PAGE 17 Inside:
The Critical Role of Pollinators
PAGE 6
Demystifying the “Black Thumb” Myth
PAGE 14
Mother Earth Troll Garden Comes to Life
Our Mission The Garden exists to connect people to plants to support a healthier quality of life for the region.
Dinner, drinks, and live auction under the stars Tuesday September 24, 2024 5:30 PM
With lush landscapes overflowing with flowers, the vibrancy of summer can be intoxicating. Here at the Garden, we embrace the extended days by broadening our horizons—and our operating hours. We’re so happy to be open later in the evening Wednesday through Saturday, allowing you more time to indulge in the serene beauty and myriad colors that only this time of year can offer.
As we welcome these long summer days, we are excited to introduce new features that celebrate both the global influences that shape our collections and the golden hues of the twilight hours.
Global Rhythm & Blooms on Thursdays brings sounds and flavors from around the world as we celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that makes Huntsville an amazing place to live.
Golden Hour on Fridays provides a perfect backdrop for sitting under the trees in the Cedar Glade with live music or enjoying a peaceful stroll as the setting sun casts a magical glow over our flourishing displays. Whether you are coming for date night, a family night out, or a solo visit, the Garden provides the perfect setting for getting the weekend started!
Glass in Flight landed in the Garden in May and is a sight to behold. Larger-than-life glass sculptures from artist Alex Heveri celebrate pollinators with beautiful butterflies, bees, and more! Breathtaking floral displays accentuate these works of art throughout the Garden. Make sure you see it before it takes flight to another garden in October.
In this summer edition of Garden Columns, we delve into topics that touch the core of our mission to connect people to plants. Discover the profound impact of volunteerism through our partnerships with civil organizations. Learn about the crucial role of pollinators, those tireless workers whose existence supports our ecosystem and sustains our food supply. And for our fellow garden lovers, we’ve included expert tips on how to bring a piece of the Garden’s summer splendor into your own backyard.
We hope this issue inspires you as much as the subjects inspire us. Join us in celebrating the season—your continued support and participation make all our efforts worthwhile.
See you at the Garden!
Sue Wagner CEO,HuntsvilleBotanicalGarden
Will Pylant Chair
Wes Kelley Vice Chair
Lindsay Rice Vice Chair
Clinton Carter Treasurer
Brandy Smith
Assistant Treasurer
Brenda Martin
Secretary
Elaine Alspach
Tracy Barrett
Carla Bossard
Lynn Collyar
Drew Davenport
Leta DeMaioribus
Kristina Hendrix
Michael Kirkpatrick
Angie McCarter
Eric Mills
Riley Parker
Thomas Petty
Lana Ritch
Ruchi Singhal
Julie Stephens
Carol Tevepaugh
Kathi Tew
Jennifer Wu
“Black Thumb”
Tapestry Comes Alive: Discover the Magic of the Mother Earth Troll Garden at Huntsville Botanical Garden
Working Women’s Wednesdays
Wednesdays in June | 5 – 7 PM
Global Rhythm & Blooms Thursdays through September | 5 – 8 PM
Golden Hour Fridays through September | 5 – 8 PM
Shakespeare in the Garden July 26 & 27, August 2 & 3, August 9 & 10 | 7:30 PM (doors open at 6:30)
June 22, July 27, and August 24 • 9 AM – 1 PM
Discover the freshest bounty from our region’s finest growers, artisans, and makers, as they come together to showcase their passion and craftsmanship at our Roots and Shoots Farmer’s Market from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. every fourth Saturday from June to August. Delight in fresh produce, artisanal goods, and community vibes. Don’t miss this vibrant gathering of growers and makers!
Hint: Make a day out it! Shop at the market, visit the Garden, grab lunch at the Café, and enjoy a full day of nature’s delights.
In the vast interplay of nature, pollinators occupy a pivotal role, far beyond the borders of our gardens and agricultural fields. These creatures, often small and overlooked, are fundamental to the survival of many ecosystems, affecting everything from landscape beauty to food production. Unfortunately, the decline in pollinator populations worldwide poses a grave threat not only to biological diversity but also to food security and ecological stability.
Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, birds, and bats are renowned for their roles in the reproductive cycles of plants. As they move from flower to flower in search of nectar or pollen, they inadvertently carry pollen grains between plants, enabling the fertilization necessary for fruit and seed production. This process is crucial, as approximately 35% of the world’s food crops and up to 95% of wild flowering plants depend on animal pollinators to reproduce.
