Summer 2013
Don Williamson
gardentimes n e w s l e t t e r o f l e w i s g i n t e r b o ta n i c a l g a r d e n
May 24–October 13 They’re back! Tropical and native butterflies transform the Conservatory’s North Wing into a haven of breathtaking beauty, captivating colors, and fanciful flights. Every visit, you’ll discover different sights, educational insights, and photo opportunities that are amazingly up close and remarkably personal. Details and related opportunities on pages 4–5 and at lewisginter.org.
Presented by
Media Sponsor
New!
June 16
Father’s Day In The Garden
2 Message from the Executive Director
Free!
July 4
All-American Celebration
8–9 Children’s Garden
3 Horticulture
10 Volunteerism & Support
4–5 “Butterflies LIVE!”
11
Garden Amenities
6–7 Calendar & Hours
12
Flowers After 5
admission
in this issue
STEPHANIE GROSS
ROBERT SUYDAM
Celebrate the men in your life with family fun: remote-controlled model boats on Lake Sydnor, live music by “The Jangling Reinharts,” and a tasty cookout (for purchase). Model boats provided by Richmond Model Yacht Club. Admission includes “Butterflies LIVE!” Details page 6.
FREE for Garden members. See lewisginter.org for visitor prices.
We open our garden gates to the community! Enjoy music by the “Happy Lucky Combo,” family activities, and a red-white-and-blue parade. Free admission includes “Butterflies LIVE!” Details page 6.
Message from the Executive Director
Horticulture
chief executive officer Frank Robinson executive director Shane Tippett 2
newsletter editor Lynn Kirk, Kirk Communications special thanks LGBG staff for editorial assistance design Elevation
For many of you, the following news might not come as a surprise: on March 19 at the international Garden Tourism Conference in Toronto, Canada, Lewis Ginter was recognized as one of the “Top 10 North American Gardens Worth Travelling For” by a panel of international judges, including representatives from the Canadian Garden Tourism Council and the American Public Gardens Association. Recognition like this is gratifying and humbling for staff and volunteers, but we feel it is an acknowledgement of only part of what we aspire to be as a community garden. Our mission also embraces the cultivation of Beautiful RVA. As Director of Education Randee Humphrey explains, “Beautiful RVA is a regional coalition of public and private agencies and organizations invested in improving the quality of life in greater Richmond through public horticulture, urban greening, and beautiful place-making initiatives. Inspired by the work of public garden designer Lynden B. Miller of New York City and
Winters that warm to spring, then to summer. Communities enjoying hopeful, collaborative momentum. Your Garden is worth traveling for, because our community is worth visiting. Let’s all enjoy.
Shane Tippett Executive Director
GRACE CHAPMAN
Don Williamson
autumn
conservatory
Victoria Waterlily (Victoria ‘Longwood Hybrid’) “Queen” of aquatic lilies
Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) Ornamental with edible fruit
Easter Lily Cactus (Echinopsis oxygona) Prickly kind of beauty
High Five for the Community Kitchen Garden
Saluting Achievements
On the first day of spring, the Garden kicked off year five with a Planting Day in the Community Kitchen Garden, which is dedicated to growing fresh produce for FeedMore’s Kids Cafe and Meals on Wheels programs. Children from Capital Childcare, one of FeedMore’s 60 area Kids Cafe locations, assisted staff and volunteers in planting red potatoes, radishes, and peas. Once harvested, the vegetables will be used by FeedMore to prepare nutritious meals for these same children.
Rose TLC
Your Garden Receives International Acclaim Beth Monroe, public relations director for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, accepts an award from (left) Alex Reford, chair of the Canadian Garden Council, and Bill Hardy, board member of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association. The Garden was named one of the “Top 10 North American Gardens Worth Travelling For” by a panel of international judges. In an unrelated recognition, Travel Channel selected Lewis Ginter as one of the “Best Botanical Gardens in the U.S.”
summer
Horticulturist Jay Austin, who specializes in rose care, shares seasonal tips: • Deadhead spent blooms for disease reduction, as well as aesthetics. By cutting the spent bloom a little further down the stem, the middle of the plant is opened up for more light and air, which helps fight the occurrence of black spot. The larger remaining stem may also promote a larger bloom during fall’s re-growth. •S oil test in the summer, but don’t adjust soil pH until the temperatures drop in the fall. Summer fertilization is not recommended because it promotes new growth that stresses the plant during excessive heat spells.
