The garden dirt - New Life for a Symbol of Renewal Celebrated for its elegant cherry - Birmingham Botanical Gardens
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the garden dirt
SPRING 2020
New Life for
a Symbol of Renewal
Celebrated for its elegant cherry
trees, authentic teahouse, and inviting
garden spaces, the Japanese Garden
continues to blossom thanks to people who
are passionate about this cultural gem
Friends of Birmingham
Botanical Gardens
2020 Board of Directors
SUMMERTIME FUN
John Smith T ................................................................CHAIR
Beverley Hoyt .................................... IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Wally Evans ...........................................................TREASURER
Emily Bowron ...................................................... SECRETARY
D.C. Coston ............................. CHAIR OF COMMUNICATIONS
& MARKETING
Peyton King..................................... CHAIR OF DEVELOPMENT
Chris Boles ...........................................CHAIR OF EDUCATION
Bill Ireland.........................................CHAIR OF GOVERNANCE
Cathy Adams .................. CHAIR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Lee McLemore.....................................CHAIR OF OPERATIONS
Members at Large
Brian Barr Chris Hastings
Craig Beatty Janet Kavinoky
Uday Bhate Natalie Kelly
Sharon Brown Caroline Little
Stephanie Cooper
John Miller
Norm Davis
Bob de Buys Blevins Naff
Wendy Evesque Tiffany Osborne
Kirk Forrester Jim Pickle
Helen Harmon Sharon Sherrod
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
EXPLORE THE GARDENS
plants, gardens, and the environment.
SUMMER CAMPS 2020 Staff
Our weeklong half- and full-day camps for age 4 through rising Tom Underwood ......................................Executive Director
Stephanie Banks ................................. Chief Financial Officer
6th grade promote creativity and the joy of discovery through fun
Mindy Keyes Black ...................Director of Communications
learning experiences in the unmatched natural setting of Birmingham and Marketing
Botanical Gardens. All camps will include daily explorations of the Rachael Daughtry ........................................ Library Assistant
Gardens, a keepsake T-shirt, and plants to take home and grow. To Dawn DeFrank .......................... Donor Services Coordinator
Jamie Haas.................Communications and Marketing Associate
register or learn more, visit bbgardens.org/summercamps or call
Ellen Hardy ..........................Education Program Coordinator
205.414.3950. Penney Hartline ..............................Director of Development
Molly Hendry ................... Garden Assessment Project Leader
Morning Camps: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $160 Friends* | $200 Non-Members Jason Kirby..............................Library Assistant and Archivist
All-Day Camps: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $280 Friends* | $350 Non-Members Dawn Coleman Lee..................Education Activities Specialist
*Members at the Family level and above are eligible for discounted rates. Hope Long .................................. Director of Library Services
John Manion .......................Kaul Wildflower Garden Curator
Brooke McMinn ........................... Director of Education and
Reggio Emilia & STEAM-Inspired Summer Garden Explorers: Visitor Experience
Creativity NEW THIS YEAR! Let’s Build a Birdhouse and Take a Alice Thompson Moore... ....................Volunteer Coordinator
(Grades 5K–2) Bird to Lunch NEW THIS YEAR! Heather Oliver .............................Special Events Coordinator
May 26–29 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Grades 3–6) Michelle Phillips....................................... Office Coordinator
Drew Rickel ..................................... Donor Relations Officer
Young Artists in the Gardens July 6–10 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Jane Underwood .................................Director of Operations
(Ages 4–5) Little Seeds: Growing Little
(Grades 1–3) Gardeners Editor: Mindy Keyes Black
June 1–5 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Grades 5K–2) Art Design: Ellen Padgett
Cover Photo: Graham Yelton
Summer Garden Chefs July 13–17 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Contributors: Susan Emack Alison, Dawn DeFrank, Jamie Haas,
(Ages 4–5) Tropical Garden Chefs: A Penney Hartline, Molly Hendry, Dawn Coleman Lee,
(Grades 5K–2) SOLD OUT Conservatory Adventure Delisa McDaniel, Brooke McMinn, Drew Rickel, Graham Yelton
(Grades 3–6) (Grades 3–6)
June 15–19 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. July 13–17 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m. ©2020 Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
Summer Garden Chefs: World– All rights reserved. 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham, AL
Little Seeds: Gardening for Wildlife 35223 | 205.414.3950 | bbgardens.org
Class Chefs NEW THIS YEAR! communications@bbgardens.org
NEW THIS YEAR!
(Ages 4–5)
(Grades 5K–2)
(Grades 5K–2) SOLD OUT A facility of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, the
July 20–24 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
(Grades 3–6) Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the result of a successful
public/private partnership between the City of Birmingham
June 22–26 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Junior Master Gardeners and the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a
(Ages 8–12) mission-driven membership organization that seeks to protect,
Japanese Garden Exploration nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens. We hope you
(Ages 4–5) NEW FOR THIS July 20–24 | 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. enjoy this issue of the Friends’ quarterly newsletter. Thank you
for visiting and supporting the Gardens!
AGE GROUP! Spa Camp SOLD OUT Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens practices a policy of
(Grades 5K–2) (Grades 5K–4) equal opportunity and equal access to services for all persons
regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, age, disability,
July 6–10 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. July 20–24 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. veteran status, orientation, or sex identity.
COMING SOON!
ANNUAL MEMBER
WELCOME
CELEBRATION
PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR
2020 MEMBER CELEBRATION
This year we feature Thomas Rainer, internationally acclaimed
landscape architect who is helping guide the renovation and
future enhancements of the Kaul Wildflower Garden (Turn the
page to learn more!)
EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED
Dear Friend, NEW DATE WILL BE ANNOUNCED
As spring arrives all around us, there has never been a more (ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED FOR
important time to recognize what the season signals in our lives. THURSDAY, APRIL 2)
It’s a time to dig in our gardens and grow our green thumbs, a
time for spring cleaning, a time to enjoy fresh air and cool days with COST: FREE (MEMBERS),
family and friends. And as we join together with others to keep $15 (NON-MEMBERS)
our communities healthy, it’s a time to honor the people and places
most dear to us.
