Nov Dec Jan 17 Newsletter

Vol. 36, No. 4 • november-december-january 2016-2017

h u n t s v i l l e

b o t a n i c a l

g a r d e n Presenting Sponsor:

Galaxy of Lights

Galaxy Info page 3

Congratulations Galaxy of Lights for receiving one of the 2016 “Best of the Best” awards for attractions.

The September/October issue of Destinations Magazine is a guide to North America’s best group travel destinations, state-by-state itineraries, planning calendars, and essential marketing and strategic insight. Awarded the Best Place To See The Twinkling Stars, The Huntsville Botanical Garden was one of 57 attractions throughout the country to receive an award.

Beginning January 14 » page 4

information General Information

Garden Board Members

Website: www.hsvbg.org

NEW Board of Directors David Harbarger, Chairman Mary Griffith, Vice Chairman Beth Richardson, Treasurer MG (Ret.) Joe Bergantz, Assistant Treasurer Warne Heath, Secretary John Allen Cynthia Almodovar David Bier Penny Billings Paul Bogosian Lynn Carden LTG (Ret.) Mark Curran Mike DeMaioribus Cindy Gray Linda Green Carolyn Faraci Kyle Findlay Tharon Honeycutt Marc Jacobson Kim Lewis Terry Lewis Lana Ritch Emily Robertson Reba Rogers Beth Sippel Jan Smith MG (Ret.) Al Sullivan Kathi Tew

Hours: Winter Hours » October - March: Monday - Saturday, 9 AM - 5 PM Sunday, 12 - 5 PM April - September: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 9 AM - 6 PM Thursday, 9 AM - 8 PM (or dusk) Sunday, 12 - 6 PM

Telephone: Garden Attendant: 256-830-4447 + ext.

Fax: 256-830-5314 Garden Departments: Butterfly Releases, ext. 294 Development, ext. 239 Education: 256-837-4344

or 256-837-4104 Facility Rental, ext. 237, 243, 251 Group Tours, ext. 223 Membership, ext. 229 Memorials/Honoraria, ext. 228 Shoppe at the Garden, ext. 221 Sponsorships, ext. 239 Volunteers, ext. 238 senior staff: CEO | Paula Steigerwald Chief Operating Officer | Kathy Gilder VP of Guest Experience | Melissa Riley VP of Communications & Programming | Carol Casey VP of Institutional Advancement | Amy Hamilton Director of Education | Soozi Pline Director of Horticulture | Niki Sothers Director of Finance | Amy Moore

Mission:

Our Garden will achieve world-class recognition by balancing year-round botanical displays, strong educational programs and specialized research. The unique aspect of our Garden will be the blending of traditional botanical garden elements, the aesthetic heritage of our region, the conservation of our natural resources, and our thrust into the future.

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from the CEO

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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Advisory Board Mark Curran, Chairman Terry Bradford Shirley Brown Carole Anne Ellers Mary Grace Evans Kerry Fehrenbach Jeff Gronberg Paula Lecher Eric Mills Tony Osani Dr. Ken Rivenbark Chris Robinson Dr. Jim Rogers Beth Sippel Carol Tevepaugh Foundation Board Beth Wise, Chairman Phylis Baron Bobby Bradley David Lucas Roy Nichols John Purdy Linda Smith Bill Snoddy John Stallworth Middie Thompson John Wynn

Holiday Schedule The Garden and the Shoppe at the Garden observe the following holidays:

Thanksgiving Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

Christmas Eve

(closes at 2 PM, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

Christmas Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

News Year’s Eve

(closes at 2 PM, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

New Year’s Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

“Best of the Best”…

that’s how the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Galaxy of Lights is accurately described!! The American Bus Association recently

recognized top destinations and events in the U.S. and Canada across several categories, based on qualitative and quantitative evaluations. So when they identified Galaxy as the “best place to see twinkling stars” we were thrilled, but not surprised! While the event itself is ‘out of this world’, I think it’s the Guys and Gals of Galaxy that are truly the Best of the Best. Congratulations for this well-deserved award!

The Guest Center has reached new heights, literally! From the front, the addition of the cupola takes the highest point to 43 feet. It may not be a rocket, but it is certainly an impressive icon. From the back, the conservatory ‘sparkles’ as it gives a peek inside. Most of the work now is with the interior detailing and we are in for the home stretch. Our team is working very hard selecting merchandise for the new gift shop, finalizing furnishings throughout the building, and planning all the details to enhance our guest experience. It’s an exciting time – no doubt!

We encourage you to be a part of this moment in time, as you see your Garden transform, as we ‘dream no small dream’. There are ways for everyone to be involved…maybe it’s a financial gift or maybe by offering your time as a much needed volunteer in making our guests and members feel at home.

We need you…We want you…and we thank you for all the encouragement along the way.

As my son says, “It’s getting real!”

Paula Steigerwald, CEO

featured events Galaxy of Lights

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t’s hard to believe it’s time again for the popular Galaxy of Lights. The Guys have been busy taking the displays out of the warehouse and out to the field ready for installation. There are two new animated displays this year. One is Santa with a happy dog and cat and the other is a football player kicking a field goal. Soon the Garden will have thousands of twinkling lights, Santa, and a walk in the snow at everybody’s favorite Icicle Forest. If anyone would like to volunteer during the Galaxy season, please contact the Garden Volunteer Coordinator.

Pricing will remain the same as last year. The Garden is ever-mindful of the needs of the community. And, as in previous years, we will be collecting coats, blankets, mittens, nonperishable food items and pet food. A $1 discount per car will be given for any of these items. We are also a drop-off point for Toys for Tots. Pets will get in free with a donation of a bag of pet food.

These donations will be given to the Greater Huntsville Humane Society. On all Monday driving nights, we will offer a $5 discount for military with IDs. presenting Sponsor:

Come see the Galaxy of Lights tree at the Tinsel Trail.

The Tinsel Trail is open to the public daily until midnight.

Trees are lit from dusk until midnight each night beginning November 25.

