Atlanta | Gainesville | September – December 2017
action-packed
AUTUMN Beware the Scarecrows
Fest-of-Ale’s back. Cheers! Stunning new Garden Lights display
| Atlanta President’s Message
Mary Pat Matheson The Anna and Hays Mershon President & CEO
Scarecrows in the Garden
FALL
in lins Go b
the Garden
Fabulous
This summer has been very rewarding. I have been able to enjoy the results of our Nourish & Flourish Campaign by observing guests as they interact with our new gardens and facilities. The Lou Glenn Children’s Garden has bustled with families enjoying nature and elements designed to engage. The new Skyline Garden delights people curious about its displays -- “Is that real grass or AstroTurf?” “Will that cactus survive the winter here?” “Are those bugs really trapped in the pitcher plants?” These are all positive results of a capital campaign such as ours, a greater engagement among people and plants. Once again, Atlanta’s philanthropic community has demonstrated its remarkable generosity by supporting the Garden’s $53 million campaign with robust giving. And now as we close out the campaign, members are rising to the occasion, providing some of the last critical dollars. Our unique philanthropy and volunteerism are two areas in which the United States excels and leads. Atlanta certainly is a shining example of that generosity, and the Garden thrives as a result. Our campaign set out to take the Garden to the next level and to inspire, engage and impact visitors. I think we delivered on those inspirational words with the wonderful projects completed. And we will continue to deliver over the next two years as we complete the last of our projects – a new conservation and training center, an expanded educational facility for school children and a children’s garden in Gainesville. You, our members, will continue to engage, connect and enjoy the fruits of our labor and the results of your generosity. Thank you for making plants, nature and people a priority. The Garden is yours to enjoy, and you are an essential part of its existence and beauty.
October’s cool days and nights serve up even cooler things to see and do in the Garden, including Scarecrows in the Garden and a return of the amazingly fun Fest-of-Ale.
SCARECROWS IN THE GARDEN
FEST-OF-ALE
Atlanta & Gainesville, October 4 – 29 Some 100 creations by area schools, artists, designers and families are perched throughout both gardens. (Scarecrow registration through Sept. 8 at atlantabg.org). Enjoy Fall Family Fun with games and crafts on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Atlanta, October Thursdays, 5 – 9 p.m. Explore Scarecrows in the Garden by flashlight during the weekly beer fest featuring a variety of specialty ales from cash bars and live musical entertainment.
GREAT PUMPKIN-CARVING CONTEST Atlanta, Thursday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m. Watch as contestants compete for the most creative pumpkin heads in the Garden!
GOBLINS IN THE GARDEN
Fest-of-Ale
Atlanta & Gainesville, Sunday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Show off the kids’ Halloween costumes on the Goblin Runway, participate in fall-themed crafts, enjoy storytelling and other fun activities.
| Official News Publication for Members of the Atlanta Botanical Garden | Atlanta | Gainesville Vice President, Marketing: Sabina Carr | Editor: Danny Flanders | Designer: Bo Shell | Membership Manager: Claudia McDavid 2
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“Nature’s Wonders” Seventh annual light spectacle raises curtain on stunning new Canopy Walk display
Atlanta’s favorite holiday tradition Garden Lights, Holiday Nights will feature an exciting new hightech display that will surely enthrall visitors. Be dazzled by the wonders of nature – presented in cutting-edge technology with choreographed lights, music and sound effects – all suspended from the grand treetops of Storza Woods. Atlanta’s seventh annual show, presented nightly from November 11 – January 7, features “Nature’s Wonders” — a massive stage-like curtain of vertical lights forming a wall of brilliant colors that can be programmed to music and special sound effects to create imagery. “You’re going to hear lots of oohs and aahs over a display that’s inspired by the fascinating phenomena of the natural world – its land, water and sky – rendered dramatically through light and sound,” said Mary Pat Matheson, the Garden’s President & CEO. “It’s definitely going to be the talk of the light show and something new for people to be excited about!” The display will include more than 1,000 vertically hung strings of multi-colored lights in 16-, 32- and 64foot lengths suspended from the tops of the woods’ tallest hardwoods. And because the curtain-like screen extends