Without these natural agents of pollination, many plants would fail to produce the next generation, leading to a direct loss of flora diversity. This reduction in plant variety would ripple through ecosystems, affecting everything from simple aesthetic pleasures to the air we breathe and the water we drink.
The importance of pollinators extends beyond plants. They are integral components of the food web, influencing the survival and health of other species. Many birds, for instance, rely on insect pollinators and their larvae as a primary food source. A decline in pollinator populations means less food for these birds, which can lead to declines in bird populations and affect the predators that feed on them, showcasing a domino effect within the ecosystem.
Moreover, pollinators themselves help control pest populations, contributing to the health of plants and the animals that rely on those plants for shelter and sustenance. Their decline could lead to an increase in unchecked pest populations, which could have further detrimental effects on ecological health.
Addressing the decline in pollinator diversity and numbers requires immediate action, and even small conservation efforts can have significant impacts. Habitat destruction and the improper use of pesticides are among the leading causes of pollinator decline. Creating pollinator-friendly environments in our gardens is a vital step toward mitigating these issues.
Here are some actionable steps every gardener can take:
1. Plant native species: Native plants provide the best support for local pollinators by offering the most suitable nectar, pollen, and habitat. Incorporating a variety of these plants can ensure year-round blooms, thus providing continuous food sources.
2. Reduce pesticide use: Opt for integrated pest management strategies and be cautious with pesticide use. If pesticides must be used, applying them during times when pollinators are least active, such as evening or early night, can reduce risk. And always first identify the cause of plant damage before acting. Some of the damage you see on your plants may be from the larvae of insect pollinators or other natural causes! Do your homework before reaching for the pesticide bottle, and you’ll be saving countless pollinators.
3. Preserve natural habitats: Maintaining elements like leaf litter, spent flower stalks, and natural brush can provide critical nesting and overwintering sites for pollinators.
Ultimately, the conservation of pollinators isn’t just about preserving beauty or biodiversity—it’s about sustaining life. As stewards of the environment, it falls upon us to foster and maintain habitats that support these essential creatures. The actions we take can lead to robust ecosystems capable of supporting diverse life forms, including our own.
As gardeners, understanding the intricate roles pollinators play in our ecosystems gives us a unique opportunity and responsibility to lead conservation efforts. By making informed decisions in our gardening practices, we can make a significant difference in the preservation of these vital beings. Remember, every flower planted in support of pollinators not only adds beauty to our environment but also contributes to a global effort to sustain the natural processes that all life depends on.
▲ Ant on Azalea Pollinators include a wide variety of insects, birds, mammals, and other animals, not just bees and butterflies.
▲ Bee on Cutleaf Coneflower Bee on native cutleaf coneflower Rudbeckia laciniata. Native plants are essential to conserving pollinators.
▲ Monarch Caterpillar and Bumble Bees on Milkweed Monarch butterfly caterpillar Danaus plexippus and bumble bees on swamp milkweed Asclepias incarnata. Native plants support a much greater diversity of pollinators than non-native ornamental plants.
▲ Lady Beetle Eating Aphids Lady beetle protecting plant from aphids. Some pollinators also eat pest insects that harm plants.
▲ Caterpillar in Leaf Litter Pollinators need more than flowers; they need safe havens like leaf litter and brush to deposit eggs and hide from predators.
Use the checklist below to ensure a happy and healthy home garden. For a full list of tips to use yearround, including important tasks for keeping lawns of various grasses lush and healthy, visit hsvbg.org/garden-checklist.
Direct sow sunflowers, nasturtiums, marigolds, borage, basil, and other warm season flowers and herbs.
Perennial foliage may be removed from spring bulbs if it has yellowed and is becoming dry. All foliage should remove easily by hand.
The beginning of June is an excellent time to take softwood cuttings of shrubs to start new plants.
Water shrubs approximately 1” total per week, if needed. Fertilize now.
After your vegetable garden is well established, it is best to water it thoroughly once a week rather than giving it a light watering every day. That way, a deeper root system is encouraged to develop, which will later help the plants tolerate dry weather.
Flowering requires lots of energy so it can be quite helpful to fertilize flowering annual plants once flowering begins. Fertilize one more time before the end of the season.
Divide and transplant bearded iris using the vigorous ends of the rhizomes. Discard the old center portion. Cut the leaves back to about six inches.
