VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2
SPRING 2024
Inside:
Invasive Species at a Garden Center Near You PAGE 6 Cultivating Health and Wellbeing: Accessibility in Your Garden PAGE 14 Glass in Flight Lands at Huntsville Botanical Garden PAGE 17
HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN
Spring
PLANT SALE
Members-Only Preview Sale Thursday, April 11, 8 AM – 6:30 PM
Public Sale Friday, April 12, 8 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday, April 13, 8 AM – 4 PM Sunday, April 14, 11 AM – 4 PM Annuals
Perennials Vegetables
Trees
Native Plants Herbs
Fruits
Shrubs
Cultivars from HBG’s Collections
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! Thank you for shopping at our fundraiser! Proceeds benefit Huntsville Botanical Garden. GARDEN COLUMNS
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Hello Everyone! Spring is a magical time at the Garden, heralding a renewal that breathes
Board of Directors 2024
life into every corner. The tranquility and rest of winter give way to the where everything is bursting with the vibrancy of life.
Will Pylant Chair
As nature paints the landscape with hues of green and splashes of color, we
Wes Kelley Vice Chair
buzzing of bees and the budding of plants. It’s a season of awakening,
invite you to embark on a journey of discovery within the Garden. Venture down the less-traveled paths, and let the wonders unfold before you. Spring provides a canvas upon which the beauty of the Garden reveals itself in ways you may not have appreciated before. It’s a time of surprises, where each day brings forth new delights. In the spirit of this season of rebirth, we invite you to join us for the Spring Plant Sale in April. Take a piece of the Garden home with you as you select from a variety of plants nurtured from our collections.
Lindsay Rice Vice Chair Clinton Carter Treasurer Brandy Smith Assistant Treasurer Brenda Martin Secretary
In May, the Garden takes wing with the enchanting exhibit, Glass in Flight.
Elaine Alspach
Witness the ethereal dance of spectacular glass butterflies, bees, and other
Tracy Barrett
winged wonders. It’s a spectacle that adds a touch of whimsy to an already
Carla Bossard
enchanting landscape.
Lynn Collyar
In this edition of Garden Columns, delve into the Garden’s commitment to grow STEM educators through our Cultivate program. Explore how you can contribute to creating the best possible ecosystem by discouraging the growth of invasive plants. Gather valuable insights on making your home garden more accessible and other tips that will enhance your gardening experience.
Drew Davenport Leta DeMaioribus Kristina Hendrix Michael Kirkpatrick Brenda Martin Angie McCarter Eric Mills
We hope this issue inspires you to deepen your connection with plants. From the lush offerings of the Garden to the intimate spaces of your backyard, take a moment to reengage with nature and allow it to be a source of renewal and rejuvenation for you.
See you at the Garden!
Riley Parker Thomas Petty Prudence Pollard Lana Ritch Ruchi Singhal Julie Stephens Carol Tevepaugh Kathi Tew Jennifer Wu
Sue Wagner CEO, Huntsville Botanical Garden 02
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2
What’s inside Invasive Species at a Garden Center Near You
09
Inspired by the Garden
14
Cultivating Health and Wellbeing: Accesibility in Your Garden
17
Glass in Flight Lands at Huntsville Botanical Garden
Peony Paeonia ‘Mei Gui Hong’
Paperbush Edgeworthia chrysantha
Sweetbay Magnolia Magnolia virginiana
Wild Geranium Geranium maculatum
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Cultivate: Growing STEM Educators Summer Snowflake Leucojum aestivum
And more!
Visit us:
4747 Bob Wallace Ave. Huntsville, AL 35805
Red Buckeye Aesculus pavia
@HuntsvilleBotanicalGarden hsvbg.org
Contact us:
Phone: 256-830-4447 Email: info@hsvbg.org
WHAT’S BLOOMING
06
@hsvgarden Spanish bluebell Hyacinthoides hispanica
GARDEN COLUMNS
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Program Calendar Jump into the hustle and bustle of spring activities at one of our exciting and educational Garden programs!
