Garden Times Spring 2012

Spring 2012

gardentimes

Brad Alston

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

A Million Blooms March 10–June 3 with

“Orchids Galore!”

March 10–April 22, Conservatory

As spring returns with glorious fanfare, so does “Orchids Galore!”

Hundreds of magnificent orchids dazzle the senses with color, fragrance and beauty. In the Conservatory’s intimate setting, the exquisite blooms invite photography and fascinate visitors through up-close-and-personal experiences.

New!

Travel the world to discover how orchids journeyed from native habitats to become popular fixtures in today’s homes, including tales of plant explorers who traveled far and wide to collect the enchanting plants. Also learn about current issues related to conservation and saving wild orchids threatened with extinction due to habitat loss and over-collection.

Then head outdoors for A Million Blooms, where nature showcases a stunning succession of spring flowers.

Visit often and bring a camera—as well as family and friends—to enjoy the ever-changing blooms and garden-wide activities, educational programs and seasonal events including: • Easter Weekend with Peter Rabbit: April 7-8 • Heritage Weekend at Historic Bloemendaal: April 21-22 • .Historic Garden Week with evening hours on April 26 • Mother’s Day concert and brunch: May 13 • Spring plant sales…and more!

A Million Blooms sponsored by “Orchids Galore!” sponsored in part by The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust; The Virginia Orchid Society; Dr. Arthur Burke; Mrs. Patricia R. St. Clair. Details pages 6-7.

May 25-Oct. 14

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Message from the Executive Director

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Heritage Weekend, Garden Week

4–5 Horticulture 6–7 Calendar

8–9 Children’s Garden 10 Donors, Volunteers, Cheers to Art! 11 Garden Shop, Tours, Rentals 12 Newsletter Survey

admission

in this issue

Brad Alston

FREE for Garden members. visitor pricing: $11 adults, $10 seniors, $7 children ages 3-12 and FREE for children under 3

Tropical species, fascinating and showy, are back by popular demand!

Presented by the Robins Foundation.

Message from the Executive Director Honoring Frank Robinson for 20 years of leadership and his new role as President & CEO editor’s box The Garden Times newsletter is mailed three times a year to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden members.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 ceo/president Frank Robinson executive director Shane Tippett newsletter editor Lynn Kirk special thanks LGBG staff for editorial assistance design Elevation

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n February 1, 2012, Frank Robinson celebrated his twentieth anniversary as Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s leader. Such milestones in an extraordinarily successful career usually invite a series of “before and after” comparisons, but a couple of years ago Frank himself edited a pictorial history of the Garden on its silver anniversary. The book documented our phenomenal growth and the expanding reach of our horticultural and educational missions. The text reflected Frank’s belief that the evolution of the Garden was the result of “the legacy, generosity, and vision of so many in the philanthropic and nonprofit communities.”

A ll true, but I also believe Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s journey would have been remarkably different, and certainly less remarkable, without Frank Robinson. Frank is hands down the most “all about tomorrow” leader I’ve ever met. Like a sailor who navigates by the stars, he keeps his head up, always looking forward, and this visionary quality has served him and the Garden well. What makes Frank truly exceptional is that, while he steers a far-sighted course, he still savors the moment, and respects and honors our mutual past and traditions. He is equal parts strategic and personal, making possible this community Garden that our community treasures. Frank can dream of acres of fallow land becoming lush with gorgeous, singular plantings. He can imagine a small, undiscovered garden becoming one that serves hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. He can listen with delight to a toddler excitedly tell of her adventures in the Children’s Garden.

Last December, when the Garden was honored by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) with its annual National Award for community service, there were framed awards amid marbled halls, 2009 – Frank’s vision helped conceive the Community Kitchen Garden photographs with celebrities at Lewis Ginter. The garden provides fresh produce for hungry Central and other honorees, media Virginians through FeedMore. attention, humbling praise.

Frank accepted it all with grace, ease and humility. He handed on the awards for framing and posting, distributed photographs and praise. A week later our community representative at the IMLS award ceremony stopped

2011 – At the IMLS awards ceremony, Frank Robinson celebrated with Chris Corsello, a 19-year-old individual with autism who has volunteered at the Garden for nearly two years, and Chris’ aide Lisa Watts.

2003 – Frank Robinson (left) crowned the Garden’s centerpiece: a magnificent Conservatory.

by Frank’s office with a heart-felt, hand-written note.

