Designing with Plants: The Art of Personalizing Your Home Garden
Page 13
Q&A with Thomas Dambo Page 16
Our Mission
The Garden exists to connect people to plants to support a healthier quality of life for the region.
In the heart of Huntsville Botanical Garden, a new magical realm is taking shape. The Mother Earth Troll Garden, featuring colossal troll Mama Zelda by artist Thomas Dambo, is a fusion of art, nature, and fantasy, crafted to transport visitors into a world where mythical creatures and earth’s beauty coexist in harmony.
For more information about Thomas Dambo, visit thomasdambo.com. For more information about the Mother Earth Troll Garden, visit our website.
Greetings from the CEO
Hello Everyone!
Spring is a season of awakening and nowhere is that more evident than at Huntsville Botanical Garden. Along the paths and trails, you’ll find nature’s artistry in bloom as the Garden hums with life. Take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
We are thrilled to announce the opening of the Mother Earth Troll Garden on April 1! This enchanting new garden area invites you to explore a living maze, where you’ll discover Mama Zelda, an 18-foot-tall troll nestled in the center. This magical fusion of art and nature is an experience unlike any other, and we can’t wait for you to experience it again and again as the living maze grows and matures!
Spring at the Garden is bursting with exciting events and experiences. Witness majestic birds of prey at our raptor shows, shop at our Spring Plant Sale, bask in the glow of Golden Hour, and celebrate the return of Global Rhythm and Blooms.
In this issue of Garden Columns, we share tips about the basics of designing with plants in your home landscaping, explore the benefits of volunteering, and offer an exclusive Q&A with artist Thomas Dambo. Discover all that’s blooming here at the Garden this spring, whether it’s through container gardens dotting the landscape, or fresh annual and perennial displays designed by Garden experts!
This time of year, there is always something new to see. We hope this issue inspires you to experience the Garden in naturally delightful ways, and embrace opportunities to learn, explore and play in nature.
We’ll see you at the Garden!
Sue
Wagner
CEO, Huntsville Botanical Garden
2025 Board of Directors
Lindsay Rice Board Chair
Tracy Barrett Vice Chair
Brandy Smith
Treasurer
Drew Davenport
Assistant Treasurer
Brenda Martin
Secretary
Will Pylant Immediate Past Board Chair
Carla Bossard
Kohler Damson
Kristina Hendrix
Michael Kirkpatrick
Angie McCarter
Eric Mills
Riley Parker
Thomas Petty
Kaitlynn Roark
U’Meeka Smith
Julie Stephens
Sara Beth Wilcox
Jennifer Wu
Program Calendar
This spring, Huntsville Botanical Garden invites you to experience the natural delights of the season with a lineup of programs and events that celebrate growth, discovery, and community. From vibrant blooms to engaging workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Scout Campout
Events
Murder Mystery Dinner
March 7, 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Raptor Shows
March 13, 11 AM and 1 PM
Spring Plant Sale Members-Only
April 10, 8 AM - 6:30 PM
Roots & Shoots Farmers Market
Every other Wednesday starting April 16, 5 PM - Dusk
Global
Spring Plant Sale Public
April 11-13 (See ad on p.24 for more details)
Golden Hour
Every Friday starting April 18, 5 PM - Dusk
Rhythm & Blooms
Global Rhythm & Blooms
Every other Thursday starting April 24, 5 PM - Dusk
Spring Hat Luncheon
May 1, 10:30 AM - 1 PM
Arbor Day Race 5K Race & 3K Sapling Fun Run
April 26, 8 AM
Cultures in Bloom
May 4, 12 - 4 PM
Sowing the Seeds for Alabama Native Plant Conservation
ByKatrinaMitchell
Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Plant Science and Conservation team is dedicated to the heart of our mission to connect people to plants and create a future where the unique botanical diversity of Alabama is preserved and celebrated. Alabama is often referred to as “America’s Amazon” and is among the top five states for biodiversity, which includes over 3,000 native plant species.
Conservation of our unique plant community requires a multifaceted approach at multiple scales: from entire ecosystems down to the tiny, humble seed. And it is with seeds that our conservation team, in partnership with institutions across the world, has helped make great strides in the research and preservation of our local flora.