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
2 Art of Sustainable Science
5-6 Girl Scout Campout
2 Gardening 101
8 Pruning for the
11 Spring Plant Sale
4 Aquatic Gardening
Homeowner
(Members Only)
11-15 Spring Break
11 Huntsville Symphony
STEM Camp
11, 24 Seeds to Sprouts
Orchestra
11, 25 Butterfly Releases 19, 21 Nature Academy
12-14 Spring Plant Sale (Open to Public)
18 Family Workshop: Pollinator Gardening
23 Habitat for Humanity Home Ownership Class
30 Vermicomposting Tube (Family Workshop)
12, 20 Seeds to Sprouts
16, 18 Nature Academy 18, 25 Gardening 101 class series
Guest Center Art Exhibits
March-April
Angel Puig De Robles
May-June
Mikayla Hammock
Visit hsvbg.org/events for details and registration.
Presented by
Glass in Flight
May (See p. 17 for details)
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Events
Working Women’s Wednesdays May 1 – June 26
Raptor Shows, 11 AM & 1 PM March 14
Spring Hat Luncheon May 9 (See p. 24 for details)
Arbor Day 5k Race and 3k Sapling Run April 27
Garden Cultural Festival, 10 AM – 2 PM May 18
New and Improved
Golden Hour Thursdays and Fridays
May – September
We’re changing things up this year—with year double the Golden Hours! From May through September, Garden hours on Thursdays and Fridays are extended to 8 p.m. Enjoy food, drink, and entertainment from cultures around the world in the shade of the Cedar Glade, and explore our 118 acres. Great for decompressing after work, enjoying a lovely date night, or simply seeing the Garden in a different light! Members get in free; non-members pay regular admission.
GARDEN COLUMNS
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INVASIVE SPECIES
at a Garden Center Near You By Katrina Mitchell
Imagine a picturesque cottage in spring. English ivy climbs the walls and fences, trailing along the ground. Nearby, butterflies dance around a butterfly bush while the bees drone about a Bradford pear tree. Soon the common periwinkle that was planted as a groundcover will be blooming, adding a splash of purple to the landscape. A hedge of autumn olive shimmers silver in the breeze. The owner is debating on what to add next: a chartreuse Japanese barberry, nandina for autumn color, or perhaps a patch of common or golden bamboo? Oh, the possibilities! This is no daydream, however. It’s actually a nightmare.
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Plant: Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense)
All the plants listed in this scene are actually considered invasive species, and they cause harm to properties and the local environment. Even so, they are commonly sold at nurseries and big box stores.
What counts as an invasive species? The USDA defines invasive species as “a species that is non-native to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health (Executive Order 13112).” Storebought invasive plants have done just that.
Unfortunately, many of the reasons why some plants become invasive is also what makes them appealing for the market: they grow and spread fast, can thrive in disturbed soil (like lawns and garden beds), they can form dense patches acting as groundcover, some can inhibit “weeds” from growing around them, and they can easily be propagated from cuttings and seeds, thus grown and sold in a relatively short amount of time. These marketable factors also contribute to their inevitable escape from the garden where they can then wreak havoc on natural areas.
According to the USDA, the decline of nearly half of our country’s endangered/threatened species is in part due to the introduction of invasive plant species, and for some, this is the main cause of decline. Beyond environmental harm, many of these store-bought invasive plants become a nightmare for you, the property owner. For example, take English ivy, the up-and-coming kudzu contender. It inevitably spreads into lawns, and trying to cut back thick patches will often cause damage to lawn equipment. If chopped by equipment, the fragments can take root where they land, spreading the problem. Furthermore, English ivy is a great climber owing to the fact that it grows aerial roots that anchor it to vertical surfaces. These anchor roots will take hold in cracks in mortar or paneling, weakening the walls of any structure to which they attach. Invasive tree species like Bradford pears and mimosa trees also cause property damage. The wood of these invasive trees is weak, which means a windy day or storm can bring down branches or even split the tree. Additionally, Bradford pear trees may have beautiful flowers, but the pungent smell they produce and high pollen count can hinder your ability to enjoy your yard in spring.