BBGARDENS.ORG/MEMBERCELEBRATION
We are excited to share our 2019 Annual Report recognizing
the many ways that your Friendship—in the form of membership
Thomas Rainer, a leading voice in ecological landscape design,
support, donor contributions, and volunteer service—has impacted
will talk about his landscape philosophy and how it applies both
the Gardens during the past year. We have much to celebrate and even
more to accomplish as we seek to further our mission. All that we to homeowners’ gardens and to the Kaul Wildflower Garden.
achieve is possible because of your commitment to this special place. The Birmingham native, a principal with Phyto Studio
This issue of The Garden Dirt also highlights the remarkable renewal in Washington, D.C., has designed landscapes for the U.S.
that has happened in the Japanese Garden (page 6) thanks to your Capitol grounds, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and
support and the dedication of those who regularly devote time and The New York Botanical Garden. He has been featured in
energy to this cultural gem. It’s a story of coming together to bring numerous publications, including The New York Times, Landscape
new life to a garden that means so much to so many. Architecture Magazine, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune,
Finally, we hope you enjoy reading about our ongoing work on and Architectural Digest. His recent work focuses on the artful
the restoration and enhancement of the Kaul Wildflower Garden interpretation of wild plant communities into designed plantings
(page 2). Watch for an announcement soon about a new date for that thrive in the context of towns and cities.
our Annual Member Celebration, when noted landscape architect
and Birmingham native Thomas Rainer will join us to share
insights into what sets this distinctive garden space apart. A Note About the Gardens and Spring Events & Classes
You are dear to us. We thank you for your involvement, your On March 16, the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board voted
generosity, your Friendship. to close its facilities, including Birmingham Botanical Gardens,
with an unspecified date for reopening in an effort to help
prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). As we
strive to do our part to keep our community healthy during this
public health state of emergency, the Friends of Birmingham
Tom Underwood Botanical Gardens has decided to cancel or postpone programs,
Executive Director events, and activities scheduled through April 30. This includes
Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens our Annual Member Celebration, Earth Day at the Gardens,
and our Spring Plant Sale. Calendar listings after April 30 are
under review and subject to change. Please see our website,
e-newsletter, and social media channels for updates. We extend
our sincere hopes for the good health and well-being of the
entire community.
1
SPRING 2020
A Growing Friendship
With guidance from noted landscape architect and Birmingham native
Thomas Rainer, a new vision for the Kaul Wildflower Garden honors the garden’s
rich history and exceptional native plant collection. By MOLLY HENDRY
THE BEST GARDENS ARE LIKE TRUSTED with a band of women led by the gusto of Bobbe garden. So the Swiss-born landscape architect
friends. In friendship there are rhythms you come Kaul, eager to create a space at the Gardens that Zenon Schreiber of New York was tapped as the
to expect, the comfort of the known. But there celebrates the diverse native flora of Alabama. An craftsman who would unearth the garden from the
is also the spark of possibility, a forward-looking old sandstone rock quarry, abandoned shortly rubble of the old quarry.
vision toward what is to come. Friendship does not after the Great Depression and overgrown with Schreiber began work in February 1966,
happen in a moment but is forged through a series honeysuckle and Japanese privet, was identified initiating a decade-long endeavor that created the
of experiences, the richness multiplied by that as a prime location. After Mrs. Kaul saw photos garden’s structural framework. Instead of drawing
sweet layer of time. of Leonard J. Buck’s private garden in Far Hills, up fancy plans, he would come to Birmingham
One of my most trusted garden comrades is the New Jersey, she was determined to have the for three to four weeks at a time and direct the
Kaul Wildflower Garden at the Gardens’ northern same designer for Birmingham’s new wildflower garden’s construction on-site. He was often in
tip. Its rock outcroppings are the backbone against the creek determining the placement of stone
which the layers of the seasons ebb and flow. Day or scaling the slopes of the garden to ensure the
by day its structure is steady, yet its collection is proper alignment of the path. Schreiber’s genius
always a newfound delight.
“The Kaul Wildflower Garden was in his ability to meet the natural qualities of a
Photos by Graham Yelton, Mindy Keyes Black, and Molly Hendry
The garden and I were acquaintances when I is rich with topographic and site with a designer’s kiss. He did not apply a heavy
was a little girl growing up in Birmingham, just hand to the land but drew out of the wilderness
brief meetings when my mom would herd my
spatial diversity, providing what was inherently there, revealing a garden that
sisters and me up to its rocky ledges with picnic a variety of habitats to show was a resounding echo of its context.
lunch in tow. Just two years ago our paths crossed It has been over 50 years since Schreiber
again. I saw the garden with new eyes, realizing
native plants in their best light. was working in Kaul, yet the garden is still
that what I had assumed as a child was wild and The diversity of its collection in motion. The collection that Bobbe Kaul
untamed was instead meticulously crafted and initiated, filled with many plants saved from the
very purposeful. rivals that of any garden in the ravages of development, is now in the care of
As with many friends, you learn a lot about United States.” Kaul Wildflower Garden Curator John Manion,
them by understanding the people who have been whose passion for native plants is contagious.
—landscape architect Thomas Rainer
a part of their story. The first chapter of the Kaul Over the past 10 years, John has doubled the
Wildflower Garden begins in the early 1960s number of native species to 900, an enviable
2
OPPOSITE: John Manion,
Kaul Wildflower Garden
Curator, leads the
visioning team in a tour
of Kaul’s spring gems
with Thomas Rainer
and Emilie Carter of the
Phyto Studio and Molly
Hendry of the Friends.
ABOVE: The creek, which
runs along the western
side of Kaul, is the
showpiece of Schreiber’s
handiwork. It’s hard to
tell which stones were
placed by nature and
which were crafted by
him. LEFT: Mountain
laurel (Kalmia latifolia),
a structural evergreen
through most of the
year, bursts into soft
pink blooms in spring.
RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM:
White top pitcher plant
(Sarracenia leucophylla),
oakleaf hydrangea
(Hydrangea quercifolia),
bloodroot (Sanguinaria
canadensis), Indian pink
(Spigelia marilandica),
trout lily (Erythronium
americanum), columbine
(Aquilegia canadensis)
3
number for those in colder regions of the sweeps of successive color that draw visitors
Eastern U.S. This enthusiasm has spilled out into the depths of the garden.
beyond the garden into an array of volunteer The question we strive to answer echoes
opportunities and educational classes. In that of Bobbe Kaul and her wildflower
2019, over 1,000 volunteer hours of work comrades: How can the Kaul Wildflower
were completed by a core team of volunteers. Garden inspire next generations to steward
More than 70 students have completed the Alabama’s natural treasures?
Certificate in Native Plant Studies, and our I believe the answer is held within its little
Native Plant propagation group grows a large moments, the ones that take you from a mere
percentage of the native plants available at our acquaintance to a deeper friendship, season
annual plant sales on-site. The garden is also after season. The first bloodroot appearing at
outward-facing, inspiring many field trips to the tail end of winter. Trout lilies and trillium
the native habitats that Kaul celebrates. cascading down the sides of the creek. Wild
The rich history of Kaul coupled with the geraniums billowing against the coarse rocks.
WILD ABOUT zeal surrounding native plants has the garden Dogwood blooms reaching out from the edge
WILDFLOWERS?
poised for dynamic development into the of the woodland. Morning light catching the
future. In the spring of 2019, internationally dew on mayapples carpeting the forest floor.
known landscape architect (and Birmingham Woodland phlox rippling along the edge of
Join us in May for these two special, paths. Craggy mountain laurel bursting into
native) Thomas Rainer of Phyto Studio in
wildflower-themed events hosted by
Washington, D.C., was invited to spend blooming clusters. Delicate maidenhair ferns
the Friends of Birmingham Botanical
a day and a half conducting a visioning emerging after the spring rains subside. The
Gardens Junior Board! Proceeds benefit
workshop for the garden. Much of the spatial coolness of the bubbling creek contrasted
the Friends’ Kaul Wildflower Garden
composition that Schreiber worked within with the hot hum of insects in the meadow in
Internship Program.
has changed over the decades as trees have summer. Crisp fall days when our attention
COCKTAILS GONE WILD: been lost, the collection has diversified, lifts back up to the trees and their fiery glory.
CRAFTING DELICIOUS LIBATIONS shrubs have matured, and surrounding areas By the time the peaceful quiet of winter
FROM GARDENS AND THE WILD have been developed. The outcome of the descends, we are left in eager anticipation of
Using ingredients commonly found in workshop was a report that provides guiding those first bloodroot blooms to signal the start
home gardens and in the wild, you’ll principles for Kaul’s future development and of nature’s thrilling dance again.
learn what to grow to enhance your divides the garden into 12 distinct zones, It isn’t any single moment that makes Kaul
favorite cocktail recipes. Sponsored each with its own spatial identity, unified a mighty force. It’s all those little moments
by Brick & Tin, the class will include palette of plants, and an understanding of knitted together, growing a friendship that we
instruction on making shrubs, bitters, its desired ecological trajectory. The goal for hope will bloom in succeeding generations,
and other botanical concoctions and each zone is to distill the patterns and species inspiring them to protect and nurture these
tasty takeaways. Led by John Manion, to evoke a single wild reference point, with wonders that we hold so dear.
Kaul Wildflower Garden Curator
with the Friends of Birmingham
Botanical Gardens, and Joshua Kelly,
Manager of Brick & Tin Mountain Brook.
For ages 21 and up.
Sunday, May 3 | 3:30–6:30 p.m.
Brick & Tin Mountain Brook
Tickets: $60 (Members) | $70 (Non-
members)
bbgardens.org/classes
A WALK ON THE
WILD(FLOWER) SIDE
Enjoy a reception and a guided
tour of the Kaul Wildflower Garden to
discover the rare and native plants that
set this garden apart. Tickets include
reception and tour.
Thursday, May 28 | 5:30–7 p.m.
Kaul Wildflower Garden
Tickets: $30 (Members) | $35 (Non-
members)
bbgardens.org/wildflower
Swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius), a late-season favorite for all our guests
4
1 2
Golden Alexander
PLANT
THE
SEEDS
3 4 Cultivate your own
wildflower garden by
joining the Library at
the Gardens’ free Seed
Exchange program!
Harkening back to a
tradition shared by
Southern gardeners
of years past, the
program celebrates the
communal act of seed
saving. “Our great-
5 6 grandparents would
take cuttings and bring
them to their neighbors,”
AROUND THE GARDENS says Director of Library
Wondrous Wildflowers
Services Hope Long.
“They would share seeds
from their gardens. It
has almost become a
The Kaul Wildflower Garden is home to 900 species of native plants. lost art, but this
Here are six of our favorites and what we love about them. exchange encourages
By MOLLY HENDRY us to start again.”
Not only does the
practice inspire a culture
1. What it is: Piedmont azalea 3. What it is: Northern 5. What it is: Mountain laurel of sharing, but also it
(Rhododendron canescens) maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) (Kalmia latifolia) promotes biodiversity
What we love about it: One of What we love about it: The What we love about it: At the through the exchange
our first native azaleas to bloom in lushness of their delicate fronds end of spring, light pink buds of locally adapted plant
spring. You might smell its sweet, that contrast with their dark, wiry burst into creamy clusters that are varieties. Seeds are open-
lemony perfume before you see its stems, bringing vibrancy to moist, highlighted by the backdrop of pollinated, which means
shady stream banks. glossy green foliage on gnarled, they result from natural
soft pink blooms.
Where to find it: Along the twisting branches. pollination of the parent
Where to find it: Main entrance
western stream bank Where to find it: Lining the plant. Choose from open-
to the Kaul Wildflower Garden, pollinated vegetable,
4. What it is: Golden Alexander upper path overlook
across from the gazebo fruit, herb, and flower
(Zizia aurea) 6. What it is: Mayapple
2. What it is: Fringe tree seeds, including golden
What we love about it: The (Podophyllum peltatum) Alexander (Zizia aurea)
(Chionanthus virginicus) fine texture of its buttery yellow What we love about it: The and a number of other
What we love about it: Drooping, flower clusters. A member of the singular white flower hidden under seeds harvested from the
white flowers create a flossy white carrot family, this hardworking the enveloping umbrella leaves, Kaul Wildflower Garden,
haze on this small understory tree native boasts a long bloom which create a glossy green mat on then close the loop and
in the spring garden. season. the woodland floor in spring. bring us back seeds from
Where to find it: Along the Where to find it: Along western Where to find it: Western forest your own garden!
western stream bank rock terraces slope —Jamie Haas
5
new life for a
symbol of renewal
By MINDY KEYES BLACK
getting care and attention.