Why are seeds useful in plant conservation?
Plant ex situ conservation—that is, conservation of species outside their wild habitat—involves the collection of plant material to store or grow under closely monitored and protected conditions. This method of conservation acts as a safety net should the plant go extinct in the wild or if the habitat cannot be currently protected.
Plants in collections are also used in education to raise awareness of our native species and the plights they face. These plants are additionally sometimes used in research to solve the mysteries of their life histories. Seeds are an efficient and ethical way to collect genetic material from the wild to be used for these pieces of a much larger conservation plan.
Another benefit to seeds is that many can be stored for long periods in seed banks (sometimes up to 100 years or more!) and remain viable to be grown when needed, acting as a back-up should the plant go extinct in the wild. Seeds are critical as a cost-effective and efficient means of habitat restoration, improving the genetic diversity of a population and then re-introducing the species into an area when conditions improve.
How are seeds collected?
HBG’s plant conservation team has collected seeds from across northern and central Alabama, but it isn’t as easy as going out and putting seeds in a pouch! There are many practices and procedures followed to ensure seed is collected ethically and legally and in such a way as to maximize their usefulness in conservation efforts.
Before collecting, the HBG team obtains all the necessary permits and permissions through government agencies and private landowners. They then put in many hours and miles traversing rough terrain in often unforgiving conditions to find and collect seeds of targeted species. The team follows strict laws and guidelines for the ethical collection of native plant seeds from the wild, such as minimizing disturbance to the habitat and only collecting up to 10% of the seed available.
The HBG team also takes great care to collect seeds in such a way as to gather as much genetic diversity as possible. A high amount of genetic diversity contributes to the overall adaptability of the species and reduces the risk of inbreeding in collections. An identifier is assigned to plants from which seeds are collected to keep records of genetic lines and ensure diversity is maintained in collections.
Other important data is collected such as GPS points of the parent plants, the health and status of individuals and the population, apparent threats to the plants, and much more, so we and other researchers can make informed decisions on future efforts. This information is kept with the seeds forever, whether stored or grown and planted, to maximize their contribution to the protection of the species.
How are the seeds being used?
The seeds collected by the HBG conservation team are used at the Garden or sent to other botanical facilities and agencies as part of national and international partnerships studying and protecting plants of conservation concern. Seeds of rare Alabama plants they have collected have already been used in research at HBG and at partner facilities. This research helps conservationists better understand the species themselves, the risks they face, and how horticulturalists can successfully grow more of these plants from seed.
This seed sharing has the added benefit of not putting all our “eggs” in one basket. Should something happen to the collection at one facility (disease, natural disaster, etc.), the genetic material is still alive and preserved elsewhere.
Furthermore, plants of Alabama ecotype i.e., a distinct group that is well adapted to local conditions, are underrepresented in seed collection efforts and safeguarding collections—a travesty HBG conservationists seek to rectify. Maximizing genetic diversity is key in any conservation plan. Regardless of if a species already exists in meta-collections (the combined collections of multiple institutions), adding genetic material from an underrepresented population improves worldwide meta-collections through increased diversity.
What about the seeds we collect that aren’t used in research or shared? These are grown in-house to be integrated into future garden displays and collections at HBG. Rare plants and their seeds are monitored and protected in HBG collections to ensure their continued existence and future contributions to conservation.
Many native plant seeds the team is now collecting represent species never before seen at HBG and will significantly contribute to the aesthetics, resiliency, and sustainability of the Garden while visitors experience the unique, beautiful plant life of Alabama.
Cultivating a Conservation Community
Raising awareness of our native plants is a huge step towards empowering our community to be a part of the solution and save entire species. No conservation plan to save a species is complete without community engagement!
Together, we can fulfill our mission to celebrate and preserve Alabama native plants and inspire others toward environmental stewardship and appreciation.
And it all starts with one little seed.
by the Garden
SPRING 2025 GARDENING CHECKLIST
Use the checklist below to ensure a happy, healthy, and naturally delightful home garden. For a full list of tips to use year-round, including important tasks for keeping lawns of various grasses lush and healthy, visit hsvbg.org/garden-checklist.