Top: English Ivy (Hedera helix) Middle: Nandina (Nandina domestica) Bottom: Leatherleaf Mahonia (Berberis bealei)
Lastly, many invasive plants are poor at erosion control, especially compared to native plants. As a result, properties with invasive plants may have increased erosion problems. For these and many other reasons, property owners then benefit greatly from avoiding invasive species. Consumers may be aware of the dangers of invasive plants, but still may unintentionally bring one home. How does this happen, and how can you prevent accidently planting an invasive species on your property? GARDEN COLUMNS
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First, be aware that nurseries and box stores do sell invasive plants. Even plants that have been on the market for a long time and are well-known, like butterfly bush, can fall in the invasive category.
In a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, researchers found that over half the plants listed as invasive in the U.S. are sold by plant vendors. Therefore, one must do their homework before buying. Some resources available are the Alabama Invasive Plant Council’s list of invasive species as well as the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States. If you live near a state border, check the invasive plant list for the neighboring state as well. Finally, consider planting native alternatives. The internet and books at your local library abound with lists of alternatives to commonly marketed invasive plants. Better yet, ask one of our plant experts at Huntsville Botanical Garden!
Top: English Ivy (Hedera helix) Bottom: Common Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris)
While researching alternatives to an invasive plant, you might come across a long list of native substitutes. How do you choose? First, make sure the native alternative will have access to the soil, moisture, and amount of sun it needs to prosper on your property. Next, take into consideration what it was about that invasive species that made you want to add it to your garden. That can help guide your selection of an alternative. For example, did you like Bradford pear for its showy white spring blooms? Consider serviceberry for a flower extravaganza! You wanted liriope for a ground cover, so look to blue wood-sedge to fit the bill and also add some color. That butterfly bush would have
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provided food for adult butterflies, but has nothing more to add to your pollinator garden. Use summersweet or a species of milkweed (not tropical milkweedanother non-native plant that does harm to monarchs) to have a plant that provides food for all life stages, will act as a caterpillar and bee nursery, and will lead to even more pollinators in your garden! This practice has the added benefit of decreasing the demand for invasive plants and shifting the market to have more beneficial plant options. Many plant vendors still sell invasive plants due to demand. Some states and localities do prohibit the sale of certain invasive plants, but a lack of consistent regulations across the map means invasive plants are still legally sold outside these locations. However, there is a simple way to stop the sale of invasive plants that harm our environments and properties: do not buy them, increase demand for non-invasive options, and spread the word! It is up to you, the gardener, to make informed choices when adding anything to your landscape.
Spring
PLANT SALE Explore a selection of native plants and non-invasive species at our Spring Plant Sale, April 11-14!
Have a question for one of our plant experts? Contact plantinfo@hsvbg.org and one of our team members will be happy to provide assistance.
Inspired by the
Garden
SPRING GARDENING CHECKLIST Use the checklist below to get you started on creating a happy and healthy 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 planting cool season annuals such as sweet alyssum and nasturtiums this month. Plant summer blooming bulbs. Make sure to read plant specifications about specific planting requirements. Begin fertilizing shrubs, particularly roses. Wait to fertilize camellias and azaleas until after flowering. Get a soil test if you haven’t already done so. Mulch flower beds with bark, leaf mulch, or pine straw.
April Fill the backs of sunny flowerbeds with tall annuals such as sunflowers, cosmos, or tithonia. Fertilize perennial flowers now as growth is beginning. Fertilize azaleas and camellias. Plant summer bulbs such as daylilies, gladiolas, crinums, and gingers. Avoid cutting foliage of narcissus (daffodils) or other spring bulbs until the tips have turned yellow or brown. Establish new plantings of fruit trees, grapes, strawberries, raspberries, asparagus, and rhubarb. Plan new landscaping projects on paper first. Be sure you know the mature size of each plant and light exposure to allow for growth and growing conditions.
May By the end of the month, it is safe to plant all summer annuals outdoors, including summer vegetables. Remove brown foliage from spring flowering bulbs as long as they can be pulled off by hand. Fertilize roses monthly according to a soil test. Prune climbing roses after the first big flush of flowering. Direct sow rows of beans, okra, sweet corn, watermelon, sunflowers, nasturtiums, marigolds, borage, basil, and other warm season flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Be sure to harvest leafy greens often because they will soon bolt (go to seed and turn bitter or woody).
