the garden dirt
FOR FRIENDS OF BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS
Growing with PASSION
How our volunteer growing groups take plants from “seed to sale.”
Save When You Dine and Shop at the Gardens and our Local
Member Partners
Show your Friends of Birmingham
Botanical Gardens membership card and enjoy 10% off regularly priced purchases at The Gardens Café by Kathy G and these local nurseries, garden centers, and flower shops.
Certain restrictions may apply. Please visit bbgardens.org/membership for details.
DOROTHY MCDANIEL’S
FLOWER MARKET • FARMSTAND BY STONE HOLLOW • HOUSE PLANT
COLLECTIVE • LEAF & PETAL AT THE GARDENS • MYERS PLANTS & POTTERY
PETALS FROM THE PAST • SHOPPE/ GENERAL • SWEET PEAS GARDEN SHOP
VIVATIA PLANT CARE SERVICES
WILD THINGS
Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2026 Board of directors
Emily Bowron Chair
D C Coston Chair-ElECt
EvElyn JonEs sECrEtary
annE sanDErs ranD trEasurEr
siD Evans Chair of CommuniCations & markEting
sarah slaughtEr Chair of DEvElopmEnt kirk forrEstEr Chair of EDuCation & Community EngagEmEnt
John smith t Chair of govErnanCE
JanEt kavinoky Chair of govErnmEnt rElations
DEriCk BElDEn Chair of opErations
Members at Large
Melanie Bridgeforth
Maggie Brooke
Margaret Cobbs
Sharon Deep-Nelson
Joe French
David Germany
Leigh Haver
Brandon Kelley
Bolaji Kukoyi
Desmond R. Layne
Bart McCorquodale
Debra Nelson
G. Ruffner Page, Jr.
Jim Pickle
Robert Pless
Norman Ross, Jr.
Martha Emmett Sims
Joanice Thompson
Larry D. Thornton, Sr.
Libba Vaughn
Jesse Vogtle, Jr.
Ginny Willings
John G. Wilson
Joseph M. Echols III, Junior Board President
Our Mission
The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. We are dedicated to serving the Gardens, serving the community, serving our visitors, and inspiring a passion for plants, gardens, and the environment.
Tom Underwood.....................................................Executive Director
Julia Adams Horticulturist—Japanese Garden
Katelyn Bahr Horticulturist—Specialty Gardens
Stephanie Banks Chief Financial Officer
Rachael Daughtry Library & Information Services Manager
Dawn DeFrank Donor Services Coordinator
Kensley Freeman Development Associate
Amelia Haas Office Coordinator
Penney Hartline Director of Development
Parker Henson Volunteer Coordinator
Ashely Grace Passey Programs & Registration Coordinator
Ashleigh Jones Communications & Marketing Associate
Cassia Kesler Director of Communications & Marketing
Kendra Poleshek Education Associate Adult & Personal Enrichment Programs
Drew Rickel Donor Relations Officer
Rebecca Stivender Director of Education & Community Engagement
Ianthe’ Smith Community Engagement Associate
Terry Phillips Horticulturist—Kaul Wildflower Garden
Jane Underwood Director of Gardens Support
Editor: Cassia Kesler
Art & Design: Ellen Padgett
Cover & Lead Photos: Carmen Michael & Graham Yelton
Contributors: Susan Alison, Dawn DeFrank, Penney Hartline, Molly Hendry, Rene Holliman, Wendy Wallace
Johnson, Ashleigh Jones, Sebastian Ortiz Muñoz, Kendra Poleshek, Drew Rickel, Quez Shipman, Emily Street, Graham Yelton Staff
©2026 Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. All rights reserved. 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham, AL 35223 205.414.3950 | bbgardens.org communications@bbgardens.org
A facility of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the result of a public/private partnership between the City of Birmingham and the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a mission-driven membership organization that seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens. We hope you enjoy this issue of the Friends’ award-winning quarterly publication, The Garden Dirt. Thank you for visiting and supporting the Gardens! Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens practices a policy of equal opportunity and equal access to services for all persons regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, orientation, or gender identity.
Dear Friend,
With the arrival of spring, it is hard not to feel reenergized, see fresh opportunities to move forward in newways, connect with our community, and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us.
Preparations are already underway for the annual Spring Plant Sale, coming up April 16–18. Our volunteer plant growing groups have been busy for months carefully selecting and cultivating perennials, native plants, herbs, houseplants, trees and shrubs, and more. Many of the plants featured at the sale are grown, nurtured, and propagated right here at the Gardens—giving shoppers the opportunity to bring a bit of the Gardens home.
Read about these volunteer groups and get a behindthe-scenes peek into their labors (and enthusiasm!) on page 2. You’ll also have the chance to meet many of them in person at the sale and hear firsthand the best way to care for the plants that you purchase.
This sale is one of our biggest fundraising efforts of the year. With every purchase, not only are you bringing beauty to your own garden, but you also are supporting the ongoing stewardship and enhancement of this shared community treasure.
We are excited to welcome Margot Shaw, editor-inchief of FLOWER Magazine, as the special guest speaker for the 26th annual Spencer Lecture on March 12. Margot, a renowned authority on floral design and gracious living, has long been involved in Antiques at the Gardens and is known for her warm, fun, and engaging presentations.
This spring also heralds the kickoff of the second annual Rooted in Community awards program, supporting grassroots efforts by local organizations to improve and beautify green spaces across the greater Birmingham area. Applications for the 2026 awards cycle will open on March 16. Stay tuned to our newsletters and website to see if your organization might be interested in participating!
We are so very thankful for your involvement, your generosity, and your friendship.
Tom Underwood Executive Director, Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens
April 17-18
AT BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS
Get ready for spring planting by shopping hard-to-find plants specially selected for our region by expert volunteer growers. Check or card only. Bring your own folding cart or wagon!
Member Early-Bird Shopping
Thursday, April 16 | 1–5:30 p.m.
Open to the Public
Friday, April 17 | 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 18 | 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
FEATURING
Natives Trees & Shrubs Camellias Azaleas
Hydrangeas Japanese Maples Ferns Roses
Heirloom Vegetables Herbs Perennials Annuals
Climbers
Succulents
Tropicals
Photo by
Carmen Michael
Growing with PASSION
How our volunteer growing groups take plants from “seed to sale.”
By ASHLEIGH JONES I Photos by CARMEN MICHAEL
AS SPRING RETURNS, IT PRESENTS THE REWARDING opportunity for gardeners to start afresh—a chance many eagerly anticipate as they plan how to make their botanical spaces flourish once again. Every April, the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Spring Plant Sale invites the community to reimagine and revamp their gardens by offering an array of horticultural choices for consideration. What each shopper may not know, however, as they wander among tables of lush greenery and blooms, is the steady dedication of volunteers behind the scenes who make an event of this scale possible. These stewards in
multiple growing groups pour hours of their time into tending thousands of plants in the Gardens’ growing areas for this momentous occasion. In doing so, these caretakers cultivate connections w ith each other—forming deep bonds of friendship through shared passion for their work.
The following stories honor their devotion and provide a glimpse into the groups that serve as the foundation for the Spring Plant Sale. This event makes a significant difference in continuing the Friends’ mission to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens with the Birmingham community and beyond.
Tropicals & Houseplants Group
MANY FIND VOLUNTEERING A PLACE of respite during the winter, such as Emily Street, who volunteers with the Tropicals and Houseplants Group on Saturdays. “It’s a wonderful place, and especially in winter, I love being in the greenhouse. It’s a tropical oasis.”
