Vibrante - The Member Magazine of the San Antonio Botanical Garden (May - August 2023)

GIANTS OF THE PLANT KINGDOM MAKE THEIR TEXAS DEBUT

HISTORY OF MOSAICULTURE

SUMMERTIME AT THE GARDEN

May – August 2023

CEO’S MESSAGE

AS WE BASK IN THE WARMTH of the coming summer, I write to you brimming with excitement and joy. It is my sincere pleasure to welcome the extraordinary exhibition Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time to San Antonio, on display now through October.

This exhibition holds a special place in my heart, as it represents a journey that began years ago. Prior to joining the Garden as CEO, I had the privilege of overseeing the very first U.S. debut of these giant living sculptures at the Atlanta Botanical Garden in 2013. My heart is filled with pride as I remember the wonder and awe Imaginary Worlds inspired in visitors in that first year. Now, after four years of hard work and meticulous planning and preparation, it truly is a dream come true to bring the giants of the plant kingdom to our beloved city.

Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time celebrates the union of art and horticulture masterfully weaving together elements of fantasy, nature, and creativity, forming a tapestry of whimsy and beauty. At its core lies the captivating art form of mosaiculture, where living plants are sculpted with detailed care to create magnificent works of art. Sculptures crafted by Mosaïcultures® Internationales de Montréal have mesmerized audiences around the world, from Shanghai to Dubai, enchanting them with harmonious blend of nature's splendor and human imagination. This exhibition is not solely a breathtaking spectacle; it is also a testament to the power of community. It is through the unwavering support of members like yourself that we are able to bring this remarkable experience to the Alamo City. Your belief in our mission of enriching lives through plants and nature has been instrumental in making this dream a reality. Together, we are cultivating a haven where art and flora intertwine, allowing the magic of nature to ignite the imaginations of us all.

The Garden serves as a sanctuary of growth and togetherness, and its deeprooted sense of community makes these experiences truly meaningful. I cordially invite you to share in the joy and delight of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time and create cherished memories with your loved ones. As you explore the ever-evolving landscapes of the Garden this summer, may you find solace and inspiration in the art of nature.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your invaluable presence within our community and for joining us on this incredible journey. Let's revel in the magic of this exhibition together, weaving stories of wonder and fostering a deeper appreciation for the marvels of nature.

THE MEMBER MAGAZINE OF THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

Lisa Corbett, Director of Marketing | Gabrielle Everett, Membership Manager | Ashley Colwell, Designer

Chief Executive Officer

Sabina Carr

MAY 6 - OCT 29, 2023

MAKING ITS TEXAS DEBUT

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is honored to host Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time for its Texas debut. This unique, jaw dropping exhibition brings fantastical, storybook characters to life with giant sculptures comprised of thousands of plants.

THE GIANTS OF THE PLANT KINGDOM are taking over San Antonio! Previously only seen in Atlanta, Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time will enchant guests at the San Antonio Botanical Garden with larger-that-life, whimsical sculptures created by Mosaïcultures® Internationales de Montréal. This is only the second time this worldclass exhibition will be seen in the United States. Guests can expect 8 sculptures throughout the Garden made from steel forms covered in soil-and-sphagnum moss and planted with thousands of methodically groomed plants. Across the Garden's 38-acres, unearth a massive dragon towering over 20 feet in the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, a mermaid lounging at the lake, and a parading peacock in the Formal Garden.

1. Pegasus sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

2. Peacock sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

3. Rip Van Winkle sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

PRESENTED BY

SUPPORT BY

Charitable Foundation of 1992

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT BY

Dickson-Allen Foundation

Anonymous

Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts

Gretchen Swanson Family Foundation

William Knox Holt Foundation

Marcia and Otto Koehler Foundation

Muriel F. Seibert Foundation Inc.

sabot.org

Elizabeth Huth Coates

The Host Committee Chaired by Catherine Cooke Atherton and Geary Atherton

4. Mermaid sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

5. Storybooks sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

6. Dragon sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2013).

IMAGINARY WORLDS ONCE UPON A TIME

HISTORY OF MOSAICULTURE

By Katie Erickson, Director of Programs

The artwork in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time was originally created by Mosaïcultures® Internationales de Montréal, a nonprofit organization considered to be the international leader of mosaiculture. Since its creation, it has presented five international competitions, seven exhibitions, and produced more than 100 works in over 20 countries. However, the origins of mosaiculture can be traced back to 19th century European landscape techniques.

OVER CENTURIES AND ACROSS THE GLOBE horticultural practices have focused on pruning and training plants to create ideal forms. The origin of European topiary dates from ancient Roman times, and throughout its history in Europe, topiary has taken geometric, fanciful, or architectural forms. Similar in technique – though not in name – is the meticulous horticultural practice of bonsai, the Japanese art that uses clipping and shaping techniques to create lifelike mature trees on a miniature scale.

The term ‘mosaiculture’ was adopted in France and then England in the 1870’s. Over time, various forms of mosaiculture were employed from designs using only foliage plants to those that incorporated minimal use of flowers for certain colors, and designs that used flowers only. Mosaïcultures® Internationales de Montréal debuted the types of mosaiculture sculptures as seen in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time at Mosaïcultures Internationales (MIM2000) in Montreal in the summer of 2000.