GARDEN COLUMNS
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Inspired by the Garden FROM GARDEN TO TABLE
Strawberry Spinach and Bacon Salad 4 servings For the salad 6 oz package of fresh spinach
½ cup goat cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
2 cups strawberries, sliced
½ cup toasted pecans
8 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
For the dressing 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp maple syrup To make the maple-balsamic dressing: Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl. To make the salad: Add spinach, strawberries, bacon and cheese to bowl and drizzle desired
amount of dressing over top. Toss salad until coated. Top with toasted pecans. Toasting pecans: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread pecans
over parchment paper in a single layer. Bake for 5-10 minutes until the pecans darken in color and the aroma of toasted nuts is strong.
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Inspired by the Garden
Celebrations
H
Wedding At-A-Glance Checklist
untsville Botanical Garden’s hospitality staff put their heads together and came up with a can’t-miss checklist to make your big day run smoothly. Remember to stay organized, delegate tasks when needed, and don’t forget to enjoy the process. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
12-18 Months Before
4-6 Months Before
D Set a budget
D Make travel arrangements for the honeymoon
D Create a preliminary guest list
D Schedule dress fittings
D Choose a date and venue. Hint: We suggest
D Select and order bridesmaid dresses
one of Huntsville Botanical Garden’s elegant
D Select and purchase wedding bands
venue options!
2-4 Months Before
D Hire a wedding planner D Begin researching and contacting potential vendors. Hint: For those tying the knot at the Garden, we provide a list of fully vetted preferred vendors 9-12 Months Before D Ask friends and family to be part of your bridal party D Begin shopping for and order your wedding dress D Book key vendors D Plan ceremony and reception D Create a wedding website to share details with guests D Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests 6-9 Months Before D Send out save-the-date cards D Create a gift registry. Hint: Giving goes both ways. The Garden Gift Shop has amazing options for bridal party gifts D Arrange transportation for the wedding day D Finalize guest list
D Mail invitations D Purchase or rent Groom’s attire D Confirm details with vendors. Hint: This is a good time to begin relaying important vendor information to your Garden Venue Coordinator 1-2 Months Before D Track and follow up on RSVPs D Attend the final dress fitting D Finalize ceremony and vendor details with your Garden Venue Coordinator D Write and finalize your wedding vows D Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day 1 Week Before D Pack for your honeymoon—don’t forget chargers for phones and power converters if you are traveling internationally D Confirm final details with vendors and the wedding party D Get your marriage license On your Wedding Day Relax and enjoy. Take a deep breath and enjoy your special day! GARDEN COLUMNS
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Inspired by the Garden
GIFT SHOP TIPS FOR SPRING
Spring is a time for renewal! Check out the great selection in the Garden Gift Shop for items and ideas to freshen up your home, garden, or activity schedule.
Books for garden planning, kitchen creations, or for relaxation Tools for little ones’ garden exploration
Pamper yourself with a variety of self-care items
Get those last-minute bulbs in the ground
Beautiful items to freshen up your interiors
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A variety of seeds for your garden or containers
Give your garden a voice and personality
Gifts perfect for any occasion
Thank you
Corporate Partners! The Corporate Partners Program is designed to strengthen the relationship between Huntsville Botanical Garden and the corporate community in Greater Huntsville. Through the annual support of corporate partners, we can provide first-class programs that allow children, families, and Garden guests to connect to plants and gain a deeper understanding of the role they play in their own environment.
Platinum
Bronze
Supporter
• Huntsville Area Association of Realtors & ValleyMLS.com
• Barrios Technologies
• Crestwood Hospital
• Cadence Bank
• Green Mountain Research
• Cepeda Systems & Software Analysis
• Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson Properties, Inc.
Gold • LG Electronics
Silver • Ashford Advisors Shane Stromei • Aviagen • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
• CFD Research • Global Ties of Alabama • Huntsville Utilities • Lawn Pride of Huntsville • Mission Driven Research • MTSi • PeopleTec • Radiance Technologies • Schoel Engineering • Turner Construction • Venturi • Vulcan Materials
Save the Date!