The group grows a variety of plants— ones that should remain inside during winter’s frigid temperatures. “We have a ton of philodendrons—a lot of things in the Aroid family. We have a whole table of hoyas,” Emily said. Some volunteers focus on one type of plant, such as a volunteer who is mainly dedicated to hoyas.
“Personally, I’m really into succulents,” said Emily. “I have some desert roses that I’ve started from seed. Those are just my favorite. It’s very exciting.”
Every plant is grown and propagated by the volunteers in preparation for the Spring Plant Sale, and many hours are spent keeping them healthy in the months prior to the big day. “Our pattern is propagate, maintain, sell. Propagate. Maintain. Sell,” Emily said.
When the plant sale arrives each year, they are excited but vigilant in keeping the plants safe. “The plant sale is always scheduled after the last frost, but we still worry about it getting a little too cold for tropicals,” Emily said. “We’re one of the few groups that really have to worry if the temperature on a sale day goes below 40 degrees. We have to protect our plants!”
Besides the slight temperature concern, she is enthusiastic and hopes many people come to the sale. “Absolutely come! It’s free entry,” she shared. “Come support your Gardens. Take a walk. Buy some plants, and just enjoy nature.”
As folks line up and browse the tables of plants, she is happy to advise shoppers on their selections. “We know everything about houseplants in case you have questions, and we just love it.”
Emily joined the tropicals and houseplants growing group around 2021. “I really love the people. I love being in nature. I just like being a part of the community,” she said.
Photo
Native Plants Group
BETTY ANDERSON, VOLUNTEER WITH THE NATIVE Plants Group, said everyone has different strengths they each contribute to the work. “We’re kind of like a group of bumblebees when we get together. We come up with a list of what we’re going to do, and then assignments are given out for people who want to work on specific plants,” she said.
Every Tuesday morning when volunteers gather can include a range of tasks from cleaning seeds to potting plants, most of which are grown from seed or propagated on-site for the Spring Plant Sale. “We also have plants in our own yards that we collect seed from,” she said.
The volunteers tend to a wide variety of native plants in the Gardens’ growing areas, including columbine, swamp milkweed, baptisias, star tickweed, bleeding heart, purple coneflower, downy wood mint, geraniums, dwarf crested iris, blazing star, cardinal flower, blue cardinal flower, Joe Pye weed, royal catchfly, and more.
Once plants are grown and the day of the Spring Plant Sale arrives, Betty enjoys sharing gardening advice with shoppers. “The first thing I ask somebody is, ‘What’s your environment?’ We need to know that before we can recommend a plant.” She has also encountered repeat visitors. “Some of them come back and say ‘You know, I got this last year and I’d like to get more of it or I’d like to get something to complement it.’”
No matter the question, Betty finds joy in helping others with their gardening interests and from being part of the Native Plant Group’s effort to make it come to fruition. “I love being part of a team,” she said. “We’ve become close friends over the years.”
“We’re kind of like a group of bumblebees when we get together. We come up with a list of what we’re going to do, and then assignments are given out for people who want to work on specific plants.”
—BETTY ANDERSON, NATIVE
GROUP
NATIVE PLANTS GROUP
PERENNIALS GROUP
TREES & SHRUBS GROUP
Perennials Group
PERENNIALS GROUP MEMBER PATTY FINNEGAN SOUGHT COMMUNITY at the Gardens after moving from New Jersey to Birmingham around 15 years ago. She knew she loved plants, as her mother and grandmother had been gardeners, and was searching for a place where she could continue her passion and meet others. “The best way to make friends and get to know your community is by volunteering, and the Gardens was the first place I thought would be fun,” she said.
Since coming to the Gardens, she has volunteered in the Kaul Wildflower Garden and has been involved with the Perennials group for years. What stands out to her are the connections she has formed along the way. “It’s always friendship. It’s always about being together and sharing stories…getting to know each other personally and learning about plants from each other.”
The group also has a nice dynamic. “We’re very easygoing,” Patty said. “We’re so happy to have new faces and to hear their stories and be open to what they can contribute because everybody has a skill and everybody’s good at something.”
On a typical morning volunteering, someone grabs a cart to retrieve white plastic plant containers and brings them to the potting shed. As the volunteers arrive, they slip on rubber gloves, collectively decide whether to use the quart or gallon pot size for the dozens of starter plants (plugs) recently delivered from a wholesale nursery, gather around the table with soil in it, and start up-potting the plants into bigger containers. One volunteer may water the plants while another will scatter fertilizer into the soil. The number of plants to process during each shift can vary dramatically. “There could be 25 plants that we have to pot up, or there could be 300,” Patty said.
No matter the number of plants they must pot, volunteers are not afraid to get their hands dirty. “It’s funny because whenever we know that
we’re going to be doing some potting, if we get some really rich, darkbrown soil, we all are like, ‘Oh, look at the dirt! Oh, it’s so nice!’…Somebody who’s not a gardener might think that’s weird, but for us, we get really excited about good dirt,” she said with a laugh.
The fertile soil helps grow the wide variety of plants the groupoffers at the Spring Plant Sale, which almost always include irises, lilies, coneflowers, and many shoppers’ favorite—Lenten roses or hellebores.
For those who enjoy shade-loving plants, shoppers can choose between several varieties of hostas, many of which are not available in major retail stores.
“We take these little starter plants from the nurseries and put them in bigger pots and basically take care of them—monitoring them, weeding, and checking for insects—for months until the date of the plant sale,” Patty said.
Then, as the sale approaches, they prepare pricing, print labels and identification cards, and create signs with photos of the plant at maturity so buyers can visualize its appearance when fully grown. In total, the group may have anywhere from 50 to 75 different types of plants to sell.
“We are so proud of our plants when they’ve grown to their potential before a sale…we get so excited when everything is looking and smelling so wonderful, and the color is vibrant,” she said.
“I think it’s like the kickoff of the season. Spring is just such a wonderful time of year of renewal and seeing things grow,” Patty said.
These new beginnings also make it possible to see what a perennial garden can specifically offer—a garden that keeps on giving.
“Maybe that’s also what’s so joyful about springtime and being a lover of perennials is that it comes back. You think ‘Oh, I’m never going to see it again’ and there it is, coming back up out of the ground,” she said. “I wish more people knew how wonderful it is to have a perennial garden.”
“It’s really rewarding to help people learn that kind of patience and get in tune with the seasons. One of the best things about being in Trees and Shrubs is that there’s a virtue in it. The patience is the thing that I find the most rewarding.”
—RYAN SULLIVAN, TREES & SHRUBS GROUP
Trees & Shrubs Group
THE TREES AND SHRUBS GROUP, UNLIKE the others, does not have a physical space where they regularly meet to grow trees, but orders inventory from nurseries and vendors. They maintain some inventory from sale to sale, often having two up-potting days a year. Bob Koons, longtime volunteer with this group since 2017, leads a team of volunteers who give their time to help with the plant sales each year. Fascinated by the inherent structure of trees due to his background in architecture, Bob first volunteered in the Kaul Wildflower Garden before helping Jeanie Sherlock with the Trees and Shrubs Group, eventually becoming group leader in 2019 after Jeanie retired. Each of the volunteers brings their own unique enthusiasm to the group. For example, Steve Sisson and Mike Rushing are knowledgeable about Japanese maples; Bob is knowledgeable on azaleas and other shrubs that he affectionately calls “Alphabet plants” (because at the sale their group offers an assortment “from A to Z”); and Ryan Sullivan focuses on native plants and smaller woody
plants. “We all bring a different focus and knowledge of plants to the table,” Bob said.