Don Williamson
Volume XXVIII, Number 2
others, the current 90+ person roster of Beautiful RVA represents an affinity group of over 40 agencies and organizations, including City of Richmond administrators and elected representatives; heads of prominent community environmental organizations; university, cultural and tourism representatives; urban planners and economic development specialists; and grassroots neighborhood and civic associations. Beautiful RVA has positioned Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden as the nexus of expertise in public horticulture, and enabled us to encourage collaboration through capable facilitation, enhanced regional communication and networking, and increased focus on progress in urban greening and beautiful place-making initiatives. The Garden’s respected community profile, institutional credibility, and success in amassing and leveraging private support—along with its horticultural prowess and organizational development skills—have engendered a sense of hopeful, collaborative momentum.”
JONAH HOLLAND
The Garden Times newsletter is mailed three times a year to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden members.
This year, March came in like a lion and went out like a snow leopard, but as the month wound down it seemed just possible that Richmond’s early blooms might awaken one morning with temperatures above freezing. At Lewis Ginter we began seeing more visitors, even when they still had to wear winter coats and caps with ear flaps. A garden is a good place to be, in mittens or flip-flops, and in the past twelve months we welcomed over 300,000 visitors, with our own members making 73,000 appearances.
Rob Elidge
editor’s box
Don Williamson
Brad Alston
Bright Spots
Education Certificate of Completion in Botanical Illustration: Judy Thomas, Garden Member VNLA Certified Horticulturist Certifications for staff members: Katelyn Coyle Leah Purdy Elizabeth Fogel Lisa Shiffert Laurel Matthew Brian Vick
Tool Time When updating your tool inventory, the “hort” staff recommends these favorites based on experience: • Atlas* gloves with different thicknesses for different seasons (Senior Horticulturist Liz Fogel) • Hori Hori* digging knife for weeding and planting (Director of Horticulture Grace Chapman) • Weed wrench for easier pulling out of sapling trees (Gardener Leah Purdy) • Weed torch for burning small herbaceous seedlings on hardscapes (Director of Horticulture Grace Chapman) • Long-handled shovel (Senior Horticulturist Shannon Smith) • Trench shovel with 5 ½-in. blade (Horticulturist Claire Terry) • Good pole saw (Horticulturist George Cowart) • Silky Pocket Boy* hand saw with safety latch (Director of Horticulture Grace Chapman) *Brands sold in the Garden Shop.
3
Much-anticipated exhibit returns! Children’s Garden Programs
Guided Walking Tour
Visit lewisginter.org/children for details and updates. Other Children’s Garden activities pages 8–9.
Walk and Talk: Butterflies in the Garden
Non-native butterflies should not be released into our environment, so strollers, backpacks, and oversized totes and pocketbooks are discouraged to prevent butterfly “hitchhiking.” There is stroller parking outside the Conservatory and a holding area in the entry for carried items.
“Butterflies LIVE!” Family Activities*
Butterflies tend to be most active on clear, sunny days, so consider planning your visit accordingly.
Do the bee dance, build a pollinator or enjoy a “Who’s Pollinating the Garden?” activity. Learn about pollinators, how to protect and sustain them, and why they’re important to our ecosystem, health, and agriculture.
Garden Guide Barbara Wiederkehr leads hunts for butterflies and their host and nectar plants after an informative introduction to these amazing creatures. If there is inclement weather, Barbara discusses gardening to attract butterflies. ** September tour focuses on Monarch butterflies. Details, fees, and registration at lewisginter.org/adult-education or call (804) 262-9887, ext. 322 or 320. $. Other tour options page 11.
Butterflies are fragile. Please do not touch them and move carefully in the exhibit area.
Conservatory, May 24–October 13, Daily
Explore the world of butterflies with fun-filled, hands-on activities.
Celebrate National Pollinators Week* Don Williamson
June 17–23
Adult Education Programs
“Butterflies LIVE!”*
Visit lewisginter.org/adult-education for details and registration.
Gather at the Carriage House for butterfly-related information, activities, and literature, plus record your sightings.