WALKING NIGHT ADMISSION MEMBERS: Adults $7; Children 3+ $3; Dogs $1 NON-MEMBERS: Adults $8; Children 3+ $4; Dogs $1 Tickets may be purchased in advance in the Shoppe at the Garden

Thanksgiving – December 31, 2016 5:30 pm - 9:00 PM

Over 2

,0 in priz 00 es !!!

Galaxy of Lights 5k » monday, november 28 » 6:30 PM Galaxy of Lights 3k Holiday Dash » Tuesday, november 29 » 6:30 PM Race Sponsors:

Friday, November 11 – Monday, November 14 Friday, November 18 – Tuesday, November 22 Dog Walking Nights – November 14 & 21 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

DRIVING NIGHTS

$

Check the website for all information and registration »

WALKING NIGHTS

www.hsvbg.org

*Galaxy of Lights will be closed Monday, November 28 for the Galaxy 5k and Tuesday, November 29 for the Galaxy 3k Holiday Dash.

DRIVING NIGHT ADMISSION Passenger Car - $25/car (Up to 10) Vans & Tour Buses - $25 for up to 10 people $3 each add’l person (Tour bus driver is free)

PURCHASE TICKETS At the Gate: $25 (Many nights discounted to $20. See hsvbg.org for “at the gate” rates per night. )

Military Monday’s - $5 off ticket price

Online:

Tickets available at www.hsvbg.org

Shoppe at the Garden: $20 ($15 for members).

Season passes and sets of 5 also available.

Your Galaxy of Lights experience will not be affected by our construction. www.hsvbg.org | Huntsville Botanical Garden |

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events Favorite Festive Holiday Appetizers Tuesday, November 15 6 – 7:30 PM » Murray Hall Learn to make easy yet elegant holiday appetizers. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or looking for the perfect appetizer to take to a party. Enjoy a fun evening of delicious finger foods at their best.

Sample the appetizers and enjoy complimentary beverages. Recipe cards for all attendees.

January 14 - February 28 Cool winter days during January and February are perfect for getting out of the house and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in the Garden.

For the birding enthusiasts, you’ll be able to explore the Lewis Birding Trail, included on the North Alabama Birding Trail, and be part of the global Great Back Yard Bird Count February 12–15.

For the “Barks” part of Beaks & Barks, bring your favorite four-legged friend to the Garden each day to stretch your legs and theirs and play some fetch in our “No Leash Zone”.

There your dog can play off-leash with his pals while you make friends with other pet parents. Then you both can enjoy the Garden while strolling, on-leash, on the pet paths.

Garden membership or admission for humans + $1 per dog or $10 sponsored by: PawPass for the season for your four-legged friends.

Saturday with Santa

Join us for a festive fun event. Enjoy delicious kid friendly food, holiday crafts and play with everyone’s favorite powdery cold snow! Bring your camera and dress the kids for that one-on-one time with Santa.

Pick your time and reserve your space; reservations are required. Don’t miss this merry event that will bring holiday smiles to the tots.

Members $12; Non-Members $15.

Tickets can be purchased at hsvbg.org or in the Shoppe at the Garden. Contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org with questions or call 256-830-4447, ext. 241.

Galaxy of Lights is going ‘green’ Local business, Synapse Wireless, has donated their patented, award-winning smart lighting controls solution to make Galaxy of Lights 2016 more cost effective. Also donated were materials (contactors, enclosures, etc) for a total of 12 “stations”, 9 last Galaxy season and 3 more for this season, by Inline Lighting.

In the past, we’ve relied upon people to turn our displays on and off each night. The area around the main buildings was particularly manpower intensive, because each power panel had to be turned on and off individually. When Synapse caught a glimpse of our production ‘behind the scenes’, they were quick to offer their SimplySNAP smart lighting solution to save the day (or night, rather)…and time…and money.

As an added bonus, the SimplySNAP solution will provide greater energy efficiency and extend the life of the ‘bulbs’ in our lighting displays (and we at the Botanical Gardens are very supportive of making things ‘green’ and saving ‘bulbs’). Using Synapse’s technology will provide a cost savings that will continue to give back for many years to come.

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Paws & Prints

Saturday, December 3 2 Seatings » 10 AM & 12 PM » Nichols Arbor

Saturdays, January 21 & February 18 10 – 11:30 am Grisham Pavilion Use your dog’s paw print to create fun works of art.

Paw print paintings use non-toxic paints and a ready to hand canvas.

A wonderful keepsake for your furry friend!

Water, light refreshments and dog treats provided.

Members $30; Non-Members $35. Visit www.hsvbg.org to register or contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org or 256-830-4447 ext. 241 for more information.

save the date thursday, April 27 • 11:00 AM • grand hall

It’s time to choose your most fabulous hat and mark your calendars to attend the 5th Annual Spring Luncheon featuring “The Grumpy Gardener”, Steve Bender!

Tickets will go on sale March 1, 2017.

For more information, contact Annette Alexander, 256-830-4447 ext. 246 or aalexander@hsvbg.org

Presented by:

HOMESCHOOL

Nature’s Classroom - where there’s always someting growing on! november: Muscles

Animals move in a variety of ways. They each have a muscular system built in a certain way to allow for the most efficient movement.

Session 1: Students will compare how muscle systems of running animals and jumping animals vary. They will see how size and location of muscles influence the efficiency with which they move.

K-2nd: November 8 12-1:30 PM 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: November 10 12-1:30 PM Session 2: Both flying animals and swimming

animals can move without touching the ground. Students will locate the differences and how they help each kind of movement.

K-2nd: November 15 12-1:30 PM 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: November 17 12-1:30 PM

december: Electricity While we use electricity in our daily lives, we often forget how often it occurs in nature.

Session 1: Students will explore the natural

world of electricity through lightning, animals and the Earth itself. They will break down how lightning is created and how animals like sharks and eels use the electricity of the Earth to hunt and navigate.