At the Spring Plant Sale, many trees and shrubs shoppers are repeat customers who pepper volunteers with questions such as which plant will look stylish at their home’s front entrance or other landscaping advice. For instance, a person may love maple trees and want one beside their back patio. “Well, don't put a maple tree next to the patio or your whole patio is going to be heaving up in the air in a few years,” Bob said with a chuckle.
Other shoppers are new homeowners who bring pictures to the volunteers to help identify their newly acquired greenery, and some shoppers just pleasantly browse the aisles, taking note of the plant options available and what may look lovely in their home garden spaces.
The group’s commitment to the plant sale and their mission to support the Gardens mirrors the same commitment it takes to grow trees of larger size.
“Any form of gardening connects all the people who come in here back to their land and it’s a great thing, but our particular area requires a certain kind of patience…there’s a commitment to growing large trees and even medium-size trees that you may not realize,” Ryan said.
Indeed, many trees take several years or even decades to grow.
“We’re selling oak trees that I know I won’t even be alive to see come to full maturity, but that’s the cool part about it. It’s like leaving a legacy,” Bob said.
For many people, slowing down enough to take care of a tree faithfully over years can be difficult, but Ryan believes there is so much more value beside the health benefits and aesthetic appeal behind the plants.
“It’s really rewarding to help people learn that kind of patience and get in tune with the seasons. One of the best things about being in Trees and Shrubs is that there’s a virtue in it. The patience is the thing that I find the most rewarding,” he said.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Each growing group at the Gardens provides an outlet to nurture both plants and lifelong friendships, connecting people to plants and to each other. These volunteers take the decades of experience they hold and offer plant knowledge and wisdom from one generation to the next at the sales every year. Each volunteer brings their infectious enthusiasm for plants to shoppers,
encouraging them to pursue their own botanical endeavors. No matter their background or season of life, and no matter which plant group piques a particular interest, these volunteers are bonded by a shared passion and mission, helping to further the joy that gardening brings to life. Those interested in volunteering at the Gardens can learn more from our website at bbgardens.org/volunteer.
HERB ARMY
HERB ARMY
Herb Army
SOME PLANTS PROVIDE NOT ONLY visual appeal but also flavor to food. This is how Mimi Boston became interested in herbs. She loved the fact that herbs could be used in cooking, and that’s why she started seeking out the Gardens as a place to volunteer in this specialty.
“We were drawn to herbs because we really like cooking and we like eating, and we love to have potlucks. The plants might not be as beautiful in terms of blooms as, say, the Perennial Group, but we can grill them and we can eat them. A lot of herbs are evergreen, and so they’re the backbone of our perennial gardens,” she said.
Each person in the Herb Army specializes in a different theme or herb. For example, Carol Payne, who has been volunteering for nearly 40 years, focuses on lavender. Kathy Shear monitors lemony herbs like lemon verbena and lemongrass. Phyllis Clay takes care of the basil. Donna Taylor looks after the rosemary and other culinary herbs. Bill Barclift grows a variety of thymes, Diana Jones nurtures salvias, and Cheryl Killingsworth and Mimi tend to the mints.
They also grow what Mimi refers to as “weird herbs”—herbs that may not be as popular or known. Instead of Tuscan Blue rosemary, lesser-known types would include Gorizia rosemary, Trailing prostrate rosemary, Huntington Carpet
rosemary, and even one called Barbecue rosemary, which has stiff stems that can be used as skewers for grilling to provide a rosemary flavor to food.
Cultivating plants for the Spring Plant Sale begins in the winter. “Practically everything that’s going to be sold at the sale has already been started, and throughout the winter and into early spring, we are in the midst of tending it on a weekly basis. Trimming it, fertilizing it, making sure it isn’t growing any bugs or fungus or anything. From now to the plant sale, we’re watching, waiting, and growing,” Mimi said.
Just as each herb has its own history and origin, so do the volunteers, who come from many different backgrounds. “I joined because I had an interest in herbs and gardening, but what has kept me coming as a volunteer is the friendships that I have formed over those years…some of my best friends are people that I have met in the group,” she added. Mimi has been volunteering for nearly 30 years. She says the group is welcoming to beginners and flexible with volunteers traveling or seeing family, as many of them have grandchildren and are retired.
Once the plant sale arrives, each of them love to talk about herbs and answer people’s questions. It’s the shared bond that helps them as a team grow all the plants for the plant sale.
“I joined because I had an interest in herbs and gardening, but what has kept me coming as a volunteer is the friendships that I have formed over those years.”
—MIMI BOSTON, HERB ARMY
MARCH / APRIL / MAY
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
Explore the Gardens’ spring wonders by joining us for these educational offerings and community gatherings. Register at bbgardens.org/classes
1. ST. PATRICK’S DAY DISH GARDENING
Tuesday, March 17 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Outdoor Classroom
Join Allison Creel of Blue Rooster Farms to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in this indoor gardening workshop. Participants will each create a seasonal dish garden to take home using a selection of hardy indoor plants, spring bulbs, and some wee surprises. Allison will give pointers for keeping your indoor plants at their best. Perfect for beginners and plant lovers alike—no green thumb required. $35 supply fee included.
Cost: $60 (Members) | $65 (Nonmembers)
2. YOGA ON THE HERB TERRACE
Friday, March 20 | 9–10 a.m.
Location: Herb Terrace
Unwind and enjoy the sights and aromas of the garden from our newly constructed Herb Terrace. In this outdoor yoga class, participants will be guided through a gentle, all-levels yoga practice focused on posture, flexibility, and balance. Beginners are welcome; please bring your own mat and dress for the weather. Extra mats will be available.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $25 (Nonmembers)
3. AROMI AZALEAS—BRED FOR ALABAMA’S CLIMATE
Tuesday, March 24 | 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Adventure Classroom
Mobile native Dr. Eugene Aromi set out to produce superior blooming azalea hybrids that could stand up to Alabama’s heat and humidity. In pursuit of his goal, Dr. Aromi carried out over 1,000 crosses and evaluated over 50,000 plants—of which he selected just over 100 to be named. Presented by Advanced Master Gardener David Doggett, this program will review the history of hybridizing azaleas and share beautiful photos of Dr. Aromi’s life work.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $25 (Nonmembers) 3 4
4. GOT SUN? GROW FOOD
Thursday, April 2 | 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Adventure Classroom
Think you need a big backyard to grow vegetables? Think again! Learn how to grow fresh veggies in any sunny spot—from suburban gardens to patios and balconies. Advanced Master Gardener Karen Mitchell will discuss how to choose the best vegetables for your space and inspire you with easy, rewarding options for a spring and summer garden. Perfect for beginners and small-space gardeners.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $25 (Nonmembers)
5. SPRING CONTAINER GARDENING
Friday, April 10 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Outdoor Classroom
Create a beautiful spring container garden to take home in this hands-on workshop with FBBG horticulturist Terry Phillips. You will learn about standout plants for spring containers and simple care tips, and design your own planter using the classic “filler, thriller, spiller” approach. Please bring your garden gloves! $35 supply fee included.
