19 minute read
Winter
READING WEDNESDAYS EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10AM Crystal Bridge South Lobby FREE Best for ages 2-5
Bring your youngster for story time each Wednesday at 10am. Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season. We’ll begin with an interactive song and children will enjoy creating a small craft after the story. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi Clifford at (405) 835-6789.
PUMPKIN PALOOZA – REPURPOSING PUMPKINS FOR KIDS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 10:30-11:15AM Children’s Garden and Terrace Room M $4; NM $6. Best for ages 4-8 Register by Tuesday, October 31
Join us on the Children’s Garden porch for a morning of repurposing pumpkins! We’ll start out with a discussion and “show-and-tell” of pumpkin varieties, followed by a short walk to check out how we have utilized pumpkins in the Children’s Garden. We’ll meet back on the porch to finish off with our pumpkin craft. Children will be able to make either a minipumpkin birdfeeder or mini-pumpkin pansy planter. Be sure to preregister to reserve your spot and pumpkin.
REGISTER ONLINE! IT’S EASY. MYRIADGARDENS.ORG
FAMILY WORKSHOP: NATURAL WREATHS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1-2:30PM Garden Grounds and Terrace Room M $5; NM $7. Best for ages 6-10 Register by Tues, Nov. 7
Explore the garden grounds with us and gather natural items from the plants going through the seasonal change. We’ll then use the branches, seeds and greens we collected to create a natural wreath that children can proudly display for the holidays.
PAINTING POTS & PLANTING HERBS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 10-11:30AM Terrace Room M $12; NM $15. Best for ages 6-10 Register by Tuesday, November 14
This is great class for families to learn about the indoor herbs they can grow during the chilly months to use in tasty holiday meals. Each child will paint a terra cotta pot and plant an herb of their choice to take home. We’ll learn how to take care of our new herb plant and talk about some tasty, healthy ways to use our herbs as they grow.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 10AM-NOON Terrace Room M $35; NM $40 Register by Monday, November 20 All ages welcome. Children ages 8 & under will need chaperone help
‘Tis the season to decorate a beautiful gingerbread house. We’ll learn about the flavorful ginger root – where it comes from, how it grows – and then go on a hunt in our conservatory to find it. We’ll finish by decorating our fragrant masterpieces. All supplies provided including gingerbread structure, frosting, candies for decorating and a little help if needed. WINTER WILDLIFE SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 10-11:30AM Terrace Room and Garden Grounds, Weather Permitting M $6; NM $8. Best for ages 5-10 Register by Tuesday, December 12
Where do all of our wildlife friends go in the chilly winter months? Learn all about their cozy hiding spots and tricks in this interactive children’s class. We’ll talk about how various animals survive in the winter and then learn how we can help them out in our backyards or neighborhoods. We’ll read a book, play a game and finish with a DIY bird feeder made out of unique recycled home goods.
WINTER BREAK DROP-INS MON.–FRI., DEC. 18-22, 10AM-2PM South Lobby M $4; NM $5. Best for ages 6-10 Walkups welcome
Kids will discover the beauty and fun nature has to offer even during the winter. Join us each day with story time every 30 minutes, holiday ornament or gift making and interactive education. Every day has a different theme:
Monday- Plant Hibernation Tuesday- Animal Hibernation Wednesday- All About Ice Thursday- Winter Solstice Day Friday- Homemade Holiday Decorations
ADULTS
GARDENS WALKING TOUR OCTOBER 28, NOVEMBER 25 & DECEMBER 30 Last Saturday of Every Month South Lobby and Garden Grounds FREE Walkups Welcome
Join us to expand your Oklahoma plant knowledge and get great ideas for your yard. Each month changes as the plants grow through the seasons; in October and December we’ll discuss plants for color and in November we’ll highlight plants for water conservation. Can’t make it for the guided tour? Pick up a selfguided handout in our South Lobby.