While topiary and mosaiculture are both horticultural practices that result in the creation of living sculptures, there are key differences between the two. Topiary typically involves single, perennial trees or shrubs that are trained to create clearly defined shapes. In Texas, plants commonly used for topiary are Yuapon Holly and Glossy Abelia. Like topiary, mosaiculture – as envisioned by Mosaïcultures® Internationales de Montréal – produces clearly and beautifully defined shapes. However, unlike topiary, mosaicultures are made up of thousands of plants. The base for the forms of mosaiculture sculptures are metal frameworks, which are covered in a planting cloth and mesh, filled with soil and moss, and plugged with plants to create a beautifully complex patchwork of colors, textures, and shapes that bring the sculptures to life. Both horticultural practices rely on careful and frequent pruning to maintain the shape; mosaiculture depends on consistent watering due to the sheer amount of living plants as well as the atypical method of planting.

1. La Mosaïculture by Séraphin Joseph Mottet, published in 1891. Mottet was a French horticulturalist, noted for being an expert on irises. The book describes the history of mosaiculture along with planting recommendations, arrangement, and coloring.

2. Postcard of The Carpet Gardens on Eastbourne promenade Posted 9th September 1905 displaying 'carpet-bedding.'

3. Close up of Peacock sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon Botanical Garden (2013).

CREATE MAGIC OF YOUR OWN!

MOSAICULTURE AT HOME

Get inspired! Here are some basic steps for creating a mosaiculture sculpture at home:

1. CREATE A SHAPE with firm but pliable wire and wire mesh.

2. FILL THE FORM with a soil mixture, packing it firmly.

3. WRAP THE FORM with a landscape fabric.

4. CUT A SMALL HOLE in the landscape fabric, approximately the size of the plant root ball.

5. GENTLY PLUG IN PLANTS to create a design for the surface of the sculpture— sedums, grasses, ground covers, and other native plants are suggested. Sphagnum moss can be used for filler and to retain moisture.

6. CHECK DAILY to water and prune as needed.

7. ENJOY! promenade with succulents.

Upon a Time at Atlanta

TAKE A GARDEN CLASS

Register for a class at the Garden today to learn other unique ways to plant:

Botanical Headpieces

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24 | 6 – 8 P.M.

Create a botanical headpiece inspired by the mermaid in Imaginary Worlds using seasonal plant material. Gardener Chelsea Crisler will guide registrants on tips to arrange, secure, and maintain a live flower headpiece. The night ends with a guided tour of Imaginary Worlds

Beginners Bonsai Workshop

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 | 10 A.M. - 12:30

P.M. & 2 – 4 P.M.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 | 9 A.M. – 11:30 P.M.

Start your own bonsai journey! Learn about soil, equipment, possible species, and techniques used to nurture bonsais at home. All materials will be provided.

Indoor Hanging Garden

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Plants can be planted in extraordinary ways as seen in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time. Spend the first day of summer creating an indoor hanging planting while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Registrants will select from a variety of lush plants and decorative mosses. Ages 21+.

Planted Mosaic Design

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 | 6 – 7:30 P.M. Create a planted mosaic design using succulents and stones inspired by the imaginative plantings of Mosaiculture. Discover how to create a healthy soil blend and care tips for outdoor planters.

IMAGINARY WORLDS ONCE UPON A TIME

A n Inside Look: BR INGING IMAGINARY

WORLDS TO LIFE

By Andrew Labay, Director of Horticulture

PLANTS ARE REMARKABLE in their ability to adapt to different growing conditions, and Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time showcases this in spectacular ways. The art and science of horticulture will be on full display this summer as the Garden's dedicated team of gardeners care for the monumental sculptures located throughout the lush landscape.

The sculptures are constructed around a steel frame covered by layers of steel mesh, sphagnum moss, and potting media. Holding everything in place, black cloth is wrapped around the layers of media, and the plants are then "plugged" into the fabric by punching a hole and inserting their root ball. The outer layer consists of thousands of small plants: a ten-foot square area on a typical sculpture could consist of as

many as 1,500 plants.

The horticulture team at the San Antonio Botanical Garden has worked closely with the Atlanta Botanical Garden to select plants that will create the "skin" of these beautiful sculptures. Plants were selected based on their tolerance for the hot, humid Texas summer and the textures and colors of their leaves. On display, guests will see many types of alternanthera, sedum, and succulents that can tolerate the full Texas sun. Hair is carefully constructed from grasses such as Mexican feather grass and sedges. In the shade, plants such as hypoestes and pilea add rich color to the magnificent creatures.

The key to maintaining a beautiful, living sculpture is plant care. Daily, sculptures will be irrigated primarily

1. Atlanta Botanical Garden horticulturist staples planting cloth to steel form of sculpture (2023).

2. Steel form filled with planting material and cover in planting cloth (2023).

3. Atlanta Botanical Garden horticulturist planting wings on Pegasus sculpture (2023).

BEFORE & AFTER

by hand watering. The potting media is shallow, and each plant type requires different moisture levels. Light fertilizers will be applied regularly and help promote good plant growth. Every week, each sculpture will be pruned with an eye for design. Gardeners will use sheep shears to sculpt the shapes of each creature, molding the plants to look like, for example, skin or faces.