K-2nd: December 6 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: December 8

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

Session 2: Students will create their own

Galaxy of Lights display to take home. This is a hands-on program and pre-registration is recommended to ensure supplies are available.

education &events Seeds to Sprouts Come and enjoy exciting stories for the season, crafts, learning activities, and walks (weather permitting) in the garden with your little Sprout! Each class offers a different adventure to get your little one experiencing nature and all it has to offer.

Selected Fridays from 10 –11 am Anderson Education Center Classroom Age: 2-5 (parent and child class) November 11 Camping with Curious George November 18 The Life of a Cow December 2 Wild Animals in Winter December 16 Red at Christmas January 13 Pansies January 27 Counting in Nature $8 for the first child, $5 for each additional sibling in the same family. Adults free with membership or Garden admission.

Pre-registration is encouraged. You can save the time of having to stop and pay on your way in! You can register online or over the phone at 256-837-4104.

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

Session 2: Students will look at specific rear-

ing techniques that occur naturally and those that we use to help restore the populations of endangered animals. Students will look at the recent changes in how Whooping Cranes are being reared in captivity.

K-2nd: January 17 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: January 19

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

Pricing and registration at hsvbg.org/ homeschool-programs/

WATER CHEMISTRY MONITORING saturday, november 12 9 am - 4 pM » Murray Hall Detect levels of e. Coli and other coliform bacteria in water as indicators of contamination.

Call Soozi Pline at HBG for more information, 256-837-4344, spine@hsvbg.org.

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT thursday, december 1 6:30 pM » Anderson Education Classroom

Free event - open to adults.

Calling ALL High School Students! Come spend the morning at the Garden learning about careers in agriculture from Garden staff and Auburn University! Scavenger hunts in the Garden complete with prizes!

K-2nd: January 3 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: January 5

Test physical and chemical characteristics of water to determine pollution sources and longterm trends in water quality.

EXPLORING AGRICULTURE THROUGH SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (EAT ST)

january: The Nature of Family

ferent species in the animal kingdom interact with each other. Ranging from those that grow up on their own to the ones that have a family or community they live with for the duration of their life, they will determine the benefits and difficulties of all methods of survival.

WATER BACTERIOLOGICAL MONITORING friday, november 11 4 - 8 pM » Murray Hall

The Tennessee Valley Audubon Society’s immediate Past President, Dr. Ken Ward, will give a talk on the Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count, and how folks can participate in north Alabama.

tuesday, november 8 8:30-11:45 AM » Murray Hall

Session 1: Students will investigate how dif-

Learn about watersheds, and how to evaluate physical, chemical and biological characteristics of water through this community-based watershed stewardship citizen scientist program.

Remember to take advantage of our Frequent “Sprouters” Program and earn a free class for every three paid classes that you attend. Pick up your card at the next class.

K-2nd: December 13 12-1:30 PM 3rd-5th & 6th-8th: December 15 12-1:30 PM The role of parents and siblings vary wildly in different animals. See how different species interact with their own social groups.

ALABAMA WATER WATCH CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

To register, contact: Michelle Bufkin, Auburn University Student Recruitment Coordinator at 334-844-8902 or tmb0020@auburn.edu.

Call Soozi Pline at HBG for more information, 256-837-4344.

SAVE THE DATE:

Art of Sustainable Science March 4, 2017 The Art of Sustainable Science Fair Open to public, private, and homeschooled students in Kindergarten through 12th grade!

Cranes and Other Migrating Birds Viewed at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge sunday, january 8 2:30-3:30 pM » Nichols Arbor Theresa Adams, Supervisory Park Ranger at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge will give a presentation on the animals that call Wheeler home in the winter!

Free event for Garden members. Non-members, $5.00 plus Garden admission.

The Great Backyard Bird Count February 17-20 Call Soozi Pline at HBG for more information, 256-837-4344, spine@hsvbg.org.

Find more information on our website at hsvbg.org.

www.hsvbg.org

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Support YOUR Garden’s Future There are many ways to sustain the Garden for the future!

Automatic Monthly Giving - Did you know

that you can support the Garden on a regular monthly basis? For the price of a cup of coffee each week you can support the Garden with a recurring monthly gift. It is easy to sign up! Please contact 256.830.4447 ext. 294 for more information.

Corporate Partners make a simple annual gift to

the Garden and enjoy Garden admission passes, behind-the-scenes tours, use of our spectacular venue for company events and yearround recognition! Call 256.830.4447 ext. 235 for more information.

Thank you

to our 4th Fresh from the Garden sponsors for making this a special night of memories for 192 guests!

Planned Estate Gifts -

16 m

$

15.5 m

$

15 m

$

14.5 m

$

14 m

$

13.5m

$

13 m

$

12.5m

$

12m

$

11.5m

$

11 m

$

10.5m

$

10 m

$

9.5 m

$

9m

$

8.5 m

$

8m

$

7.5 m

$

7m

$

6.5 m

$

6m

$

5.5 m

$

5m

$

4.5 m

$

4m

$

3.5 m

$

3m

$

2.5 m

$

2m

$

1.5 m

$

1m

$

the HBG’s Foundation manages the assets of an endowment fund, invested to generate both a steady and reliable income stream for the Garden and to provide growth in the real value of these assets, thus providing both current support and growing support for future generations. Please call 256.830.4447 ext. 239 to enroll.

Guest Center capital campaign -

total raised to date - $13,502,116.84! The goal is $16,000,000. Are you ready to be a part? No gift is too small. Call 256.830.4447 ext. 246 for more information.

In-Kind Sponsors: Across The Pond • Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville • Below the Radar Brew House Bicycle Cove • C & A Printing • Carolyn and Ted Gandy • Chipotle Mexican Grill Coca-Cola Bottling Co. • Donna & Bill Shergy • Dunagan, Yates & Alison Plastic Surgery Center Galaxy Guys • Harvey Cotten • Huntsville Country Club • Huntsville Utilities Irons Distillery – Makers of Irons One Whiskey • Kathi & Norm Tew • Kathleen Hart Loring & Co. • Malcolm Marks • Master Gardeners • Pinot’s Palette • Shoppe at the Garden The Bottle • The Gardeners • The Ledges • What’s for Supper?