BULB PLANTING TALK AND INTERACTIVE DEMONSTRATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, NOON-1PM Crystal Bridge South Lobby & Garden Grounds M FREE; NM $5 Register by Wednesday, October 25
If you want bulbs for the spring, fall is the time to plant them and our horticulture staff will be doing just that starting in October. Join them as they plant bulbs such as tulips, hyacinths and daffodils. They will discuss different types of bulbs, planting techniques and spring maintenance tips for your emerged bulbs. Participants will have the chance to plant a bulb or two in the Gardens as well – then you can come back in the spring to see it growing. BULB PLANTING DESIGN: DEMONSTRATION AND TALK SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 11AM-NOON Crystal Bridge Second Floor Conference Room and Garden Grounds Instructor: Linda Vater, Garden Essence M $5; NM $8 Register by Tuesday, October 24 If you want bulbs for the spring, fall is the time to plant them and to lay out your design. Join Linda as she share beautiful inspiration photos, discuss design tips and then head outside to demonstrate how to implement the design as you plant it. Bulb care tips will be discussed as well.
TREE WALK: TREES WITH THE BEST FALL INTEREST FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, NOON – 1:30PM, COME-AND-GO Crystal Bridge South Lobby and Garden Grounds Mark Bays, Urban Forester FREE (Suggested $2 donation)
Join Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services Urban Forester and tree guru, as he discusses the best trees for fall color. Learn the conditions that make for the most brilliant falls and ways you can help Mother Nature along in your quest for fall color. This is a great chance to learn about some of the trees that will be available at
Tree for All! on November 4.
FOR A LIST OF PUBLIC EVENTS, SEE PAGE 9
TREE FOR ALL: TREE SALE & PLANTING WORKSHOPS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 9AM-3PM (See article page 10)
PUTTING YOUR GARDEN TO BED FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 10 – 11AM Crystal Bridge South Lobby & Garden Grounds M $3; NM $5 Register by Tuesday, November 7
November is the time to prepare your garden for the colder winter months so it looks its best and returns in the spring in the best shape possible. Our Horticulture staff will talk through what they’re doing in the garden at this time and will discuss what is and isn’t getting cut back (some grasses and perennials do well if left until spring and look amazing covered in ice or snow). They’ll also discuss adding mulch for cold protection, removing and composting annuals and other best practices. COLD FRAME CLASS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 10AM-2PM Water Plaza Room & Children’s Garden, weather permitting Steve Upson, Horticulture Consultant, Noble Research Institute $80 M $100 NM Register by Wednesday, November 1
Cold frames are a great way to extend the growing season since they act as mini-greenhouses for your plants. They’re especially great for cold-season vegetables like spinach, arugula, and kale. Join Tobi as he walks you through the steps of building your own cold frame to take home.
FORCING PAPERWHITES AND AMARYLLIS FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRI., NOV. 17, 1-3PM & WED., NOV. 22, 10:30AM-4:30PM Dr. Ann Fleener, Myriad Gardens Director of Education Crystal Bridge South Lobby M $10, NM $15; Children’s Mini Option $5 Drop-in
Learn how to force beautiful flowering bulbs just in time for the holidays. In this interactive walk-up you’ll learn about the long-blooming Paperwhite, which can bloom for up to six weeks and the showstopping Amaryllis. We’ll discuss care tips and guide you through potting up your own bulbs to enjoy at home.
THANKSGIVING FLORAL WORKSHOP MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 6-7:30PM The Wild Mother, Floral Designers Terrace Room Wine Provided. Ages 21 & up. M $75, NM $85 Register by Wednesday, November 15
Create a gorgeous, natural 12-18” centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table this year that you can proudly declare is your creation. Join the creative pros of The Wild Mother, who have worked with amazing places such as West Elm, as they guide you through the steps of creating a centerpiece that’s sure to wow everyone at your table. A selection of cuttings gathered from our Prairie Garden will be available to add a harvest touch to your fresh flower arrangement.