Frank held it tenderly, a pearl beyond price, and when I asked if I could frame and display it, said simply that he would be keeping this one.

For nearly two decades Frank served as the Garden’s longest-tenured executive director. Now he is our first president and CEO. I cannot imagine anybody better to have in the role as the Garden gets ready for all our tomorrows.

Shane Tippett Executive Director

Annual Events

Updates and details at lewisginter.org and on the Garden’s Facebook page.

Heritage Weekend at Historic Bloemendaal Saturday, April 21, Noon–3PM Sunday, April 22, Noon–4PM As spring blooms peak in splendor, celebrate historic highlights from the Garden’s past: • High-wheeled bicycle • Book-signing session with displays and demonstrations Brian Burns, author of • Strolling barbershop quartet Lewis Ginter: Gilded Age • Period music by the “Titanic Icon String Band” • Draft horse plowing • Horse-drawn wagon rides demonstration in • Informal tours of Bloemendaal Community Kitchen Garden House, c.1894 (related story page 4) • Costumed portrayals of • Earth Day family activities Lewis Ginter and Grace (Sunday only; details page 8) Arents (Saturday only, • Tea House brunch, 1–3PM) 11:30AM–2:30PM (for • Dress-up trunk with vintagereservations, ext. 399; inspired clothing Garden admission required).

• Hand-dipped ice cream on the Bloemendaal lawn (for purchase)

Historic Garden Week in Virginia April 21–28....................................................... Statewide Celebration April 24–26....................................................... Richmond CelebratioN April 26 (only)....................................... Garden extended hours for

public & LGBG Member Night

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ne of Historic Garden Week’s highlights is Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, where visitors discover scenic landscapes, themed gardens, an orchid-filled Conservatory...along with countless ideas for their own gardens!

On Thursday, April 26 (only), also enjoy these special opportunities: • Extended hours for evening strolls • Live music (open to public till 9PM) • Wine tastings at Bloemendaal • LGBG Member Night House (6–8PM for those • Informal tours of Historic 21+ years with photo ID and Bloemendaal House (till 8PM) purchased wine-tasting ticket); • Knowledgeable garden hosts one free wine sample for LGBG (till 8PM) members • Garden Shop extended hours • Casual dinner fare at Bloemendaal (10AM–7PM) House (for purchase) Details at lewisginter.org (Garden info) & vagardenweek.org (statewide info).

GARDENING TIP Experiment: Try new cultivars and crazy color combos!

Horticulture Top Trends 2012 promises more …

GARDENING TIP Evaluate your garden site: Where will plants enjoy optimal sunlight, best soil, adequate drainage?

• H ome-grown veggie gardens boasting creative designs • Native plants and heirloom varieties • Organic growing techniques • Kitchen-grown herbs • Small-space gardening with dwarf varieties • Potted ornamental and fruit trees • “ Dual purpose” edible landscaping • Raised-bed, roof-top and vertical gardening • Drought-tolerant gardening

• Stylish exotics with improved availability

• B eekeeping (see related story “Get to Know Grace,” page 5)

• Repurposed planters and containers

• Ornamental grasses

• Increased attendance at gardening workshops (including those at LGBG!)

• “Cutting gardens” for flowers • H ome canning and pickling of vegetables 4

• Flower drying for botanical decoration

“Thanks to the Community Kitchen Garden, FeedMore was able to serve more than 4,000 children a variety of dishes prepared with amazingly fresh produce. It was wonderful to make the vegetables available to kids who may not have access to vegetables fresh from the garden—and

• Wildlife havens via select plantings and eco-friendly techniques • Cozy outdoor “rooms” with themed gardens, repurposed furniture, firepits and water features

• M ore apps for horticulture resources and tips

Feed the Need: Community Kitchen Garden Returns!

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nutritional veggie-andsalad-bar is in the making!

For the four th consecutive year, planting has begun in our Community Kitchen Garden.

Through collaboration with FeedMore, the fresh vegetables har vested later this year will benefit hungr y families and seniors across our region.

a great way to get them hooked on veggies for life!”

How can you, your family or organization take part?

• Volunteer for simple gardening chores (knowledgeable staff will provide guidance).