Cost: $60 (Members) | $65 (Nonmembers)
6. EMBRACING NATIVES: THE BENEFITS OF NATIVE LANDSCAPING IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Tuesday, April 14 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Outdoor Classroom
Learn about the many benefits that native plants offer both to the urban gardener and to the wildlife that rely on them in this multifaceted presentation by Isabelle Bracewell with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Isabelle will highlight native plants that are easy to install and discuss how to create urban spaces that are both beautiful and ecologically functional. As a part of this program, the group will explore various spaces where natives are cultivated within the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Garden paths in select areas are uneven. Comfortable shoes are suggested.
Cost: $25 (Members) | $30 (Nonmembers)
7. EMERGENCE OF THE 18TH-CENTURY ENGLISH LANDSCAPE GARDEN
Tuesday, April 21 | 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Hodges Room
Join Advanced Master Gardener Susan Hagen for an engaging exploration of the 18th-century English Landscape Garden, a style that emerged in deliberate contrast to the formality of Baroque design. This illustrated presentation examines the influential work of designers such as William Kent, Lancelot “Capability” Brown, and Humphry Repton, and highlights iconic landscapes including Rousham, Stowe, and Chatsworth Garden. Learn how these landscape designers promoted expansive, natural styles that opened the garden to the broader countryside, freeing the borders and expanding the views.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $25 (Nonmembers)
GROUP GUIDED TOURS
We are now booking guided tours for spring of 2026. Beginning March 3, Japanese Garden Tours are available Wednesdays at1 p.m. and Central Gardens tours are available Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. For more information or to book a tour, please visit bbgardens.org/tours.
8. WILDFLOWER WALKABOUT:
A DIARY OF ALABAMA TREKS
Tuesday, May 12 | 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Kaul Wildflower Garden
Wander through the Kaul Wildflower Garden with environmental educator and habitat gardener Michelle Reynolds and open your eyes to the abundance of plant diversity that contributes to Alabama’s ranking as fourth in the nation for biodiversity! Learn how to draw on this rich environment to inform your plant palette and gardening style at home. Participants will practice using iNaturalist to identify plants they see on their own walkabouts. Especially suited for native plant enthusiasts and people with a bit of an explorer in them. Garden paths are uneven. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $25 (Nonmembers)
9. ROOTED IN ROSES: THE JOURNEY TO BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS
Thursday, May 21 | 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Hodges Room
Known to many as America’s Favorite Rose Gardener or the Redneck Rosarian, Chris VanCleave has spent decades with dirt under
his nails and passion in his heart, growing roses that inspire beauty and connection. In this presentation, Chris will introduce the fundamentals of rose care tailored for Alabama’s climate. Attendees will learn how to select the right varieties, prepare soil, water and fertilize effectively, prune for healthy growth, and manage seasonal challenges. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners, this session provides practical tips to help your roses thrive and bloom beautifully year after year.
Cost: $20 (Members) | $ 25 (Nonmembers)
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Please join us for our Earth Day Celebration, where we'll connect with nature and community partners, and have a great time with one another! Bring friends and families to enjoy Earth Day activities at the Gardens.
10. DAYLILY GARDENING MASTER SERIES
Wednesdays: June 3, 10, 17 10 a.m.–noon
Location: Hodges Room
Discover the remarkable world of daylilies in this three-week course led by experienced daylily grower Rene Holliman, owner of Holliman Gardens. Each week will cover a different facet of this dynamic garden staple beginning with the history and anatomy of the modern daylily. In the second week, you will learn how to evaluate, select, and properly care for the daylilies in your garden. The course will finish with a discussion of soils, amendments, mulches, and fertilizers.
Cost: $90 (Members)
$95 (Non-members)
SAVE YOUR SPOT!
Early bird discount of $10 off registration during the month of March.
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY 2026 PROGRAM LAUNCH
Rooted in Community is designed to help interested community organizations take practical steps toward improving public green spaces. Participants receive a $500 monetary award that may be used to kickstart a new project or to advance an ongoing project—including grassroots beautification projects, community gardens, pollinator projects, sustainability initiatives, therapeutic horticulture, and similar endeavors. Together, we can promote civic pride and foster a stronger connection between the people of Greater Birmingham and the natural world. Applications open March 16 and are due by April 13.
To apply, visit bbgardens.org/rooted Awarded participants will be announced mid-May.
Participants must:
• Reside or work within the community they wish to beautify
• Be 18 years of age or have an adult sponsor
• Submit an application outlining the vision, timeline, and expected outcomes of their project
• Participate in program-related meetings and events at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Contact Ianthe’ Smith at ismith@ bbgardens.org or 205.414.3950, ext. 109 with any questions.
ALLIED EVENTS
JAPAN-AMERICA SOCIETY OF ALABAMA PRESENTS THE ANNUAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Saturday, March 21 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Explore the richness of Japanese culture through activities, delicious food, vibrant music, and thrilling martial arts demonstrations. Please note: parking is limited and carpooling or ridesharing is encouraged. A shuttle will be provided from Mountain Brook Office Park to the Gardens' entrance.
BIRMINGHAM FERN SOCIETY MEETINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Meetings are held on third Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Please email Louise Billings: mlcbillings@yahoo.com to reserve your spot. The programs below are free and open to the public.
March 18: Terry Phillips, horticulturist for the Kaul Wildflower Garden, will give a presentation about tree ferns.
May 20: Rhys Harris, a fern society member, will give a presentation on the recent improvements to the Fern Glade, including erosion mitigation, redesigning and adding rock borders to fern beds, adding a new trail along the top of the glade, and revealing the rock ledges of the waterfall.
Stay tuned for more information about special tours and the Fern Sale coming up in June!
NATURE TRIVIA NIGHTS
Thursdays | 7–9 p.m. | March 26, April 23, May 28
Location: Rushton Garden
Did you know that a blue jay’s feathers lack blue pigment and only appear blue because of an optical illusion called light scattering? Or that Alabama has the greatest diversity of Sarracenia pitcher plants in the world? Join naturalist Henry Hershey for an evening in Rushton Garden to play trivia, enjoy complimentary drinks, and learn something new. Novices to experts are welcome to compete for a chance to win a prize.
Cost: $15 (Members) | $20 (Nonmembers)
KIDS & FAMILIES
STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS
The 2nd and 4th Friday March–May | 10:30–11 a.m.
Location: Southern Living Garden
Cost: FREE and open to the public | Registration required Bring your preschoolers and little ones to enjoy a story in the gardens. This storytime fosters a love of reading, creativity, and nature. Weather permitting.
PLAYTIME AT THE GARDENS
The 1st and 3rd Fridays of March and May 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Location: Arrington Plant Adventure Zone
Cost: FREE and open to the public | Registration required Join us in the Garden Lab where your little ones will experience a unique blend of guided activities, nature immersive play, and connection in our sensory garden. For children ages 2–5 years old accompanied by an adult.
LIBRARY & ARCHIVES
The Library at the Gardens is a wonderful resource for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone who wants to learn more about gardening. Bring your Jefferson County public library card to check out books. Visit the Library 9 a.m.–4 p.m. weekdays.
THYME TO READ
A monthly book club
Select Tuesdays | 4 p.m.
Location: Library at the Gardens Free and open to the public
Tuesday, March 3
Birding to Change the World: A Memoir by Trish O’Kane
Tuesday, April 7
How Can I Help?: Saving Nature with Your Yard by Douglas Tallamy
Tuesday, May 5
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Children’s Summer Camps
Spark your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity this summer with fun learning experiences in the beautiful natural setting of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Each camp will include daily explorations of the Gardens related to the camp topic; games and crafts in the Garden Center classrooms, centered on STEM and literacy activities; and free play and learning in the Plant Adventure Zone Garden Lab.