Garden Guild Recognizes 20+ Members

Little Sprouts for holiday gifts!

Little Sprouts benefits the new Guest Center. Add your child, grandchild, niece, nephew or godchild’s name to one or as many as you would like and see them “planted” in the Children’s Garden in Spring of 2017! Eight designs available. Visit www.hsvbg.org or 256.830.4447 ext.228 for more information.

At its September meeting, the Garden Guild celebrated 35 extraordinary ladies who founded the Guild, led it through its early years, and have remained dedicated Guild members for over twenty years. These women originated plant sales, the Garden gift shop, Galaxy of Lights and set the example of dedication to the growth of the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

Legacy Wall deadline is

December 31, 2016.

Are you a 20+ year member? Contact us to learn how to participate in this beautiful part of the landscape next Spring - 256.830.4447 ext. 228.

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Front Row: Billie Grosser, Betty Lankford, Atty Allred, Regina Dembo, Gladys Comus, Butch Damson, Harvilee Harbarger, Virginia Cook, Rebecca Harbor Jones, Jennie Snoddy, Mary Underwood. Back row: Kay Eastin, Charlene Brazeale, Sandra Hall, Betty Lou Jones, Mona Ellis, Margaret Vann, Dot Mapes, Josie Asquith, Joan Jones.

education &volunteers Botanical Illustration classes - Art Pencil 1 Beginners will learn the tools, papers, and fundamentals of illustration - drawing, perspective, composition and tonal values. Comfortable for people who think they can’t draw and refreshing for an artist with some skills.

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM Anderson Education Center Classroom Instructor Frank Andrus, Certified Botanical Illustrator Class 1 Monday, January 9 or Wednesday, January 11 Class 2 Saturday, January 14 Class 3 Monday, January 16 Class 4 Wednesday, January 18 Class 5 Saturday, January 21 Members $40, Non-members $50 Completing all five Pencil 1 classes is a prerequisite for the Pencil 2 classes. Pencil 2 class information can be found on our website at www.hsvbg.com/ Call Soozi Pline at HBG for more information, 256-837-4344.

The 2016 Butch Damson Volunteer of the Year

DOROTHY THOMAS

T

he Volunteer of the Year loves the Garden, works hard to share her passion, and is clearly committed to our success. She has been a Garden member and Volunteer for the past 10 years, and the Garden is her second home.

This dedicated Volunteer can literally do it all. She works virtually all special events, supporting that department to exceed their yearly revenue budget significantly. She assists with set up, clean up and executes the event, being of use where needed. She works as a shuttle driver on Thursdays and all Galaxy of Lights walking nights and assists Education with seasonal festivals and special events/activities for children.

She helps to maintain the Herb Garden, in addition to other horticulture work. She volunteers for the Spring and Fall plant sales and is a docent for group tours.

She is proud to support our many Focus Five campaign events. She serves as Treasurer for Master Gardeners and the Herb Society and is an active member of the Huntsville Native Plant Society – an important group that takes a very active role

in helping to maintain the Garden.

The following expressions of gratitude, integrity, and sincerity are quotes from the Garden staff and her fellow volunteers: “Her spirit is contagious; upbeat about whatever activity or task she is involved in.”

“When she volunteers, she does so in the most efficient but selfless way; truly a joy to work with.”

“Kind and knowledgeable to our visitors and contributes greatly to their Garden experience. She treats our guests like gold.”

“Has a tremendous heart and terrific sense of humor. Her ability to go with the flow is outstanding.”

“Makes herself available whenever we call on her and gives it her all.”

“She thanks US for having her here.”

Thank you Dorothy!!

The 2016 Vernon Bush Distinguished Service Award

Harold Holmes

Huntsville Botanical Garden staffers know just how fortunate we are to have the level of our volunteer support. Sometimes, we lead…sometimes we follow…sometimes we run to catch up with their effort! So it happened with an extraordinary volunteer, Harold Holmes. We recognized him as our Distinguished Service Volunteer, an award not annually given but only with the most exemplary demonstration of dedication over a long period of time.

Harold has volunteered here since 2006, and was previously awarded Volunteer of the Year. This year Harold helped us finish the process and beat the deadlines for the Nationally Accredited Plant Collection certification. His mapping, labeling, record keeping, and the continued cultivation of our extensive collection of Trillium plants have helped us develop the best protocols for the future. We now have the most extensive public collection of Eastern North American native trillium, with 31 species and over 750 accessions, and the second NAPC collection in the state. (The first being the Auburn Oak collection.)

Thank you Harold!!

Christmas Tree Recycling December 26 – January 15

If you would like to recycle your Christmas tree, please drop it off at the designed area at the leaf mulch pile located on the east side of the Garden. Please remove all ornaments and the stand from the tree before dumping. Trees are accepted from December 26 – January 15. As weather permits, trees will be chipped and the resulting mulch will be stockpiled for people to use in their gardens. www.hsvbg.org

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horticulture garden calendar things you could or should be doing in your garden…

NOVEMBER • Ideal time to plant trees and shrubs • Plant perennial bulbs such as daffodils and tulips • Till vegetable gardens to expose insects to winter cold and to allow for frost heave to improve soil texture • Turn off irrigation systems and drain lines

DECember • Prune hollies for indoor holiday decorations. Deciduous winterberry hollies are exceptional for this • Water house plants with room temperature water • Keep live Christmas trees outside as long as possible.

Only keep in the house for one week. Spray tree with anti-transpirant prior to bringing inside

JANUARY • Sharpen and oil tools & pruners • Keep birdfeeders full, be sure to provide water • Recycle your cut Christmas tree at the Leaf Mulch Pile next to the HBG • Begin planning your seed orders • Review your landscape to consider where you need to improve the ‘bones’ or evergreen structure of your garden

Largest Accredited Trillium Collection in the Country!