Caring for the sculptures requires great attention to detail and artistry . It takes a dedicated team of the Garden's horticulture staff and volunteers to bring the monumental sculptures to life and transport our Garden guests into fantastic childhood stories. Throughout the summer, stop by and say hello to any of the many gardeners carefully crafting the story of Imaginary Worlds

Once the forms have been plugged with plants, the sculptures begin to grow and change! From day-to-day, as the plants grow, the horticulture team keeps to a strict beauty regimen of trimming, watering, and pruning. Daily care keeps these plant giants looking their best!

(2023).

4. Close up of planted Rip Van Winkle sculpture in Atlanta Botanical Garden greenhouse (2023).

1. Head of mermaid sculpture, bound in planting cloth and stuffed with moss and planting material, unplanted (2023).

2. Mermaid sculpture in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time (2018).

IMAGINARY WORLDS ONCE UPON A TIME

RIP VAN WINKLE

A PARADING PEACOCK

SETTING THE STAGE FOR

Imaginary Worlds

By Andrew Labay, Director of Horticulture

THE CREATIVITY OF THE HORTICULTURE TEAM is on full display each year through the landscape designs surrounding our annual exhibits. With Imaginary Worlds, the design goal is to seamlessly blend these plant giants into the existing Garden. The plantings around each fairytale giant is pivotal for making the Dragon, Pegasus, and others at home at the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

Find Rip Van Winkle slumbering against the large red oak near the Overlook. He will be resting in a bed of ferns and soft grass overlooking the city of San Antonio.

RIVER FERN (Thelypteris kunthii)

ORNAMENTAL PEPPER 'PURPLE FLASH' (Capsicum annuum)

ZINNIA 'GREEN ENVY' (Zinnia elegans)

GLOBE AMARANTH (Gomphrena globosa)

THE DRAGON'S LAIR

The monumental Dragon, towering over 25 feet tall, makes its home in the Conservatory courtyard. Over the Dragon's feet, celosias, coleus, and artemisia 'Powis

'DRAGON'S BREATH' PLUMED CELOSIA (Celosia argentea var. plumotsa)

GOLDEN BARREL CACTUS (Echinocactus grusonii)

WORMWOOD (Artemisia 'Powis Castle')

COLEUS 'DRAGON HEART' (Solenostemon scutellarioides)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2023 6:30 – 10:30 P.M.

IN APPRECIATION

$200,000+

City of San Antonio

John R. and Greli N. Less Charitable Trust

Mays Family Foundation

$50,000-$99,999

Daniel J. Sullivan Family Charitable Foundation

Elizabeth and Floyd McGown Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation

The TND Family Foundation

$25,000-$49,999

Anonymous Dickson-Allen Foundation

Gretchen Swanson Family Foundation

Navistar, Inc.

Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation

Scott Petty Family Foundation

Paula and Herb Stumberg

Toyota

$10,000-$24,999

Ann and Forrest Word Family Foundation

Ann Ash

C.B. and Anita Branch Trust

Frost Bank

Jana and Jeff Galt

Nancy Moorman

Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Anne and Jeff Rochelle

$5,000-$9,999

The Alfred S. Gage Foundation

Allison and Alan Pyle Family Foundation

Elise and Craig Boyan

Joe Byrd

Creative Fundraising Advisors

Faye L. and William L. Cowden

Charitable Foundation

Lou Celia and Don Frost

Marty and Steve Hixon

Hixon Properties Incorporated

Jack and Valerie Guenther Foundation

Brian T. Kelleher

Estee and Luke Kellogg

Karen and Gary Kittrell

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Martha Mares Lebo Children's Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Barbara and Jeffrey Moss

The Muriel F. Siebert Foundation Inc.

Susanna Morrow and Ross Olsaver

Petty Hefte Family Foundation

The Rachel and Ben Vaughan Foundation

Heather and Randy Rodgers

Claire and George Vaughan |

The Vaughan Foundation

$1,000-$4,999

Molly and Michael Amini

The Antrim Family

Carlos and Martha Bazan

Tisha and B. Kyle Beck

Nick Binkley

Jennifer and Kevin Box

Emily and Patrick Brooks

Katherine and Walter Brown

Lauren and John Browning

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Jean Cheever

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Kathleen Connell

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Donations made December 1st, 2022 - March 31, 2023

Janet and Robert Holliday

Juana E. Hollin-Avery

Laura Cheng and Dean Hull

John and Sue Jockusch Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

John S. Troy, Landscape Architect Inc.

Susan and John Kerr

Leigh and Greg King

Lisa and Edward Kopplow

Bonnie and John Korbell

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The Ruth and Edward Austin Foundation

Jenny and Rick Schimpff

Jocelyn Selig

Meagan and Adam Shadfan

Coral Diaz and Allen Sikes

Susan and Lon Smith

Whitney and James Smith

The Smothers Foundation

Debi Sovereign

St. Luke's Episcopal Church

Megan and Tres Steves

Kirk Swanson

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The Tim and Karen Hixon Foundation

Susan and Larry Todd

Matthew Traxinger

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Trudy and Ed Moore Charitable Fund

Katherine and Kristopher Trumble

Vaulkshire LLC

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Cenizo Legacy Circle

Fern Lee Finck

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Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Kathleen Kingsley Robertson

Gary Cox and Michael Simon

Patricia A. Trenton

THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN is a magical place that draws us closer to nature and ignites our imaginations. Join us in celebration of the Garden's story at the 16th Annual Splendor in the Garden Gala.