September 24, 2024 6:00 PM Dinner, drinks, and live auction under the stars
Presented by
GARDEN COLUMNS
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Cultivating Health and Wellbeing Accessibility in Your Garden By Nettie Hardy Creating a garden is not just about growing beautiful flowers and luscious vegetables; it’s also an opportunity to foster your mind and body. Gardening and exposure to greenspaces has been proven to not only improve physical health, but mental health as well. Growing plants keeps bodies nimble, builds strength, increases serotonin production, decreases blood pressure, and improves balance, among a variety of other benefits regardless of age, background, or ability.
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M
aking a garden accessible is not just a physical consideration; it’s a cornerstone in cultivating an environment that embraces healing and wellbeing.
Below are some considerations and practical tricks for making your garden a therapeutic and inclusive space where the joy of gardening can truly thrive.
Designing pathways
One of the fundamental aspects of an accessible garden is the layout of pathways. Smooth, level surfaces make it easier for individuals with mobility challenges or those using wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers to navigate comfortably. Consider using materials like compacted gravel or paving stones for stability. Ensure that pathways are wide enough for easy passage depending on the user’s needs, allowing for a comfortable and safe experience. Installing sufficient drainage helps to prevent slippery surfaces and debris buildup, ensuring walkways stay safe and usable. Paved concrete pathways are also an option.
Raised beds and containers for easy reach
Traditional garden beds can pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility. Raised beds offer a practical solution, bringing plants to a height that is easily reachable without bending or kneeling. These beds can be customized to different heights and widths accommodating various needs. It is often found that beds twelve inches or taller are the most accessible. Building beds with a lip or small ledge provides a space for sitting while working. A variety of raised bed kits are available on the market and can be customized for your needs and style preferences. Some examples of raised beds can be seen at Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) in the Wicks Family Garden, Tweetsville, Demonstration Vegetable Garden, and Herb Garden. It is important to make sure access and width are taken into consideration for reach while maintaining your space. Typically, you want your beds to be no more than four feet wide and to have access from all sides. Additionally, raised beds provide better drainage, warmer soil, and can be designed to prevent unwanted pests, creating an optimal environment for plant growth. Containers and hanging baskets are also components to consider that allow relocation and ease of access while enhancing the aesthetic and sensory experience. GARDEN COLUMNS
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consider planting fragrant herbs
and easy to grip, with extended
like rosemary or mint near
handles or those designed for
pathways to provide olfactory cues
one-handed use. These make
for navigation around garden beds
gardening tasks more manageable.
and paths. Incorporating high
Adaptable tools cater to diverse
contrasting colors also allows for
needs and accommodate for those
distinguishing designs. Selecting
with varying levels of strength
plants that attract pollinators
and dexterity. Be sure to make
can add an extra layer of visual
selections that are easy to stow
interest and interaction.
and will not become tripping hazards on walkways.
Generally speaking, low maintenance selections are often
Comfort is key for a positive
perennial plant material. Choose
experience while working in the
natives that require minimal
garden which is why it is also
watering, pruning, or feeding
important to include areas for rest
such as Ratibida pinnata and
and relaxation. Comfortable and
Liatris scariosa, which will
convenient seating in strategic
reduce strenuous and ongoing
locations allows for enjoying the
maintenance.
beauty of the garden at your own pace. These rest areas can serve
Strategically arrange plants to
as places of respite, meditation, or
accommodate different heights
simply to soak in the therapeutic
Plant selection and layout
and reach capabilities. Ensure
benefits of nature. Ensure that
Choose plants that are not only
that low-lying plants are easily
the seating is secure and easily
visually appealing but also offer
reachable and taller plants do not
reachable, preferably in shade to
tactile experiences. It’s important
obstruct pathways or overshadow
provide relief from the heat while
to engage all of the senses in the
smaller ones.
working.
your design such as aromatic
These strategies enrich the overall
herbs like fennel and thyme,
garden experience and facilitate
Accessibility is key
textured plants like Stachys
therapeutic interaction. Some
with accessibility in mind is a
bizantia with its soft touch or the
non-plant additions may include
transformative journey that goes
cool smooth feel of succulents like
windchimes or incorporating a
beyond aesthetics and becomes a
Delospermum, and lastly colorful
bubbling water fountain to act as
canvas for promoting connection
flowers like Phlox or Gaura.