March
Begin mowing Bermuda and Zoysia grasses to 2–3 inches by late March, applying a pre-emergent early in the month to control weeds and reapplying in 8–10 weeks.
Start cool-season annuals like Sweet Alyssum and Nasturtiums to brighten your garden, and remove winter protection from perennials by mid-March.
Fertilize roses and other shrubs to support new growth but wait to feed camellias and azaleas until after they bloom.
Plant summer-blooming bulbs such as daylilies and gladiolas in stages to enjoy an extended blooming season.
Prepare fruits and vegetables by starting seeds indoors for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, and begin hardening off cool-season crops for outdoor planting.
Add organic matter to your soil for improved drainage, and mulch flower beds to conserve moisture and reduce weeds as the weather warms.
April
Mow Bermuda and Zoysia grasses at 1½ inches and dethatch to encourage healthy root growth while fertilizing with 5-5-15 for lush lawns.
Delay planting warm-season vegetables like tomatoes and peppers until after April 15, the region’s last frost date, to ensure they thrive.
Feed azaleas, camellias, and roses to encourage vibrant spring growth, and prune spring-flowering shrubs after they finish blooming.
Fill flower beds with annuals such as sunflowers and cosmos after Tax Day, taking advantage of warmer weather to establish your garden.
Direct sow sweet corn weekly for a staggered harvest and plant sunflowers, marigolds, and other warm-season flowers for added color.
Mulch garden beds to reduce the need for watering and keep weeds under control, creating a polished and low-maintenance landscape.
May
Fertilize Bermuda and Zoysia grasses every 4–6 weeks and keep mowing heights at 1–2 inches to maintain healthy growth and curb weeds.
Safely plant summer annuals and vegetables outdoors by the end of May, ensuring they’re wellsuited to the warmer temperatures.
Support roses by fertilizing monthly and pruning climbing varieties after their first bloom to promote further flowering.
Harvest leafy greens before they bolt in the heat, and replace them with warm-season crops like beans, squash, or okra for a continuous harvest.
Watch for pests such as aphids and beetles on vegetable crops and treat infestations promptly with approved methods.
Add fresh mulch to landscape beds to conserve moisture and give your garden a polished appearance as the summer heat sets in.
InspiredbytheGarden
From the Bistro
Seared Salmon with Lemon-Herb Quinoa & Chickpeas
For the Seared Salmon:
• 4 skin-on salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
For the Lemon-Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas:
• 1 cup quinoa (rinse thoroughly before cooking)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1. Cook the Quinoa: Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and toast the quinoa for 1-2 minutes. Add the broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Stir in the chickpeas during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm them through. Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper. Keep warm while you prepare the salmon.
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
3. Assemble the Dish: Plate the quinoa with chickpeas, and top with the seared salmon fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of flavor and color.
Chicken Option: If you prefer chicken, swap the salmon for 4 skin-on chicken thighs. Season with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard, and cook in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Pair it with the quinoa for a perfect meal.
Meatless Option: For a vegetarian option, skip the salmon or chicken and enjoy the Lemon-Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas as your main dish.
2. Seared Salmon: Brush the salmon fillets with Dijon mustard and drizzle with lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
Celebrations
1. Choose the Right Setting – Maximize natural beauty by selecting a part of your outdoor space with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, or shade from trees. Provide enough seating with picnic blankets for a casual vibe or tables and chairs for a formal setting.
2. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere – Use fresh flowers as table centerpieces or scattered decor, arranged in mason jars, terracotta pots, or vintage vases. String fairy lights across trees or fences and incorporate lanterns or candles to create a warm glow. Choose light, fresh tablecloths in florals or pastels, or go formal with elegant white or cream.
3. Spring-Inspired Menu – Serve light, fresh dishes such as leafy salads, seasonal fruits like strawberries, and dishes with mint, basil, or rosemary. Offer finger foods like bruschetta, cheese boards, and fruit skewers for easy mingling. Refresh guests with tea, lemonade, or fruitinfused water, and consider cocktails like mojitos for an adult touch. Serve light desserts such as fruit tarts, lemon bars, or mini cheesecakes.