GREENS MARKET WED., NOV. 22, 10:30AM-4:30PM Crystal Bridge South Lobby Walkups Welcome
Purchase beautiful greens and wreaths for your mantel, table, doors and more. Noble fir, princess pine, juniper and a variety of other greens will be available for purchase at a great price and we’ll be on site to answer questions about preserving your greens through the holidays.
LIVING WREATH CLASS SAT., DEC. 2,10AM-NOON AND 2-4PM Terrace Room Succulent Wreath $75 M; $85NM, Evergreen Wreath $45 M; $55 NM Register by Tuesday, November 28
Back by popular demand with two offerings this year. Choose from a fantastic, modern succulent wreath or the classic, traditional evergreen wreath in this fun, hands on holiday workshop. Participants will receive group and one-on-one instruction as we walk you through creating your own beautiful 18-22” wreath to adorn your home. Succulent wreaths are best for indoors, while evergreens are best for the outdoors, why not sign up for both classes and make each one? New this year for evergreen wreaths, we’ll have fresh herbs on hand to add a lovely holiday scent.
PRUNING TREES THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 11AM-NOON Terrace Room and Garden Grounds M $4; NM $7 Register by Monday, December 4
December is a great time to prune many plants in the garden. Join our Gardens and Grounds Manager, Matthew Janda, for a hands-on workshop. Matthew will first give an overview of the best time for pruning both flowering and evergreen trees. He’ll then demonstrate proper tree pruning techniques and give each participant a chance to try their hand at pruning. Proper tool maintenance will be touched on as well. FORCING PAPERWHITES FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 11AM-NOON Terrace Room Dr. Ann Fleener, Myriad Gardens Director of Education M $10; NM $15 Register by Monday, December 4
Learn how to force this beautiful flower just in time for the holidays. In this interactive program you’ll learn about the long-blooming Paperwhite, which can bloom for up to six weeks. We’ll discuss care tips and guide you through potting up your own bulbs to enjoy at home.
HERBAL HOLIDAY GIFTS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2-4PM Water Plaza Room Monica Arndt, Herbalist M $18; NM $25 Register by Tuesday, December 5
Join Herbalist, Monica Arndt, to create a kitchen gift basket for the holidays. Monica will provide you with recipes and then guide you through the steps of creating your own Herbs De Provence mix, a Rose Petal Jam and an 8” living Rosemary wreath. She’ll also discuss the benefits of each of these herbs and will provide great ideas for adding even more to your basket. You may even need to make two baskets, one for a friend and one for you!
PRUNING SHRUBS AND VINES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, NOON-1PM Terrace Room and Garden Grounds M $4; NM $7 Register by Monday, December 11
Have an overgrown hedge row or climbing vine? Looking to clean up your garden a bit? Then join our Gardens and Grounds Manager, Matthew Janda, for hands on instruction on how to properly maintain your shrubs and vines. Matthew will discuss the best time for pruning various shrub and vine types and will demonstrate proper pruning techniques as well as tool maintenance. Each participant will have a chance to practice their newly learned skills in the Garden.
The Reviews of Our Education Classes Are In!
“It was PERFECT. Very nice, loved the ladies who hosted the class.” –Shawn Akins
“I learned a lot, got valuable information and the attitude of the presenter is something that will stay with me and motivate me to try new things!” –Nitya Viswanatz
“This was a great class. Loved the instructor. I can’t wait to infuse some honey.” –Valerie Jennings
“This class was great. I can’t wait to make more infused honey at home!” –Jennifer Jones
“This was one of the coolest things I’ve done in a long time. I loved my experience today. I can’t wait to come back and take another class.” –Mackenzie Plank
“Always love Lori’s classes!” –Jeannie Kline
“The class was very educational on all levels – literary, math, scientific, artistic. Fabulous leader!” –Rebecca Shiplett
Welcome New Staff
Bekah Wade and Nicole Kusnierz have been named Public Events Assistants for the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Bekah is an Oklahoma native, and has always had a passion for events and love for Oklahoma City so this job was the perfect combination for her. Nicole is a Texas native turned Okie that loves her ability to be creative while working outdoors at the Gardens.