— Sally Pluot, FeedMore vice president of food services

• Plant your own vegetable garden and donate harvests to FeedMore on behalf of LGBG. • Look for the “inside scoop” at lewisginter.org/blog as Brian Vick, Community Kitchen Garden coordinator, blogs about how the vegetables are grown, who volunteers and more!

Last year, the Garden and its supporters provided close to 10,000 pounds of produce for Central Virginians in need!

Bright Spots Weather impacts actual blooming times, so please check the Garden’s website and Facebook page for updates.

Flowering Cherry Trees (Prunus sp.)

Ornamental heralders of spring

Don Williamson

may

Tulips (Tulipa sp.)

Autumn-planted bulbs for springtime glory

Azaleas (Rhododendron sp.)

Local favorite with evergreen and deciduous varieties

Questions?

Contact the Hort Helpline: 262-9887, ext. 332 or library@ lewisginter.org.

This informal interview is your chance to become acquainted with Grace Chapman, the Garden’s director of horticulture.

What’s your favorite pastime?

“I spend my free time visiting public gardens, vegetable gardening, hiking, backpacking, beekeeping, quilting, cooking and blogging about all of these activities.”

See www.graceestellechapman.com.

Why did you come to LGBG? “I wanted to work for a garden that had a strong sense of purpose and a clear mission. I also was looking for diverse plant displays and a garden with a conservatory. I thought LGBG hit everything on the list and after my first visit, I knew it was where I wanted to be. It seems that this garden is never static—from new gardens and construction to

Orchids (Bletilla sp.)

Once reserved for royalty, now available for all

GARDENING TIP

Get to Know Grace

How did you get involved in horticulture?

“My family is very outdoorsy, spending our family vacations hiking, camping and canoeing, so I always had a love for plants and nature. As a kid, you could always find me up a tree or covered in mud playing in our pond. I loved helping my dad with his orchid collection and working in our South Florida garden. I started college studying agricultural and biological engineering, but I was always ‘sneaking’ plant classes into my curriculum.

Then I realized that I should stop sneaking them in and actually declare horticulture as my major.

It was the best decision of my life!”

conservatory

Don Williamson

april

Don Williamson

Don Williamson

march

SWAT Team Grace Chapman’s interests range from gardening to beekeeping.

exciting exhibitions and community services, there is never a dull moment—making the garden seem alive.”

Best gardening advice you ever received?

“Always use the right tools for the job, learn how to use them properly and keep them well maintained.

It is more efficient, easier on your body and will help protect you from injury.”

How’s it feel to share the same name as the Garden’s benefactor, Miss Grace?

“I feel like I’m in good company! With such a great staff and wonderful community support, I hope to help the Garden continue to live up to Miss Grace’s vision!”

The Garden needs YOU! A SWAT—Special Weeding Action Team—is forming for the transforming of under-loved areas of the Garden. If you like to make a difference and don’t mind heavyduty clean up, contact Darlene Van Laan at volunteers@lewisginter.org or (804) 262-9887, ext. 335.

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Garden Calendar

* Free for members and included with Garden admission Details at lewisginter.org and facebook.com/lewisginter.

Major Events & Exhibits A Million Blooms* March 10–June 3

“Orchids Galore!”* March 10–April 22

Visit often to enjoy nature’s succession of spring blooms:

Orchids originating around the world dazzle your senses with breathtaking beauty, rainbow colors and exquisite fragrances.

June: Lotuses, pitcher plants, roses

GARDENING TIPS

April: Daffodils, tulips

Plan then plant: Consider space requirements at maturity and practice crop rotation.

Exact timing dependent on weather conditions.

Check facebook.com/lewisginter for updates.

Assess your toolset: Digging forks break up soil; flat-edged spades edge plant beds; bow rakes level beds; long-handled tools ease lower-back stress.

Sponsored in Part by: The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust; The Virginia Orchid Society; Dr. Arthur Burke; Mrs. Patricia R. St. Clair.

march

Orchid and Flower Photography with Allen Rokach

March Madness THURSDAY, 1–SATURDAY, 31 Garden Members (only) enjoy 15% discount on purchases in Garden Shop, Café & Tea House.

april Ginter in the Morning TUESDAY, 3 Explore display gardens with a knowledgeable Garden Guide.

Free/Members; $15/Adults. Pre-registration required at lewisginter.org.

Create weedfree paths: Layer cardboard or newspaper sheets and cover with woodchips.

