Spring in full bloom at Fernwood

Published 6:42 pm Sunday, March 18, 2012

Gardeners’ Rummage Sale, March 31

Find bargain-priced treasures at Fernwood’s third annual Gardeners’ Rummage Sale. Decorative pots, ornamental fencing, rustic trellises, books, and birdhouses are just a sampling of what will be offered. Besides shopping, donating garden related items is also a great way to support this event. Donated items will be accepted through Friday, March 30. Contact Steve at 269-695-6491 for approval of items. Admission to the sale is free.

Fernwoods Spring Garden Symposium
Designs with Purpose: The People and Plants Behind Them
March 24,
8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Plan now attend Fernwood’s annual Spring Garden Symposium as three award-winning speakers show us how they use their artistic instincts, environmental consciousness, and knowledge of great plants to create garden designs with social significance. Garden writer, Janet Marinelli, will take you on a whirlwind tour of the history of landscape design, explore discoveries on the frontiers of science, and show how every gardener can harness nature’s power to create a sustainable landscape that helps repair the tattered web of life. Renowned plantsman and garden designer, Bob Hyland, believes that well-chosen plants are the heart and soul of “good” garden design, and he will show us how to should choose plants wisely to develop an adventurous, sustainable personal style. In addition, artist and landscape architect, Gary Smith, will show you some simple graphic techniques to unleash the artist within yourself and make meaningful gardens that express the relationship between the site and your own creative spirit. The symposium will include a round table discussion with the speakers and Fernwood’s Manager of Plant Collections, Steve Bornell, and it qualifies for three Michigan Master Gardener continuing education credits. Sponsored by Vite Greenhouses and Crystal Springs Florist and Greenhouse. Lunch is included. Fee $120 (Members $100). Register by March 22.
Birding Local Wetlands
March 24,
8 to 11:30 a.m.
Join naturalist Wendy Jones for a trip to local wetlands to learn about duck identification. Spotting scopes provided. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Travel is by car caravan. $15 (Members $12). Register by March 23.

Photo Contest Exhibit on Display Now
Robert Seifert Memorial Exhibition Opens March 30 and Runs Through May 6

Come enjoy the spectacular showcase of submissions to Fernwood’s Second Annual Photography Contest through March 25. From the flowers of the gardens to the peace of the nature trails and the spirit of the wildlife that call Fernwood home, see the beauty of Fernwood captured through the artistic eyes of area photographers. Opening on Friday, March 30, and continuing through May 6, is the memorial exhibit of South Bend artist, Robert Seifert. Seifert’s prints are rife with meaning and symbolism, and his use of mixed media mirrors the complexities of his quiet persona. Cutwork paper, collage, photo transfer, silk screen, watercolor, and other media are presented in this exhibit. The opening reception will be Friday, March 30, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Seifert was a Fernwood member and donor.

Dyed Easter Eggs
for Adults
Saturday, March 31,
10 a.m. to noon

Use beautiful dyes derived from garden vegetables, berries, coffee, tea, or spices to color Easter eggs. $15 (Members $12). Register by March 27.
Easter Eggs for Kids
Saturday, March 31,
1 to 2:30 p.m.

Now it’s the kids turn to decorate eggs! Discover what plants make which dye colors and then get creative with your own eggs. For children ages 6 and up accompanied by an adult. $10 (Members $8) per child. Register by March 27.
Easter Sunday Brunch
Sunday, April 8,
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Celebrate one of spring’s joyous occasions together with an exquisite brunch prepared by Chef Tim and his staff at the Fernwood Café. Call Fernwood or visit the Café page of our website for more information. Adults $14.95, Children 6 to12 $7.95, Kids 5 and under are free. Seating is by reservation only, required by Friday, April 6.

About Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve

Fernwood is a favorite of all who love nature—flora and fauna. Call 269.695.6491 to confirm status of classes. Fernwood is located near Buchanan, Michigan, at 13988 Range Line Road, Niles. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. am to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
The Fernwood Cafe is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.  to 3 p.m. and Sunday noon to 3 p.m. Fernwood is closed on Monday. Visit Fernwood’s website at www.fernwoodbotanical.org.