over the Canopy Walk and the valley below, it can be experienced from multiple vantage points. The special effects created by synchronized light, music and sound will invoke imagery of the wonders of nature – including fireflies, bumble bees, thunderstorms, snowfalls, rainbows, sunrises/sunsets, meteor showers and more. Much of the music will be classical crowd pleasers inspired by nature, including some holiday-themed ones. Elsewhere in the Garden, look for a return of perennial favorites like those dancing “Orchestral Orbs”, towering cone trees, giant candles, the serene Ice Goddess and enveloping “Tunnel of Light” – most emphasizing all- new cooler green and blue hues. In addition, the Holiday Model Trains will be chugging and the Glow Bar hopping, while s’more-roasting firepits and cash bars will take the chill off both kids and kids at heart. Round out the evening by reserving a table at Longleaf restaurant or grab some takeout at the Quick Café. Planning a party? For private rentals, call 404-591-1555. For details, visit atlantbg.org. Learn what it takes to mount Atlanta’s favorite holiday tradition: atlantabg.org/clippings
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| Atlanta
New program extends free family memberships More local families will be able to experience the beauty of the Garden and its many programs in 2018 without charge thanks to a $1.2 million grant from the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation. The grant will allow the Garden to develop a new program that will extend free and discounted Garden memberships to employees of the City of Atlanta, Atlanta Public Schools, MARTA and Grady Health System, and their families next year. “We wanted to offer something unique in the Atlanta community to show our appreciation for the hard-working individuals and their families that contribute so much to our city,” said Mary Pat Matheson, the Garden’s President & CEO. “This program will invite Atlanta’s police officers, firefighters, teachers, nurses, public transit workers and other community-serving employees to participate in the life of the Garden and become an integral part of our membership base.” At the same time, the program will allow the Garden to reach a broader audience, Matheson said.
Employees of the City of Atlanta, Atlanta Public Schools, MARTA and Grady Health System are eligible for free memberships that include year-round privileges and exclusive members-only evenings. Under the three-year program, the 23,000 targeted employees will have the opportunity to enroll for a free family membership (normally $109) the first year and a heavily discounted one in the second and third years. Participants will receive the same benefits as all Garden members, including free daytime admission year-round, invitations to member-only events, newsletters, discounts on educational programs and gift shop purchases, and reciprocal benefits with
other botanical gardens. “We are very appreciative for the partnership with the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s program,” said Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Meria Carstarphen. “The program provides a wonderful opportunity for APS to engage our employees and their families in taking full advantage of becoming members and creating meaningful relationships with such a strong community asset.”
Get growing for the flower show! Mark your calendar for the inaugural Atlanta Botanical Garden Flower Show Friday, Feb. 23 – Sunday, Feb. 25, and start preparing now to enter its juried competitions. With the theme Ingénue: A Toast to Georgia’s Film Industry, the indoor show will be held in several of the Garden’s facilities, with a Patron Preview Party at Longleaf restaurant on Thursday, Feb. 22. The show will honor Pat Hartrampf for her decades-long devotion to flower shows in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Adults, children and garden clubs are encouraged to participate in the show’s professionally-judged competitions in Floral Design, Horticulture and Photography (A Landscape Design division will be open to professional landscape designers only). Registration will be open November 1 through early January. To help prepare participants, the Garden will offer classes this fall on topics such as floral design and garden photography. Check atlantabg.org/flowershow for registration deadlines and details. For information, email Devin Cowens at dcowens@atlantabg.org or call 404- 591-1730. 4
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Atlanta |
Skyline plantings stand up to winter
Learn how the staff plans to protect the Skyline Garden in winter at atlantabg.org/clippings.