SATURDAY, 14 & SUNDAY, 15....9AM–5PM Intensive workshop with internationally recognized photographer/teacher hones digital photography skills.

Fee. Registration at lewisginter.org > Adult & Family Education.

Cheers to Art! THURSDAY, 19 Details page 10.

Virginia Daffodil Society Show* SATURDAY, 7..................................2–5PM SUNDAY, 8.........................10AM–3:45PM Education and Library Complex 20th Anniversary Show features outstanding daffodils & expert growers.

Don Williamson

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May: Irises, peonies, azaleas

Don Williamson

Don Williamson

March: Crocuses, hyacinths, flowering cherries

Test & augment soils: Most veggie crops prefer 6.0 to 6.8 pH.

Daily, 9 aM–5 pm

Heritage Weekend at Historic Bloemendaal* SATURDAY, 21 & SUNDAY, 22 Details page 3.

Easter Weekend with Peter Rabbit SATURDAY, 7 & SUNDAY, 8...... Both days Peter Rabbit greets visitors & poses for photos*.....................1–4PM Saturday Only.......................................

Live bunnies from Richmond Rabbit Breeders Association...............1–4PM Richmond Concert Band*……2–3PM Sunday Only Tea House brunch……….10AM–3PM Reservations required, 262-9887, ext. 329; regular Garden admission.

Richmond African Violet Society Show* & Sale Sale: FRIDAY, 13........................1–5PM SATURDAY, 14 & SUNDAY, 15....9AM–5PM Show: SATURDAY, 14.................1–5PM SUNDAY, April 15....................9AM–5PM Visitors Center Atrium & Robins Room Interesting & unusual African violets on display & for purchase.

Open free to the public; regular admission for Garden visitation.

Historic Garden Week in Richmond TUESDAY, 24–THURSDAY, 26 THURSDAY, 26 (only)......open till 9 pm & Member Night* Details page 3.

may Ginter in the Morning TUESDAY, 1 Details see April.

Exhibits Spring Hours LGBG Spring Plant Sale THURSDAY, 3........................ 1–6PM FRIDAY, 4........................ 9AM–5PM SATURDAY, 5.................. 9AM–3PM Parking Lot B One of the region’s largest plant sales with Garden Shop & regional vendors selling container plantings, garden ornaments & more!

Presented by LGBG volunteers.

Garden Daily: 9AM–5PM April 26 of Historic Garden Week: 9AM–9PM Don Williamson

Diamonds in the Rough* Ongoing as Nature Allows, Anderson Wildflower Meadow Patrick Dougherty’s towering stick-house structure changes with the seasons, weather & time of day.

Presented by Altria.

“Selections from the Reichenbachia, Orchids Illustrated and Described”* March 10–April 22, Ginter Gallery II Plantsman Frederick Sander’s 1894 compilation of 192 exotic orchid illustrations named for the celebrated German orchidologist Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach.

On loan from the collection of Dr. Arthur Burke.

Archival storage by Erica Borey, Museum Studies intern (related story page 11).

Mother’s Day Celebration SUNDAY, 13............................. 9AM–5PM Free outdoor concert*............1–4PM Tea House brunch..............10AM–3PM Mother’s Day made memorable with live music, Tea House Brunch (reservations required, 262-9887, ext. 329), informal Garden Café meals or a la carte dining in the Garden.

Regular Garden admission.

Richmond Rose Society Show* SATURDAY, 26................................1–4PM SUNDAY, 27.......................11AM–3:30PM Education and Library Complex Auditorium Displays of specimen roses & seminars by consulting experts.

Groovin’ in the Garden Concerts Various evenings Outdoor concerts on terraced lawn. Ticketed event, rain or shine. Food & beverages (fee); no coolers please.

Note: Groovin’ has changed from a weekly series to special concerts throughout the summer. Performers & dates are posted to the Garden’s website & Facebook page as soon as the promoter announces.

Pinwheels for Prevention Garden* April 1–30, Children’s Garden Each of the 3,000+ “planted” pinwheels represents a child served this past year by Prevent Child Abuse Virginia’s Healthy Families program.

Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month.

“Recent Works by Botanical Illustration Students and Instructors”* April 28–June 3, Ginter Gallery II “Butterflies LIVE!”* May 25–October 14, Conservatory North Wing Back by popular demand!

Hundreds of live butterflies take flight. A “don’t miss” exhibit fascinating for all ages!