The HBG Trillium Collection is a multi-faceted research and educational collection aimed at expanding the knowledge of Trillium species, their diversity and the best protocols for propagating, transplanting and growing them. A most important and necessary aspect of HBG Trillium Collection Plan is the educational display of the Trillium collection diversity to encourage knowledge interchange within the technical and professional community.

Having the PCN recognize the collection further enhances this objective.

Current state of mis-information among Trillium enthusiast highlights the need for data. The professionals focus on science such as DNA and new plant 8

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Birds Endure Guest Center Construction

by Herb Lewis

by Soozi Pline, Director of Education While HBG houses many plant collections, the Trillium collection is our first to receive national accreditation as a viable and sustainable plant collection through the American Public Garden Association’s (APGA’s) Plant Collection Network (PCN). Amy Highland, Curator of Mt. Cuba Center, reviewed our collection for Nationally Accredited Plant Collections (NAPC) and deemed it, “by far the most extensive public collection of eastern North American native Trillium”.

bird’s eye view

CONSERVATION conversation

Converse . Commit . Conserve

species, the plantsman focus on best way to propagate, the nurseryman focus on attractive sellable features, the wildflower collector wants diversity, and the conservationist wants them preserved in nature and lastly the Botanical Gardens want them to attract visitors. Formal documentation in the Trillium world is at best very limited and incomplete with 4 Trillium specific books published more than 15 years ago and several research papers published every few years.

The Holmes Trillium Garden is an education, display and research garden with several major collections displaying thousands of Trillium and hundreds of select candidate Trillium forms. The Holmes Trillium Garden is named in honor of HBG volunteer Harold Holmes.

Extensive construction and draining of Little Smith Lake has not deterred bird visitors to the lake basin below the building site. In the spring Canada Geese, Mallards, Tree Swallows, Eastern Bluebirds and Killdeer nested on or near the lake shore during excavation. One Killdeer family nested within 10 feet of the Great Hall foundation wall during which time our contractor delayed wall foundation work until the young birds fledged the nest.

Exposed mudflats, while unsightly to visitors, offer a bounty of food to both song and shore birds. During the day, Mourning Dove, American Goldfinches, Robins, Common Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Mallards may be observed feeding in that area. Late evenings the Great Blue Heron arrives to fish at the water’s edge.

Small groups of Killdeer, easily detected by their high shrill call, can be seen feeding most any time of the day. When approached too closely, they take flight and expose distinctive plumage.

In October and November migrating water fowl, including Ring-necked Ducks and Gadwalls will join other birds to feed on the mudflats and in shallow water. When the lake is refilled the dinner-plate mudflats will be transformed into a glassy lake mirroring the grandeur of the Garden’s new Guest Center.

horticulture

notes from New Plant Varieties the garden

by Carol Lambdin

In addition to a new Guest Center at the Garden, we are very excited about the new plant additions, over three hundred different varieties, to be precise. Of these plants, eighty are new trees, shrubs and perennials to add to our existing collection. The new landscape is being installed in two phases. Phase One, is the southernmost area of the new guest center, near Teledyne Terrace. This area has several gardens within it, including the Redbud Courtyard, Celebration Garden, Sweetbay Terrace, South Flower Promenade and the Cherry Plaza. The second phase will be installed in the spring and consists of the rest of the construction site and building.

In Phase One we also have new walkways, a fountain, walls and an overlook at Little Smith Lake.

A new arbor at Celebration Garden is being constructed by our beloved Wednesday Guys.

In the next three newsletters, I will focus on our new and exciting plants and cultivars. With so many to choose from, I picked those that really stand out and will be good selections for the home garden too.

Bee Balm Monarda fistulosa

latin and plant native size bloom wildlife value characteristics common name Type

Cercis canadensis ‘Tennessee Pink’, Redbud

deciduous yes tree

20-30’ tall, 15-20’ wide

clear pink blooms in March-April

Cladrastis kentukea (C. lutea), deciduous yes American Yellowwood tree

30-50’ tall, 30-50’ wide

white fragrant flowers in May

Location in the Garden

hummingbirds, often multi-trunked Redbud Courtyard birds flowers for nectar

wood contains a yellow dye

north of Redbud Courtyard

Distylium x evergreen no 2-3’ tall, small red flowers not significant ‘Cinnamon Girl’, shrub 3-4’ wide in Spring Distylium

plum, purple new growth, blue green leaves, a First Editions™ plant

South Flower Promanade

Heptacodium miconioides, large deciduous no Seven Sons Flower shrub, small tree

each whorl of flowers has 7 flowers; showy red fruit

Celebration Garden

deer resistant, rabbit resistant, drought tolerant; brought from Korea by Don Shadow

Redbud Courtyard, Celebration Garden

Proven Winner™ plant; sturdy stems, flowers don’t flop

Redbud Courtyard

birds, butterflies, bees

bright red berries in fall

Celebration Garden

beetles, birds, turkey, quail, songbirds, mice and squirrel, host plant for swallowtail butterfly

upright growth, cold hardy and larger flowers than species, wetland plant, host to swallowtail butterfly

Sweetbay Terrace

15-20’ tall, 10’ wide

white, showy, fragrant flowers in September

hummingbirds, butterflies

Hibiscus syriacus deciduous no 8’ tall, ‘Blueberry Smoothie’, shrub 4’ wide Althea Hibiscus

double bluish, purple hummingbirds, blooms mid to late butterflies summer

Hydrangea arborescens deciduous yes 4-5’ tall, ‘Incrediball Blush’, shrub 4-5’ wide Smooth Hydrangea

up to 12” pink moptop butterflies blooms in summer, not pH affected

Ilex x ‘Conin’, Robin Holly

evergreen no shrub

15-20- tall, 12-15’ wide

white flowers in spring

Magnolia virginiana broadleaf yes 35’ tall, creamy, white, fragrant ‘Jim Wilson’ Moon Glow, semi-evergreen 18’ wide flowers in May-June Sweetbay Magnolia tree

Monarda fistulosa ‘Peters’ Purple’, Bee Balm

herbaceous yes perennial

3-4’ tall, 2’ wide

fragrant lavendar flowers in summer

hummingbirds, mildew resistant butterflies, bees

Redbud Courtyard

Phlox paniculata ‘John Fanick’, Garden Phlox

herbaceous yes perennial

2-3’ tall, 1.5-2’ wide

pale pink flowers with dark pink throat, July-September

hummingbirds, mildew resistant butterflies

Redbud Courtyard

Viburnum awabuki ‘Chindo’, Chindo Viburnum

evergreen no shrub

12’ tall, 8’ wide

fragrant white flowers in spring

bees, butterflies, birds

Celebration Garden

red-black berries in the fall

don’t forget…

Pick up a “What’s Growing On” list in the Linda J. Smith Visitor Center to see plants of interest. There’s a new list each month.