If you’re curious how the Skyline Garden’s collection of desert plants will fare through its first Georgia winter, don’t get too concerned. Through careful hardscape construction and plant selection, the newest display garden is designed to ensure its many succulents thrive in all seasons. Freezing temperatures aren’t a real threat to the plants. Although most are from the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts, these regions have winter temperatures similar to Atlanta’s. Instead, the real danger to these plants is persistently soggy, cold soils. Many succulents go dormant in
winter, and when plants are not actively growing they don’t take up as much water to fuel photosynthesis. Roots rot if they sit in wet conditions for very long, and if saturated soils freeze, roots are injured. The Skyline Garden is designed to avoid any of these challenges. In the terraces, the soil mix is designed to quickly drain away excess water. The terraces themselves are built with Corten steel which absorbs the sun’s heat and transfers it to the soil, keeping soil temperature warm even when the surrounding air is cold. Warm soil promotes evaporation of
excess water and prevents frost damage to plant roots. Also, adequate plant spacing allows air flow so stagnant wet air doesn’t rot the above-ground parts of plants. With a long season of summer growth under their belts and a garden tailored to meet their particular needs, the Skyline plants should stand strong throughout winter and greet next spring with a round of unique blooms. Rachel Bergman, Assistant Horticulturist
Cool veggies for cooler months Cool-season vegetables make for richly colored and textured displays in the Edible Garden from early September to December’s late harvests. There, visitors can learn which nutritious vegetables can be grown during the cool-to-cold months as well as the artistry of arranging edible plants for aesthetic value. Georgia offers a versatile climate for agriculture, and with some advance planning, growers can produce food crops for colorful fall and winter nutritious meals. Here are some favorites to consider: ‘Bull’s Blood’ beets, ‘Atomic Red’ carrots, ‘Veronica’ cauliflower, ‘Ruby Ball’ cabbage, ‘Early Purple Sprouting’ broccoli, ‘Rubine’
Brussels sprouts, and ‘Blue Solaise’ leeks. Kale and mustard are useful throughout the season for their abundant leaves, which make tasty cooking greens. All of these edibles are tried and true, make for pleasing and texturally diverse displays -- especially in raised beds – and can be grown from seed or purchased as plants. Be aware of the amount of time required for sowing seeds. Also, remember to properly prepare the soil, adding amendments such as compost to beds and fresh potting soil to containers. Daniel Walton, Assistant Horticulturist
‘Veronica’ cauliflower atlantabg.org
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| Atlanta
Ball plans a ‘kaleidoscope’ of living color This year’s Garden of Eden Ball is themed “Kaleidoscope” and celebrates the colorful outdoor art exhibition The Curious Garden. Set for Saturday, Sept. 23, the event honors Susan and Jim Spratt for their 30 years of support and involvement with the Garden, including chairing the 2009 ball and Jim Spratt’s role as former Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Chaired by Barby and Bert Levy with support from Ball Adviser Dean DuBose Smith, the ball begins with cocktails in Levy Parterre, followed by dinner, catered by Legendary Events, and dancing in a tented ballroom decorated by Kathy Rainer and Trick Wolfes of Parties to Die For. Cox Enterprises Inc. is presenting sponsor, with support from Boden Spratt Law Firm, Delta Air Lines Inc. and the Isdell Family Foundation. For more information, call 404-591-1730 or visit gardenofedenball.org.
This year’s ball is chaired by Barby and Bert Levy (center) with support from Ball Adviser Dean DuBose Smith (left), pictured here with Garden President & CEO Mary Pat Matheson.
Circle Members ORCHID CIRCLE $10,000 annually Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Cary, Jr. Mrs. Anne Cox Chambers Mr. and Mrs. John Crawford IV Marty and Jennifer Flanagan Mr. and Mrs. J. Rex Fuqua Mr. and Mrs. Peter R. Furniss Mr. and Mrs. S. Taylor Glover Mr. and Mrs. Charles Harrison Mrs. Sara Hoyt Mr. and Mrs. Michael Z. Kay Mr. and Mrs. James C. Kennedy Linda and Edward McGinn Mr. and Mrs. Ray D. Moses Robin and Marc Pollack Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Reiser, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Rigby Mr. and Mrs. H. Bronson Smith Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sward Carol and Ramon Tomé Janeen and Mark Traylor Ms. Joni R. Winston MAGNOLIA CIRCLE $5,000 annually Mr. and Mrs. Douglas R. Aldridge Mr. and Mrs. Carleton Allen Ms. Elkin Goddard Alston Mr. and Mrs. Matthew C. Berberich Mr. and Mrs. Frank M. Bishop Mr. and Mrs. William R. Cortez Ms. Suzanne M. Dansby Mr. and Mrs. William W. Dixon Michelle Duckett-Hedgebeth and Drew Hedgebeth Mr. and Mrs. John Dyer Mr. and Mrs. Donald P. Gatley Dr. and Mrs. Thomas K. Glenn, II Mr. and Mrs. Holcombe T. Green, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William F. Henagan Mr. and Mrs. Howell Hollis, III Mr. and Mrs. William C. Humphreys, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John J. Huntz, Jr. Mrs. Mary Ellen Imlay Mr. and Mrs. Neville Isdell Mr. and Mrs. W. David Knight Ms. Deborah K. Levey Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Levy Mr. and Mrs. John F. McMullan Mr. and Mrs. John Hays Mershon Mr. and Mrs. W. Thomas Mobley, Jr.