Presented by the Robins Foundation.

Adult Education Classes: Designed for you!

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GBG’s educational offerings fit every level of gardening skill from basic how-to’s to advanced refreshers, and class formats range from hands-on workshops to inspiring lectures by leading authorities.

For a seasonal schedule, visit lewisginter.org>Adult Education, or watch for the next catalog that will be mailed to members and printed in “Style Weekly” on April 4.

Garden Shop Monday–Saturday: 10AM–5PM Sunday: 1–5PM April 26 of Historic Garden Week: 10AM–7PM Garden Café Daily: 10AM–4PM Tea House Daily: 11:30AM–2:30PM Reservations, 262-9887 ext. 399 WaterPlay in Children’s Garden Opens April 21 (weather permitting)

GARDENING TIP Grow your knowledge: Attend workshops or join a local horticulture society.

Congratulations to students who completed requirements for the Garden Education Certificate in Botanical Illustration: Carrie Coulson Judy Gilman Hines Gail Harwood Winnifred Hebb Linda Hunt Ellen Keane Anne McCahill Judith Towers Jane Zander

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Children’s Garden

* Free for members and included with Garden admission.

Details at lewisginter.org.

Come outside & play!

The Children’s Garden is where youngsters and their grown-ups share up-close discoveries and personal interactions with the natural world—not as bystanders, but as active participants who enjoy learning together in a safe, playful and relaxed setting.

Stickman Returns!* Daily, 9AM–5PM Stickman never “sticks around” in one place for very long. Track his travels as he hides in different Garden locations every other week.

NEW! Look for clues about Stickman’s whereabouts on our Facebook page: Facebook.com/lewisginter.

New!

Garden Art Studio* April–October, Mondays & Thursdays, 1–3PM Drop in and unfold your creative energy! Beside the Hidden Tunnel, work alongside staff artist Katelyn Coyle to create butterfly-inspired pieces using provided materials. Super opportunity for children to collaborate, explore and reflect on Garden experiences.

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New!

Garden Explorations for Families Starting April, Tuesdays, 2–3PM Ages 3, 4 and 5 with adult Guided program combines Garden exploration with creative play and hands-on activities. Registration required; fee. Program descriptions at lewisginter.org.

Drop-In Programs* April–October Schedules at lewisginter.org • NEW! Garden Art Studio • Investigation Station • Stick Work Studio • Jammin’

• Drop-in and Dig • Good Green Fun • Family Adventure Packs

WaterPlay* Opens April 21 (weather permitting) Schedule and tips at lewisginter.org.

Earth Day* April 22, NOON–4PM An Earth Day community celebration with family-friendly activities!

Make an eco-pot, plant heritage seeds and find out about supporting your community through Plant a Row for the Hungry®. Coincides with Heritage Weekend (details page 3).

New!

The Hope Tree Project* GARDENING TIPS

April 30–July 4 Richmond author Meg Medina—whose newest young adult book The Girl Who Could Silence the Wind will be released in March—is working with the Garden and area schools to create an art installation in the Children’s Garden. Five crape myrtle trees will be decorated with foil symbols that express students’ hopes, dreams or aspirations for themselves or their community. In October, selections will be displayed at Richmond City Hall for Hispanic Heritage Month.

Prepare for irrigation: Install rain barrels or drip irrigation systems.

In conjunction with MINDS WIDE OPEN: Virginia Celebrates Children and the Arts 2012, a statewide collaboration of artists, arts organizations and other institutions.

Details at artsva.org.

Protect Your Harvest: Invest in rabbit fencing.

We’re a “Let’s Move” Garden* New!

Keep a compost bin: The benefit is nature’s nutrients!

“Let’s Move!” is a comprehensive initiative launched by First Lady Michelle Obama, dedicated to solving the problem of obesity within a generation so that children will grow up healthier.

Here at the Garden, “Let’s Move!” puts children on the path to a healthier future by giving parents helpful information and encouraging choices that support well-being.

Learn about bugs: Know which to welcome in your garden.

FUNtastic Birthday Parties Ages 3–12 A Children’s Garden birthday is packaged for fun with a guided garden experience led by a Garden Play Pal and more! Reservations for select dates April-October on a first-reserved basis, so don’t delay.

Details at lewisginter.org.

Cool Camps for Kids

Share Your Harvest: Plant a Row for the Hungry®.