Pick up a load of leaf mulch on the first and third Saturdays of the month at the mulch pile adjacent to the Garden.

Sweetbay Magnolia Magnolia virginiana ‘Jim Wilson’ Moon Glow

Smooth Hydrangea Hydrangea arborescens ‘Incrediball Blush’

Get answers to your plant and gardening questions at plantinfo@hsvbg.org. www.hsvbg.org

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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contributions Scarecrow Trail Winners Announced Thanks to all who participated in our “CROW-mmunity” Scarecrow Trail, Hay Bale Art and Haunted Hang-Outs.

The variety of scarecrows was amazing, each unique and a winner in their own right! Voting was held during the month of September with hundreds of ballots turned in.

Congratulations to all…

1st Place: Defenders of Freedom - Redstone Garden Club 2nd Place: Rebel with a Cause - West Morgan 8th Grade Rebels 3rd Place: Metallic Tiger - MCHS Regional Robotics Club Hay Bale Art: (Droid) Engineer - Virginia Tech Alumni of North Alabama

We appreciate all the support from the community!

See you next year!

mark your calendars!

Dinosaur UpROAR Alive!

Invades The Garden

May 13- August 13, 2017 presenting Sponsor:

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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www.hsvbg.org

Contributions for July-Sept. 2016 IN Honor of Penny Billings Crestwood Medical Center Terry Bradford Paula Steigerwald Mary Casey Paula Steigerwald Harvey Cotten Gene & Pat Sapp Pam & Harvey Cotten Herb & Terry Lewis Margaret J. & Mack Vann Jean Hairston Paula Steigerwald Barbara Kammerud Master Gardeners of North AL Jeanie & Bill Snoddy Roy & Sue Day Kathi Tew Paula Steigerwald Charlotte Wessel Huntsville Garden Club

In Memory of Clarence W. Albright Carol Miller Marion Anderson Madison Garden Club Ann Batson Bill & Sue Schick Mark Schick Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Tropeano Joseph Arwood “Woody” Bethay Ronold B. Thomas Jack Brooks Margaret J. & Mack Vann Charlotte Crosslin Christine Pendleton Elise Denton Anonymous Deborah Baughn Morgan, Keller & Jeremy Black Mike Callahan Mr. & Mrs. Mark Campbell Mike & Lynn Carden David Christian Emily & Will Cook Kari Elliott Joe & Donna Elrod Chris & Terri Enlow Heather Gjesvold Cathy, Emma & Christina Green Joyseekers Sunday School Class Jonathan & Paula Kelly Stephanie Kelly LMI Consulting Inc. LMI/LCI Contracts Team Dennis McGuire MDA (EEF Team) Chris & Amy Parker Denise & Larry Pelham Andy & June Pollard & Family Naomi Reed Marie Schram Judy Smith Susan Teir Paige Topik Terry Wales Bob Wills Jean Drake Jimmy & Debbie Cobb Eddie Dravecky Margaret J. & Mack Vann Chris Gattis Ron & Alice Clements Allison Mathews Goldstein Ron & Alice Clements The Grubbers Catherine Hall Marion Gregory Alec Carter Jeanne Derrington Four Seasons Garden Club Jack and Billie Grosser

Robert & Kathleen McCoy Sharon Wales Mrs. James D. Walker David Weible Juanita West Carole Grote Alyce P. Smith Charlotte Hampton Jeanne Derington Lynn Jones Dale & Dick Rhoades Twickenham District Garden Club Jordan Helen Housch Marvin St. Clair Knight IV Huntsville High Class of 1983 Denny Kross Kay Anderson Joyce Goltz Shealy & Emory Lynn Leo Kump Thomas & Linda Baumbach Marcus & Sheryl Bendickson Jerry & Carol Bennett Mervin & Carmelita Budge Jim & Joanie Bush Robert & Janet Cashion Raymond E. Daniels, Jr. Michael & Leta DeMaioribus Robert Dunkin Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Gilbert Gail & Harold Justice Steve Sullins Mary Maturo Claudia Conn Jim & Alison Gorrie Mr. & Mrs. Miller Gorrie Sally London Sally Siewert Mildred McDonald Mike & Veali Holtcamp Amelia Genevieve Kosinski Meadows Jim & Shirley Henderson Mahjongg Girls Jane Monroe Alyce P. Smith Elizabeth Jean Snoddy Payne Julia Boyd Shirley Bradford Tom & Carole Bryant Madelyn Bussey David & Janie Byers Chicks Who Click Ron & Alice Clements Virginia Cook Regina Dembo Lu Downey Ann Eudy Betty & Jay Foster June & Buddy Guynes Shirley & Bob Hale George & Eleanor Harsh Charles & Anne Helms Richard & Marilyn Hull Dona & Bill Humphreys Paul & Linda Hunter & Family Tom & Brenda Irby H. Wayne McDonald Carol Miller Bob & Karen Mitchell Max Nein Caroline Noojin Dean & Bobbie O’Farrell Josie & Bill O’Meara Charles & Ellen Robinson Sarah & Matt Schusler Henry & Nancy Smith Lady & Scott Smith Claude, Sherrie & Carolyn Snoddy Sandra Vallely David Weible Beth Wise Andy & Kay Woods Michael K. Robertson Al & Cathie Rossi Jean Sparks Alyce P. Smith Anne Speake Alyce P. Smith