Nature Journaling: Looking for Pollinators
Everchanging Garden*
July 18 ��������������������������������������������������������������� 9:30AM–2:30PM
Learn more about the butterfly’s lifecycle, adaptations, and preferences for host and nectar plants.
Hundreds of tropical and native butterflies entertain and educate as they feed, flutter, and take flight. Explore their origins, lifecycles, and preferred habitats. Video them fancifully dancing or photograph them feeding. Register for a guided tour, journal your experiences, or visit the Library to plan your own butterfly garden. Bring a group of youngsters to the Children’s Garden for butterfly-inspired activities. And browse the related butterfly memorabilia, accessories, and outdoor decor showcased in the Garden Shop. Presented by Media Sponsor
“Butterfly Nursery”*
Join artist Susie Kowalik for tips on a fun, portable way of tracking garden observations as you discover pollinator-friendly plants and observe pollinators in action. $65/Member; $76/Non-Member. New!
“Nancy Blum: Butterflies”* June 15–October 13 Education and Library Complex
Porcelain butterflies flutter on the walls of Ginter Gallery II. New York City artist Nancy Blum created this installation, inspired by her 2009 visit to “Butterflies LIVE!”
Native Plants to Attract Pollinators
Science Museum of Virginia May 25–September 6 ������ Various Times
Experience firsthand the beauty of the migration cycle of hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies. Cost & details at smv.org.
May 24–October, Daily
Bird & Butterfly Meadow, Daily
Did You Know?
August 8 �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 6–8PM
Where do the butterflies come from? These “babies” travel by road and perhaps air, sometimes across the globe. They’re alive, fragile, sensitive to temperature,
Director of Horticulture Grace Chapman discusses the role of pollinators, including honeybees, and how to select native plants that attract them. $10/Member; $21/Non-Member.
and reliant on humidity. They require proper packaging, specialized care, and nurturing upon receipt, but if handled correctly they can delight recipients in weeks to come. The unusual cargo is butterfly pupae, also called chrysalids. The critical procedures and government-regulated guidelines for transferring chrysalids from private butterfly farms to public exhibitions are almost as intriguing as the butterflies themselves. Tropical butterflies originate in Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America, while native butterflies are bred in the southern U.S.
New!
An emergence box demonstrates lifecycles as the adult butterflies emerge from the chrysalids. A must-see!
CATHY CARVER
STEPHANIE GROSS
4
New!
IMAX® Film
Front Porch Butterfly Corner*
Exhibits May 24–October 13, Daily ���������������������������������������� 9AM–5PM
Wednesdays, July 17, August 14, September 18** ��� 9:30–11:30AM
“Flight of the Butterflies”
Don Williamson
Exhibit Protocol
* Free for members and included with Garden admission.
Butterfly Gardening
August 13 ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 9–11AM
Naturalist Linda McBride discusses basic butterfly anatomy and reproduction for species common in our area. She also touches on food and nectar plants, predators, and habitat loss. Find out about basic requirements for a butterfly garden and enjoy a ‘show and tell’ with live specimens. At session’s end, interested participants may join Linda for a brief walk to observe pollinators in the Garden. $10/Member; $21/Non-Member.
What is butterfly farming? It is a rewarding livelihood in certain tropical climates around the world where breeders create habitats conducive to adult butterflies’
survival, as well as supportive of their courtship, mating, and four-stage lifecycle. Stage one is the butterfly egg, which hatches into the next stage, caterpillar. As the caterpillar matures, it spins silk to attach to bark or another suitable object for the chrysalid stage. This stage is viable for shipping, so the butterfly farmer carefully cuts around each chrysalid with its “anchor,” individually packs it with like species, and layers the container with lightweight ice packs to prevent overheating. Butterfly farmers fulfill orders through brokers who have secured buyers (such as Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden) and coordinate the transportation logistics. They abide by strict USDA regulations to ensure that the chrysalids don’t carry any disease or parasite that could prove harmful if released into a non-native environment. Is butterfly farming eco-friendly? Butterfly farmers enclose areas of the forest with netting in order to confine the butterflies, which prevents destruction of
fragile rain forest ecosystems. What happens behind the scenes? Upon receipt of a shipment, a butterfly technician immediately unwraps the chrysalids and uses an affixer like hot glue to
gently attach each anchored chrysalid to a larger object, such as a strip of paper. The paper is then hung, usually upside-down in a controlled environment, for the final stage of development. When the butterfly eventually emerges from the chrysalid, its wings are crinkled and delicate. The upside-down position aids muscles in forcing fluid into the wings, inflating and preparing them for flight. The time period between emergence and flight can vary considerably among different species, so orders and fulfillment are extremely time-sensitive. It takes in-depth planning to ensure that adult butterflies are always visible during live exhibitions, though even best efforts are impacted by time of day, light, and humidity. Excerpts from a Garden educational article, published in the “Richmond Times-Dispatch” in June 2012.