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Mr. and Mrs. James H. Morgens Mr. and Mrs. George Nemhauser Ms. Ann Nixon Frances and Jason Pelham Ms. Janet A. R. Piercy Mr. and Mrs. David Poroch Mr. and Mrs. Marbury Rainer Dr. Deborah Levy and Mr. Bert Russo Michelle and Shane Smith Mrs. Laura S. Spearman Mr. and Mrs. James D. Spratt, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. C. Austin Stephens Mrs. Edus H. Warren, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wood ARBOR CIRCLE $2,500 annually Robin Aiken and Bill Bolen Mr. and Mrs. H. Inman Allen Mr. Shepard B. Ansley Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Asher Mr. and Mrs. Jerry B. Attkisson Leslie Aycox and Tamera Partiss Melissa and Philip Babb Ms. Kathleen M. Barksdale Hye Jeong and Matthew Beckett Mr. Steven Behm Christina and Paul Blackney Mr. and Mrs. Frank Blake Ms. Diana Blank Mr. and Mrs. Arthur M. Blank Mr. and Mrs. Moses Bond Mr. Merritt S. Bond Mr. and Mrs. Sam Boyte Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Brewer Mr. and Mrs. William R. Bridges, Jr. Lisa and Ron Brill Susan and Michael Brooks Mr. and Mrs. Norris A. Broyles, Jr. Drs. Patricia and John Burd Mr. and Mrs. Fred Burke Jan and Gene Burleson Mr. and Mrs. Russell E. Butner Ms. Mary Calhoun Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Carrig Ms. Candace Carson Mrs. Carolyn Caswell Mr. Daniel J. Chen Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Chubb, III Martha Clinkscales and David Forquer
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Cousins Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Cushing Robin Cutshaw and Donna Godsey Louisa and Michael D’Antignac Dr. and Mrs. Lawrence W. Davis Mr. and Mrs. Peter T. de Kok Audra Dial and Matthew Ford Mr. and Mrs. John Dollarhide Mr. and Mrs. David Dorton Mr. and Mrs. Christopher S. Edmonds Mr. and Mrs. H. Alan Elsas Ms. Melanie Endsley-Sprinzen Steven Esau and Michael Ferguson Mr. and Mrs. Sam Fraundorf Dr. Henry Frysh Ms. Jennifer Fuqua Mrs. Lauren Fuqua Maronnier and Mr. Arnaud Maronnier Mr. and Mrs. Sabin J. Gianelloni Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Giornelli Janice and David Glover Mr. and Mrs. Franklin T. Glover Mr. and Mrs. Christopher B. Glover Mr. and Mrs. John T. Glover Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Gossage Mrs. Louise M. Grant September and Laurence Gray Dr. Miriam Kelly and Dr. Dick Greene Mr. and Mrs. Bernard L. Greer, Jr. Mrs. Robert Griffith, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Luther T. Griffith Rand and Seth Hagen Mr. Richard M. Harris Julie and David Harrison Mr. and Mrs. John Hatfield Ms. Anne E. Hayden Nicolette Hennings and Michael Paulk Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Hertz Steven Huddleston and Ethan Lyell Dr. Michael Huey and Ms. Fontaine Huey Mr. Alan Hughes Cara Anne Isdell Lee and Zak Lee Kay Ivester and M. Douglas Ivester Ms. Cynthia Jeness Mr. Robert A. Jetmundsen Mr. Michael Jordan Maxine Kendel and Patti Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Roger Key Liza and George Kremer
Mr. James H. Landon Mr. John Lewis, Jr. Jeannie and E. Glenn Lightsey Linda Lively and Jim Hugh Mrs. Lynn Lowance Dr. Roberta Lukachova Mr. and Mrs. James MacGinnitie Mr. and Mrs. Clarke Magruder Mrs. Thomas E. Martin Jr. Mr. and Mrs. David S. Martin Mr. and Mrs. Albert S. McGhee Mr. and Mrs. T. Randolph Merrill Mr. James B. Miller, Jr. Mr. Walter Mitchell Ms. Ginger Dixon Molloy Mrs. Nancy Montgomery Ms. Miyoshi Moultrie-Hall Ms. Susan Nardelli Ms. Christy O’Neill Mr. and Mrs. William A. Parker, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Parker Julia Pastor and Grant Cleaveland Mr. and Mrs. Craig D. Perry Mr. and Mrs. James E. Prickett Ms. Heather Prill Ms. Denita Pryor Mrs. Mary Anne Quin Mr. and Mrs. Jim Richards Mr. and Mrs. Roby Robinson Ms. Sylvia E. Russell Jeff Rutel and Kim Adams Mr. and Mrs. David Schachter Mrs. LuAnne Schwarz Mr. Matthew Sena Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Shields, Jr. Dr. Kirsten Spraggins Mr. and Mrs. Henry N. Staats, IV Mr. and Mrs. Mason W. Stephenson Mr. and Mrs. Terry L. Stinson Mr. and Mrs. Alex Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Jason Taylor Kathleen and Jack Thornton Mr. and Mrs. Keith Townsend Kimberly S. Tribble and Mark S. Lange Mrs. Nancy Allen Waterfill Mr. and Mrs. George Wolfes
The above gifts were made as of June 30.