CAMPS WILL RUN 9 A.M.–NOON EACH DAY.
$160 (MEMBERS)* | $200 (NONMEMBERS)
REGISTER ONLINE AT BBGARDENS.ORG/SUMMERCAMPS
1. GRAB YOUR PASSPORT
May 26–29 (4 days)
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Explore plants from across the globe and learn about their incredibly diverse climates and cultures. Visit Asia in the Japanese Garden; explore the deserts and tropics of India in the Conservatory; experience Europeanstyle gardens in the Dunn Formal Rose Garden; and tour the African savanna in the Kaul Wildflower Garden.
2. GARDEN TO TABLE
June 1–5
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Science you can eat! Learn where our food comes from, how to grow it, and how to prepare recipes using ingredients found in the Gardens. We’ll “eat the rainbow” and learn what nutrients are provided by brightly colored fruits and vegetables to help keep us healthy and strong. As we explore Bruno Vegetable Garden, the Herb Terrace, and fruit trees in the Conservatory, we’ll also learn about composting and how to turn kitchen scraps into healthy soil.
3. NATURE’S ENGINEERS
June 8–12
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Did you know that a lot of buildings, machines, and technology created by humans have been inspired by animals, birds, and insects? In this camp, we’ll study some of the most intriguing designs of the animal and insect kingdom—such as spiderwebs, bird nests, and beaver dams—and then create our own natureinspired structures.
4. PLANT BELIEVE IT OR NOT
June 15–18 (4 days)
For children 5 years old to rising 6th graders
In this camp, we’ll see how scientists and engineers are creating new solutions to difficult problems—like building a faster Mars rover or designing a more accurate robot hand—all by studying plants! Jump into the wild and wacky world of plants such as tumbleweeds, Venus flytraps, and sunflowers to learn how they adapt to their environments in amazing ways.
5. GARDEN ARTISTS
June 22–26
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Roll up your sleeves and express your creativity using natural materials to make all sorts of art inspired by the beauty of the natural world around us. We’ll learn how to study patterns, colors, shapes, and lines in nature and sharpen our observation skills. We’ll also take a walk to study sculptures in the Gardens and see how they enhance the landscape.
6. ENCHANTED FOREST
July 6–10
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
The Gardens are brimming with enchantment if you know where to look. Through storytelling and imaginative play, we’ll discover the hidden magic of the Gardens as we explore forest habitats and miniature worlds found beneath leaves and rocks, where fairies and gnomes may roam. We’ll also create and build a fairy or gnome house to take home.
7. BUGS AT WORK
July 13–17
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Small yet mighty, insects are “the little things that run the world,” as the naturalist E.O. Wilson said. They may be creepy and crawly, but they also help keep our soil
healthy, keep rivers clean, vacuum up scraps, eliminate pests, and pollinate all sorts of plants to keep our ecosystem going. “Bug out” with us about all the different ways insects benefit the environment, and discover ways to support them.
8. NATURE’S MUSIC MAKERS
July 20–24
For children 4 years old to rising 3rd graders
Whether it’s the wind rustling through the leaves, cheerful birdsong, a buzzing bee, or water burbling in a stream, the gardens are filled with music. In this camp, we’ll explore rhythm and sound in nature and learn where these sounds come from—and how and why they are made. We’ll make our own handmade windchimes, rattles, and other instruments inspired by nature’s songs.
Become a member of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens at the Family level or above and save 20% on select numbers of summer camp registrations.
For more information, contact Programs & Registration Coordinator
Ashely Grace Passey at 205.414.3950, ext. 106, or apassey@bbgardens.org.
*Family level and above
by Carmen Michael
Photos
Flowering Outdoors: Gardens & Parties
FEATURING MARGOT SHAW
Thursday, March 12 • Reception at 5:30 p.m. • Presentation at 6 p.m.
Lecture Hall • Book signing to follow hosted by Leaf & Petal at the Gardens Registration required • bbgardens.org/spencerlecture
The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens is excited to welcome leading author and magazine editor Margot Shaw as the special guest speaker for the 26th annual Spencer Lecture. Margot is the founder and editor-in-chief of Flower Magazine, which features homes, gardens, entertaining, and lifestyle. She is a sought-after speaker at antiques and garden shows, museums, botanical
gardens, interior design centers, garden clubs, and more. She is the author of the book Living Floral: Entertaining and Decorating with Flowers
Her new book is called Flowering Outdoors: Gardens & Parties, published by Rizzoli in February. With co-author Lydia Somerville and a foreword by Bunny Williams, the book includes inspiration for haute home hosting, and floral artistry.
May Membership Month
Members of Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens are an essential part of supporting and cultivating this urban oasis that showcases the biodiversity of Alabama in the heart of Birmingham. Together, the Friends have made many enhancements to the Gardens possible, helping to create connection with plants, the environment, and the broader community. During May Membership Month, we are celebrating you!
Over the past year, with your support, we:
• Gave thousands of school children the chance to discover the Gardens' wonders through our educational programs.
• Hosted over 7,200 participants in multicultural and community events.
• With the help of our dedicated volunteers, planted and harvested over 1,800 pounds of fresh produce to help combat food insecurity in our community.
• Through our summer internship program, gave three dedicated young people the chance to gain hands-on experience working in public gardens.
• Welcomed thousands of shoppers to Spring and Fall Plant Sales, providing valuable information, celebrating the importance of plants and gardens, and raising much-needed funds.
• Facilitated 15 local, grassroots, green-space initiatives through the Rooted in Community program.
• Completed a top-to-bottom, much-needed renovation of the Herb Terrace; repaired shingles on the Japanese Garden zigzag bridge; and improved irrigation throughout the Gardens.
This monthlong celebration highlights the impact of our shared commitment and offers special perks for new, renewing, and current members, including:
MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE TOURS:
SATURDAY, MAY 16
10 a.m.—Kaul Wildflower Garden 11 a.m.—Bruno Vegetable Garden and Herb Terrace Noon—Japanese Garden
New, renewing, and current members are welcome—registration required. bbgardens.org/membertours
MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL
Enjoy $10 off any new or gift membership purchased during May. Use code MM26 at bbgardens.org/membership.
CHOOSE FROM KEEPSAKE ITEMS FOR MEMBERS JOINING OR RENEWING
Take advantage of other great member benefits such as a new “retro” t-shirt and collectible handkerchiefs, free or discounted admission to 380+ botanical gardens nationwide; 10% off regularly priced plant purchases at member partner nurseries, garden centers, and flower shops; 20% off our children’s summer camps, and more!
S ave the date OCTOBER 1–4
We are excited to announce the 20th anniversary of Antiques at the Gardens, celebrating two decades of exquisitely curated antiques; internationally acclaimed experts on interior design, architecture, and garden design; and local floral artistry. Antiques has grown into our largest fundraiser with major regional impact, helping the nonprofit Friends play a critical role in supplementing the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ operational needs and ensuring the ongoing stewardship and enhancement of this beloved community treasure.
20 years of beauty, style, and philanthropy
FEW HIGHLIGHTS
The Junior League (plus a men’s committee) brings Antiques to the Gardens. The event, themed “Heirlooms in Bloom,” featured 33 premier antiques dealers from across the country and included a black tie “First Look” party, Friday and Saturday lectures, lunches, exclusive garden tours, and wine and cheese tastings.