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Visit lewisginter.org for additional information and what’s in bloom updates. *Free for members and included with Garden admission.
june continued
All-American Celebration*
E FREion
GardenFest Meals & Dining with Santa
Media Sponsor
Holiday dining — especially with Santa — is a family favorite. To avoid disappointment, please don’t delay making your reservations as noted below, (804) 262-9887.
Admiss
Meal Reservations Accepted
TUESDAY, 3......................................10AM Details in June listing.
october continued
future events
Ginter in the Morning
Museum Stores of Richmond Holiday Shoppers Fair
TUESDAY, 1 ��������������������������������������10AM Details in June listing.
Members Preview: NOVEMBER 7.................................5–9PM Shoppers Fair: NOVEMBER 8, 9...................9:30AM–5PM Host Site: Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center
Flowers After 5*
Ginter in the Morning
Evening Yoga in the Garden
Tuesday, 11 ������������������������������������10AM Adults explore seasonal garden highlights, accompanied by knowledgeable Garden Guide. Free/Member; $15/Non-Member. Pre-registration required at lewisginter.org.
Thursdays, 11, 18, 25** ��������������5–9PM JULY 11: Germany JULY 18: South America JULY 25: Organic Not July 4. Details in June listing.
THURSDAY, 6L FUL FREE sample session ������������6–7:30PM THURSDAY, 13 6-week session begins ��������6–7:30PM Jacqueline Gooding teaches yoga’s calming rhythms of breathing, movement, & posture in a tranquil Garden setting. $. Pre-registration required for both offerings at lewisginter.org/adult-education.
Fidos After 5* Thursday, 11 �������������������������������5–8PM Details in June listing.
Father’s Day in the Garden* SUNDAY, 16 �����������������������������������1–4PM Food (for purchase) ����������NOON–3PM Remote-controlled model boats on Lake Sydnor, music by “The Jangling Reinharts,” & tasty cookout (for purchase). Model boats provided by Richmond Model Yacht Club. Admission includes “Butterflies LIVE!”
Arts & Culture Xpo
Thursdays, 6, 13, 20, 27 Food and beverage (for purchase) ������5–8PM Music �������������������������������������������6–8PM WaterPlay ������������������������������� till 8PM Garden Shop open ����������������� till 7PM Garden open ��������������������������� till 9PM Bloemendaal House Lawn After-hours garden strolls with live music. Wine-tasting & dining (for purchase). June 6: France June 13: South Africa June 20: Australia/New Zealand June 27: Virginia “Butterflies LIVE!” exhibit NOT open since less activity at night.
New!
Walk and Talk:
Hydrangeas
SATURDAY, 8 or 22 or 29 ������9–10:30AM THURSDAY, 20 ��������������������������6–7:30PM Garden Guide & hydrangea enthusiast Rich Waiton leads informative tours. Since offered throughout the prime bloom time, consider registering for several tours. Free/Member; $15/Non-Member. Pre-registration required at lewisginter.org/adult-education.
Fidos After 5* Thursday, 13 �������������������������������5–8PM Flowers After 5 activities & leashed dogs welcomed for garden strolls (this night only). Regular visitor admission; $2 pet admission benefits Richmond SPCA.
Santa GardenFest Dinner Reservations Begin Thursday, 1 Limited availability; first call, first reserved. Details page 7.
Flowers After 5* Thursdays, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 ����������5–9PM AUGUST 1: Italy AUGUST 8: West Coast AUGUST 15: Spain AUGUST 22: East Coast AUGUST 29: International Details in June listing.
Fidos After 5*
New!
Look for staff recommendations marked with a “Ginter Gold” label. No charge to attend. Regular admission for Garden visitation.
october Santa GardenFest Brunch Reservations Begin Tuesday, 1 Limited availability; first call, first reserved. Details above, top right.