M
I also enjoy learning about
ost Tuesday
gardening from other
mornings, regardless
members of the group, who
of forecast or temperature,
know a lot. The relationship
the Japanese Garden
among the volunteers is a
hums with activity as a
pedigrees) because of their big part of what keeps me
hardworking band of 10 to coming back.”
12 men and women who are shared interest in Japanese
culture and gardening. “Things just tend to
enamored with the space happen in this garden
Skilled in everything from
come together to tackle when there is a need,”
horticulture and carpentry
tasks from pulling privet says D.C. Coston, who
to the art of Japanese
and planting crabapples to joined the Docs three years
tea ceremonies, all work
cleaning the teahouse and ago after retiring from a
diligently to support Shadow of Japanese
replacing aging wood on Adam Benjamin, the City maple on garden wall
bridges and gates. of Birmingham gardener
Some have devoted their who cares for the 7.5-acre
Tuesdays to the garden for garden, and to give back to
more than a decade. Others a place that, for them and
came recently to the group many others, embodies the
(once known as “the Docs” promise of friendship and
because of its founding continual renewal.
members’ educational “It’s exciting to see
what’s happening here,”
says Neal Schooley, one of
the group’s original Docs
who has helped paint
and make repairs to the
garden’s bridges. He began
volunteering in the garden
in 2014 as part of the 50-
hour service component of
the Alabama Cooperative
Extension System’s Master
Gardener program. While
he completed his 50 hours
in a matter of months, the
Tuesday morning routine
became habit. “I see friends
Blue heron walking here and meet
people visiting from out of
town, and I recommend
the garden to people all the
time. It is a great place, and The curved-top torii, or “gate
I’m happy to see that it is to heaven,” welcomes visitors
at the garden’s entrance.
6
Cherry blossoms in bloom
7
features since it was
opened in 1967 by the
Japanese Ambassador
to the United States. A
collection of gardens, it
features traditional Japanese two other original Docs,
architectural elements such Mike Rushing and the late
career dedicated to higher as the spectacular, curved- Bob Wendorf; and long-
education and extension top torii, or “gate to heaven,” time teahouse volunteer
education. Now also an at the garden’s entrance; Ritsuko Asano, he quickly
active member of the the arching red Fulfillment grew to love the garden,
Friends of Birmingham Bridge, or Moon Bridge, which he feels highlights
Botanical Gardens Board over Long Life Lake; and the not just plantings but “the
of Directors, D.C. thinks 16th-century, Sukiya-style experience of spatial orien-
of recent renewal efforts teahouse, Toshinan, built tations,” Adam says. Neal Schooley
almost like the tuning on a by noted Japanese temple “There is a huge rock in
radio. “The first few years and shrine builder Kazunori the middle of the entrance
were coarse tuning. A big Tago using authentic tools, path,” he says. “It looks like
part of what we were doing techniques, and materials. a roadblock; many people
was actually discovery. Now Designated a Japanese aren’t sure what to do when
we’ve moved on to the Cultural Center by the they reach it or why it’s
fine-tuning piece, which Japanese government in there at all. The original
has been fun to see and be a 1993, the space also features designer placed it there as
part of.” traditional garden elements, an indication that it’s time
“What has happened is such as its Bamboo Grove, to stop and look around.
that the people who have its growing collection What do you see and hear?
joined the group have all of momiji (Japanese maples), What is happening around
caught the spirit that we and the Kayser Cherry you? I believe that’s what
Walk’s graceful Yoshino gardens, at their best, are: Ritsuko Asano and John Floyd
want this garden to look
better and better,” says John cherries, several of which invitations to slow down.
Floyd, former editor in chief were propagated from To unplug and figure out
of Southern Living magazine, the famed Yoshinos who you are again.”
a Friends Trustee, and lining the Tidal Basin in Confronted initially
another of the volunteer Washington, D.C. with a key water feature in
group’s original Docs. “We need of repair and plant
continue to edit what we Change of Pace “overgrowth everywhere,”
have all the time. But we’re When Adam Benjamin Adam and the Tuesday
not just taking out privet was assigned to care for the volunteer team soon took
or picking up leaves—we’re Japanese Garden in 2013, on the task of reviving
working together to refine the garden had not had the the garden’s sights and
the garden and plan for its benefit of a dedicated City sounds. They removed the
future.” gardener for three years. As fast-spreading reed (cane)
Mike Rushing
Designed by Masaji he got to know its history bamboo leaning heavily
“Buffy” Morai, the Japanese and cultural significance against the teahouse and
Garden has been one of with the help of John Floyd; eclipsing the lotus pool just
Birmingham Botanical behind it. They repurposed
Gardens’ most popular the former bonsai house for
courtyard gardens, known
as tsubo-niwa. “We would
love one day to turn this
Adam spot into an informational
Benjamin
center for educating visitors
about Japanese culture and
elements throughout the
garden,” Adam says. He
and the Docs attended a Gene Donaldson
hands-on workshop hosted
8Japan’s tradition
of installing lanterns in
gardens dates to the seventh
century. Types of lanterns found in the
Japanese Garden are tachi-gata (pedestal
lanterns) such as our Kasuga doro, ikekome-
gata (buried lanterns), and yukimi-gata
(commonly called “snow-viewing” lanterns
but often placed close to water). A
spirit lantern, a recent gift, will
be installed soon.
Yukimi doro, the garden’s snow-viewing lantern
Japanese Garden Lantern Party
TUESDAY, JUNE 2 I 6–8 P.M.