4. Incorporate Nature Into Your Decor – Use elements from your garden to decorate, such as wildflowers for place cards or greenery garlands for fences. Outdoor fabrics like linen napkins or cotton tablecloths enhance the natural feel. Set up small herb pots around your space so guests can enjoy fresh aromas and add herbs to their drinks or dishes.
5. Prepare for the Weather – Have a backup plan in case of rain, like a tent or indoor space. Ensure plenty of shaded
areas for sun protection and provide sunscreen for guests if necessary.
6. Provide Entertainment and Activities – Consider hosting a nature walk if your garden or a nearby space is expansive, allowing guests to explore the spring blooms. Set up lawn games like cornhole, croquet, ring toss, or giant Jenga to encourage interaction and create a fun atmosphere. A playlist of light, acoustic tunes or classical music in the background can add to the ambiance.
7. Consider the Little Details – Add aromatic touches like floral-scented candles or fresh herbs to complement the natural garden smells. Personalized touches, like a handwritten welcome sign or unique place cards, make your gathering feel extra special. A welcome drink or signature cocktail adds a thoughtful element.
8. Eco-Friendly Recommendations – Use reusable plates, cups, and cutlery to minimize waste. Alternatively, opt for compostable or biodegradable options. Repurpose old containers or bottles as vases to create a rustic, eco-conscious vibe.
9. Party Favors – Send guests home with small potted plants such as succulents or herbs, or homemade treats like jam or cookies as thank-you gifts. These keepsakes will remind them of your lovely garden party.
No garden? Use ours! Stop by the Fern & Feast Bistro for a picnic basket and enjoy lunch at Huntsville Botanical Garden with your loved ones!
InspiredbytheGarden
The Chrysalis
Naturally Delightful Gifts and Mementos
A visit to Huntsville Botanical Garden is a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation—just like a chrysalis. That’s why we’re excited to introduce The Chrysalis, the newly named Garden gift shop, where every item reflects the beauty and wonder of the natural world.. Every purchase supports our mission!
▲ Bring the serenity of nature into your home with timeless treasures like word stones, captivating books, and elegant table art.
▲ Add a touch of luxury to your day with handmade soaps and stylish dispensers, or gear up for the garden in our branded Huntsville Botanical Garden hats.
▲ Celebrate the beauty of blooms with our curated selection of flower collection books, stunning vases, and versatile containers.
▲ Enhance your outdoor sanctuary with garden figurines that bring a unique touch of whimsy and character to your space.
Designing with Plants:
The Art of Personalizing Your Home Garden
ByMaxMcKeown
The beauty of gardening lies in its accessibility—anyone with a patch of sunlight and water can create a garden that reflects their personality, enhances their living space, and brings joy and relaxation. Plants, the backbone of any landscape design, possess a remarkable ability to evoke emotions and create moods. Whether you’re designing for a serene retreat or a lively gathering space, a few foundational principles can guide you in selecting the perfect plants for your garden—no degree in landscape architecture required!
Understanding Your Garden’s Site Conditions
Before diving into plant selection, take time to observe and understand the conditions of your site. These factors—light, wind, soil, and water—play a crucial role in determining which plants will thrive. Matching plants to your garden’s specific environment ensures longlasting beauty and minimizes the need for maintenance.
Light Exposure
Plants have evolved to thrive in different levels of sunlight. While some are sun-loving, others prefer the gentle caress of shade. If your garden basks in sunlight for most of the day, sun-adapted plants such as lavender or sedum are excellent choices. For shaded areas, hostas and ferns can create lush, inviting spaces. Remember, as trees and shrubs mature, they can alter the light conditions in your garden.
Over time these plants will grow and cast shade, creating the opportunity to incorporate shade plants into an otherwise sunny environment. This also makes the outdoors more comfortable for outdoor activities such as entertaining, recreation, and relaxing.