Seeds can continue to be sown throughout July for late crops of beets, bush beans, carrots, chard, summer spinach, cucumbers, and summer squash. Cover with pre-moistened potting soil mix which will not be so likely to crust and crack. To hold in the moisture, cover the rows with a very thin layer of mulch or floating row cover fabric.
Pinch flowers on herbs like basil, mint, oregano, and savory to promote bushy growth.
Garden flowers, whether annuals or perennials, benefit from “deadheading” after flowering. By removing the spent flower heads, energy is used to produce more flowers or foliage and roots. Many will produce another flush of blooms.
Watch for aphids and thrips, especially on summer bulbs, flowering plants, and new growth.
Continue deadheading flowers which will allow plants to use energy reserves for a final flower display. Remember, some flowers like echinacea and sunflowers are food for birds so you may want to leave these flowers be.
Divide old iris plantings and add new ones.
Plant perennials such as peonies.
Remove old vegetable plants that have stopped producing to eliminate a shelter for insects and disease organisms.
Harvest melons when the stem separates from the fruit with gentle prodding.
Start planting cold crops, beets, carrots, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, Swiss chard, parsley, radishes, and turnips.
Every weed that produces seed means more trouble next year so remove weeds before they go to seed (flower).
Ingredients
8 cups poached chicken
1 cup red grapes, diced
1 apple, diced
1 cup walnuts, diced
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Poach chicken by placing chicken in boiling water, covering, then immediately removing from the stove. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes (the water will cook the chicken). Drain the water and shred the chicken.
Combine shredded chicken with all other ingredients in large mixing bowl. Stir well. Top with lettuce and tomato on croissant or sourdough bread for a delicious sandwich, or keep it simple on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing salad.
Whether you want to plan a get-together with friends, have a family picnic or throw a garden-themed birthday party, here are some tips to kick-off the party planning!
1. Choose a garden party theme: Choosing a theme will help guide the rest of your party decisions, whether it be vintage tea party, whimsical, boho or you own personal style.
2. Consider the weather: Check the weather forecast and pick a date with a high probability of sunshine. Consider providing shaded areas or give guests fans as party favors to beat Alabama’s hot summers!
3. Send invitations: Send invitations that match your party’s theme. You can go traditional with paper invitations, or use digital invitations as a green option. Don’t forget to let guests know if they need to dress to match the theme.
4. Decorate: Enhance the natural beauty of your backyard or picnic area with decorations. Think fairy lights, lanterns, and floral arrangements.
5. Seating arrangements: Set up seating areas where guests can relax and mingle with other guests. You can use blankets, cushions, or even rented furniture to create cozy spots to chat.
6. Plan your menu: Finger foods, salads, and barbecue options are popular choices for garden parties. Guests could also participate in a potluck and have everyone bring in a picnic snack to share.
7. Seasonal beverages: Choose a cocktail or mocktail to suit your party’s theme. Make sure to provide guests with plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages to keep them hydrated in hot weather. Try our Elderflower Spritz as a cocktail option for your party!
8. Entertainment: Provide some form of entertainment to keep guests engaged. This could be something easy like music from a Bluetooth speaker, lawn games like cornhole or frisbee, or even a craft station!
9. Bug control and sunscreen: Keep pesky bugs away by using citronella candles or torches and provide bug spray for guests. If it’s a daytime garden party, be sure to provide ample sunscreen to keep them from getting burned.
10. Prepare for emergencies: Have a backup plan in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. Consider renting a tent or canopy to provide shelter if needed.
11. Cleanup plan: Make cleanup easier by providing plenty of trash bins and recycling containers. Encourage guests to help tidy up before they leave.
Remember, the key to a successful garden party is to enjoy your time with friends or family while surrounded by nature!
Elderflower Spritz
½ oz of elderflower syrup
• Squeeze of lemon juice
• Top with Prosecco Garnish with a sprig of thyme
Summer with our hot new branded merchandise! Every purchase supports the Garden.
▲ Stylish and fun t-shirts make a great souvenir for any age.
▲ Cool off with sips from our new glassware collection.
y LG Electronics
y Aviagen
y Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
y Huntsville Hospital
Bronze
y Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
y Ashford Advisors - Shane Stromei
y Barrios Technologies
y Blue Origin
y Cadence Bank
y Cepeda Systems & Software Analysis
y CFD Research
y Global Ties of Alabama
y Huntsville Utilities
y Mission Driven Research
y MTSi
y PeopleTec
y Radiance Technologies
y Redstone Federal Credit Union
y Schoel Engineering
y Turner Construction
y Venturi
y Vulcan Materials
y Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson Properties, Inc.