Atlanta |
Blaze a trail of autumn foliage Trees and shrubs magically change their color to various shades of red, orange, yellow and purple in fall, but these colors are always present in their leaves. They’re just masked by the abundance of chlorophyll that is produced in spring and summer. If you want to add some breathtaking fall color to your landscape, here are a few trees to check out at the Garden: Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) Renowned for its crimson, purplish-red foliage that is produced in early autumn, this hardwood can display hints of yellow as well. Its creamy yellow fruit contrasts nicely with the foliage as it changes color. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) With fan-shaped leaves that transition from green to golden yellow all at once, this tree offers quite a spectacle in late fall. The most popular cultivar is the fittingly named ‘Autumn Gold’. There is a rare stage during
From left to right, Sourwood, Ginkgo and Black Tupelo trees can give your landscape stunning fall color the transition of color where both green and yellow may be present in a banded pattern. Black tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica) This deciduous tree offers some of the best and most consistent autumn color. Its leaves transition from green to
purple, then to scarlet red, orange and yellow. All of these colors can be found on the same branch, which makes for an even more beautiful display of foliage. Tim Marchlik, Assistant Horticulturist
Fall for smart container companions
Blue atlas cedar, pansies, black mondo grass
Variegated winter Daphne, viola, ‘Everillo’ carex
‘Lacinato’ kale, ‘Telstar Pink’ dianthus, trailing oregano
With summer winding down, now is a great time to spruce up those less-than-stellar looking container gardens by embracing the bold colors of autumn. It might seem like there are fewer plant options than in the spring, but the reward comes from plants with vibrant foliage, striking texture and beautiful colors. Fall is a wonderful season to try small evergreens, conifers and hardy perennials that will hold up to the cold. One such conifer, the weeping blue atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica ‘Glauca Pendula’), has lovely drooping, twisted branches filled with powdery blue needles. When underplanted with black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’) and a few colorful pansies, your pot is sure to be an absolute showstopper. Another great evergreen plant for containers is variegated winter daphne
(Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’), known for its green leaves with yellow leaf margins. Winter daphne works well in part- to full-shade locations and can be accompanied with Carex ‘Everillo’, a grass-like sedge with solid gold weeping foliage, and red violas (Viola ‘Penny Red Blotch’). Other cool combinations to try are colorful vegetables and herbs incorporated with annual flowers. Not only will your containers provide stunning aesthetics but also a small crop of edibles for use in the kitchen. Start with a ‘Lacinato’ kale (Brassica oleracea), which has deep blue upright leaves. Add bullet-proof dusty miller along with trailing oregano (Origanum vulgare ‘Aureum’) and ‘Telstar Pink’ dianthus. Maleah Street, Assistant Horticulturist
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atlanta happenings
| Atlanta
Curious Cocktails Final Weeks: The Curious Garden Through October 29 Explore 11 site-specific art installations designed to focus attention on the Garden’s plants, gardens and conservation mission.
Fresh Plates Series Select Evenings, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Relax during a lovely evening of tasting great food prepared by area restaurant chefs in the Outdoor Kitchen: Sept. 13, Brent Banda, Ecco; Sept. 20, Cameron Thompson, Farm Burger; Sept. 27, Philippe Haddad, Cape Dutch; Oct. 11, Zack Meloy, Better Half; Oct. 12, Evan Cordes, Cast Iron; Oct. 18, Eddie Hernandez, Taquiera del Sol; Oct. 19, Jason Jimenez, Kitchen Six; Oct. 25, Jason Paolini, Longleaf; Oct. 26, Kevin Outz, Barleygarden Kitchen. Register at atlantabg.org.
Cocktails in the Garden September Thursdays, 6 – 10 p.m. Enjoy a different area of the Garden every month in the cool of the evening while sipping cocktails from cash bars. September’s theme focuses on the Edible Garden with “Incredible Edibles”.
Concerts in the Garden Friday, Sept. 8, 8 p.m. “Garrison Keillor: Prairie Home Love & Comedy Show” closes out the 15th season on the Great Lawn at the Atlanta garden. Tickets on sale at concertsinthegarden.org.