Enjoy an enchanting evening among the giant living sculptures of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time while supporting the Garden's mission of enriching lives through plants and nature.

Your support of Splendor in the Garden provides funding for the Garden's robust and innovative programming for visitors of all ages.

Members as of March 31, 2023

HIBISCUS CIRCLE

$5,000

Ann Griffith Ash

Judy H. Branch

Carla and John Brozovich

Laura and Burnell Gates

Valerie and Jack Guenther

Marty and Steve Hixon

Margaret and Bill Klesse

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Carol and John McGuire

Cynthia and Forrest Miller

Elizabeth and Barry Roberts

Kay and Dennis Stein

Joan and W. Reed Williams

ESPERANZA CIRCLE

$2,500

Michael J. Adams

Susan and Ernie Altgelt

Tisha and Kyle Beck

Emily and Patrick Brooks

Paula and Jim Callaway

Jana and Jeff Galt

Cally and Will Kothmann

Barbara C. Kyse

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Londi Paige

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Meagan and Adam Shadfan

Jordan Vexler and Albert Shannon

Sandra and Scott Teeter

Weston Miller and Ryan Theuninck

Mary West and Richard Traylor

Bette and Jack Vexler

Robin and Jason Warman

Linda and Ed Whitacre

Stephanie and Chris Wilde

Susan Wilkins-Geery

Patrick Williamson

EVENT CHAIRS

Megan and Tres Steves

FOR SPONSORSHIP AND UNDERWRITING

OPPORTUNITIES, VISIT SABOT.ORG/SPLENDOR OR CONTACT BRIANNA SIMMONS AT BSIMMONS@ SABOT.ORG OR 210.536.1435.

THE PERENNIALS GIVING CIRCLES

LANTANA CIRCLE

$1,000

Lyn and Omar Akhil

Claire and John Alexander

Molly and Michael Amini

Mary Arno

Kennedy Hatfield-Asel and Aaron Asel

Margie and Morton Baird

Lisa and Tim Blonkvist

Katie and Tyson Becker

Emily Knapp and James Book

Elise and Craig Boyan

Laurie and Paul Bracher

Karen and Brian Brady

Katherine and Walter Brown

Lauren and John Browning

Sabina Carr

Rea Fernandez and Justin Chung

Barbara Clark

Sarah and Jon Cochran

Penelope Speier and Sonny Collins

Anita and John Comander

Charlotte A. Creamer

Mary Anne and Tony Crosby

Wiede and Jon Cutshall

Jaleh Daie

Karen Dawson

Christine Ten Eyck and Gary Deaver

Caraline and Jay Dewald

Dorothy and Matt DiOrio

Elizabeth Lorenz and Rick Ramos Dominguez

Joane and James Drought

Ellie and Chuck Du Val

Joel K. Erben

Fern Lee Finck

Mary and Lewis Fisher

Mariana Munante and Bill Fisher

Burkley and Jonny Fitzsimons

Mercedes and Philip Fletcher

Kay Fitch and Katie Free

Cina Forgason

Lou Celia and Don Frost

Anne and Marco Gamboa

Magdalena and Raúl Gaona

Jill and Carlos Garcia

Toni and Richard Goldsmith

Karen and Jim Greenwood

Adrianna and Chris Grossman

Helen Cottingham and Emory Hamilton

Melinda McFarland and Reid Hartson

Allison and Jaime Hayne

Mary and Bill Henrich

Maggie and Andrew Herdeg

Karen J. Hixon

Terry Hookstra

Janet and Rob Holliday

Lily and Jeffrey Johnson

Estee and Luke Kellogg

Susan and John Kerr

Blakely and Coleman Kneisley

Leigh and Greg King

Bonnie and John Korbell

Susan and William Lane

Kitty and Rich Lange

Carrie Gray and Christopher Lefelhocz

Kelsey Waters and Bryan Litchford

Elizabeth and Madison Marceau

Susan Martin

Diana I. Martinez

Marie and Ryan Mays

Celeste and William McEntire

Jane and Joe McFarlane

Amy and Ogden McGowan

Cora and Wally McGowan

Nicola and Michael McLaughlin

Vicki McLaughlin

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Trudy and Ed Moore

Katarzyna and Michael Morchat

Barbara and Jeff Moss

Sydney and Gregg Muenster

Leslie Negley

Ann and Chico Newman

Elaine Oliver

Susanna Moorow and Ross Olsaver

Jana Orsinger and Bill Orr

Elena and Luis Oseguera

Nancy Ruth Otto

Suzanne and Rusty Palmer

Margaret and Ryan Pape

Anne and Chuck Parrish

Carol and Kirk Patterson

Susan Mooberry and Gregory Patterson

McLean and Marco Pena

Michael Perkins

Andrea and Karl Pichler

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Julianne and Michael Posey

Mary Quandt

Rachel and Rick Reyna

Amy Rhodes

Corinna and J.B. Richter

Anne and Jeff Rochelle

Heather and Randy Rodgers

Jan Jarboe Russell and Lewis Russell

William Scanlan, Jr.