The butterfly is a symbol of transformation and hope, and for the triumph of the spirit over the physical. When you purchase a Butterfly Tribute in memory of a loved one, the Garden will release a butterfly into the Purdy Butterfly House and the deceased’s family will receive a lovely butterfly watercolor print and commemorative letter.
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. Visit hsvbg.org/get-involved/donate to purchase a butterfly tribute. Memorialize your loved one while supporting the Garden through the
Gardening can seem like a daunting task for many, especially those who believe they possess the infamous “black thumb.” Gardening mishaps are a normal part of learning and growing as a gardener. All gardeners kill plants from time to time. Some say that the best gardeners kill the most plants because they are always willing to try something new.
Is killing plants the goal? Of course not. But it is part of the process in discovering what you can grow successfully while enjoying the experience.
Some very simple tips and tricks about watering, mulching, and the strategic use of groundcovers can lead to more successful gardening. Pick one below, try it out, and see what happens!
Plants require five key things for survival: light, space, water, soil/nutrients, and air. When buying plants, the labels often tell you how to do all five of those things successfully except one: water. For example, plant labels often say “water thoroughly,” “moderate watering needed,” or “drought tolerant” but none of those things say how much water to apply.
Many people accidentally kill plants because they don’t understand how much to water. More often than not, plants are overwatered rather than underwatered. Try this straightforward method to gauge how much water your garden actually needs. By measuring how long it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket, you can calculate the precise amount of water your plants require based on their type:
Step 1: Gather a 5-gallon bucket, your water hose attached to your spigot, the nozzle attached to the water hose, and a timer.
Step 2: Hold the nozzle over the 5-gallon bucket.
Step 3: Turn the water on and start the timer.
Step 4: Time how long it takes to fill the 5-gallon bucket of water. Once filled, stop the timer. Round it up or down by 30 seconds.
Following these steps shows you how long it takes for five gallons of water to come out of your water hose. It’s often somewhere between 1-2 minutes. So why do we need to know this? The key to successful watering lies in understanding each plant’s needs.
Water for approximately two minutes per arm’s span to provide the right amount of moisture.
These generally need about ten gallons of water per week.
The watering needs increase with the tree’s caliper—measured by the diameter of the trunk—requiring ten gallons per week for every inch of caliper.
Mulching is another critical aspect of gardening. Not only does mulch suppress weeds, but it also retains soil moisture, adds warmth, and enhances the visual appeal of your beds. The best times for mulching are early spring or winter, but it’s never too late to start. Organic options like pine bark, leaf, or pine straw are recommended over artificial choices like tire mulch, which can negatively impact plant growth.
Weeds are plants that grow where we don’t want them. Weeds can only grow where there is exposed soil and where sunlight can germinate the seed. Once your perennials have emerged in spring, walk around your landscape to where there is exposed soil or mulch. View these “holes” as wonderful opportunities for groundcovers, wildflowers, or annuals.
Planting more plants in these areas will cover the ground, reducing weed seeds the opportunity to germinate. In turn, this reduces your labor significantly and is beautiful! Perennial groundcovers are highly recommended since they will come back each year. Remember: it’s never too late to fill these “holes.” By planting densely, you reduce labor and create a lush, vibrant landscape.
The journey of gardening is about trial and error, learning what works and what doesn’t in your unique garden environment.
Gardening is not reserved for those with a natural green thumb but is accessible to everyone willing to learn and experiment. By understanding the basic needs of plants and employing simple techniques like effective watering, mulching, and strategic planting, anyone can turn their gardening blunders into blooms. Remember, you don’t have a black thumb—you just need to go back to the basics and keep trying.
In the heart of Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG), a new magical realm is taking shape—tentatively named the Mother Earth Troll Garden. Opening April 1, 2025, this innovative space 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.
“We’re creating an experience unique to Huntsville,” said HBG CEO Susan Wagner. “Nothing like the Mother Earth Troll Garden exists anywhere else in the region.”
Previously home to a sand pit and fragments of old exhibits, an area on the southeast end of the Garden (across from the Garden of Hope) is transforming into a captivating attraction. The choice of location, was strategic, leveraging the accessibility from the Garden’s primary walking path and taking advantage of the natural shade provided in the nearby Mathews Nature Trail and the Fern Glade.