Soon school bells will signal summer break, so the Children’s Garden has geared up with another round of exciting Green Adventures. Week-long day camps entertain as they educate youngsters of various ages and interests. Space is limited, so reserve now at lewisginter.org.

• Growing Minds | Pre-Schoolers Age 4 (potty trained) | June 11–15 • Wow Your Senses! | Rising K | June 18–22 • Flowers, Fins, and Feathers | Rising 1st Grader | July 9–13 • Roots, Shoots, and other Plant Parts | Rising 2nd & 3rd Grader | July 16–20 • Young Scientists at Work | Rising 4th & 5th Grader | July 23–27

WANTED: Youth Volunteers June–August, Ages 13–18

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olunteerism should be meaningful, rewarding and fun, especially when it involves teens.

That’s why the Children’s Garden staf f provides guided hor ticulture training to youth volunteers in the Community Kitchen Garden, Children’s Garden and other areas as needed. Teens learn about local food systems, gain understanding of

our interdependence with plants and accumulate community ser vice hours—all while exploring career options and enjoying an awesome summer in the great outdoors.

Find out more and apply at lewisginter.org>Volunteers.

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Donors, Volunteers, Cheers to Art! Cheers to Art! April 19, 6–9:30PM The Garden’s annual silent auction fundraiser features extraordinary local artworks—pottery, art, jewelry, photography and sculpture—enhanced by hors d’oeuvres, beer/wine, live Learn More! entertainment, your friends and our glorious spring Garden! Ticketed event. Organized by the Board of Associates; proceeds benefit the Children’s Garden.

Presented by Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.

Splendor Under Glass

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n November 19, 2011, more than 350 special guests gathered for another spectacular gala!

Together they celebrated Joie de Vivre!—the joys of living and the delights of France—as well as the life of philanthropist and benefactor Mrs. Lora Robins.

Sumptuous food and style were sprinkled generously with laughter, and the extraordinary evening raised nearly $190,000 in support of the Garden’s educational mission.

Sincere appreciation is extended to all attendees and the following: Chairs Mr. and Mrs. William H. King, Jr. Contributing Level Sponsors BB&T–Banking, Insurance & Investment Services Hourigan Construction MeadWestvaco Wells Fargo

Support Level Sponsors Dominion Resources LeClairRyan Meriwether Godsey Patient First Skyline Tent Company U.S. Trust

DuPont Honors Garden Volunteer Congratulations and thanks to Don Williamson, a DuPont employee and freelance photographer who over the last three years has given the Garden close to 6,000 dynamic photos for use in publications and publicity. To acknowledge his significant contribution, the DuPont Volunteer Recognition program honored him with a $1,000 donation to the Garden.

Rosarian Society Members The Garden recognizes Rosarian Society members for their valuable support: Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Leroy L. Anderson, Jr. Ms. Susan H. Armstrong The Honorable and Mrs. Gerald L. Baliles Mr. and Mrs. Dennis I. Belcher Mr. and Mrs. Roger L. Boeve Mrs. George H. Bragdon Mr. and Mrs. Doug Bretz Mrs. Charles L. Brown Mr. and Mrs. J. Stewart Bryan III Dr. Arthur W. Burke, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Langdon T. Christian IV Mrs. Doris Clevenger Mr. and Mrs. J. Harwood Cochrane Mr. and Mrs. Hugh G. Edmunds Mr. Everett Fahy Mrs. Everett P. Fahy Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Farrell II Mr. Charles H. Foster, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Peter L. Francisco Mr. and Mrs. William R. Gardner, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Floyd D. Gottwald, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bruce C. Gottwald, Sr. Dr. Joanne C. Hudson and Mr. Gary C. Hudson Col. and Mrs. Freeman E. Jones Mr. William H. King, Jr. and Mrs. Grace DenHartog Mr. James W. Klaus Mr. Philip W. Klaus, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Linwood Lacy, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Loupassi Mr. and Mrs. John A. Luke, Jr. Mrs. William W. Martin, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. E. Morgan Massey Mr. and Mrs. G. Gilmer Minor III Mr. and Mrs. J. Robert Mooney Mr. and Mrs. Stanley F. Pauley Mr. and Mrs. Theodore W. Price Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Ramsey Mrs. Virginia F. Redick Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Reed, Jr. Mr. David T. Richardson 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. Richard Simon Mr. and Mrs. John W. Snow Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Sowers III Mrs. Jane B. Spilman Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Spratley Mr. and Mrs. John C. Stanchina Mrs. Phyllis Cothran and Dr. Arnold L. Stolberg Mr. and Mrs. Edward Villanueva Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Weinstein Ms. Laura West Mr. and Mrs. John H. Wick III Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Williams Dr. Jacqueline W. Wilson