Experience the Japanese Garden anew by the light
of its eight authentic lanterns. Join the Friends of Birmingham
Botanical Gardens for this special twilight, lantern-lit stroll
through the garden. Attendees will have a chance to sample
Japanese finger foods and sake and to enjoy traditional
Japanese tea served by members of the Chado Urasenke
Tankokai Birmingham Association. Japanese Garden artifacts
will be on display. Live music will be performed on the koto, a
Japanese stringed instrument, and the flute by Laurie and Koji
Arizumi, instructors of Japanese at the University of Alabama.
Cost is $75 for members of the Friends and $100 for
non-members. Golf cart shuttle service will be available to and
from the parking lot. Proceeds benefit the stewardship and
enhancement of the Japanese Garden.
Tickets available at bbgardens.org/lantern
Traditional tea ceremonyBamboo gate
New Protective Life
Ross Callaway rakes the Elevated Boardwalk
karesansui (dry landscape) garden.
“Working in the
serene Japanese
Garden provides a
clean break from
miscellaneous self-
imposed everyday
tasks. It is very
meditative.”
—Ritsuko Asano, third-generation
Japanese tea instructor who
volunteers time each Tuesday
to care for the garden’s teahouse
and tea garden
10by the Aesthetic Pruning
Association at Duke
University as they set out to
hone their pruning skills for
the garden. was originally in the garden
A handful of private didn’t do well here, so with
the help of the Tuesday
donors came together
group, I added zoysia and
to purchase a new pump
other plant material back
for the long-silent Seven
Rock and Four Seasons into that garden for more
Virtues Waterfalls. When
Island. The Friends engaged interest. They’re important
an additional hurdle—a
Alabama Aquarium and because they give your eyes
Volkswagen Beetle-size hole
Pool Services to dredge an a place to rest.”
in the garden’s streambed—
estimated 32,000 cubic feet Major gifts from
prevented the pumped
of silt (equal to about 4,740 Protective Life Corporation
water from reaching its
standard hay bales) from with additional funding
destination, the Friends’
the bottom of the lake using from the CS Beatty Family
Director of Operations,
specially designed geotextile Foundation in memory of
Jane Underwood, brought
bags, returning the lake to its Craig Shipley Beatty, Jr.,
in Parrot Structural Services
original level and slowing the paved the way for a new
to fill the hole with three
erosion of the lake’s banks. elevated boardwalk and
pallets of grout to get the education platform, which
signature water feature
back up and running. “This
Fresh Look opened in early March.
Diving into information Constructed using 66
one change made such a and photos preserved in helical piers necessitated by
difference,” says Adam. “You the archives at the Library the unique soil conditions,
lose a lot of the traffic noise, at the Gardens, Adam has the boardwalk and platform
so flowing water completely continued to “uncover its allow visitors to explore
changes how you experience bones and the reasoning the heart of the Bamboo
the garden.” behind its design.” Grove while also protecting
“When I started here, Professional development the 34 species of bamboo
I had never seen the support from the Friends growing there.
stream running,” says and the City allowed him “The new elevated
Mike Rushing, who began to attend two seminars boardwalk through the
volunteering in the garden hosted by the International bamboo stand is a fantastic
in 2008. “Now it’s truly the Japanese Garden Training addition,” says Tuesday
garden’s centerpiece.” Kasuga doro lantern
Center at Portland Japanese morning regular Ross
The garden’s rebirth Garden—considered one Callaway, who has been
continues. Last spring, of the nation’s preeminent working with Adam on
donations and member Japanese gardens—in the karesansui renewal.
support made possible the Portland, Oregon. Here he “The walkway beckons
partial restoration of the learned traditional Japanese you to enter the forest of
shoreline of Long Life Lake. landscaping methods and bamboo—an enchanted
Since the lake’s creation returned with a host of ideas, path. We volunteers have
in the 1960s, silt deposits including the reimagining concluded that this will be
from runoff and organic of the karesansui (dry a new destination point for
matter had raised the water landscape) garden. visitors. It offers views of two
level by 12 to 18 inches, “It bothered me that of the garden’s large stone
deteriorating edges of the people went up to it, lanterns and will be a shady
lake and hiding original glanced at it, and walked place on hot summer days.”
rock features such as Turtle away,” he says. “That’s not The granite lanterns,
what this space is supposed gifts from Hitachi City,
to be. It’s a place for one of Birmingham’s two Bamboo shoot
meditation and reflection. sister cities in Japan, include
Many Japanese gardens
incorporate moss into their
dry gardens, but moss that
11of that 7.5-acre space. I’m
the only gardener for our
Japanese Garden, and I have
3.5 other acres under my
care here, so our Tuesday
morning team and other
student and corporate
volunteer groups make a
huge difference.”
The list of the garden’s
pressing needs continues,
Moon Bridge from addressing flooding
and Long Life Lake
around the karesansui
to the major projects of
carrying out a much-needed
the 3-ton, 6-foot-high renovation of the teahouse
Yukimi doro, or snow- and regrading the garden’s
paths for greater accessibility
viewing lantern, and the
and drainage solutions. The
5-ton, 12-foot-high Kasuga
Friends of Birmingham
doro. Formerly standing
concept of conceal-and- Botanical Gardens stands
near the intersection of
reveal. We want to make ready to help Adam and his
Meet Norm Cahaba and Lane Park
it a place where you don’t dedicated volunteer team
Roads (once considered
From leading tours and pruning junipers just walk through and keep accomplish the vision for
Birmingham’s southernmost
to sharing his favorite recipe for koi food, going but instead slow down these next phases of renewal.
volunteer Norm Geisinger brings the
limit), the Kasuga doro was
and notice the change of “It’s really very exciting
Japanese Garden to life for visitors of all relocated to its new home
the seasons. Around every to be a part of,” says Mike
ages. Enjoy our recent video chat with in the Bamboo Grove in
corner: a whole new vista.” Rushing. “We’ve come
Norm at bbgardens.org/blog. 2017. The surrounding Building on this concept, so far—now it’s all about
landscaping, created by the a recent gift from ITOCHU refining. It’s as if when we
Tuesday morning volunteer Coal Americas Inc. will soon started, the garden was
group, memorializes be used toward another background noise, but now,
founding “Doc” Bob new addition: an authentic it is picking out a melody.