Charles Thomas Martha & Gene Andrzejewski Rachel Brown Charles Calhoun Walter Keller Anne Trunk Marcy & Jim Warnick Walker Tyler Kelly Allison Jeffery & Mary Bagwell Casey Fritz Michael & Debbie Gerrity Rick & Becci Grief Vanessa & J.D. Holland Mark Hudnall Randall & Melissa Johnson Thomas & Jodie Longino Tony Mastando Bryan McPherson Karen Paulukaitis Hannah Peck Greg & Donnette Putman Kendrah Raney Michael & Linda Rogers Donna & Gil Ruiz Dink & Suzanne Taylor Bill Young Carol Miller Dickie Zigrang NGGH Board Colleagues

Butterfly Releases In Honor of Jacob Brown Mom & Dad Susan Page Peggy Wright Margaret Saxton Sheila & Kenneth Jackson

Butterfly Releases In Memory of Freida Belew The Ludwigs Susan Speck Blaylock Rachel Clayton John Franklin Bratton, Sr. Mark & Jane Wall John P. Carrigy Huntsville Botanical Garden Dorothy Elizabeth Uselton Coan Willowbrook Garden Club Jack Conway Huntsville Botanical Garden Zadie Wren Cooper Ron Wicks, Jr. Family Elise Denton Yvonne Michaels Sherry Riddle Margaret Dobbs The Collier Family Dorothy “Dot” Evans Pennie Faulk Dr. Billy Ralph Farris Tricia Pruitt Chris Gattis Huntsville Botanical Garden Paul Gattis Wendy Wilson Patty McDermott Gilbert Wendy Wilson Linda Griffin Leslie Boldt Pickett & Alex Boldt Smith Samuel Augustus Harmon Whitesburg Christian Academy Third Grade Students, Teachers & Families Jackie Harrison Martha & Ted Lehmann, Chris & Doug Donnie Jaragosky Huntsville Gourd Patch

Edith Kotlar Peggy Gunter Leo Kump Billy Daniels Danny Daniels Suzette Daniels Kim Daniels Rapp Kathy Lundy Alex Smith, Leslie Pickett & Chantel Jacob Martha Beasley McConnell Jeff & Pam Cooper Amelia Genevieve Kosinski Meadows Willowbrook Garden Club Douglas Moore Brian & Lisa Andrews Parents of Mr. & Mrs. Newsome Mr. & Mrs. Ron Lankford Julie McMurray Nickel George & Donna Henry Elizabeth Jean Snoddy Payne Roy & Sue Day Huntsville Botanical Garden NASA MSFC SSL & 4331 Group Middie & Tommy Thompson Donald R. Saxton Sheila & Kenneth Jackson Ann Claudette Toole Dan & Darla Nash Aylene Valentin Michael & Helen Lamy Marie Vann Alexis Boldt Smith & Leslie Boldt Pickett Ed and Sue Vaughn Ross & Julie Blauwkamp Dottie Watkins Kathleen Campbell Burnie Hawk “BB” Yarbro Curt Benzle & Wendy Wilson Judy & Dick Smith James William “Bill” Young, Jr. Huntsville Botanical Garden

In Kind Gifts Across the Pond Alabama Farmers Co-Op Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville Gene & Alicia Beam Bicycle Cove Chambers Bottling Company Chipotle City of Huntsville Harvey Cotte n Harriet Dobbins Ann Dolan Domino’s Doris Elkins Peggy Gunter Huntsville Fern Society Kathleen Hart Oils on Canvas Joe & Rosalie Lancaster The Ledges Loring & Co. Pinot’s Palette Richard’s Lighting Rockwood Studios Deemer & Jimmie Self Jesse & Sherry Stutts Synapse Wireless Bill & Ellen Taylor Taziki’s What’s for Supper?

membership Member and Volunteer Orientation sunday, January 22, 2017 1:30 – 3:00 PM • Murray Hall Optional Guided walking Tour 3 – 3:30 pM If you’re a new member or would like to know more about the Garden, plan on attending the member and volunteer orientation. The Orientation is designed to help you learn about: » Membership benefits for new and existing members » Volunteering at the Garden » The past, present and future of the Garden » The many things to do at the Garden!

For reservations contact Robin Waldrop at rwaldrop@hsvbg.org or 256.830.4447 x229.

2 Free Guest Passes per family for those that attend - a $24 value!

See you at the Garden!

Gift of Membership

New & Renewing Members Ambassador Members ($1000) Bob & Phylis Baron* Patron Members ($500) David & Jennifer Bier Jerry & Kathryn Davis Erich & Michele Erker Mary & Jim Griffith Kimberly & Larry Lewis Barbara Paul & Tom Hickerson Emily & Steve Robertson MG (Ret) & Mrs. Julian Sullivan Fellow Members ($250) Jo Ann & Fred Braam Marianne Case & Virginia Serr Dr. & Mrs. James E. Chandler Dr. Rex J. & Mrs. Karen Conners* Eileen & Michael Dalen Bernard & Telse Davis Nancy, Joe & Natalia Dooley Thomas & Susan Griffith Betty R. Grisham & Kyle Husband Jean Hairston James “Bo” & Doni Harrison Dr. & Mrs. David W. Hertha Brenda M. Jarke Bob & Cindi Ludwig George & Shirley McCrary Douglas & Carol Nixon, June Crumley Dr. & Mrs. Charles R. Overstreet Mr. Trace D. Parish & Mr. Richard Reed Mr. Kenneth H. Prater Dr. Georgia Richardson & Mr. Cameron Handyside Ann & Ernest Rivard