At the helm of the artistic vision for this garden area is Thomas Dambo, a world-renowned artist known for his larger-than-life recycled troll sculptures scattered across the world. Hailing from Denmark, Dambo brings
life to folklore through his trolls, creatures born from recycled materials that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
His approach is not merely artistic but narratively rich— each troll he creates is accompanied by a story, a name, and a poem that echoes the spirit of the creature and its surroundings. In Dambo’s world, the trolls are the heroes of the Earth, here to protect nature from the wayward activities of humans.
KaptajnNalle,byThomasDambo
▼ Mother EarthTroll Garden-SkyviewDroneWorx
The centerpiece of the Mother Earth Troll Garden is a new troll joining Dambo’s collection of 127 trolls worldwide. She will be named by Dambo when she is closer to completion as he draws inspiration from the troll’s facial features. Dambo asserts that while trolls don’t like to be measured, one should only do so—out of respect to the troll—when it is standing. However, the HBG troll will be seated in a lotus pose, and will measure 18-20 feet tall while sitting (Dambo estimates she would be 30 feet tall while standing).
“The face, hands, and feet of the troll are sculpted in his studio in Denmark, then freighted to us later this year”, said HBG Vice President of Learning and Public Engagement Rebecca Turk, who oversees all exhibits. “And then the rest of the troll – the body, arms, neck, hair, and legs – are made onsite [in 2025] with recycled materials.”
In contrast to his traveling troll exhibits like the ones held recently at Atlanta Botanical Garden and Cheekwood Estate and Gardens in Nashville, this will be a permanent feature at Huntsville Botanical Garden.
“The Mother EarthTroll and maze is anentire permanentgardenlandscape...oneofthefirst gardenscalledoutintheGarden’sMasterSitePlan,” said Wagner.
The Mother Earth Troll Garden is more than just a home to one of Dambo’s creations. It’s a living, breathing piece of art. Though visitors are prohibited in the construction area, the inner structure of a maze emerging from the topography is visible from the path.
This maze will eventually be the troll’s hair (made of plant materials) cascading down. The layout encourages exploration, with pathways that invite curiosity and wonder.
The preservation of existing trees and the thoughtful addition of new plant species enhance the garden’s canopy, creating a tapestry of green that supports local biodiversity and offers visitors shade and beauty.
The garden’s design also features innovative artistic elements integrated into the maze structure, intended to evolve into living features as plants grow through it over the years. A throne, crawl-through tunnels, a hidden hut, a swing and more invite visitors of all ages to engage in nature play, interacting with each other and the natural elements of the maze in ways as varied as the people who visit.
Construction on the maze began in February 2024 when Dambo’s team from Denmark joined HBG staff and volunteers to transform the space. Phased plantings
Elements like the tree and rock donations from local contractors and partnerships with tree companies underline the community’s involvement and the cyclical nature of life—the old giving way to the new, fostering growth and sustainability.
These elements are not just decorative but are integral to Dambo and HBG’s shared ecological narrative, emphasizing the role of reuse and renewal in conservation.
The garden’s design is a nod to the natural world’s complexity and beauty. The strategic placement of the entrance, the preservation of the existing natural flora, and the careful integration of new plant life are all orchestrated to enhance the visitor’s experience. The pathways winding through the garden are not just routes; they are invitations to wander, discover, and marvel at the interplay of art and nature.
“Everythinginhereisbeautifullysimple.Every branchyouseeisintentionallyscrewedin,” said Turk. “Ourteamthoughtthroughthemaintenanceplan thatsupportsthisarea.Let’ssaypartofthemaze wall breaksover time.We harvest more material and screwitbackin.Itisaverysimpleinstall,butdone intricately.”
Every detail in the Mother Earth Troll Garden is infused with intention—from the preservation of native trees to the integration of artistic elements. This garden is not just a place to visit; it’s a place to experience, engage, and leave a bit different than when you arrived.
Turk is excited about the educational opportunities arising from the Mother Earth Troll Garden.“The garden is not only a place of beauty but also a resource for learning about environmental stewardship and art. Visitors can learn about the importance of recycling and sustainable practices, illustrated by the garden’s very existence,” said Turk.
As visitors wander through the Mother Earth Troll Garden, they will be enveloped in a story that unfolds with every step. The garden is a dynamic space where art and ecology intermingle to create an environment that educates, inspires, and delights.
HBG extends a warm invitation to all to explore the enchanting Mother Earth Troll Garden when it opens next year. It’s a celebration of nature’s creativity, a homage to environmental care, and a tribute to the mythical that reminds us of the magic that can be found in our natural world. Step into this whimsical space and let your imagination roam free amongst the trolls, trees, and tales of the garden.