To learn more about this exclusive giving club or to join, call 262-9887, ext. 311

Shopping, Tours, Rentals Garden Shop Our newly arrived spring inventory merits your special visit! Browse distinctive artworks and orchid-related decor; fashionable clothing, accessories and jewelry; gardening tools and outdoor decoratives; a charming children’s section and books galore.

MEMBER BENEFIT: Take advantage of March Madness, March 1 through March 31, and save 15% in the Garden Shop, Café and Tea House.

Weekdays, 10AM-4PM; Weekends, 1-4PM • Read fireside till the weather warms.

• Look at the delightful children’s collection.

• Research garden projects or leaf through seed catalogs.

• Use free Wi-Fi services.

• View the “Twisted Logic” documentary about Patrick Dougherty’s work.

• Join the Botanical Book Club for bi-monthly meetings … and more!

Details at lewisginter.org or email library@lewisginter.org.

“Explore the Garden’s Trees” Tuesday, April 24 OR May 8 10–11:30AM Hundreds of trees grace our 80-acre Garden, towering over us and sometimes outliving us by centuries. As a knowledgeable volunteer Garden Guide leads, become more familiar with some landmark specimens and observe a variety of barks, flowers, roots and even knees!

Considerable walking required. Member/Free; Non-member/$15.

Register at least two weeks ahead at lewisginter.org or call 262-9887, ext. 322.

Planning a Meeting, Banquet or Event?

Consider a Garden gathering where you “reserve, relax and revel” in the accolades, thanks to the expertise of our facility rental coordinators and on-site caterer. Visit lewisginter.org for details or call 262-9887, ext. 224 or 345.

Connect With Us Online

Jeannie Waltman

“Check out” the Lora M. Robins Library

Another VCU Collaboration Announced Welcome to Erica Borey, the Garden’s first museum studies intern, who is pursuing her master’s degree in art history/ museum studies at VCU. Erica is responsible for the safe handling, housing and archival storage of the collection of 19th-century Reichenbachia orchid prints, on long-term loan from Dr. Arthur Burke. Exhibit details page 7.

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Help Support the Garden!

March 31 marks the Garden’s fiscal year end, so it’s not too late to become a supporter. We invite you to make your gift online at lewisginter.org or by calling 262-9887, ext. 311.

Non-Profit Organization U S Postage

PAID

Permit 520 Richmond, VA 1800 lakeside avenue richmond va, 23228-4700 (804) 262-9887 lewisginter.org

Don Williamson

“Spring is nature’s way of saying ‘Let’s Party!’”

—Robin Williams

We welcome your feedback about the Garden Times newsletter so we can continually improve it and best meet your needs and expectations.

Your Feedback Matters! Please respond by March 31 1. W hat is your overall satisfaction with the Garden Times newsletters?

• M ail completed survey to: Garden Times Newsletter Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 1800 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, VA 23228 • E mail your responses to Bethm@lewisginter.org • G o to http://bit.ly/newslettersurvey and complete the online survey

Somewhat Satisfied Neutral

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2. How useful/helpful do you find the information in the newsletter?

Please respond in one of three ways:

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3. Please rate the importance of the following subjects for inclusion in the newsletter:

1=Very Important 2=Somewhat Important 3=Neutral 4=Less Important _____Upcoming events _____ Stories about people (staff, volunteers, etc.)

5=Not Important

_____ What the Garden is doing in the community _____General updates about the Garden

_____Gardening and horticulture tips _____ Information about displays, exhibits and what’s in bloom

_____Other _______________________________

4. The Garden Times is also available electronically at lewisginter.org. Is it likely you will read the online version?

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5. Other comments/suggestions ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Respondents by March 31 will be eligible for a drawing to win a $75 Garden Shop gift certificate PLUS a one-year Garden membership (or renewal)—a $150 value!

Contact info necessary for drawing participation, but completely optional. Maximum of one response per household.

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THANK YOU! 2012