Wendorf, who passed away “spirit lantern” that once The garden is developing.”
in 2018. stood in a private garden in “Getting the water
Nagoya, Japan. The lantern working was absolutely
New Life was carved from red kurama transformational, and now
To Adam, much of the granite, a rare stone from with the beautiful bamboo
garden’s recent renewal iron-rich hills north of walk, we’re adding delightful
has reflected a return to Kyoto. When completed, features and getting a
Morai’s original intent for the lantern installation and garden that to me is more
the garden. “My main goal is landscaping will add another respectable every day,” says
to get it back to the original conceal-and-reveal view of John Floyd. “The meticulous
concept, and then build on Long Life Lake from a berm, way things are being done,
that,” he says. “I’m trying to or mound, on one of the the relationship that we the
Norm
Geisinger take it from where we are garden’s main paths. volunteers have with Adam,
now to a more accessible The renewal also and the empowerment that
garden and a more intricate highlights the impact of we feel with the support for
Koi in Long garden—a garden that volunteers at Birmingham our work coming from the
Life Lake reflects the Japanese design Botanical Gardens, he Friends staff and Board—it’s
points out. “At Portland really a successful model that
Japanese Garden, which I’d like to see as a model for
is very close to the size every garden here.”
of our Japanese Garden,
12 gardeners and 200
volunteers are taking care
Volunteer with us! Email volunteer@bbgardens.org to learn more.DID YOU KNOW?
10 fun facts about
the Japanese Garden
12
Several of the Yoshino cherry trees
growing along the Kayser Cherry Walk were
The garden was officially opened propagated from the famous Yoshinos
in 1967 by the Japanese Ambassador along the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.
to the United States. They were presented to the Gardens to
3
4
mark the 100th anniversary of the original
gift from the people of Japan.
Traditionally each spring, the Japan-
America Society of Alabama hosts a
Sakura, or cherry blossom, Festival at In 1993, the Japanese government
56
the Gardens to celebrate the garden’s designated the teahouse, pavilion, and
cherry trees in bloom. In Japanese surrounding areas in the garden an
culture, sakura symbolize the beauty official Japanese cultural center.
and ephemerality of life.
The garden’s teahouse, Toshinan, is
The garden’s growing collection a 16th-century, Sukiya-style teahouse
of 94 momiji, or Japanese maples— that was constructed in 1993 by master
some dating back to the opening builder Kazunori Tago using traditional
of the Gardens in 1962—includes tools and techniques and materials
46 named cultivars. brought from Japan. The name Toshinan
7
means “the house where those gathered
8
can light a wick [of understanding] in
On Monday evenings in spring and one another’s hearts.”
summer, the Moore Japanese Cultural
Pavilion, which was based on the
design of a rural Japanese theater, The Bridge of Accomplishment, or
provides a picturesque, open-air site “zigzag bridge,” symbolizes the twists
for the Friends’ Evening Ashtanga Yoga and turns that people must navigate
in the Gardens classes. in life. Cutouts in the cedar panels
9
are important Japanese cultural
symbols, including fans, cherry and
The Seven Virtues Waterfalls consists of
chrysanthemum blossoms, and the
10
seven waterfalls and seven pools that
leaves of bamboo and Japanese maple.
flow through the Hill and Stream Garden
before emptying into Long Life Lake.
The name is based on the seven virtues The garden is home to eight Japanese
of Bushido, the way of the samurai: lanterns. Two granite welcome lanterns,
benevolence, courage, honesty, honor, the Kasuga doro and the Yukimi doro,
loyalty, rectitude, and respect. were a gift from Hitachi City, one of
Birmingham’s two sister cities in Japan.
(The second sister city is Maebashi.)SPRING 2020
Your Membership
Keeps the Gardens
Growing
ANNOUNCING STREAMLINED LEVELS
AND ENHANCED BENEFITS FOR 2020!
We are excited to announce our seven membership
levels and newly enhanced member benefits for 2020.
Levels include Friend ($50), Dual ($55), Family ($70),
Contributor ($150), Supporter ($250), Ambassador
($500), and Benefactor Circle ($1,000+).
We hope you enjoy your newly enhanced member
benefits, including
• Discounts and Priority Registration for Select Classes
and Events
• 10% off at Leaf & Petal at the Gardens, the Gardens
Café by Kathy G, and (new this year!) Participating
Nurseries and Garden Shops, including Botanica,
Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, Myers Plants &
Pottery, Petals from the Past, SHOPPE: Birmingham, and
Sweet Peas Garden Shop (certain exclusions apply; visit
bbgardens.org/benefits to learn more)
• Admission to our Spring Plant Sale
Members-only Sale
• Free or Reduced Admission at 300+ gardens
across North America
• And so much more! Learn more at
bbgardens.org/membership.
If you joined or last renewed prior to February 26, 2020,
your same benefits, as well as newly added benefits,
will be honored throughout your membership. To take
advantage of your member benefits online, create your
member log-in on our home page. Applicable member
discounts will appear in your cart. You’ll note that we
have simplified our options and changed the names of
several of our membership categories in response to
member feedback.
Thank you for your commitment to the Friends of
Birmingham Botanical Gardens! Now through May 31:
receive 10% off a personal or gift membership! Enter
discount code SPRING2020 when making your purchase
at bbgardens.org/membership.
14HONORARIUMS Reta Mudd
Thank You
October–December 2019 Mr. William A. Mudd &
Ms. Alison W. Nichols
GARDEN SUPPORTERS SPRING 2020
Barbara Adkins Nancy C. Natter
The Canterbury Club RADM. John T. Natter
Kathy & Rob Angus Will Newton
WE ARE GRATEFUL for the many
Drs. Anne & Bruce Cusic Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr.
ways that you show your support of the Kate Newton
Ritsuko Asano
Friends throughout the year! Your annual Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr.
membership, contributions, and volunteer Paula & Mike Rushing Tricia Noble
service are critical to our success. Kim & Fred Spicer Julia Ann & Marvin Cleage
Starting with this issue of The Garden Judi Aucoin Gail & Edward Parrish
Dirt, we will transition to recognizing Edgewood Garden Club Mr. & Mrs. Mike Parrish
the generosity of lead donors, sponsors, Brian D. Barr Carol P. Poynor
individuals in our Perennial Legacy Giving Martha & Chip Grizzle Mrs. Kay Byars
Adam Benjamin Mike Rushing
Circle, and members once a year, in our
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Dekalb County Master
newly redesigned annual report. We will
Paula & Mike Rushing Gardeners
continue to recognize your honorariums and memorial gifts quarterly— Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr.