Bekah graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in marketing from Oklahoma City University and was a member of the Women’s Varsity Rowing Team. She previously worked at the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation in the guest Bekah Wade services, coaching and sales departments. Her favorite spaces at the Gardens are the Crystal
Bridge and Wave Fountain. She particularly enjoys our SONIC Summer Movie Nights,
Children’s Garden Festival and the Full Moon
Bike Ride and Run.
Nicole graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Texas A&M University and went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Anthropology with a focus in North American Archaeology from the University of Oklahoma. She previously worked in Nicole Kusnierz museums and non-profit organizations including: the Dallas Zoo, Sam
Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History,
Crow Collection of Asian Art, the Smithsonian
Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage and the Thinkery. Her favorite spaces at the
Gardens are the Thunder Fountain and the
Meinders Terrace. She particularly enjoys
Dancing in the Gardens, the Children’s
Garden Festival and our Sensory Sensitive
Evenings.
Sarah Carson New Addition to the Development Department
Sarah Carson joined the Gardens in August as the Development Operations Coordinator. Previously, she served as the first Public Policy and Outreach Director and later as the Director of Programs at the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. Sarah served two years on the National Sarah Carson Council of Nonprofits’ Public Policy Committee and is a member of LOYAL OKC Class IX. She holds a Master’s degree in International Studies from the University of Oklahoma. During her studies, she conducted field research on land rights in Rwanda and was published in the Journal of International Affairs. She was also the recipient of several awards, including the Ambassador Edward J. Perkins Scholarship and the Thomas W. Adams Award, and is an alumna of Phi Beta Delta Honor Society. As an intern for World Neighbors, she assessed the impact of a collaborative food security project with Heifer International. Prior to her time at university, Sarah spent two years acting in a European theatre company. She is an avid reader and Thunder fan, and enjoys gardening, traveling, and spending time with her young family.
Grace Marcum Joins Facility Rentals Team
Grace has been named Event Rental Coordinator for the Myriad Gardens. She is an Oklahoma native who graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in advertising. Grace has always enjoyed attending events and weddings at Myriad Gardens. She Grace Marcum is excited to join the team and take a deep dive into all things rentals and events at, in her opinion, the most beautiful venue in Oklahoma City! Her favorite event spaces include the Park House and Meinders Terrace.
New Interpretive Signage Unveiled in the Prairie Garden By Maureen Heffernan, Executive Director
Myriad Botanical Gardens continues to evolve as a botanical garden. We are pleased to now begin to add interpretive signage to our outdoor garden areas starting with our Oklahoma Prairie Garden.
Over the last year, Nate Tschaenn, our Director of Horticulture, led the process to write text for and identify a graphic design style for new outdoor interpretive signage. This signage is designed for SAVE-THE-DATE both youth and adults to learn more about plants, gardening, ecological connections and conservation.
Over the next several years, we plan to create and install more of these interpretive signs throughout the gardens to enhance our visitor’s experience at the Gardens.
SAVE-THE-DATE Splendor IN THE GARDENS
Splendor in the Gardens
Thursday, May 17, 2018
The Great Lawn at Myriad Botanical Gardens will once again be transformed for a magical evening under the lights and stars Thursday, May 17 with the fourth edition of Splendor in the Gardens. This biannual gala serves as a major fundraiser for Myriad Gardens Foundation with funds going to support the gardens, grounds, educational programs, special events, and the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory.
Splendor in the Gardens begins with a champagne reception in the Park House. As the sun sets, guests make their way to the Great Lawn where a dinner of signature dishes prepared by top Oklahoma City chefs is served.
For sponsor and ticket information please contact Director of Development Susan Grossman at (405) 445-7090 or sgrossman@myriadgardens.org.
Give a Gift That Makes a Difference
With the many to-do’s that come with the end of the year, here is an easy one to check off your list: Give a tax-deductible, year-end gift to Myriad Gardens Foundation.