For more information about Thomas Dambo, visit thomasdambo.com If you or your organization would like to contribute to the funding of the Mother Earth Troll Garden, please contact development@hsvbg.org.
In our fast-paced society, finding time for selfcare is crucial for maintaining mental health. Amid growing awareness and decreasing stigma surrounding mental health issues, many seek refuge in hobbies, social gatherings, or the simple tranquility of nature. But beyond these personal activities lies a powerful avenue of self-care often overlooked: volunteering
Recent studies highlight the profound benefits of volunteering, particularly its impact on physical and mental health. The Mayo Clinic’s findings from August 2023 reveal that volunteering not only improves physical health but also significantly reduces depression and anxiety, especially in individuals over 60. Engaging in volunteer activities enhances both new and existing relationships, offering a shared purpose that strengthens interpersonal connections and builds supportive social networks.
For corporate groups, volunteering represents an opportunity to enrich employee relationships and enhance job satisfaction. The JournalofOccupational and Environmental Medicine in 2022 discussed the health improvements within organizations that sponsor volunteer activities. Many companies are now offering paid volunteer days, fostering a sense of community and deeper company identification among employees. 20 VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
At the heart of this movement is Huntsville Botanical Garden (HGB), a serene oasis that invites civic and corporate groups to connect with nature and each other. By participating in activities like up-potting for plant sales or assembling displays for the annual Galaxy of Lights, volunteers not only contribute to the community but also enjoy a meaningful escape from daily routines. The Garden partners with local universities, professional groups,
and student organizations, becoming a hub where diverse groups unite in a common goal of community service and environmental stewardship.
One notable example occurred early in 2024, when 28 Mazda Toyota employees spent a day with HGB’s Lighting and Design Programs Manager, Steven Byrd. They undertook the substantial task of moving over 100 light displays from the previous year’s Galaxy of Lights show.
This activity required teamwork and effective communication, allowing employees to strengthen their bonds while contributing to the Garden’s preparations for the spring season.
Similarly, students from Alabama A&M University have been regular volunteers, assisting in conservation efforts at the native nursery and hoop houses. These sessions offer more than just environmental benefits; they provide a therapeutic space for students to forge and deepen relationships, enhancing their educational experience and personal growth.
Volunteering at Huntsville Botanical Garden is open to all ages and interests, covering areas from conservation and horticulture to education and events. Volunteers are encouraged to ask questions, collaborate, and pursue excellence while finding joy in their efforts.
Through their contributions, they play a crucial role in fostering a community-oriented culture at the Garden, continually seeking ways to improve and connect.
HBG is proud to strengthen ties through community engagement with organizations that include Alabama A&M University, University of Alabama Huntsville, Oakwood University, Leidos Young Professionals, Mazda Toyota, Trivector, Aerojet, National Honors Societies, and JROTC groups from local high schools to name a few. Some groups volunteer once a year at the Garden and rotate their community engagement with multiple nonprofits in the area. Others, like Alabama A&M University and Buckhorn High School National Honors Society, reach out within days of serving asking when they can return.
Those interested in joining the vibrant volunteer community at Huntsville Botanical Garden can learn more by contacting volunteer@hsvbg.org or visiting the Garden’s website. Here, they can find opportunities to give back to themselves and their community, discovering the dual joys of helping others and nurturing their own well-being.
Join Huntsville Shakespeare at Huntsville Botanical Garden’s outdoor Amphitheater
July 26 & 27, August 2 & 3, and August 9 & 10 at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) for alternating performances of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet andThe Winter’sTale.
The Winter’s Tale
A story of love lost, family found...and bears
Romeo and Juliet
The tragedy of young love and old revenge
“TheHuntsvilleMusicOfficeisbeyondproudtosupportboth theGlobalRhythm&BloomsandGoldenHourseriesin2024. HuntsvilleBotanicalGardenisoneofourcity’smostwell-beloved cultural institutions,andoursharedvision that live musiccanserve asacatalystforevenmorepeopletoexperiencetheamazing groundsisacollaborationwe’reexcitedtokeepgrowing.”
Matt Mandrella CityofHuntsvilleMusicOfficer
Our Garden team is growing! Join us at Huntsville Botanical Garden and be part of a vibrant community that not only grows beautiful gardens but also nurtures rewarding careers.
hsvbg.org/careers for more information.
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