Shows for Seedlings September Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Saturdays 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Sept. 1, 2, “A Musical Tour through Latin America,” Havana Son; Sept. 8, 9, “Music InterACTION”, Michael Levine; Sept. 15, 16, “The Traveling Garden Variety Shoe Show”, Andrea Zoppo, Sean Conlon; Sept. 22, 23, “Rosie and the Butterfly”, Cathy Kaemmerlen; Sept. 29, 30, “Scatty the Scarecrow”, Betty Ann Wylie.
Fall Family Fun October Saturdays, Sundays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Pumpkin bowling, craft activities and a plush pumpkin toss will delight youngsters of all ages!
Garden Chef Demos Weekends, September – October, Noon, 1, 2 p.m. The Edible Garden provides fresh ingredients for Garden chefs to use in their creative and tasty recipes. Stop by on weekends for quick tips on cooking fresh from the garden.
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Fuqua Lecture: Patrick Newman Wednesday, Sept. 6, 7 p.m. Igniting Lady Bird’s Legacy: Fire Ecology at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: As Executive Director of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Patrick Newman is a passionate advocate of public gardens and historic places. For nearly 20 years, the center has used fire to achieve desirable conservation and horticultural outcomes. Doing so in the middle of a botanic garden is not without its challenges, but the benefits and efficacy cannot be ignored. Admission free. The Dorothy Chapman Fuqua Lecture Series is made possible by the generous support of the families of Edwina and Tom Johnson, and Duvall and Rex Fuqua.
Chocolate -Covered Weekend Saturday, Sept. 9 - Sunday, Sept. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Indulge in a weekend of cooking demos, chocolate samples and family activities. Visit the tree where chocolate begins and learn about the chocolate-making process. Stop by the Outdoor Kitchen where pastry chefs share how they whip up chocolaty treats.
Atlanta |
October 4 – 29 Some 100 creations by area schools, artists, designers and families are perched throughout the Southern Seasons and Children’s gardens during the popular fall tradition (Scarecrow registration through Sept. 8 at atlantabg.org). Enjoy Fall Family Fun with games and crafts on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Holidays in the Garden
Reindog Parade Saturday, December 2, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Register your dog for this favorite holiday tradition starting November 1! During the event, pups don holiday finery and parade before judges for prizes as Best Puppy, Best Adult, Best Botanical, Best Dog-Owner Dress-a-Like, and Best Dog Pack. The cost, in addition to regular admission, is $15 per dog in advance or $18 at the door. Space is limited so register early!
Fest-of-Ale October Thursdays, 5 – 9 p.m. Explore Scarecrows in the Garden by flashlight during the weekly beer fest featuring a variety of specialty ales from cash bars and live musical entertainment.
Alston Lecture: Fergus Garrett Wednesday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m. Designing with Plants the Great Dixter Way: As Head Gardener of Great Dixter, Fergus Garrett keeps the garden constantly changing throughout the seasons by trying new plants and combinations. Garrett believes in passing on his knowledge through national and international student and volunteer programs at Dixter and through worldwide lectures. Presented in partnership with The Garden Conservancy. Admission free. The Philip and Elkin Alston Lecture Series is made possible by the generous contribution of the Charles Loridans Foundation.
atlanta happenings
Scarecrows in the Garden
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights Saturday, Nov. 11 – Sunday, Jan. 7 The seventh annual holiday extravaganza dazzles the Garden nightly with millions of new cool-colored LED lights and displays.
Holiday Model Trains Saturday, Nov. 11 – Sunday, Jan. 7 Join kids and the kids at heart for this holiday favorite.
Goblins in the Garden
Holiday Ride-on Train
Sunday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Show off the kids’ Halloween costumes on the Goblin Runway, participate in fall-themed crafts, enjoy a storyteller and ride a pony or a train.
Saturday – Sunday, Nov. 11 – Dec. 31, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. All aboard the Botanical Express for a trip around the Great Lawn. $5 per passenger. $3 for members.
Botanical Saint Nick Saturdays, Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9 and 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bring your camera and tell all of your holiday wishes to Saint Nick in the Garden!
Holiday Family Fun December 19 – 22, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Join in on all the holiday festivities featuring storytelling, arts and crafts, and other activities.