support for meditation or sensory
and inclusivity. By implementing
engagement. Be sure to keep
thoughtful design elements,
Native perennial grasses such
safety in mind when selecting any
considering diverse sensory
as Soghastrum nutans or
water-related additions to your
experiences, and embracing
Muhlenbergia capillaris blow
space.
adaptive tools, you can create a
garden. Integrate elements into
in the wind which is visually
Designing a home garden
space that nurtures both plants
Tools, utensils, and places to rest
and people. As we tend to our
When selecting tools, be sure to
where the benefits of horticulture
extending seasonal interest. For
choose ergonomically designed
can be experienced by everyone.
those with visual impairments,
utensils that are lightweight
engaging and encourages bird activity, creating visual interest as well as auditory stimulation while
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gardens let us cultivate spaces
Glass in Flight Lands at Huntsville Botanical Garden By Laura McPhail
In the heart of Tucson, artist Alex Heveri has forged a dazzling interplay of art and nature. Her sculptures, inspired by pollinators and other garden creatures, come to life under the radiant Arizona sun, creating an enchanting spectacle that captivates both the eye and the soul. Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) is proud to provide a temporary home for 21 pieces of her sculpture collection, as Glass in Flight, presented by Oasys, takes off in the Garden’s latest exhibit May through October.
Extreme inspiration
the smallest of garden insects in
its malleability under skilled
One could say that Alex Heveri
larger-than-life sculptures. Her
hands, becomes the permanent
works her artistic magic in a world
chosen mediums, steel and Dalle
and durable framework for her
of extremes.
de verre slab glass, also seem to be
sculptures. Glass introduces color
polar opposites, the combination
and light, transforming each piece
For example, look no further
of which embodies the fusion of
into a radiant masterpiece.
than her artwork. She represents
strength and light. Steel, with GARDEN COLUMNS
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“It is hot and heavy and requires
A garden gallery
intense focus and caution,” said
Heveri’s sculptures find their
Heveri of the arduous physical
home in botanical gardens, where
process of creating one of her
they are more than art; they
pieces. “The effort required fully
become part of the vibrant setting.
engages me with the sculpture.” “It is a true honor to exhibit my Her hometown of Tuscon is also
work at botanical gardens because
known for both extreme heat and
they are outdoor art galleries,
artistic expression. The vibrant
tended to with care and visited by
city, with its natural desert habitat
many people,” Heveri enthused.
and perpetual sunlight, serves as
Extremes are also present in
a muse for Heveri’s creations. The
Heveri’s day-to-day life as she
Heveri’s hope for visitors extends
sculptures, strategically placed in
balances her career and artistic
beyond aesthetic pleasure.
a garden setting, come alive as the
passion. As a busy lawer by day,
She envisions her exhibit as a
sun’s rays play upon them.
Heveri sees parallels between law
source of joy and inspiration,
and her art. Her artistic mindset
encouraging people to explore
“Sunlight makes my sculptures
infuses creativity and passion into
botanic gardens as adventures
radiant and come alive,”
her legal pursuits, demonstrating
and appreciate the transformative
said Heveri. “In creating my
that the worlds of law and art are
power of art.
sculptures, I focus on how
not mutually exclusive.
sunlight will engage the viewer.” “Law is much like steel, it appears Long hours of summer sunlight
rigid and fixed. But with skill
are just one reason why Glass in
and artistry, it can be molded
Flight will have a fitting home
and shaped to address changing
at HBG. Another reason is her
times, the need for compassion,
focus on pollinators. Heveri’s
and the basic acknowledgment of
fascination with bees, dragonflies,
humanity—which ideally, should
birds, beetles, and other
be the foundation of our laws,”
pollinators stems from the joy and
said Heveri.
wonder they evoke in people.
“Flowers are stunning alone, but when a butterfly or a dragonfly lands on one, people usually exclaim ‘Look at that!’ In creating pollinators for Glass in Flight, I wanted the viewer to react similarly and say, ‘Look at that!’” said Heveri.
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“It’s a celebration of the
inspires young people and future
delicate dance between nature’s
generations to want to address the
wonders and human fascination,
issues caused by the population
inviting onlookers to marvel
decline of some of the planet’s
at the intricate beauty of these
tiniest — but most important —
wonderous insects.”
pollinating inhabitants.
