After assembly, each plant was individually glued into the display. At left, Brian Chamberlain attaches plants to the cave exterior.
UF News and Public Affairs / Jeff Gage photo

Before the cave was set in concrete, stands for the tree trunks had to be welded onto the metal frame. At left, Brian Chamberlain and Bob Leavy guide a magnolia trunk into place.
Stan Blomeley photo

The trees were assembled using real (preserved) trunks and branches. Sprays of silk leaves were purchased and wired to the tree in bunches. At left, Tom Kyne adds leaves to a Blue Beech tree.
Stan Blomeley photo

The finished hammock environment.
Jeff Gage photo