Jenny and Rick Schimpff

Denise and Ken Schlaudt

Lyn and Peter C. Selig

Ann and Rick Shaw

Debi Sovereign

Sarah and Sam Bell Steves II

James Letchworth and Kirk Swanson

Jennifer and Lloyd Tannenbaum

Donald Test

Erica Blasé and Alisa Travis

Kimberly and Matthew Traxinger

Katherine and Kris Trumble

Lisa Uhl

Elky and Marc Van Es

Claire and George Vaughan

Matthew Ballard and Jacob Vasquez

Ming and Hennerk Von Bargen

Suzanne and Dick Wade

Franze and Chuck Wall

Ann B. Watson

Roberta Churchin and Bob Webster

Shari Mao and Erik Weitzel

Julie and Warren Wilkinson

Tommy Wirth

Ann and Forrest Word

Julie and Peter Zacher

For more information, about Perennials, visit: SABOT.ORG/ SUPPORT/GIVING-CIRCLES

THIS SEPTEMBER The Garden Celebrates You

JOIN THE GARDEN for a month of festivities celebrating the Garden's favorite people. Enjoy special member-only events for the entire month of September!

ENJOY SPECIAL MEMBER-ONLY PERKS FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER: enjoy a free bag of turtle food every Tuesday! One (1) bag of food per

Bring a friend for free every Wednesday! One (1) Plant Pal Pass per

Select Greenhouse and Conservatory tours! Check our calendar at sabot.

Five+ year members

Members enjoy $5 admission to September's LUSH: Knights in the

MEMBER APPRECIATION MONTH

1. Family taking a selfie in the wildflower meadow at the spring Member Mixer (2023).

2. Member at Boozy Bouquets: Green, Green, Greenery class (2023).

3. Family playing in the Family Adventure Garden at the spring Member Mixer (2023).

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

ALL MEMBER LEVELS ENJOY:

• Free admission for one year during operating hours

• Daily members-only hour (1 hour prior to operation hours)

• Members-only event and exhibition previews

• Member Appreciation Month festivities

• Complimentary admission to select events

• Discounts on classes, camps, birthday parties, and 10% off in the Garden Gift Shop

• One complimentary Plant Pal Pass in your birthday month

• Access to Vibrante member magazine and the Member Library

• Reciprocal admission to 345+ gardens, arboreta, and conservatories in North America and the Cayman Islands

QUESTIONS?

CONTACT THE MEMBERSHIP TEAM AT 210.536.1400 OR MEMBERSHIP@SABOT.ORG

NEW! Access Your Online Member Account

YOU ASKED WE LISTENED! The Garden has launched a new ticketing system and you can now view your membership details online.

You MUST create a new account prior to purchasing tickets for Garden events and classes to redeem your member discount.

When creating an account, please use the email address you used when you signed up for your membership.

EXCLUSIVE Member Only E VENTS

BOOZY BOUQUETS: BEE'S KNEES

SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 | 2 - 3:30 P.M.

Enjoy a themed cocktail while learning to create unique flower arrangements with the help and guidance of Indigo Bloom's creator and founder, Courtney Warden. Ages 21+ only. FEE: $70 INDIVIDUAL TICKET; $125 COUPLE TICKET

Individual Ticket(s) include: One floral arrangement & two drink tickets

Couple Ticket(s) include: One floral arrangement per couple & two drink tickets per person

4. Members posing with bouquets at Boozy Bouquets class (2023).

SUMMER NIGHTS IN THE GARDEN

WEDNESDAYS | JUNE - AUGUST | 5 – 9 P.M.

Discover the enchantment of Summer Nights in the Garden every Wednesday night from June through August. Enjoy extended hours, savor delicious food and beverages, explore a vibrant vendor market, and enjoy captivating live entertainment, all amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the garden during the summer season.

• Extended Garden hours included with regular daily admission

• Food and beverages for purchase from hot, local food trucks

• Limited special discounts in the Garden Gift Shop

• An exciting market of local vendors

GENERAL GARDEN ADMISSION

Children (3-13) $13 Children (0-3) FREE Members FREE

LUSH:

TWILIGHT IN THE GARDEN

MARCH – OCTOBER | 7 – 10 P.M.

Enjoy extended hours, live music, entertainment, and beautiful boom displays as the sun sets. Guests 21+ receive a complimentary cocktail. Additional food and beverages available

JUNE 15

Margarita Madness

JULY 20

Dueling Pianos

AUGUST 17

Sangria and Sunsets

SEPTEMBER 21

Knight at the Garden*

OCTOBER 19

Day of the Dead Celebration

*Special member pricing

Please check SABOT.ORG for the cost of special event admission.

EDUCATIONAL EVE NTS

The Celebrate series is one of the Garden's family-friendly annual events that offers guests a chance to explore a botanical theme at activity stations with Garden educators. Join in each month for a new theme.

