The Buzz

If you have visited the Garden lately, you would have surely observed the renovations taking place on the zigzag bridge, or in Japanese, yatsuhashi. Since I started working at the Botanic Garden just over 4 years ago, I’ve heard several stories of its origins. Some have called it a meditation bridge, in that you have to focus on your path, otherwise you could end up having an unforeseen swim.  Another bit of folklore that has been used in association with zigzag bridges is... Read More

   The last Herbal Work Study brought in 4 volunteers (Jane, Barry, Josie and Sarah) to help weed and  groom in the Herb Garden – one Saturday  a month gains me 4 to seven new helpers .  I also  have a few “regular” volunteers: John on Mondays, Lisa on Wednesdays, and Kathy on Fridays. Then there are is Evelyn who will come gather stinging nettles when their harvest time is near and I can’t possibly take care of that one more task. What am I talking about?... Read More

As gardeners, we are used to dealing with the vagaries of natural forces. Changes in rainfall patterns, insect and disease pressure, fluctuating maximum and minimum temperatures, and a myriad of other unexpected phenomena of greater or lesser import that serve to remind us that the only constant in nature is change. Acceptance of such natural phenomena is not so difficult, given that we can do little to change them. We simply adapt to the current reality and make the necessary edits to our... Read More

The Memphis Botanic Garden’s greenhouse manager and grower, Manny Pailet, is extremely dedicated to his plants, even planning his vacation times around when particular plants need special attention in order to be at their best. With help from volunteers like Anne Knapp, who has volunteered on and off for the past ten years, Pailet has timed many varieties to be in bloom just for our Pop-Up Plant Sale that will be held on October 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.   “We have... Read More