Wind Considerations
Soil Quality
Soil is sometimes considered one of the most important aspects of plant selection. Generally, most plants require average fertility. These are soils defined as those that are neither high nor low in nutrients. However, if your soil is low in nutrients, which is often the case with landscapes of many newly built homes,
Water Needs
All plants require a certain amount of water to grow and thrive. Lucky for us there are a myriad of plants that thrive in a variety of moisture levels. It’s important to note areas in the landscape that stay abnormally wet or dry. By grouping plants with similar water needs, you can reduce watering demands and create a garden that’s both sustainable and beautiful.
Cannas (Canna spp.), native hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.), and many native hollies (Ilex spp.) enjoy and thrive in wet and moist soils. If you have areas that dry out quickly or do not have easy access to irrigation, selecting plants such as sedums, catmint, and vitex are excellent choices.
Designing for Small Spaces
Many of these principles apply to larger spaces such as suburban lots, but there is still room for plant selection and design in smaller spaces. Even in compact spaces, such as balconies or patios, thoughtful plant selection can transform a small area into a lush oasis. Containers are a versatile solution, offering the flexibility to curate a vibrant display in a limited space.
Since containers have a much smaller area, plant selection is crucial for maximizing visual impact. Plants with vivid colors, interesting forms, or sweet scents are extremely effective in containers because they can be enjoyed up close.
Annual flowers and tropical plants are excellent choices for containers in the summer. Meanwhile, evergreens and frost-tolerant annual flowers add to winter’s charm.
When designing containers, use the “thriller, filler, spiller” method for a dynamic and balanced look. A container should have an upright plant, or “thriller,” to be the focal point and to add little drama to the design. Then you have the “filler.” These are plants that add lushness and body to the overall ensemble. When choosing plants for the filler, a color wheel helps choose a cohesive color theme. The final element of a successful container design is the plants that spill over the edge of the container. Not only do they soften the hard lines of the container, they also bring your eye down and allow you to view the container as whole.
Personalizing Your Garden
Your garden is an extension of your personality, a space where creativity knows no bounds. By understanding your site conditions and selecting plants that thrive in your environment, you can craft a space that feels uniquely yours. Whether you dream of a serene retreat or a vibrant social hub, the right plants and thoughtful design can bring your vision to life.
Practical Tips for Success
Be Observant
Pay attention to how light shifts throughout the day, areas that collect water, and any wind patterns.
Plan Before You Plant
Sketch out your garden to visualize plant placements and groupings.
Stay Curious
Visit botanical gardens like Huntsville Botanical Garden for inspiration and to learn about local plant species suited to your region.
Experiment with Layers
Use a mix of heights, textures, and colors to add depth and interest to your design.
with Thomas Dambo
ByLauraMcPhail
In preparation for the Mother Earth Troll Garden opening on April 1, 2025, we took some time with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the sculptor behind Huntsville’s newest—and largest—resident. The Garden’s “troll in residence,” Mama Zelda, is a true work of art that brings together nature, whimsy, and an important message about sustainability.
Q. What inspired you to start creating largescale trolls from recycled materials?
A. It’s a combination of all the things that I love to do. As a child, I loved to build tree houses and pillow fortresses, so I’ve always liked to build big things and to explore. Building these giant recycled troll sculptures contains all those things that I enjoy, like creating fairy tales, dumpster diving, being in nature, and creating a big project with the community and celebrating it together.
Q. How did Huntsville Botanical Garden as a setting influence the design and story of the troll you’re creating?
A. First, it was practical. How my work looks is dictated by what I find locally, and I could find all the materials needed in and around Huntsville. It was also a practical place to build this long-time vision of mine, to make this troll in the maze, because this is a place that is lush all year and the plants have good growing conditions.
Q. How do you incorporate sustainability into your artistic process, and what message do you hope visitors take away about recycling and the environment?
A. Well, I try to make all my sculptures as close to 100% out of scrap, leftovers, recycled materials, and discarded objects. And I try to involve people in workshops to help me do this and be a part of that vision.
We recently did a survey and concluded that there were more than 1.5 million unique American visitors who went to my 37 American trolls over the last 12 months. That’s the mission. Everything I do is with this idea that we can bring out that many people to something that’s built of trash and it’s made with volunteers. We’ve taken apart maybe 30,000 or 40,000 pallets through the years [to build the trolls] and we’ve probably had around 20,000 people come and help in one way or another.