Celebrate Soil & Mud!

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

9 A.M. – 1 P.M.

Inspired by International Mud Day, explore the Garden while learning about what is so special about soil and mud through hands-on activities!

Celebrate Water!

SATURDAY, JULY 8

9 A.M. – 1 P.M.

Cool off at the Garden with a celebration of water! Splash in No Name Creek, enjoy water play, and explore all things water!

Celebrate Fantastic Flora!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

9 A.M. – 1 P.M.

Enjoy nature-based stories, fantasy, and adventure of the giant botanical sculptures of the Imaginary Worlds exhibition on display at the Garden! Bring the whole family to explore and enjoy hands-on activities.

1. Guests lounging on Greehey Lawn at FizzFest (2022)..

2. Guests posing at Brews & Blooms (2017).

Summer Camps

Use your imagination during Summer Camp at the San Antonio Botanical Garden! Campers will explore connections to plants through activities, walks, games, recipes, and experiments. Campers can sign up for morning, afternoon, or both sessions!

FEE: $200 PER CAMP SESSION | $180 MEMBERS

JUNE 12 - 16

Junior Naturalist Camp

8:30 A.M. – 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Classic Theatre Camp: Greek Mythology - Alpha

12:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Junior Cooking Camp SOLD OUT

12:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. | AGES 8-12

JUNE 19 - 23

Science in Nature Camp

8:30 A.M. – 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Once Upon an Art Camp SOLD OUT (Ages 5-8)

12:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. | AGES 5-11

JUNE 26 - 30

Fantasy Adventure Camp

8:30 A.M. – 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Classic Theatre Camp: Greek Mythology - Omega 12:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. | AGES 5-11

4 P.M. | AGES 13-17 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Classic Theatre Camp: Mexican Folklore 4 P.M. | AGES 5-11

4 P.M. | AGES 8-12 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11 SOLD OUT (Ages 5-8)

4 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Fantasy Adventure Camp 12 P.M. | AGES 5-11

Classic Theatre Camp: European Fairy tales 4 P.M. | AGES 5-1 1

Junior Cooking Camp SOLD OUT

4 P.M. | AGES 8-12

RECURRING PROGRAMS

Behind the Scenes of Imaginary Worlds $ SATURDAY, MAY 27 | SATURDAY, JUNE 10 SATURDAY, JULY 22 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 10

10 – 11:30 A.M.

Join the Horticulture team of the San Antonio Botanical Garden for an insider's view of how the large-scale living sculptures of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time are built and maintained! Participants will visit the Garden's greenhouses to learn about growing the plants used for upkeep of the living sculptures.

Theatrical Walking Tour: Fairytales with a Twist $

SELECT WEDNESDAYS | MAY 24 | JUNE 7 & 21 |

JULY 5 & 19 | AUGUST 9 & 23

6:30 – 7:30 P.M. & 8 – 9 P.M.

Embark upon a theatrical walking tour with actors from the Classic Theatre of San Antonio as they bring to life the sculptures of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time. The experience will include a stop at Jardín, the Garden restaurant, where participants will grab their signature drink and depart on an adventure in the Garden exploring the darker side of fairytales and lore. Promenade Theatre Performance provided by The Classic Theatre of San Antonio.

Sustainability and Design Guided Tour $

SELECT FRIDAYS | JUNE 2 | JULY 7

AUGUST 4 | 9 – 10:30 A.M.

Learn how the Garden uses infrastructure, architecture, and plants to conserve resources and the importance of building sustainable communities on this guided walk examining diverse features.

Texas WaterSaver

Gardening Guided Tour $

SELECT THURSDAYS | JUNE 15 | JULY 20 |

AUGUST 17 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

Be inspired and learn about the best seasonal plants and design tips for creating a beautiful, drought-tolerant landscape

Texas Bird Watching Guided Tour $

SELECT SATURDAYS | JUNE 17 | JULY 15 | AUGUST 19 | 9:15 – 11 A.M.

Learn about birds at the Garden, their characteristics, requirements such as food, nesting, and protection, and the native plants that attract them.

Little Sprouts Hike

TUESDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER | 10 – 10:30 A.M.

Enjoy a nature-based lesson designed to inspire a love and appreciation of the natural world each week. All hikes begin at the Garden Gift Shop. Some trails are unpaved, so all-terrain strollers are recommended. Recommended for ages five and under.

Nature Exploration in the Family Adventure Garden

WEDNESDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER | 10 – 10:30 A.M.

Enjoy a nature-play activity designed to inspire a love of nature while engaging in sensory experiences outdoors each week. Explorations begin at the lawn near Prickly Pear Pavilion in the Family Adventure Garden. Recommended for ages five and under.

PROGRAMS

Storytime in the Garden

THURSDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER

10 – 10:30 A.M.

Enjoy nature-themed books designed to stimulate young minds and foster an appreciation for the great outdoors. Families are welcome to bring a blanket for sitting. Recommended for ages five and under.

Family Night Hike $

SELECT FRIDAYS | JUNE 2 & 7 | AUGUST 4 |

7:30 – 9:30 P.M.

Bring a flashlight and uncover the Garden's creatures and plants at night on this guided Family Night Hike! Participants have the chance to identify bat species with a bat detector.

