerry Meislik’s greenhouse is dedi- cated solely to bonsai trees, which he has been cultivating, trimming and growing seriously since 1977. In that time, he’s become a teacher and expert in the ways of the bonsai.
In his professional life, Meislik was an ophthalmologist, a career dedicated
to tiny margins and extensive detail. It’s no different with the bonsais he creates; it’s all about attention to detail and hav- ing the patience for the changes he hopes to see in his trees.
“I’m constantly fiddling with stuff,” Meislik said, standing amid his 60 or so bonsais.
Jerry Meislik uses wire to shape his bonsai trees. GREG LINDSTROM | FLATHEAD BEACON