Thursday, 8 ���������������������������������5–8PM Details in June listing.
VARIOUS EVENINGS, MAY–AUGUST Terraced Lawn Outdoor, ticketed events featuring variety of music. Rain or shine. Food & beverages ($). No coolers please. Performers & dates posted to lewisginter.org & Facebook once announced by promoter.
Ginter in the Morning
FRIDAY, 20 ��������������������10AM–6PM SATURDAY, 21 �����������������9AM–3PM Parking Lot B Fall is for planting, so regional vendors, the Garden Shop, & Garden volunteers showcase autumnal plants, containers, & accessories along with helpful tips.
Rose Fest* SATURDAY, 5 & SUNDAY, 6 ������NOON–3PM Roses in full bloom, live music, & more.
Garden Daily: 9AM–5PM Thursdays, June–August: 9AM–9PM “Butterflies LIVE!” Daily, 9AM–5PM Garden Shop Monday–Saturday: 10AM–5PM Sunday: 1–5PM Thursdays, June–August: 10AM–7PM NOT July 4
Holly Jolly Christmas on Lakeside Avenue
Tea House Wednesday–Sunday: 11:30AM–2:30PM Reservations recommended for special events & parties of 5 or more: (804) 262-9887, ext. 399. NOTE: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays through summer, and closed for two weeks in July for redecoration (dates to be announced). Updates at lewisginter.org.
NOVEMBER 8 ���������������������������������5–9PM
Lora M. Robins Library Monday–Friday: 10AM–4PM Saturday–Sunday: 1–4PM
Champagne ’n’ Shopping NOVEMBER 21 �������������������������������5–8pM
Splendor Under Glass Gala NOVEMBER 23 Ticketed event.
Dominion GardenFest of Lights NOVEMBER 29, 2013–JANUARY 13, 2014 Ticketed event.
October 1–31 Intriguing displays & Saturday activities examine Nature’s quirky curiosities. Details page 9.
summer hours
Garden Cafe Daily: 10AM–4PM
WEDNESDAY, 2 ������������������������������2–6PM THURSDAY, 3 ����������������������������9AM–1PM Included in regular Garden admission and open to the public. Free Garden admission to Garden Club of Virginia members & their guests. Sponsored by the Boxwood Garden Club of Richmond.
SUNDAY, 27 �����������������������������������1–4PM Children’s Garden Details page 9.
October Oddities*
Location
NOVEMBER 5...................................10AM Details in June listing.
Garden Club of Virginia Rose Show*
Goblins & Gourds*
Groovin’ in the Garden Concerts
Don Williamson
Flowers After 5*
SATURDAY, 29 �������������������������10AM–5PM Host Site: Greater Richmond Convention Center More than 100 of the Richmond region’s nonprofit arts & cultural organizations under one roof for one day, including Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. An explosion of the arts, history, science, & family fun! Cultural Shareholders (that’s YOU!) are guaranteed XpoBucks to spend at the event. Free. Details at richmondcultureworks.org. Presented by Culture Works.
august
LGBG Fall Plant Sale
Don Williamson
june continued
Don Williamson
6
june
Date Options
Santa Dinner Beginning Aug. 1, Dec. 16–19 Auditorium ext. 345 or 224 Santa Brunch Beginning Oct. 1, ext. 329 Dec. 7, 14, 21 Auditorium GardenFest Dinner Beginning Oct. 1, ext. 329 Nov. 23–Dec. 31 Tea House GardenFest Dinner Any time, ext. 345 or 224 Sun.–Tues., Robins Room (15+ guests) Dec. 1–Jan. 13
Ginter in the Morning
THURSDAY, 4 ���������������������������������1–4PM Parade ���������������������������������������������2PM Wear red/white/blue & bring wagons/strollers to decorate for Children’s Garden parade. Also enjoy WaterPlay, music, holiday activities, & “Butterflies LIVE!”
May 24–October 13 Details pages 3–4. Presented by
september
Richmond Area Daylily Society Show* & Sale SATURDAY, 15 Sale ����������������������� 9AM–Till Sold out Exhibit ������������������������������������1–3:30PM Education and Library Complex & Auditorium Exquisite daylilies on display & for purchase. Open to the public. Regular admission for Garden visitation.