Trash has the potential to suffocate the whole world because the problem is so big, but that also makes the solution so magnificent. You can make the biggest tourist attraction in the world just from scraps. I hope that [visitors] look at the troll in her maze and think, “Wow, that’s a really big cool thing, and it was made of scraps. What else could we make out of scraps?”
Q. In what ways do you hope your troll installation will enhance visitors’ connection with nature and each other while exploring the Garden?
A. I think it’s important to be in nature and to be aware of nature, to be interested in and curious about nature, and to have contact with nature. It’s also important to understand the beauty of imperfection. My maze is made of all these [seemingly] random objects that were thrown together. I want to try to remind people that something a little bit chaotic and unorganized can also be nice.
Q. Your trolls often have unique and whimsical designs. What influences the aesthetic and personality of each piece?
A. Sometimes I get the idea by being at a location, sometimes I have to get the idea somewhere else and then try and find the location for it. I guess what’s in the surroundings inspires me in that moment. Then I try to give them names that are not too loaded with different religious or celebrity connections.
And then I add stories. They have the same message of being good to nature and taking care of the animals and plants. I see my trolls as the unspoken voice of the trees and animals. We don’t know what the trees and animals would say, but maybe they don’t have super good things to say about us as humans all the time. I try to have my trolls be that voice between civilization and the natural world.
Q. What challenges did you face in bringing this particular troll to life, and how did you overcome them?
A. The challenge was the fun part, as I had never designed or built a maze before. It was challenging just trying to figure out how it could look with all these different materials and having big machines and a lot of volunteers. It was also raining [during phase 1 installation] and the clay was so thick and so deep, and we would walk around with three inches of mud stuck under our shoes all the time. It was very different digging in this really rich red clay.
Q. What’s the most memorable reaction or experience you’ve had from people interacting with one of your trolls?
A. There’s been so many. People put so many feelings into my sculptures and travel from far away to see them. I’m so grateful for all those people who want so much to be a part of what I make. I feel so fortunate and so happy to do this because the world needs people who stand up and say that trash is great. That’s why I like to have workshops together with people and make things out of trash—that’s the best experience I’ve had.
Q. If the troll at HBG could talk, what would it say to its visitors as they approach it?
A. [A low rumble comes from Dambo’s throat, followed by a series of noises that could only be understood by another troll].
If you are interested in finding more trolls by artist Thomas Dambo, visit trollmap.com
More about Dambo and his work can be found at thomasdambo.com or by following him @thomasdambo on Instagram
SigurdTheTroll,byThomasDambo
TheTrollThatHatchedAnEgg,byThomasDambo
Mama Mimi,byThomasDambo
Connecting Plants, and Purpose through Volunteering People,
BySarahColvert
Volunteering at Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) is not just about giving back—it’s about fostering growth, making connections, and discovering a sense of fulfillment. Whether you’re planting seeds that flourish into vibrant displays, guiding guests through the wonders of nature, or supporting the Garden’s mission behind the scenes, every act of service creates ripples of impact. Volunteers enrich not only the Garden but also their own lives in meaningful ways.
The Wellness Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering offers more than an opportunity to give back—it nurtures your well-being. Spending time outdoors is proven to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall health.
“The work in the Garden is like going to school for free,” said HBG volunteer Vanessa Jones. “I learn so much about plants and maintaining a beautiful garden while also getting a great workout from tasks like weeding, clearing debris, and carrying plants. The fresh air and being out in nature help keep my mind and body healthy.”
Research supports these sentiments. Improved selfconfidence is one of the most commonly reported benefits of volunteering. According to Dr. Jeffrey Burr, a professor of gerontology at UMass Boston, volunteers often experience less depression, higher self-esteem, and a greater sense of life satisfaction and purpose.
At the Garden, these benefits are amplified by the tranquil beauty of nature.
Diverse Opportunities to Make an Impact
HBG volunteers play an essential role in ensuring the Garden thrives. From assisting with administrative tasks to documenting plant records and maintaining the landscapes, there are many varied ways to get involved.
