Memphis in the springtime makes me think of our world-class botanic garden. Even though spring weather has been a bit chillier and stormier than we typically enjoy, there are still seasonal activities to celebrate the season at our Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG).
Spring sightings at MBG; photo credit: Jana Wilson, director of marketing/PR
Cherry Trees on Cherry Road, a Memphis Tradition
If you have not seen the Cherry Trees in full bloom, go quick! Jana Wilson, MBG director of marketing/PR, points out that since we have had a two-month-long cold snap, the much anticipated grouping of cherry trees lining the entrance were late this year. Instead of a mid-March show, the trees blossomed end of March and last week. Since they were forced to bloom late, they will not bloom as long, Jana explains, so hurry over for one of Memphis’ most scenic annual displays. Two stately rows of cherry trees along Cherry Road adjacent to the Garden’s entrance (Memphis’ counterpart to Washington, D.C.’s historic grouping) have become a recognizable, local landmark and popular spring destination.
The Cherry Trees leading up to MBG on Cherry Road are a scenic Memphis landmark.
Spring splendor, yes?
Earth Month at the Garden
It is Earth Month at the Garden, sponsored by International Paper. For the third year, MBG’s focus throughout April is on educational, fun activities and special events that encourage green living for all ages. Family campouts, garden hikes and more fill this month’s calendar. For a complete schedule of events, click here.
Cocktails in the Garden
While all of the buzz about Earth Month is merited, MBG is also kicking off another creative event this week, the first in a new series for the spring/summer seasons, Cocktails in the Garden. The idea for this party format was formulated by an upbeat new group of MBG members called the “Roots,” a group of young professionals who are interested in being both horticultural AND social. The Thursday, April 11 celebration is called, “Azaleas and Aperitivi,” and it will last from 6 to 9 p.m. Mark your calendars early for the next two: June 13, the Roots will put on “Hydrangeas and Highballs”; and on August 8, join in the sampling of a little moonshine with a background of Crape Myrtles at “Myrtles and Moonshine.”
Azaleas and Aperitivi on April 11 (tomorrow night!); photo credit: Ashley Mayer, director of special events and sponsorship
Live at the Garden, Artists Announcement Tomorrow!
Musical artists for Live at the Garden 2013, will be announced tomorrow, April 11! This favorite summertime happening features star performances underneath starry skies all summer and is presented by Duncan-Williams, Inc. The first night will be Saturday, June 1. Cool off all summer at Live at the Garden on these dates: Saturday, June 15, Saturday, July 13, Friday, August 23, Friday, September 20. To find out more, click here.
Spring’s Best Plant Sale
MBG calls their April 19 &20 sale “Spring’s Best Plant Sale.” Buy your annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, shrubs, trees, garden décor and artisan Items with help from the MBG garden staff and Master Gardeners local who can assist with plant selection and care tips. This is a Friday and Saturday event that lasts from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free to the public. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Garden’s educational and horticultural programs.
Spring sighting at MBG; photo credit: Jana Wilson, director of marketing/PR
Fratelli’s Café
If you are planning to be at the MBG in April, why not make your day complete by dining at Fratelli’s Café, located between the Water Garden and Sculpture Garden, with an outdoor terrace seating with a lush, natural view. A light lunch at Fratteli’s is a desitination in itself. I recently joined a few girlfriends for a birthday celebration there, and afterwards we all rushed off to the day’s activities. So, if all you have time for is lunch, Fratelli’s at the Garden is ideal for ladies who lunch.
So jump into spring, even if mother nature is not cooperating, with a few rain-or-shine activities at our Memphis Botanic Garden.