Featured Exhibit
july
Don Williamson
Don Williamson
Calendar
New Year’s Eve Family Frolic* DECEMBER 31
WaterPlay Daily (pending weather). Full schedule & weather updates at lewisginter.org and the Garden’s Facebook page.
Botanical Book Club 2nd Friday, Every Other Month: 11AM Details via email: library@lewisginter.org. Adult Education Expand your horticulture horizons this summer with a class, workshop or lecture. Visit lewisginter.org/adult-education or watch for the Winter Catalog that will be mailed to member households and inserted in “Style Weekly” on August 7.
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Children’s Garden
Visit the Garden Cart for updates, events, and activities of the day. *Free for members and included with Garden admission.
Garden Calendar pages 6–7.
Family Explorations & Workshops
Green Adventures Summer Camps Monday–Friday, June–August............. ������������������������������������������������������ 9AM–NOON
Five-day camp programs explore the Garden to learn about the plant kingdom and our connection to it. Daily activities include keepsake crafts, field studies, garden games, and botanical snacks. Entertaining and enriching! June 17–21 June 24–28 July 8–12 July 15–19 July 22–26 July 29–Aug 2
$. Registration required at lewisginter.org/children.
Garden Explorations for Families Tuesdays, Now–June 11 ������������������������������������ 3:30PM Tuesdays, June 18–August ��������������������������� 10:15AM Tuesdays, September–October ���������������������� 3:30PM All ages
$. Camps sell out quickly. Register online at lewisginter.org or contact the Garden Registrar at (804) 262-9887, ext. 322 or 320.
Discover wonders of the Garden through these one-hour guided programs that combine exploration with creative play and hands-on activities. New!
October Oddities*
Summer Survival Series
Refresh your family’s “garden spirit” through displays, activities, and special events that explore the weird, the wacky, and the wonders of nature!
First Saturdays, June–August ���������� 10:00–11:30AM Ages 6–12
Series combines outdoor adventure, teamwork, and nature awareness to teach families basic survival skills for the outdoors.
Themed Activities Saturdays, October ��������������������������������������������� 10AM–2PM
Scout groups and homeschoolers welcome!
Party Time? What better party host than “Mother Nature”? For Birthday Party Package information and date availabilities, see lewisginter.org or call: (804) 262-9887, ext. 322 or 320. $.
Drop-In Programs* Daily
Participate in simple, easy-to-learn gardening tasks with guidance from a Children’s Garden staff member or volunteer.
Displays & Gourd Quest
Good Green Fun
• Kid Quest • Investigation Station • Where’s Stickman? • Woodland Pointe/Gnome Depot • WaterPlay
Wednesdays, Now–June 12 �������������������������������1–3PM Wednesdays, June 19–September 4 ��������������9–11AM Wednesdays, September 11–October 30 ��������1–3PM
Daily, October ������������������������������������������������������ 9AM–Close
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, JUNE–AUGUST ������� 11AM–Noon
Explore nature’s underappreciated oddities and found objects that provoke curiosity and wonder: mushrooms, lichen, moss, gourds, and other unusual fruits – plus an occasional display of “horti-torture” and other Garden whimsy.
Listen to story books, try your hand at gardening, join a walkabout, and enjoy good green fun.
Don Williamson
Goblins And Gourds Event JONAH HOLLAND
STEPHANIE GROSS
See pages 4–5 for related opportunities.
Children pause en route to the Children’s Garden wondering what adventures await! Grants and private donations help fund visits by Head Start children and thousands of others who would otherwise be unable to come to the Garden.
Sunday, October 27 ���������������������������������������������������� 1–4PM
Annual harvest celebration features the “Richmond Indigenous Gourd Orchestra,” pumpkin decorating, and autumnal fun!
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Drop In and Dig!
Garden Art Studio Mondays, Now–October ������������������������������������1–3PM
“Butterflies LIVE!” entertains and educates children, families, and students from May 24 through October 13.
— Loreen Hitch, Parent of 2012 Camper
Free, self-directed activities for families and children of all ages.