Emily & Bill Bowron
thank you for honoring friends, colleagues, and loved ones through these Forest Park Garden Club
Margaret Anne &
meaningful tributes. We hope you enjoy our new annual report! T.O. Smith Highland Lakes
As a friend of the Gardens, you join with others who treasure both the Mr. Hatton C.V. Smith Garden Club
natural world and the Gardens’ important role in our community. Thank Debbie Brantley Mountaintop Garden Club
you for helping us keep Birmingham Botanical Gardens special. Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Neal Schooley
—Penney Hartline, Director of Development Ross Callaway Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr.
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Paula & Mike Rushing
Paula & Mike Rushing Nancy Anne Ward Smith
Jean K. Condrey Mrs. Donald R. Pritchard
Dr. & Mrs. G. William Cole John Smith T
D.C. Coston Mr. & Mrs. T. Michael
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Brown
Paula & Mike Rushing Tiffany Sutton
David E. Doggett Mr. & Mrs. Edwin E.
Paula & Mike Rushing Lambert
Gene Donaldson Mark Thompson
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. The Little Garden Club
Paula & Mike Rushing Jane Underwood
John Floyd Mr. & Mrs. Edwin E.
Mr. & Mrs. Edwin E. Lambert
Lambert
Paula & Mike Rushing MEMORIALS
Cindy & Craig Fravert October–December 2019
Mr. & Mrs. Christopher
Carter Ann S. Allen
A Special Anniversary for Mr. & Mrs. William F.
Beth & Jim Garner Denson III
Sue & Allan Solomon Miriam Banks
Norm Geisinger Jeanie S. Sherlock
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Rebecca Pinkston Caddell
Paula & Mike Rushing Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Collins
Molly Hendry Mary Katherine “Kathy”
Cadmean Circle Connolly
Mr. & Mrs. Edwin E. Mr. & Mrs. Mitchell Cooper
Lambert Dr. & Mrs. Richard S.
John Kerns Cybulsky
Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. Linda & Charlie Faulkner
Paula & Mike Rushing Mr. & Mrs. Henry S.
Robert S. Koons Fowlkes III
Paula & Mike Rushing Ms. Mary W. Foy &
Susanne Lambert Mr. John O’Hagan
Ms. Rebecca N. Posey Mr. Michael G. Gray
Jennifer R. McCain Ms. Helen I. Kohn
Mrs. Margaret M. Mr. Jon Turner &
DeBardeleben Ms. F. Ruth Luketic
A new tea garden gate was installed at the entrance to the Japanese Garden’s Alice Moore Mr. & Mrs. Raymond K.
tea garden. The gate was given by Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Mancer in memory of Mr. & Mrs. Edwin E. Lyrene
Mary E. and Richard B. Mancer. The structure, based on the garden’s previous Lambert Mr. & Mrs. John Markus
tea garden gate, now serves as the new threshold to the tea garden from Mrs. Elizabeth G. McKean
the View-Receiving Bridge. Mr. & Mrs. Joseph V. Musso
15Mr. & Mrs. Robert R. Pless Robert J. Wendorf FRIENDS OF BIRMINGHAM
Mr. & Mrs. Norman F. Dr. & Mrs. John Floyd, Jr. BOTANICAL GARDENS
Remick Paula & Mike Rushing
NEW BOARD MEMBERS
GARDEN SUPPORTERS
Mr. & Mrs. John Sechrist Lynn L. & Fritz Woehle
Mr. & Mrs. Timothy G. Ms. Lee L. Woehle
Shultz Chip Henry Bell Wood WENDY EVESQUE
Mr. & Mrs. John M. St. Clair Mrs. Fiona Bradford
Wendy Evesque is Senior Vice President and
Mr. & Mrs. Russell W. Street Jettye Yeckley
Chief Human Resources Officer for Protective Life
Becky & John Thomas Dr. Joel Bumgardner
Corporation. Her role is to oversee the company’s
Mr. & Mrs. Tom
human resources activities, including leadership
Underwood LIBRARY DONORS
development, talent acquisition, compensation,
Anonymous October–December 2019
benefits, employee relations, and learning and talent
Homer Eugene
Croasmun, Jr. Rosemarie Abrams development. Wendy joined Protective in March 2005.
Theresa Croasmun Hana Burwinkle Berres Prior to joining Protective Life, Wendy served as Vice President and Human
Eleanor Clairene Dodd Chris Boles Capital Partner with United Health Group, providing HR support to health
Beechwood Baptist Church Rachel Fowler plans across the Southern region of the country.
Robert L. Eskew, Sr. Herb Society of Alabama Wendy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce and Business
Mr. & Mrs. John R. Eskew Leaf & Petal at the Gardens Administration from the University of Alabama, and a Masters of Business
Mary Josephine Hamre Emily W. McGowin Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Mrs. Johnie W. Gieger Kathryn Neuhaus
Griffith R. Harsh III Marlene Hunt Rikard JANET F. KAVINOKY
Mrs. Elizabeth B. Marbury Mary Stasyszyn Janet Kavinoky is Vice President, External Affairs and
Fay Belt Ireland Corporate Communications for Vulcan Materials
Mr. & Mrs. William F. LIBRARY Company. She is responsible for the community,
Denson III HONORARIUMS governmental and regulatory affairs of the corporation,
George & Josephine Klopp October–December 2019 its corporate communications initiatives, as well
Carolyn & John as the company’s charitable giving and political
Stadtlander Jason Kirby
action committee programs. Before joining Vulcan
Dr. Frederick Robert Alea Literary Club
in September 2015, Janet was executive director for transportation &
Lehmeyer Birmingham Fern Society
infrastructure at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Janet began her career
Mrs. Joyce E. Lehmeyer Federated Garden Club,
at the U.S. Department of Transportation, ultimately serving as a special
Ginger (Mrs. Ivan) District 3
assistant to the Secretary of Transportation.
