You may have noticed several young tulip trees sprouting in the flowerbeds along the Welcome Walk. At first glance, it might seem like we’re neglecting our weeding duties, but in fact, these seedlings have been left intentionally. Instead of pulling them out and composting them, we’re allowing them to grow with the plan to transplant them into the woodlands.
You may be wondering, why allow these trees to grow? Many trees, like tulip trees, naturally sprout in unexpected places. While they may not belong in a formal flowerbed, they have great potential to contribute to the health of our forests. By letting them grow rather than discarding them, we:
- Reduce Waste – Instead of uprooting and composting the seedlings, we give them a second chance to thrive.
- Support Reforestation – Transplanting these trees into the woodlands helps restore and expand the natural forest.
- Encourage Biodiversity – Trees provide critical habitat and resources for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Once the seedlings are strong enough, they can be carefully moved to a more suitable location. You want to make sure that you find an area where it will have proper conditions to grow and that you move it in the dormant season to minimize shock and maximize survival rates.
This simple practice is a powerful way to support the environment. By allowing these volunteer trees to grow and giving them a new home in the woodland, we’re not just preserving plants; we are nurturing the future forest. Whether in a public garden or your own backyard, choosing to let nature takes its course can have a lasting impact on the landscape and the wildlife that depends on it.
I love the dynamic energy and diversity that a group show brings to a gallery space, as disparate images play off one another. The works in Gardens on the Hill, while reflecting a varied range of interpretations, and tied together with the universal thread of gardens as a thematic starting point. Much like the garden itself, this group show has something to offer for everyone. In a way, it mirrors the individual experiences of visitors to Reeves-Reed Arboretum, where everyone finds their own meaning in its beauty. Just as no two gardeners would design the same plant bed in exactly the same way, each artist brings their unique perspective, life experience, and creative lens to their work. The show is, at its core, a celebration of gardens as a means of self-expression, education, inspiration, and community. The collection includes a broad variety of mediums, such as watercolor paintings, oils, acrylics, textile art and ceramics. This show even features an example of Improvisational quilting- and if that intrigues you, you’ll love what’s in store for our upcoming ART in the Garden exhibition later this year!
We’re still putting the final touches on the gallery, but I can’t wait for you to see it. The show officially opens to the public on February 11, with an artists’ reception scheduled for February 22 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a refreshing dose of creativity, this exhibition truly has something for everyone. I hope to see you in the gallery soon! You can find out more about this exciting show here.