Inspiring future generations Heveri’s sculptures serve a dual purpose as science exhibits, emphasizing the vital role of pollinators in the planet’s health and survival. She aims to shift perceptions and foster a positive emotional connection with these crucial insects.
“My hope as an artist of insects is to engage viewers in a positive emotional fashion to want to care about the conservation and future health of insects, especially
Presented by
See Alex Heveri’s colossal pollinators in person while Glass in Flight is on exhibit at Huntsville Botanical Garden May-October 2024. Glass in Flight is included with regular admission.
pollinators,” summarized Heveri.
“I made each insect as close in
“And I hope to engage
representation to the real insect
future generations
as possible, within the confines of the steel and glass medium, but larger than life,” explained Heveri. “In doing so, I was hoping
to learn how to solve problems vital to the survival of the planet.”
that people would reflect on the beauty of insects and have a
Heveri leaves a powerful message
positive experience, realizing that
– anything is possible with
insects are beautiful instead of
passion, and balance between
being fearful of them.”
extremes is achievable. Botanical gardens, built with fervor and
By showcasing some of the
reverence of nature, stand as a
smallest garden critters in a
testament to this truth.
larger-than-life representation, Heveri hopes that her artwork
GARDEN COLUMNS
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Cultivate In the dynamic education landscape,
Cultivate: Growing STEM Educators By Laura McPhail
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the quest to enhance STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
education for K-6 students is an ongoing
challenge. To address this, a groundbreaking
program led by Huntsville Botanical Garden
(HBG) called Cultivate has emerged, offering
a comprehensive guide to educators on how to
effectively teach STEM-based curriculum.
“We hope to build the self-efficacy of teachers so they are confident in their ability to teach STEM lessons related to plant and environmental sciences,” said HBG Manager of STEM Curriculum and Programs Karen Colvin. Based on Understanding by Design by Wiggins and McTighe and the 5E Instruction Model (as recommended by the Alabama Department of Education via the Science Course of Study), Cultivate sessions start with information about how to develop an effective STEM lesson, including incorporating literacy and differentiating for all learning levels in a classroom. Next, teachers participate in hands-on STEM activities to practice what they will be doing with their students. Finally, teachers participate in a guided nature walk, giving them the opportunity to experience science in a living laboratory.
“We demonstrate how you can teach plant science using any tree, shrub, flowers, herbs, or even turf grass,” said Colvin. To date, more than 200 K-6 teachers in Alabama have attended the Cultivate program since the pilot started. Teachers leave the session with curriculum, a bin of STEM materials, and a certificate for three continuing education units (CEUs).
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A clear need
The data provided by the Alabama State Department of Education Report Card illustrated a clear need for a program like Cultivate. According to the Report Card,
From this wealth of information,
“Through the Cultivate
Cultivate transitioned from a
program, we hope to
pilot to a steady program. One
give teachers the tools
of the key takeaways from the
and support they need to increase the
63% of students were not
proficiency in their
proficient on the science portion
students’ future test
and 73% were not proficient on
scores,” explained
the math portion of the Alabama
Colvin.
Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP). “In a state like Alabama with several high-quality colleges and universities, many industry leaders in aerospace, biotechnology, automotive manufacturing, and agriculture, there is no reason for our students to be behind in science and math,” Colvin asserted. Colvin, along with HBG’s Director of Learning and Public Engagement Rebecca Turk and Chief Executive Officer Sue Wagner, recognized the STEMrelated gap and sought to test a hypothesis: Many teachers, both those who are established and those who are new to the career, are not comfortable teaching required STEM-related lessons, yet the teachers and their students are both held accountable for the learning outcomes through state testing. 22
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2
pilot phase was the importance of catering to the time constraints faced by teachers during the school year. To address this, Cultivate will continue to offer special summer sessions designed to provide quick STEM challenges aim to equip educators with
From pilot to program
practical tools and resources that
Developed through a meticulous
can be seamlessly integrated into
pilot phase conducted from
their curriculum.
October 2022 through October 2023, HBG teamed up with
“Teachers all across the state of
Bellingrath Gardens & Home and
Alabama need support teaching
Birmingham Botanical Garden
STEM in the classroom,” said
to reach better effect statewide.