Weird Plant Lore: Sip herbal tea and learn about plant concoctions with healing powers. October 12 Bugs: Celebrate garden bugs and their contribution to healthy ecosystems. October 19 Mushrooms: Discover “wildcrafting,” the art of harvesting plants from wild habitats for food, medicine, and fabric dyes. October 26 Tree Oddities: Find out about tree knees, witches broom, galls, and nature’s other tree oddities. October 5
June 1: Shelter Building July 6: Go Geocaching August 3: Pick Your Poison
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Growing Minds | Pre-School–Age 4 (must be potty trained) Wow Your Senses! | Rising Kindergarten Fairies in the Forest | Rising 1st Grade Amazing Adaptations | Rising 2nd & 3rd Grade Herbology 101 | Rising 4th & 5th Grade Adventures in Science | Rising 6th & 7th Grade
“I can’t recommend this camp enough. It’s so hands-on and just the sort of camp experience I really wanted for our son. Very educational experience. Don’t change a thing.”
Dabble in the creative zone! Use provided materials to collaborate, explore, and create artworks reflecting your garden experience.
Flowers After Five Thursdays, June–August Good Green Fun ������������������������������������������������5–6PM WaterPlay ������������������������������������������������������� Till 8PM
Quality family time just got better! NOT July 4.
WaterPlay** Saturdays & Sundays: through September 29 ���� 9AM–4:45PM WEEKDays: through June 14 �������������������1–4:45PM June 17–September 13 ����9AM–4:45PM September 16–29 ������������������1–4:45PM Thursdays during Flowers After 5 (only) ��������� Till 8PM **Pending weather. Visit the Garden’s Facebook page or lewisginter.org for tips & updates.
Volunteerism & Support Lend a Hand, Learn a Lot!
Adults work in the Community Kitchen Garden, help out during a special event or assist visitors during “Butterflies LIVE!” Teens get outdoors and get involved with the Community Service Program where they help staff with basic horticulture tasks like planting, weeding, and watering in the Children’s Garden, Community Kitchen Garden, and other areas as needed. New!
Children ages 11–12 with an accompanying parent volunteer in the Children’s Garden.
New!
Exceptional education students are introduced to our new Vocational Program to learn workforce skills.
New arrivals from The Pottery Market will jazz up your patio and landscape with color and interest.
Find out more and apply at lewisginter.org/Volunteers. New!
Volunteer Benefit
Pot It Up!
ere’s an interesting perk for volunteers: 15 Minutes H in the Garden with a knowledgeable horticulture staff member who will share plant education, gardening tips, and more! Active volunteers will receive emailed updates on time and place.
A carefully planned container garden is more than a collection of plants; it’s an art form that expresses your personality. That’s why the Garden Shop displays a delightful array of distinctive and colorful containers, as well as eco-friendly options. While you’re there, check out the patio fountains, garden ornamentals, and more. Great values and wonderful finds for indoors and out!
Art, a good cause, and the first full day of spring made the fourth annual Cheers to Art! a success. Organized by the Board of Associates, the event featured local art with proceeds benefitting the Children’s Garden. Approximately 300 guests attended and more than $42,000 was raised. Special thanks to HCA Virginia Health Systems, the Presenting Sponsor. 11
Summer Reading and Resources Want to spruce up your garden, but don’t know how to begin? Need to unhook your children from electronics? Eager to learn more about butterflies, pollinators, and other garden visitors? Visit the Lora M. Robins Library, where you’ll discover extensive references, a delightful children’s book collection, helpful staff and volunteers, plus a cozy reading room. Or, conveniently access our online catalog from your home or office: lewisginter.org/library.
Themed Garden Walks Walk and Talk: Dragonflies in the Garden
Walk and Talk: Explore the Garden’s Trees
Wednesday, June 19 ����������������������������������������� 9AM–Noon
Tuesday, June 25 �������������������������������������������� 10–11AM Thursday, July 18* ����������������������������������� 5:30–6:30PM
New!
Explore the lifecycle and behaviors of one of the oldest orders of insects: the complex and magical dragonfly. Led by Garden Guide and Master Naturalist Barbara Wiederkehr.
They outlive us by centuries and tower over us, but we love them. Explore some of our most captivating trees and experience their bark, wood, flowers, roots, and even knees. Be prepared to visit unusual areas of the garden to enjoy seasonal highlights. *For the first time available during “Flowers after 5.” Free/Adult Members; $15/Non-Members. Pre-registration required for sufficient staffing. Register online at lewisginter.org/adult-education or call (804) 262-9887, ext. 322 or 320. Meet at the Admissions Desk in the Robins Visitor Center. See page 5 for butterfly-related tours.