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| Gainesville
A Note from the Director Autumn in the Gainesville Garden promises not only cooler temperatures but also many new activities for members and visitors. September’s Wine in the Woodlands should offer a preview of what promises to be spectacular fall color. And September 30 will feature Keb’ Mo’ and Taj Mahal in the final outdoor Concerts in the Garden. It should be a fabulous evening under the stars! Next, the Garden will bring back its fall plant sale. Members may shop first on Friday, Oct. 6 followed by the public on Saturday, Oct. 7, during the second annual Fall Woodland Ramble Arts & Crafts Market. New to the Garden in October will be Scarecrows in the Garden – just as the Atlanta Garden hosts annually but slightly smaller in scale. Come enjoy fun and whimsical scarecrows scattered along the Garden’s pathways, complemented by the emerging fall leaf color. And the Garden will also offer its first Goblins in the Garden on Sunday, Oct. 22. Kids are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and walk down the “costume runway”. In addition, there will be special family activities, including a performance by a magician, storytelling and special Halloween crafts. Hope to see you in the Garden this fall! Mildred Fockele Vice President, Horticulture; Gainesville Director
Book your holiday party! Planning your company’s holiday party? The Gainesville Garden offers a variety of options for private rentals. Contact the Special Events team for more information or to schedule a visit: 404-888-4762 or mrichards2@atlantabg.org.
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Kevin Parris of Spartanburg Community College (right) shares Magnolia data with the scholars.
Garden hosts visiting Chinese scholars Some may be surprised to learn that sometimes the Garden’s International Plant Exploration Program can take place in its own back yard. That’s what happened in June when the Garden hosted two visiting scholars from Chenshan Botanical Garden near Shanghai as a part of the new program. Liu Zhao and Zhang Xianquan focused their studies on the extensive magnolia and hydrangea collections at both the Midtown and Gainesville gardens as well as the breeding work being done by the Garden’s research adviser, Dr. Donglin Zhang, and his students at the University of Georgia. They also were here to learn about the Garden’s propagation and growing techniques, from soil components and fertilization to pruning and planting. Another goal of the trip was to see as many native magnolias and hydrangeas growing in the wild as possible. To do that, the scholars traveled with local experts to sites in north Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina, where they were
able to see nearly all of our native species, including the co-national champion Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) growing just north of Anniston, AL. While their main focus was on plants, the highlight of the trip may have been stumbling upon a four-foot canebreak rattlesnake – one of the most venomous in the United States – in the hills of northern Alabama. “We not only learned a lot about plants, conservation and breeding but also made lots of nice and professional new friends,” Liu Zhao said. “I will bring my experience back to China and share with more colleagues.” As the Plant Exploration Program grows, it is collaborations and exchanges like these that will allow the Garden to make great strides in aiding in conservation, making new plant discoveries and helping piece together a better understanding of the flora of southeastern Asia and how it relates to that of the southeastern United States. Scott McMahan Manager, International Plant Exploration
Gainesville Atlanta | Concerts in the Garden Saturday, Sept. 30 Soak up the sounds of TajMo: The Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ Band in the Ivester Amphitheater. Get details online: concertsinthegarden.org.
Scarecrows in the Garden October 4 - 29 Scarecrows designed by local artists, organizations and businesses will be on display in the Garden and will compete for prizes.
Fall Woodland Ramble
With more than 1,500 different species of begonias, fans of these plants often refer to them as one of several “types” loosely categorized based on growth habit, physiology and aesthetics. The three most prominent in the Southeast are semperflorens, cane and rhizomatous, which includes the popular rex hybrids. Semperflorens are more commonly known as wax begonias, characterized by their waxy leaf and continuous summer bloom. These annuals are often planted in green- or bronze-leafed masses and bloom in red, pink and white. Cane begonias arrange their leaves on bamboo-like canes and include angel and dragon wing begonias. Finally, the rhizomatous begonias, most notably the rex hybrids, sport some of the most interesting foliage with a full range of colors, patterns and leaf shapes. The key to growing healthy begonias is not over-watering and providing ample drainage. Begonias are not happy jammed into the clay that makes up so much of our native soil. When planting in the ground, a berm or raised area with a loose organic material is recommended. Begonias (especially rex) are happiest when grown in pots with adequate drainage. Also, they love bright, filtered light. As coolers days near, you may want to try to hold on to your begonia for next year. First, know that begonias generally start to get unhappy when temperatures
Saturday, Oct. 7, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. The second annual market offers nature-themed and upcycled arts and crafts for sale by local artisans. Enjoy the crisp fall air and colors of the garden while you shop. Food trucks will be on site.