Matthews Hill and Dale Garden Club
Brenda M. Holloway
Janet earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Economy from the University
Mrs. Cecilia C. Matthews
Jennie June Croly Study Club of Wyoming and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Margaret (Peg) McGowan
Mr. & Mrs. William F. Kirkwood by the River
Magnolia Garden Club JIM PICKLE
Denson III
Gloria T. McWilliams Springbrook Garden Club Jim Pickle was elected chair of the Friends Junior Board
Ms. Eugenia A. McWilliams Alan Stevens in December 2019, and previously served as Junior
Annie Louise Mills Variosa Club Board Secretary. He is an attorney with Maynard,
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas B. Worthwhile Garden Club Cooper & Gale, where his work focuses on the areas of
Cox, Jr. Hope Long mergers and acquisitions, venture capital financings, and
James L. Newsome Wellington Park Garden corporate governance. Prior to moving to Birmingham,
Mr. & Mrs. Harvey C. Clark Club Jim lived in Washington, D.C., and practiced law at DLA
Jay Robinson Leonora Roberson Piper. He has lived in a number of cities across the U.S., including New York
Ms. Mel Robinson Center Point Garden Club and Chicago. Jim earned his B.S. and J.D. degrees from Washington and Lee
LaVona Price Rushton University in Lexington, Virginia.
Tremont Garden Club LIBRARY MEMORIALS Jim attributes his involvement in the Gardens to his experience
Roxie Scherer October–December 2019 in horticulture and his desire to help expand the reach of an iconic
Mr. G. Mike Scherer Birmingham landmark.
Charles E. Sharp William J. Broughton III
Tremont Garden Club Billy Angell
SHARON SHERROD
Robert G. Sherrill Kathy Connolly
Sharon Sherrod is a graduate of Birmingham-Southern
Mr. Byron Boggan & Birmingham Fern Society
College. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English
Ms. Lanette C. Sherrill Dr. John T. Eagan Sr.
Oak Street Garden Shop
Literature and a master’s degree in Management. She
Arthur Page Sloss, Jr.
Linda Williamson retired from a successful 28-year career with Blue
Dr. & Mrs. Michael L.
“Wendy” Martin Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. Her corporate career
McInturff
Billy Angell afforded her the opportunity to acquire a recognized
Louise G. Smith
LaVona P. Rushton level of expertise in management, leadership,
Anonymous
Oak Street Garden Shop operations, service, and strategic planning.
Deborah Kayser
Strauss Charles Eugene Sharp Sharon is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and
Ms. Jeannie Bissell Oak Street Garden Shop the Tri-County Alabama chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Her active
Mr. & Mrs. George B. Employees membership in these organizations affords her the opportunity to serve
Elliott, Jr. Alice M. Williams and support educational, charitable, and community service initiatives that
Ms. Caryl P. Privett Oak Street Garden Shop benefit those in need locally, nationally, and internationally.
Albert F. Thomasson Employees In her leisure, Sharon enjoys spending time with her family and friends,
Mrs. Karen S. Chapman her dog Bentley, reading, traveling, and gardening.
16At press time, we and several of our partners have canceled or postponed
a number of spring events and classes in response to CDC, local, and state
recommendations regarding gatherings of people during the current public
SPRING 2020 CALENDAR
health state of emergency. Please visit bbgardens.org, check upcoming
e-newsletters, or follow us on social media for updates.
MAY 18 EVENING YOGA AT THE
1 ART AT THE GARDENS: Spring into GARDENS: Ashtanga
Color by Angie Ingram (on display 20 I FILLED UP MY GARDEN, SO ...
through June) I STARTED A BOTANICAL GARDEN!
A Talk by Hayes Jackson of Longleaf
3 COCKTAILS GONE WILD
Botanical Gardens; hosted by the
4 YOGA AT THE GARDENS: Ashtanga
Birmingham Fern Society
4 EVENING YOGA AT THE GARDENS:
20 LUNCH & LEARN: Say It Isn’t Soil!
Ashtanga
26–29 CHILDREN’S SUMMER CAMP:
5 THYME TO READ BOOK CLUB: Cork
Reggio Emilia & STEAM-Inspired
Dork by Bianca Bosker
Creativity
8–17 NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDENS
28 A WALK ON THE WILD(FLOWER)
WEEK SIDE
9 FAMILY YOGA IN THE GARDENS
11 YOGA AT THE GARDENS:
SAVE THESE DATES!
JAPANESE GARDEN LANTERN
Ashtanga
PARTY | June 2
11 EVENING YOGA AT THE
GARDENS: Ashtanga FLICKS AMONG THE
FLOWERS | June 10
16 SATURDAYS IN THE GARDENS:
Arrange Flowers Easily FALL PLANT SALE | September 12–13
18 YOGA AT THE GARDENS: ANTIQUES AT THE
Ashtanga GARDENS | October 1–4
‘Ryan’s Pink’ mums
Please Join the
Perennial Legacy
Giving Circle Antiques at
INCLUDE THE FRIENDS IN
YOUR ESTATE PLANS
the Gardens
PERENNIALS REMIND US that beauty, color, and
new life will return, year after year. This spring,
you can help ensure that the Gardens will be here
Save the Date
OCTOBER 1-4
for future generations by joining our Perennial
Legacy Giving Circle, a group of dedicated and
2020
passionate people who have made planned gifts
to the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens
to help keep our gardens growing.
JOINING IS EASY: Simply designate the Friends
as a beneficiary of your estate in your will,
charitable trust, or retirement vehicle of
your choice. We are grateful to those who
have made this special commitment. Please CELEBR ATING 15 YE AR S
join them in supporting and protecting this
beloved community resource. Call Director of
Development Penney Hartline at 205.414.3950, bbgardens.org/antiques
ext. 103, to learn more.Non-Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Birmingham, AL
Permit No. 2513
2612 Lane Park Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35223
205.414.3950
bbgardens.org
The Garden Dirt is printed using vegetable-based inks. Please recycle.
With its tranquil reflection, the
Japanese Garden’s iconic Moon
Bridge beckons visitors to the far
side of Long Life Lake. While the
arching bridge itself represents
the tangible aspects of life,
its echo in the water symbolizes
the ephemeral world.You can also read