fellow Members (cont’d) Reginald & Diane Skinner Mike & Libby Stanfield Peter & Carrie Tremko Mr. & Mrs. Lucy Vedane Dr. Mary Ruth Yates Friend Members ($175) Gene & Martha Andrzejewski Charles & Laura Biggerstaff Dr. Meriwether Brown & Mr. Chris Brown Robbie Burlison Mike & Lynn Carden Thomas & Joan Diggs Christina Dobrowolski, Eric Silkowski & Natalia Dobrowolski Dr. Joan G. Dowdle Harold & Doris Elkins Merph & Mona Ellis Myrle M. Fowler & Lenzie A. Beckman* Bruce & Charlotte Fulton Dr. & Mrs. Jim Goldbach & Tyler Goldbach Greta Inglis Carol & Mike Jacobs Ms. Jane S. Jones Bert & Elizabeth Moore Sheila Pappas Dr. Laurie B. Patrick Ms. Beth Powel & Rebecca Jordan Kathryn J. Regner Michael & Deborah Selby Dr. Sid Smith & Mrs. Patty Smith Mary Ann & Edwin Stasiak Joseph, Elaine & Emma Stowe* Marian & Drayton Talley Suzan & Jeffrey Von Hor Dr. & Mrs. Don A. Wheeler

July through Sept 2016 Affiliate Members (cont’d) Patsy Horsley Dr. & Mrs. Richard P. Hull Kathryn M. Jackson Dottie Keebler* Austin & Susan King Vicki & Richard Kretzschmar Jim & Nita Lewis Frank & Shelaine Luttrell William & Mary Mastin Mr. William McCauley & Dr. Carla Confer * Henry & Julia Miller Louis & Evelyn Ossip Mrs. Betty D. Peeler Ed & Billie Perkins* Kate Pimmel Brian & Kelli Pollock Rebecca Pollock COL Neva Rogers * Harvey & Delores Shelton Thomas Simpson & Daniel McKitrick Charles & Marilyn Stewart Douglas & Christine Stoffer Joseph & Janice Sturbois Amelia & Bruce Summerville Noel & Linda Tallon Bryan Teske, Stig Crandall & Bryan Guest Josephine Tucker Mrs. Sally Upchurch* Paul & Lynn Wagner Debbie & Ben Washburn Heidi & Ezio Wheeler* Paula & Amber Wheeler Harry & Mary Wiley Judy Wilson & Jerry McCullough Dr. Mary Ruth Yates Thomas & Carliece Young

Affiliate Members ($125) Kelly & Jacquie Aune Bill & Debbie Bailie Buck & Rena Bannister Ken & Merry Barfield Dr. & Mrs. David Billings Steve & Linda Bolton Luanne & Jimmy Brewer Cathy & Michael Brickey Everett & Angelen Brooks Kenia & Roger Bultman Emily Burwell & Mary B. Russell Mr. & Mrs. Louis T. Carr, Jr. Mary & Larry Casey Mrs. Linda J. Cave Christopher & Natausha Charnell Jack Coker Ken & Susan Corbett Nancy W. Coy & Leslie Gramke Kevin & Janet Crawford* Dr. & Mrs. Larry H. Crow Barbara & Eldridge Lee Crowe Jo Davis Doris R. Dean Murray & Rebecca Dickson & Alicia Leyva Roxann Dixon & Don Klem Roger & Sandra Ellis Jane & Geoff Ellison Dee & Marcia Fowler Patricia Franks* Shirley Fugit Doyle & Peggy Galloway Scott & Renee Gardiner Edward & Nancy Gawlik Madge M. Genter Brigitte & Jaclyn Gerhardt Julie & Kevin Gold Leah & Paul Gradl Ann H. Gravlee James & Linda Hargrove Don & Florence Helman

*multi-year membership

Holiday gift? Birthday? Wedding?

Anniversary? How about the perfect Grandparent gift?

The gift of membership to Huntsville Botanical Garden is always a perfect fit.

Saying good-bye…

We would like to thank Catherine Shearer and the Garden of Eat’n for providing us with delicious food over the past year. You will still be able to enjoy her tasty sandwiches at the Happy Tummy located at Lowe Mill. We appreciate the friendship and the partnership over the past year. The Garden wishes Catherine and her staff well!

As of November 1st, we will no longer have a café in our visitor center; so bring along your snacks and picnics to enjoy.

Purchase your gift online at

hsvbg.org/membership

Coming Spring 2017, we will have a café in our new Guest Center!

Tuesday, January 10 Whole Foods Market has partnered with the Garden to offer a wonderful opportunity!

They will be donating 5% of their net sales on January 10th directly to the Garden.

Save the date and shop local to help support the Garden and the wonderful Whole Foods Market! www.hsvbg.org

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit No. 110 Huntsville, AL

Address Service Requested

www.hsvbg.org

The Corporate Partner program offers year-round recognition and many levels of benefits for our member companies.

shareholder ($10,000-$24,999) 3

S , Inc.

underwriter

Please join us for our annual

Holiday Open House Tuesday, December 6th • 4 -7 PM

Refreshments – Door Prizes – Special Discounts

($5,000-$9,999) Bradley • Dynetics • Intuitive Research and Technology Corp Lanier Ford • LG Electronics • Northrop Grumman The Boeing Company • Turner Construction Company

All proceeds support Huntsville Botanical Garden. Complimentary, signature gift wrap available. Members receive 10% discount. Normal exclusions apply.

investor

We have the perfect venues for weddings, receptions, luncheons and teas as well as corporate retreats!

($2,500-$4,999) LMI • LogiCore • TekLinks • Thompson Gray

supporter

($1,500-$2,499) AVISTA Strategies • CALIBRE Brenda Armstrong, Edward Jones • John Butterfield, Edward Jones Kitty Davenport, Edward Jones • L-3 • LSINC Manning & Napier • MTS • Sigmatech, Inc For details on becoming a corporate partner or event sponsor, contact Amy Hamilton, 256-830-4447 ext. 239 or ahamilton@hsvbg.org

Is there a wedding or party in your future?

Now Booking for Spring of 2017...

Call 256-830-4447, ext. 243, 237 or 251