Goblins in the Garden
gainesville happenings
BEGONIAS
With proper care, there’s a type for everyone
Sunday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Join the fun with a costume runway, crafts, pumpkin decorating, a magic show and storytelling.
fall below 60, so they need to come in as nights turn cool in the fall. Indoors, place them in a bright room. A window sill can be ok; just bear in mind that cold drafts can dramatically upset a begonia. They also will need more humidity than the average plant, so keep a dish of water near them to help provide ambient humidity. Only water when the soil goes dry. You can reintroduce the plant to the outside in spring as days warm while still protecting them on cool nights. Tanner Howell Nursery/Greenhouse Horticulturist
Learn more about these versatile plants at atlantabg.org/clippings.
Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 9, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Come and enjoy a visit with your little one’s favorite person over breakfast!
Storytime and Smiles Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Preschoolers and young children are invited each week to listen to stories about the natural world and seasonal themes.
Budding Artists Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Children use their creativity to make a seasonally-inspired work of art. Details at atlantabg.org/gainesville
atlantabg.org
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Atlanta Botanical Garden | Atlanta 1345 Piedmont Avenue, NE Atlanta, GA 30309
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Member Appreciation Month September is Member Appreciation Month, and Garden members enjoy special offers and the chance to win great prizes. They include discounts at other area attractions; a 10 percent discount at the Quick Café between 9 and 11 a.m.; 20 percent discount on select Gift Shop merchandise; 15 percent discount on
Light Bites & Garden Insights Gainesville: Thursday, Sept. 21, 8:30 – 10 a.m. Atlanta: Tuesday, Oct.24, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Contributing-level and above members are invited to enjoy light bites as horticulturists share the exciting work happening behind the scenes at the Atlanta and Gainesville gardens. An email with RSVP information will be sent before the events. Upgrade to Contributing: 404-591-1544.
Member Fall Evening Atlanta, Tuesday, October 3, 5 – 8 p.m. Members of all levels share a family-friendly night in the Garden with live music, chef demos, children’s activities and Scarecrows in the Garden. Dine at Longleaf (reservations recommended) or grab a snack at the Quick Café or the Snack Bar.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights Member Premiere Atlanta, Thursday, Nov. 9, 6 – 10 p.m. Be among the first to experience the seventh annual Garden Lights, Holiday Nights – and the debut of its new “Nature’s Wonders” display – before the show opens to the public (Member discount tickets apply). Enjoy live music, festive activities and discounts in 12
Saturdays at Gardening at Hill Street and GardenHood, $25 off on $100 or more purchase at Randy’s Perennials and Water Gardens; and the chance to win prizes such as Garden Lights tickets, gift certificates for Longleaf and Garden classes, and a six-visit reloadable parking pass. Details at atlantabg.org/membership. the Gift Shop. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Guest passes are not accepted for this event.
Gift Shop Sales Member Holiday Sale: Members receive 15 percent off Nov. 11 – Dec. 24; Super Sale: Members receive 20 percent off Nov. 9 - 10, Nov. 23 – 26, Dec. 9 – 10. To upgrade membership levels and attend all these exciting events, call 404-591-1538. QUESTIONS? Call 404-591-1539 or email membership@atlantabg.org
planthotline When should I bring my houseplants back indoors? Most houseplants, especially tropicals, should be moved inside when evening temperatures fall below 50 degrees. Before bringing them inside, gradually acclimate them to being inside by moving them to a screened-in porch or area on a deck where there is less intense sunlight. Be sure to remove
Clippings is now available online at issuu.com/atlantabotanicalgarden
SUPPORT THE GARDEN AS A VOLUNTEER!
Garden Lights Training Thursday, Nov. 2, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Spread holiday cheer during the seventh annual show. Learn to greet and direct visitors, roast marshmallows and take pictures for guests. Volunteers must attend the introductory orientation session and commit to five shifts during the show, from November 11 – January 7.
Children’s Tour Docent Training Wednesdays, Jan. 17 – Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This extensive seven-week course covers each of the children’s tours for grades K-12. No previous gardening or guide experience needed. Attendance required at all seven classes, and you must commit to leading at least two tours a month during peak seasons. Docents, in addition to leading tours, enjoy monthly lunch meetings and field trips to other cultural institutions and public gardens. Contact Volunteer Manager Josh Todd at 404-591-1548 or jtodd@atlantabg.org for details. any bugs that have sought refuge while the plant was outside. If needed, this is also a good time to repot plants in larger containers. Tip: To propagate plants for spring, take cuttings of annual flowers and root them in water or sand. These cuttings will make attractive houseplants.
404-888-GROW planthotline@atlantabg.org