Turk. “With the amazing support
Through the pilot, the original
provided by the State of Alabama
seed idea for Cultivate has grown
legislature, over 200 teachers
and evolved, incorporating
experienced this program in the
valuable insights from educators
pilot year and we anticipate much
to tailor the program’s approach
growth ahead.”
for optimal impact. During the pilot phase, Cultivate
Branching out
Looking ahead, there are
staff explored various strategies,
ambitious plans to expand
including weekend sessions, full-
Cultivate’s reach and impact.
day meetings, and condensed twohour sessions. This experimental
“Most of the teachers who
phase served as a testing ground
participated in the pilot are from
for understanding the preferences
Huntsville City, Madison County,
and needs of educators, with
and Madison City Schools, but we
a consensus that a three-hour
have been happy to see the reach
duration strikes the right balance
extend to Marshall, Jackson, and
between depth and efficiency.
Morgan counties,” said Colvin.
Recognizing the challenges faced
If teachers successfully complete
by educators in counties unable
the online scholarship application
to easily access the program,
(located at hsvbg.org/cultivate),
Cultivate staff aim to take the
they receive 90% off the
show on the road.
program cost— for just $10!
“We plan to take Cultivate to counties that cannot easily come
“This application process gives
visit the Garden,” said Turk.
us the opportunity to collect valuable information from the
By reaching out to underserved
teachers prior to the sessions so
areas, the program aspires to
we can tailor the program to the
bridge the gap in STEM education,
needs of the current participants,”
ensuring that all educators have
said Turk.
“Any teachers who work with children in the State of Alabama are encouraged to participate in our program.”
What’s next for Cultivate?
The next round of Cultivate sessions are open for registration.
access to the tools they need to inspire the next generation
Colvin is quick to point out that
of innovators.
Cultivate is not only for public school teachers.
As a means to this end, HBG is offering a scholarship for
“We invite teachers who
educators interested in attending
homeschool or work in private
Cultivate. The Cultivate program
schools in the area to attend a
is valued at $100.
Cultivate session,” said Colvin.
Teachers interested in attending a session should visit hsvbg.org/cultivate and choose an upcoming date and time for their grade level.
Grade
June 20
June 21
July 18
July 19
K-3
8-11 a.m.
12-3 p.m.
8-11 a.m.
12-3 p.m.
4-6
12-3 p.m.
8-11 a.m.
12-3 p.m.
8-11 a.m.
In addition to summer sessions, Cultivate staff will host the 2nd Annual STEM Night for Teachers, on Sept. 10, 2024, from 4-6 p.m. at HBG. This free event is open to K-6 STEM teachers and will be an evening filled with hands-on activities, a guided interpretive hike, and delicious refreshments from the Garden Café. Stemming from the success of the inaugural event, this year’s STEM Night for Teachers aims to foster a sense of camaraderie among educators and provide them with valuable resources to enhance their teaching methods. As Cultivate embarks on its next phase, the program stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and adaptability in shaping the future of STEM education. By combining the insights gleaned from the pilot phase with an unwavering commitment to innovation, Cultivate is sowing the seeds for a brighter, more engaging future for STEM education across diverse communities. Funding for this program is provided by the State of Alabama Legislature with additional support from The Daniel Foundation of Alabama, BAE Systems, Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Alabama, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, and other philanthropic assistance.
GARDEN COLUMNS
23
May 9 • 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Doors open at 10:30 AM
Dust off your hats and find those fabulous fascinators because the Spring Hat Luncheon is back and better than ever! This annual spring fundraiser is a lunch to remember, featuring cocktails, a silent auction, and meal catered by Grille on Main, followed by a program and book signing by floral designer Cathy Graham.
Register today at hsvbg.org/spring-hat-luncheon. Proceeds benefit Huntsville Botanical Garden Butterfly Program.
24
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2
4747 Bob Wallace Ave. Huntsville, AL 35805
“From experiential education, to biological stewardship, to access for thousands to events and unique entertainment, the Garden increases the value of living in our community. As a hometown company, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing appreciates the Garden for the way it enriches our community.” Jessica Luther
Mazda Toyota Manufacturing
Summer STEM Camp
June - July 2024 • 9 AM to 4 PM Ages: 4-12
Registration and information at hsvbg.org/camps
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