A donation to our annual fund helps us maintain this beautiful green space in downtown Oklahoma City for all to enjoy throughout the year. Whether it is ice skating in the winter, spectacular bulb displays in the spring, movies on the Great Lawn in the summer, or Pumpkinville in the fall, there is always something happening in the Gardens.
On any given day there are hundreds of people strolling, walking their dogs, reading, playing, running and simply being outside. To maintain and enhance this urban oasis for Oklahoma City, Myriad Gardens Foundation must annually generate more than two million dollars in private support.
Make a significant contribution to the health and well-being of our community. When considering year-end philanthropic giving, please think of Myriad Gardens Foundation.
Donations to the Annual Fund can be made online at myriadgardens.org or by calling (405) 445-7090 or use the enclosed envelope.
Thank you in advance for your support.
JINGLE & MINGLE
Members Holiday Party Thursday, November 30
Jump start your holiday spirit at Jingle Mingle 2017 inside the south lobby of the Crystal Bridge.
On Thursday, November 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. Gardens members are invited to enjoy our holiday decor, refreshments and a silent auction featuring specially created alternative Christmas trees, wreaths and other gift items. Jingle Mingle will also feature a variety of fresh greenery and poinsettias for sale.
Scissortail Gifts is offering a 20 percent discount during the event where you can stock up on ornaments, Made In Oklahoma products and a variety of gardening novelty items for everyone on your shopping list.
Treats and hot cocoa will be offered by Pitchfork in the Park, our seasonal food operator. Wine and beer will also be available.
Join the Gardens, Receive a Gift of Warmth
Not a member? Join today and receive a free blanket. Perfect for staying warm this winter at the Devon Ice Rink or to use for picnics on the Great Lawn next spring, a Myriad Gardens fleece blanket is yours for just a $65 family membership while supplies last.
Already a Myriad Gardens member? Purchase a membership as a gift for those in your life who love the Gardens as much as you do. When you give the gift of membership we will notify the recipient so they can take full advantage of their benefits.
Membership benefits include:
Free admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory yearround Free admission to more than 200 gardens across the country thorough our reciprocal program with the American Horticulture Society Gardens quarterly newsletters Free admission to the Children’s Garden Festival in the spring and Pumpkinville in the fall Educational class discounts Free subscription to either Martha Stewart Living or Better Homes and Gardens. 10 percent off at Scissortail Gifts at Myriad Gardens
Three easy ways to purchase memberships:
1. 2. 3. Online at: myriadgardens.org Call (405) 445-7089 At the Crystal Bridge Visitor Lobby, Mondays-Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 11am-5pm
Myriad Gardens makes any event more memorable
Shop Scissortail Gifts at Myriad Gardens for the Holidays
Scissortail Gift Shop, located in the south lobby of the Crystal Bridge, is open daily and stocked full of wonderful Oklahoma made or inspired items perfect for your holiday gift list. For the holiday season, they have expanded their garden related gifts which include books, growing kits for kids, flower vases and more. By shopping at Scissortail, your purchases help support the Gardens. Members receive 10 percent off their purchases. For more special savings, members can take 20 percent off all their purchases at our Jingle Mingle Members Reception on November 30 from 5-7pm.
December
On Tuesdays throughout December, stop by Scissortail Gifts to enjoy free coca and candy canes while you browse for gifts and enjoy the holiday décor in our Visitor Center.
For information on booking a wedding or event visit myriadgardens.org/rentals Email: rentals @myriadgardens.org Photo by: Magnolia Adams
There’s something for everyone during the holidays at Myriad Botanical Gardens!
November 10, 2017 - January 28, 2018 See page 8 for admission and hours
Sundays, November 26, December 3, 10, 17 Free admission | 6-9pm Enjoy Crystal Bridge lights and decor.
Saturdays, December 2, 9 & 16 10am-5pm See page 9.
301 WEST RENO OKL AHOMA CIT Y, OK 73102 myriadgardens.org
Visit the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