Meet You at the Garden Client entertainment, corporate networking, staff training – whatever your reason for business meetings, the Garden makes your event satisfying and gratifying. Also ideal for civic events and family celebrations! Check out your options at lewisginter.org /facility-rental or call (804) 262-9887, ext. 345.
The moon gate beckons you to enter the Asian Valley, where you’ll discover tranquil, Asian-inspired gardens … plus the Tea House with its sumptuous seasonal menus and scenic views. See page 7 for the Tea House’s new hours.
Don Williamson
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Ms. Susan H. Armstrong The Honorable and Mrs. Gerald L. Baliles Mr. and Mrs. Roger L. Boeve Mrs. George H. Bragdon Judith Haskell Brewer Fund Mrs. Charles L. Brown Mr. and Mrs. J. Stewart Bryan III Dr. Arthur Burke Miss Ethel R. Chrisman Mr. and Mrs. Langdon T. Christian IV Mrs. William T. Clarke Mr. and Mrs. J. Harwood Cochrane Mr. and Mrs. Hugh G. Edmunds Mr. Everett Fahy Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Farrell II Mr. Charles H. Foster, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Peter L. Francisco Mr. and Mrs. William H. Goodwin, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce C. Gottwald, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Floyd D. Gottwald, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Gottwald Mr. Bruce C. Gottwald, Jr. Mr. William H. King, Jr., and Mrs. Grace DenHartog The Nathalie L. Klaus Charitable Trust Mr. and Mrs. Linwood Lacy, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Loupassi Mr. and Mrs. John A. Luke, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. E. Morgan Massey Mrs. Maureen Massey Mr. and Mrs. T. Justin Moore III Mr. and Mrs. Stanley F. Pauley Mr. and Mrs. C. Cotesworth Pinckney Mr. and Mrs. Preston P. Purdum, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John M. R. Reed Mr. and Mrs. Edgar M. Roach, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Robertson III Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert M. Rosenthal Dr. and Mrs. Dennis J. Rudzinski Mr. and Mrs. Dave Shafer Mr. and Mrs. John W. Snow Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Sowers III Mrs. Jane B. Spilman Virginia H. Spratley Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation Mrs. Phyllis Cothran and Dr. Arnold L. Stolberg Ms. Margaret R. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Addison B. Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Richard G. Tilghman Ms. Terry S. Tosh Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Weinstein Ms. Laura West Mr. and Mrs. John H. Wick III Mr. and Mrs. Daniel R. Wilkinson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Williams Ms. Mary Denny Wray
Groups are special at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, and we offer a number of options for group visits of 15 or more adults, including guided tours and group dining. Tours lasting approximately one hour are led by knowledgeable volunteer Garden Guides. Learn more about tour topics and dining options by visiting lewisginter.org/groups, and please let us know at least two weeks ahead by calling (804) 262-9887, ext. 322 or 320.
Community service greatly benefits our nonprofit organization … but how much more it benefits you, the volunteer!
Pottery Market
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has gained regional to global recognition partly due to the generosity of these community supporters:
Group Guided Tours
Volunteer Opportunities
Don Williamson
Don Williamson
2012–13 Rosarian Society Members
Garden Amenities
Non-Profit Organization U S Postage
PAID
Permit 520 Richmond, VA
Don Williamson
1800 lakeside avenue Richmond VA, 23228-4700 (804) 262-9887 lewisginter.org
“Butterflies are self propelled flowers.” —R.H. Heinlein
Stephanie Gross
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Summer Extended Hours: Thursdays ONLY
Flowers After 5 THURSDAYS, JUNE–AUGUST,* 5–9PM Whether you designate Thursdays as date night, family night, or a night “out” (literally!) with friends, the Garden is your destination for summer evenings extraordinaire. There’s something for everyone: sunset garden strolls, live music, themed wine-tastings, dining al fresco, and even WaterPlay for the youngsters! NOT July 4. Exact times, weekly themes, and details pages 6–7. “Butterflies LIVE!” exhibit NOT open since less activity at night.
2013