Alabama-born, Manhattan-based Richard Keith Langham delivers a Friday lecture, his first appearance for Antiques at the Gardens. He has been an integral part of the show as a host and ambassador ever since.
2009 Red Diamond Coffee & Tea begins sponsoring the Friday lectures and has generously continued do so ever since. This year also marked the first year to recognize honorees and individuals who have contributed greatly to the Gardens’ success.
2012 The Thursday evening party becomes “Gala in the Gardens.” This was also the first year to feature “Tastemakers,” a dozen regionally and nationally known architects, interior designers, and landscape designers who created themed areas.
2013 This year brought the debut of “Tastebuds,” an intimate ticketed lecture event sponsored by FLOWER magazine. Floral designers were showcased with featured arrangements in Tastemaker booths.
2014 We celebrated the 50th anniversary of Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
2016 Two new happenings were added to the show: a “Shop the Show” event and specialty workshops.
2017 “Southern Sunday” lectures and panels debut.
2018 Keynote speaker Martha Stewart increased media coverage and helped AATG reach record earnings.
2021 The 15-year anniversary of Antiques at the Gardens was held outdoors due to COVID-19 restrictions. Lectures were held under swoon-worthy giant tents, festooned with flowers and draping.
2022 Antiques gets a new look! New branding created by design firm Devote celebrates the power of design, the wisdom in antiquity, the beauty of nature, and the ways they speak to one another. This year also marks the inclusion of the first design and textile sponsor, Sister Parish Design
2025 Antiques at the Gardens continues to grow in scope and regional impact, garnering international acclaim and attracting design sponsors such as de Gournay, Lee Jofa, and Schumacher
HOSTED BY FRIENDS OF BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS’ JUNIOR BOARD
ROSÉ IN THE ROSES
Thursday, May 7
5:30 – 7 P.M.
DUNN FORMAL ROSE GARDEN
Presenting Spons or : Shoal Creek Propert ies
Wine Sponsor: Fin ch Fine Wines
PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE FRIENDS' SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
VISIT
BBGARDE NS.ORG /ROSE FOR RESERVAT IONS
Welcome New Staff!
Terry Phillips serves as the new horticulturist for Kaul Wildflower Garden. He jokes that before he began studying ecology and working at various nurseries around Birmingham, he could probably identify only poison ivy, thanks to his Boy Scout training. He has since worked at Andy’s Creekside Nursery, Shoppe, and Leaf & Petal. These experiences transformed his “plant-blindness” by helping him become knowledgeable and appreciative of plants. “Native flora and ecology are something I care deeply about, and getting to work in the Kaul Wildflower Garden is definitely a dream job!” he said.
Welcome New Board Members!
MELANIE BRIDGEFORTH
Melanie Bridgeforth is a nationally recognized public policy strategist and the founder of Bridgeforth, an impact strategy firm. An alumna of Leadership Birmingham and current member of Leadership Alabama Class XXXV, she is an Ascend Fellow at the Aspen Institute and past guest speaker at the Aspen Ideas Festival. She was the chief executive of VOICES for Alabama’s Children and later became the architect behind the transformation of a regional women’s fund into the Women’s Foundation of Alabama. Among other initiatives, she helped advance the state’s first Equal Pay Statute and Alabama’s historic $67.5 million Child Care Tax Credit legislation. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Birmingham and a former board member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta–Birmingham Branch. Melanie is also a fifth-generation descendent of farmers who established Alabama’s largest Black-owned farm, Bridgeforth Farms.
MARGARET COBBS
Margaret Cobbs has been an avid gardener since early married life in California, where the Bay Area climate and fertile soil lent itself to horticultural endeavors. After returning to Birmingham, she continued to expand her plant knowledge through courses at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens including composting, native plants, rainwater collection, flower arranging, and vegetable gardening. In 2021, Margaret completed a six-week online course with Floret Farm in Washington State, focusedon small-scale flower farming production, and in 2022, she founded Velma Blooms: a small, home-grown flower business. In 2024, she completed the Master Gardeners course at Jones Valley Urban Farm. Margaret formerly worked in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program at IPC Day School and currently tutors with STAIR at Hayes K-8. Margaret is a member of the Little Garden Club and the Garden Club of America and volunteers with the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Native Plants group.
2026 Junior Board President Joseph Echols
JOE FRENCH
Joe French grew up in Birmingham and is a community volunteer. Being a part of the Gardens runs in his family—his grandfather, William Dunn, Jr., was the second president of the Birmingham Botanical Society (precursor to the Friends) during the Gardens’ formative years in the late 60s and his grandmother, Beverley Dunn, was an avid garden club member and acclaimed flower arranger. Joe’s mother, Mary French, was a member of the Friends’ Board and his sister, Beverley Hoyt, was Board Chair from 2017 to 2018. His grandfather is the namesake of the Dunn Formal Rose Garden. Joe is a graduate of the University of Richmond and holds an MBA from Vanderbilt University. He recently relocated back to Birmingham from Fort Worth, Texas, and will draw on his experience in banking and real estate in his work with the Friends. Joe is an enthusiastic proponent of the Gardens and is looking forward to continuing his family’s legacy of involvement and support.
BRANDON KELLEY
Brandon Kelley brings more than twenty years’ experience in the construction industry to our Friends Board of Directors. He earned a bachelor’s degree in building construction from Auburn University and is vice president of project management for Birminghambased C.S. Beatty Construction. Brandon and his colleagues at C.S. Beatty are long-time supporters of the Friends’ work at the Gardens, readily lending their construction expertise, helping to evaluate current conditions, assessing needs and options, and laying out work plans for repairs and improvements. Brandon will be a welcome addition to the Board’s Operations Committee, helping to identify needs and establish priorities for project work around the Gardens.
Joseph Echols has been an active member of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens Junior Board since 2019 and frequently volunteers at the Gardens throughout the year. He serves as corporate counsel at Kemper Insurance, where he manages litigated matters presenting extracontractual exposure to corporate entities and advises property and casualty claim professionals in claim-handling best practices. Joseph's goals for the Junior Board in 2026 include increasing awareness and involvement from young professionals and building on the success of the Board's signature fundraisers, which support the Friends' Public Gardens Internships.
BART McCORQUODALE
Bartley McCorquodale is the CEO of McCorquodale Transfer LLC, a moving and storage company with eleven locations across Alabama and the Southeast. McCorquodale Transfer LLC was created in 1996 to help individuals and businesses needing to transport high-end antiques. Since then, the company has expanded its scope of services to accommodate the moving needs of homeowners, retail stores, small business owners, designers, and Fortune 500 © businesses in addition to storage, shipping, and receiving services. Bart has long been involved with Antiques at the Gardens, and will be one of the honorees for this year’s 20th anniversary celebration.
DEBRA NELSON
Debra Nelson is the president of Elevate Communications, a firm offering customized training, executive coaching, and consulting services. She has a record of successfully leading inclusion efforts at Mercedes-Benz USA, DaimlerChrysler, and MGM Resorts International. Debra serves on the Noland Health Services Board of Directors, the President’s Cabinet at UA, and the Board of Visitors for the College of Communication and Information Sciences at UA. She is an inductee of the Nevada Women’s Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, recipient of the Athena Award for Leadership, and the first African American woman and non-engineer to receive the Leadership Award from the Engineering Council of Birmingham. She is a graduate of Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Las Vegas and a member of the Rotary Club of Birmingham and The Links, Incorporated.