Family Morning Hike $

SELECT SATURDAYS | JUNE 10 | JULY 8 |

AUGUST 12 | 8:30 – 10:30 A.M..

Discover the Garden's creatures and plants in the morning sunshine! Explore the Garden with a trained guide on this Family Morning Hike. Participants have a chance to observe bird species with binoculars.

Meditation in the Garden $

SELECT SATURDAYS

The Still State Meditation & Mindfulness provides a bi-weekly meditation classes for the public hosted at the Garden.

School Field Trips

The Garden offers a variety of exciting learning adventures for students of all ages. All programs are TEKS-based, active, and age-appropriate, so educators can feel confident in choosing an experience to enrich class curriculum. Funding is available. Field trip requests can be made at SABOT.ORG.

MAY

Botanical Headpieces $

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24 | 6 – 8 P.M.

Create a botanical headpiece inspired by the mermaid in Imaginary Worlds using seasonal plant material. Gardener Chelsea Crisler will guide registrants on tips to arrange, secure, and maintain a live flower headpiece. The night ends with a guided tour of Imaginary Worlds.

Wizarding World Speakeasy: Giggle

Water $

THURSDAY, MAY 25 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. In this wizarding world-inspired drink class participants will learn to make "Giggle Water" otherwise known as a French 75. Participants will harvest ingredients from the Culinary Garden and craft a take-home botanical infusion. Ages 21+.

Family Cooking: Fantastic Beasts' Kowalski Bakery $

SATURDAY, MAY 27 | 2 – 3:30 P.M. Learn to bake and enjoy a delicious treat inspired by "Kowalski Quality Baked Goods" from Fantastic Beasts

Pesto Don't Preach $

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Tour and harvest ingredients from the Culinary Garden to make a fresh summer pesto. Unlock the secrets of fresh flavorful ingredients!

Orchids and the Botany of Freedom Lecture & Book

Signing by Erica Hannickel $

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

| 6:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Join Erica Hannickel for a lecture on her book Orchid Muse: A History of Obsession in Fifteen Flowers, a chronicle of littleknown stories of orchids involving empresses, artists, enslaved people, and naturalists from around the world.

JUNE

Bonsai Weekend $

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 | 10 A.M. - 7 P.M.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 | 9 A.M. - 4 P.M. Discover the complex and beautiful Japanese art of bonsai at the San Antonio Botanical Garden's annual Bonsai Weekend in partnership with the San Antonio Bonsai Society. Enjoy demonstrations of the art

Beginners Bonsai Workshop $

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 | 10 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. & 2 – 4 P.M.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 | 9 A.M. – 11:30 P.M. Start your own bonsai journey! Learn about soil, equipment, possible species, and techniques used to nurture bonsais at home. All materials will be provided.

Secret Garden: Vanilla Lavender Extract $

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 | 10 – 11 P.M.

Craft vanilla extract from scratch and infuse it with lavender. Enjoy a baking demonstration and delicious samples!

Family Cooking: Once Upon a Recipe $

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 | 12:30 – 2 P.M. Enjoy a cooking class inspired by favorite Grimm Fairy Tales: Snow White, Rumpelstiltskin, Red Riding Hood, and Hansel and Gretel.

Date Night: Gardens and Dragons

RPG $

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 | 7 – 8:30 P.M.

Some like Dungeons and Dragons, others like Pathfinder, but no matter what, role playing games (RPG's) are FUN for ALL! A guest Dungeon Master will take guests on a journey of fantasy, with real potions to drink and foods to enjoy. Ages 21+.

Practical Magic: Garden Herb Cocktail Infusions $

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Forage the Culinary Garden for herbs and botanicals to infuse into sugar syrups to elevate cocktails. Ages 21+.

Secret Garden: Apricot Peach Pies $

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 | 12:30 – 2 P.M. Take fresh peaches and apricots and turn them into a delicious pie. Learn from our guest instructor, baker Rose Benson, known for her fool-proof short crust recipe and amazing fruit pies.

Watermelon Fruit Bowls $

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 | 3 – 4 P.M.

Time for fun in the sun with watermelon fruit bowls! Learn to carve a watermelon into a beautiful fruit bowl, with fresh herbs from the garden in this step-by-step class.

Indoor Hanging Garden $

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 | 6 – 7:30 P.M. Plants can be planted in extraordinary ways as seen in Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time. Spend the first day of summer creating an indoor hanging planting while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Registrants will select from a variety of lush plants and decorative mosses. Ages 21+.

JULY

Hogwarts Herbology: Infused Salts $

SATURDAY, JULY 1 | 12:30 – 1:30 P.M. Attend your favorite Harry Potter class Herbology, and learn to make infused herb salts for cooking.

Curse of the Black Pearl: Rum of the Caribbean $

SATURDAY, JULY 1 | 3 – 4 P.M.

Discover your inner pirate and learn all about summer cocktails made with rum form Tiki style drinks to the classics!

A Pirate's Life for Me: Caribbean Grilling $

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Grilling fruits and vegetables from the summer is a delicious and fresh add to any meal! From asparagus to peaches, learn the ins and outs of grilling produce.