Volunteers contribute as docents, guiding and educating visitors, or as key players in events like Galaxy of Lights. They also engage in conservation efforts, such as beekeeping and bird feeding, and support horticulture and wildlife initiatives. Each role not only helps the Garden thrive but also provides volunteers with unique and rewarding experiences.
Rooted in Joy
Like many of the hundreds of volunteers who share their time and talent with the Garden, Jones recognized the transformative nature of volunteering.
“As a new retiree and new resident to Huntsville, I sought out opportunities to volunteer in my community,” shared Jones. “My realtor suggested Huntsville Botanical Garden, and after some research, I realized it might be the perfect place for me. I don’t have a green thumb, but I was eager to help in any way I could. The Garden has become my happy place.”
She finds joy in the people, events, and positive atmosphere that the Garden fosters.
“The staff, the events, and the happy faces of guests keep me coming back,” Jones added.
Her favorite memory? Volunteering as a greeter during the Wedding Expo, where she proudly showcased the Garden to excited future brides and their families.
Fostering Community Connections
Beyond the tasks, volunteering at the Garden is about people. Volunteers form a close-knit community where shared passions
for nature and service bloom into lasting friendships. Whether it’s working side by side to plant seasonal displays or collaborating on a special event, the bonds formed at HBG add a deeply personal dimension to the volunteer experience.
Volunteers also have the chance to learn from and mentor one another, creating a cycle of shared knowledge and support.
“Many of the volunteers have been here for years, and they’re incredibly helpful and supportive,” Jones noted.
“We talk about our families, travel, and even recipes while working together. The bonds I’ve created here will last for many years to come.”
A Special Thanks to Our Volunteers
To all our incredible volunteers: thank you. Your dedication and passion are the roots of the Garden’s success. Every moment you spend here—whether planting, greeting guests, or supporting events— furthers our mission to connect people to plants to improve the quality of life in our region. Your efforts leave a lasting legacy,
enriching lives far beyond the Garden’s gates.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the perfect time. Whether you want to gain new skills, make meaningful connections, or spend time outdoors, there’s a place for you at HBG. Together, we’re growing something truly extraordinary.
National Volunteer Week
This April 20–26, 2025, we celebrate National Volunteer Week, a time to honor the transformative impact of volunteer service. Since its inception in 1974, this week has highlighted the importance of volunteerism in strengthening communities.
At Huntsville Botanical Garden, we’re grateful for the incredible individuals who share their time and talents. Thank you for helping us inspire others, nurture the natural world, and create a vibrant, welcoming community.
THANK YOU Corporate Partners!
The Corporate Partners Program is designed to strengthen the relationship between Huntsville Botanical Garden and the corporate community in the region. Through the annual support of Corporate Partners, the Garden can provide first-class programs that allow Garden guests to connect to plants and gain a deeper understanding of the role they play in their own environment.
Gold
y LG Electronics
Silver
y Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
y Cepeda Systems & Software Analysis
y Huntsville Hospital
y Signalink
Bronze
y Ashford Advisors - Shane Stromei
y Barrios Technologies
y Global Ties of Alabama
y Huntsville Utilities
y Manning & Napier
y Mission Driven Research
y MTSi
y PeopleTec
y Radiance Technologies
y Redstone Federal Credit Union
y Schoel Engineering
y Turner Construction
y Vulcan Materials
Supporter
11th Annual Spring Hat Luncheon Presents
May 1 • 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Step into a world of blossoms, elegance, and purpose at Huntsville Botanical Garden.
Plant SaleSpring
Members-Only Preview Sale
Thursday, April 10, 8 AM – 6:30 PM
Become a member at the sale to enjoy the special membership perk of early shopping!
Public Sale
Friday, April 11, 8 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday, April 12, 8 AM – 4 PM Sunday, April 13, 11
Rain or Shine
Don’t miss out on quality selection and expert advice from our plant professionals. All items are first come first served, while supplies last!
Kumar Patel ManagingPartner, Power Brands Hospitality Group
Venue Rentals
Host your next event at Huntsville Botanical Garden! Our stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, parties, and corporate events. Experience the beauty and serenity of nature, making your occasion unforgettable.
Book your venue today at rentals@hsvbg.org!
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