JIM PICKLE
Jim Pickle is the vice president of acquisitions and corporate development at Protective Life Corporation and previously worked as an attorney with Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP and Maynard Cooper & Gale, where his work focused on mergers and acquisitions. Before moving to Birmingham, Jim lived in Washington, D.C. with his wife, Julia. Jim has lived in a number of cities across the U.S., including New York and Chicago. Jim earned his B.S. and J.D. from Washington and Lee University and his MBA from Northwestern University–Kellogg School of Management. Jim previously served as the Chair of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Junior Board, and Jim attributes his involvement in the Gardens to his family’s experiences in horticulture and his desire to help expand the reach of an iconic Birmingham landmark.
ROBERT PLESS
Robert Pless is a proud native of Birmingham, Alabama. He attended Altamont School, graduated from Middlebury College with degrees in Classics (Greek and Latin) and American Literature, and subsequently earned an MBA at UAB. He has spent most of his professional career in commercial banking, including the past 19 years with ServisFirst Bank. His family passionately supports local nonprofit organizations that focus on education, the arts, and the outdoors. In his free time, Robert enjoys most outdoor pursuits, particularly hunting, fishing, hiking and gardening, and he has a special interest in trail ultramarathons, having completed over three dozen to date. Supporting the Gardens is a family affair— Robert's wife Gail is a long time volunteer in the Library at the Gardens.
2026 Rotaract Board Fellow KAYLA HARRIS
The Friends is proud to be a partner in the 2026 Rotaract Board Fellows Program and welcomes Kayla Harris as our Board Fellow for the year. Kayla Harris serves as Executive Assistant to the CEO at the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (MAX Transit). Holding a bachelor’s degree in public health from UAB and an MBA from the University of North Alabama, Kayla has a commitment to public service began through her work with AmeriCorps, where she supported public health and food access research that aimed at improving quality of life for Birmingham residents. She is a member of the Junior League of Birmingham, Rotaract Birmingham, the National Council of Negro Women, the NAACP, and the Junior Board of the YWCA of Central Alabama.
Plant the Seeds for Your Lasting Legacy at the Gardens
JOIN OUR PERENNIAL LEGACY GIVING CIRCLE
You can help us perpetuate the wonders of Birmingham Botanical Gardens and all that it means to our community and region by including the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens in your planned giving. Every gift makes an impact. Please consider designating the Friends as a beneficiary of your estate through your will, charitable trust, or retirement beneficiary designation. We are grateful to all who have made this special commitment. Please join them in supporting and protecting this beloved community resource. Call Director of Development Penney Hartline at 205.414.3950, ext. 103, to learn more.
THE PERENNIAL LEGACY GIVING SOCIETY
As of January 1, 2026
Recognizing those who have made or pledged a planned gift
Mr.* & Mrs. Edgar G. Aldridge
Mr. & Mrs.* Michael Balliet
Ms. Camille A. Becker
Mrs. Lucille S. Beeson*
Orrin Ford* & Peggy Bonfield
Ida C. & D. Joseph Burns*
Mr. & Mrs. Arthur I. Chenoweth*
Mary Carolyn Gibbs Cleveland
Suzanne G. Clisby
Dr. & Mrs. D.C. Coston
Mrs. Martha Stone Cobb Daniel*
The Daniel Foundation of Alabama
Dr. L. Aubrey* & Elizabeth
Drewry
The Dunn-French Family
Dr. John D. Elmore*
Martha B. & Robert L. Eskew*
Mrs. Trudy Evans
Mr. & Mrs. Wally Evans
Mrs. Claire H. Fairley*
Bernadine Rushing Faulkner
Mr. F. Lewter Ferrell, Jr.*
Dorothy Ireland Fletcher*
Dr.* & Mrs. Charles P. Grant
Patti Hammond
Jody & Don Hamre*
Penney & Roger Hartline
Mr. R.R. Herbst*
Mrs. Jimmie Hess*
Mr. J. Ernest Hill & Mrs. Ora Lee Hill*
Mrs. Jane Hinds
Fay B. Ireland*
Dr. Susan Jackson
Mr. George L. Jenkins
Bobbe & Hugh Kaul*
Ms. Pamela Kaul*
Fran Lawlor
Sallie Lee*
William Brock Lewis
Dr. Bodil Lindin-Lamon*
Hope Long
Dr. Michael E. Malone
Annie Lee Buce Matthews*
Ms. Louise T. McAvoy*
Douglas A.* & Linda P. McCullough
Margaret H. McGowan*
Anne & Ira Mitchell
Mrs. Mary Jean Morawetz
Mr. Philip Morris*
Thelma Vaughan Mueller*
Mr.* & Mrs. Fred W. Murray, Jr.
Don & Pat Nelson
Dr. James L. Newsome*
Dr. & Mrs. A. I. Perley*
LeAnne* & Steve Porter
Mrs. Carol P. Poynor
Mrs. Dorothy L. Renneker*
Deborah & John Sellers
Sandra S. Simpson
Mr. & Mrs. William M. Spencer III*
Frederick R. Spicer, Jr.
Mr. Douglas Arant Stockham
Janet & Jarry Taylor
Dr. Wendell H. Taylor, Sr.*
Lucille “Lucy” Ryals Thompson*
Mrs. Barbara D. Thorne*
Dr. & Mrs. Jack W. Trigg, Jr.*
Mrs. Carolyn D. Tynes*
Mrs. Ann H. “Nancy” Warren*
Mrs. Robert Wells
Donald A. Wood, Ph.D.
Louise Wrinkle
Anonymous (3)
Thank you for your support!
We are grateful for the many ways that you show your support of the Friends throughout the year! Your annual membership, contributions, and volunteer service are critical to our continued success. As a friend of the Gardens, you join others who treasure both the natural world and the Gardens' important role in our community. Thank you for helping us keep the Birmingham Botanical Gardens special.
—Penney Hartline, Director of Development
HONORARIUMS
Nov 2025–Jan 2026
Julia Adams
Paula & Mike Rushing
Margaret & Bruce Alexander
Carolyn & Henry Frohsin
Emily & Bill Bowron
Dr. & Mrs. Roger Smith
James F. Carter
Cambridge Study Club
Stephen Colvin & Jaime Martinez
Mr. R. Dan Colvin
D.C. & Debbie Coston
Elisabeth Coston Penry
Eleanor Estes
Emily Bowron
Walter “Wally” B. Evans, Jr.
Emily Bowron
Wendy Evesque
Emily Bowron
Terri Ferguson
Judge Caryl Privett
S. Edwin Fineberg
Rachel & Dave Oser
Betty McAnnally
Floradora Garden Club
The Herb Army
RADM. & Mrs. John T. Natter
Birthday of Lynn B. Jackson
Paula Thompson
Jim Jacobi
Margaret & Bob Agnew
Norman Kent Johnson
Susie & Peter Jander
Sallie & Jim Johnson
Mr. & Mrs. Randall
H. Morrow
Bob Koons
Paula & Mike Rushing
Caroline Little
Emily Bowron
Caroline, Jason & Connor McClain
Carolyn & Bill Satterfield
Mike Rushing
Mrs. Martha M. Council
Helen Simmons
Helen & Chris Harmon
Charles Simpson
Graham & Company, Inc
Jane & Tom Underwood
Mr. & Mrs. Harry
A. Rissetto
Jane Underwood
Snippers Garden Club
Grace Bushnell Whatley
Judge Caryl Privett
Louise A. Wrinkle
Prof. William Hood
George L. Jenkins
*Deceased
MEMORIALS
Nov 2025–Jan 2026
Thomas “Tommy” Gilbert Amason, Jr.