Date Night: Gardens and Dragons

RPG $

FRIDAY, JULY 7 | 7 – 8:30 P.M.

Some like Dungeons and Dragons, others like Pathfinder, but no matter what, role playing games (RPG's) are FUN for ALL! A guest Dungeon Master will take guests on a journey of fantasy, with real potions to drink and foods to enjoy. Ages 21+.

Family Cooking: James and the Giant Peach Pie $

THURSDAY, JULY 13 | 6:30 – 8 P.M.

Enjoy a family night of adventure as they make peach hand pies from scratch and enjoy peach pie and ice cream on a warm summer night.

Family Gardening Workshop: Flower Fairy Garden $

SATURDAY, JULY 15 | 11 A.M. – 12:30

P.M.

Imagine new worlds in this hands-on family workshop. Participants will design, plant, and decorate a fairy garden to take home for fairy friends.

Creative Cocktail: Splash! Mermaid Cocktails $

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M.

Cool off on a hot summer night with a refreshing cocktail made from a pineapple

Quick Italian Dinners: Pesto alla Siciliana $

THURSDAY, JULY 27 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Pick fresh herbs and produce from the Culinary Garden to create a delicious, fresh Southern Italian sauce from scratch!

AUGUST

Family Cooking: Vegetables are Magic! $

THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Kids will love broccoli after they taste this Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe that's a great way to get veggies into a meal! Make a roux from scratch for a perfect blend of produce and deliciousness.

Practical Magic: Making Herbal Teas $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 | 12:30 – 1:30 P.M. Pick fresh herbs and make delicious tea combinations from scratch to take home while enjoying refreshing ice herbal teas and bites.

The Taming of the Shrub $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 | 3 – 4 P.M. Enjoy your creations! Learn to ferment fruit and herbs to make delicious summer cocktails. Ages 21+.

Shady Characters in the Garden

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 | 10 A.M. – 12

Struggling with your shade garden? Join the Bexar County Master Gardeners for a discussion of the various 'shades' of shade, design techniques, and the plants that thrive in shade. Master Gardeners will answer questions at the end of the workshop.

House of the Rising Dough $

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 | 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Learn to make bread from scratch with Guest Instructor and Professional Baker, Rose Benson.

Botanical Wearables $

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Draw inspiration from Imaginary Worlds to create wearable pieces to adorn while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Participants will select seasonal plants such as grasses, succulents, and blooms. The night ends with a guided tour of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time. Ages 21+.

Foodie Cinema: How to Train Your Dragon (2010) $

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11 | 7 – 9 P.M.

Foodie Cinema: Beauty and the Beast (2017) $

FRIDAY, JULY 21 | 6:30 – 9 P.M.

Be our guest for a whimsical fantasy tale accompanied by foods inspired by the movie!

Planted Mosaic Design $

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Create a planted mosaic design using succulents and stones inspired by the imaginative plantings of Mosaïcultures. Discover how to create a healthy soil blend.

Enjoy a movie in the Culinary Garden with themed treats after visiting the 25-foot dragon in the Conservatory from Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time!

Family Gardening Workshop: Herb Fairy Garden $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

11 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.

Imagine new worlds in this hands-on family workshop. Participants will design, plant, and decorate a fairy garden to take home for fairy friends.

Date Night: Romancing the Stone $

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 | 7 – 8:30 P.M. Join for a night of adventure Joan Wilder would write about! Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience inspired by the culinary colors and cocktails of Colombia. Ages 21+.

Lord of the Rings: Hobbit Seed Cake $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 | 12:30 – 1:30 P.M. Hobbits are fond of seven meals a day, including breakfast, second breakfast, elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner, and supper. Join to make Bilbo Baggins' seed cake and enjoy an afternoon tea.

Game of Thrones: Blackberry Wine $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 | 3 – 4 P.M. Learn to make blackberry wine sangria inspired by Arya Stark and her revenge on those responsible for the Red Wedding. Ages 21+.

I'm Late for a Very Important Date!... with a Carrot Cake $

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24 | 6:30 – 8 P.M. Make a carrot cake from scratch in this class taught by Guest Instructor and Professional Baker, Rose Benson. Never end up with a soggy cake again!

Dates and times subject to change. Visit SABOT.ORG for the latest updates, pricing, ticket, and registration information.

Support for youth educational programs and school tours is generously provided by Hearst Foundations, The TND Family Foundation, Valero, The Greehey Family Foundation, Tres Grace Family Foundation, University Health System, Joan Cheever and Dennis Quinn, Lowe Foundation, V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc., The Najim Charitable Foundation, Martha Mares Lebo Children’s Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Faye L. and William L. Cowden Charitable Foundation and San Antonio Water System.

$ Garden program incurs additional cost

CREATE SUMMER STORIES!

Enjoy extended hours, special events, and the incredible Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time exhibition this summer at the Garden!

SPRING AND SUMMERTIME HOURS:

Open every day 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Wednesdays 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

New this year!

SUMMER NIGHTS IN THE GARDEN

Enjoy live entertainment, food and drinks, and extended hours every Wednesday at the Garden.

GARDEN AND GIFT SHOP HOURS

Members only 7 – 8 A.M.

Open every day 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.