Susan & Tom Lowder
Caron Rothe Andrasko
Rebecca & Terry Russell and Roy, Joan & Blake Wester
William “Bill” Charles Bailey, Sr.
Valley Offshoots
Garden Club
James “Jim”
Douglas Baker
Anonymous
Dr. Phillip Darwin Bell
Dr. Tika Benveniste
Dr. Cathy Fuller
The Haaland Family
Ms. Cathleen Hard
Miss Janet Heil
The Barbara Heil Family
Carolyn & Ed Inscho
Dr. Ryan Reichert
Mr. Greg Rollins
Mr. Charles Smith
Capt. Lane Wooley
Ted Berglund III
Sandy Berglund
Patti “Lulu” Vann
Fowler Carlton
Mr. & Mrs. Troy
D. Wallwork
Ella Cobbs Cook
Anonymous
Judge Caryl Privett
Hayden Hope Doores
Treva & Randy Doores
Laura & Robert Lindstrom
Baby Doores
Treva & Randy Doores
Laura & Robert Lindstrom
The Honorable Anne
Dahlene Lamkin Durward
Dr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Lamkin, Sr.
Henrietta Parker
Swain Emack
Anonymous
Martha Bonner Eskew & Robert L. Eskew, Sr.
Dr. Glenn T. Eskew
Mr. & Mrs. John R. Eskew
Linda & Butch McIntosh
Martha Reeves Fazio
Margaret & Charles Arndt
John Alex Floyd, Jr.
Paula & Mike Rushing
Sara Jacqueline “Jackie”
Stevens Hall
Kelly & Clark Hammond
Nancy Meyer Handley
Taffi & David Bailey
Miss Nicole Barranco
Mrs. Marilyn Cox
Annette & Walter Dean
Ms. Ruby J. Hickey
The Noojin Family
Mr. & Mrs. Frederick W. Renneker IV
Ms. Lynne Thomas
The Kelvin Wells Family
Louise Phillips Kimbrell
Susan & Steve Tipler
George “Buzzy” Wheeler Matthews, Jr.
Sandra & Jerry Parker
Carol Ann McCoy
Ms. Freida S. McCoy
Jennifer Lynne Brown Miles
Cindy & Greg Bauer
Nancy & Joe Bird
Birmingham Radiological Group
Ms. Jo Ellen R. Brown
Susan Colvin, Beau Whatley & Alec Whatley
Mrs. Madeleine Grover
Warren
Ms. Elizabeth Guffey
Mr. & Mrs. Britt McCall
Mr. & Mrs. Rob McDaniel & Your Helen Family
Mrs. Molly Miller
Dr. Teresa Moran
Barbara & Bill Morgan
Carol Lee Perkins Poynor
Margaret & Charles Arndt
Cindy & Brian Barr
Mr. & Mrs. Charles H. Simpson
Elizabeth “Libby” Hard Rich
Nancy Hayley & Linda Hayley
Louise “Weesie” Goodall Smith
Anonymous Paula & Mike Rushing
John F. Stadtlander
Carolyn Emmons
Stadtlander & Todd Hansen Emmons
Hugh Browning
Thornton, Jr.
Ms. Sara Shaw Crook
Linda Etten Vann
Katie & Bobby Howard
Janet Maultsby Waller
Ms. Sara Shaw Crook
Charles Lee Watkins
Mark van der Woerd
Katherine S. Weed
Warren E. Weed
Robert “Bob” Joseph Wendorf
Paula & Mike Rushing
Photos courtesy of Betty Anderson, and by Ashleigh Jones, Emily Street, and Graham Yelton
AROUND THE GARDENS
Volunteer Favorites Featured at Spring Plant Sale
The Spring Plant Sale provides many botanical options for gardeners to choose from each year. Whether flowers, shrubs, vegetables, or herbs, each one comes with its own characteristics and growing needs. Here are some favorites—along with tips and tricks—from our growing group volunteers.
By ASHLEIGH JONES
Perennials Group
1. LENTEN ROSE, HELLEBORE (Helleborus orientalis)
Lenten roses, or hellebores, are herbaceous perennials in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). While its leaves and plant parts are toxic, it is still a popular choice at the Spring Plant Sale for its visual appeal. According to Patty Finnegan, member of the Perennials growing group, these resilient flowers love shade and multiply fast. “You can have Lenten roses for generations,” she said. “They look like such delicate plants, but they don’t die back, so you have nice greenery all winter long.”
Native Plants Group
2. CUMBERLAND PAGODA-PLANT (Blephilia subnuda)
This native perennial is in the mint family (Lamiaceae). About 2 feet tall with white and light purple blooms, this plant’s flower clusters mimic the tiered floors of a pagoda and bloom between May and June. Betty Anderson, colead of the Native Plants growing group, says
this plant requires part shade and part sun as well as moist exposure. “It likes lime soil and is endemic to the Cumberland Plateau in Alabama,” she said.
Tropicals and Houseplants Group
3. DESERT ROSE (Adenium obesum)
The desert rose is the favorite of one of the Tropicals and Houseplants volunteers, Emily Street. “Adenium are tropical succulents known for their beautiful flowers and bulbous, water-storing caudices,” she said. “In summer, Adenium prefers hot, bright sun and frequent feeding and watering; in winter dormancy, it can go weeks to even months without water when stored in a cool, dark place above 50ºF.”
Herb Army
4. SPANISH LAVENDER (Lavandula stoechas)
A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), Spanish lavender is a heat-tolerant, evergreen sub-shrub. It also has purple modified leaves or bracts that resemble what many gardeners
call “rabbit ears.” According to Herb Army volunteer Mimi Boston, lavender needs “good drainage, lots of sun, no mulch and a little bit of lime. Lavender is used in aromatherapy and has beneficial properties in aiding relaxation.”
Trees and Shrubs Group
5. SOURWOOD TREE (Oxydendrum arboreum)
The sourwood tree is an understory tree that produces white, bell-shaped flowers in the summer. “Oxydendrum arboreum attracts pollinators and songbirds and is treasured by beekeepers who produce sourwood honey,” said Bob Koons, lead volunteer in the Trees and Shrubs Group. “Expect some pretty spectacular crimson to purple fall foliage on this tree once it matures.” Bob recommends planting this tree in late fall or early winter before the ground becomes frozen. Even in dormancy, the tree will still grow roots if the ground stays thawed. “The beauty of Oxydendrum arboreum is the angular random pattern that the central trunk of the tree follows, so don’t prune or try to “straighten out” the new growth—just let it happen!”
2612 Lane Park Road Birmingham, Alabama 35223
205.414.3950 bbgardens.org
Thank you for your commitment to this community treasure. Your support is vital for the Gardens and those we serve. Please renew or upgrade your membership at bbgardens.org/membership.
A bearded iris (Iris x germanica) borders Long Life Lake in the Japanese Garden. A spring-blooming perennial, this plant has three violet upright ‘standards’ and three gracefully arched ‘falls,’ which are the soft, fuzzy beards it’s named after. This sun-loving flower is named after the Greek goddess, Iris, which means “rainbow.”
The Garden Dirt is printed using vegetable-based inks. Please recycle.