News release from the Foellinger Freimann Botanical Conservatory:
What’s Happening at the Botanical Conservatory in May
Butterflies of Belize Exhibit
Through June 26
The tropical forests of Central America are home to hundreds of species of butterflies. In the nation of Belize, where one can travel from mangrove swamps on the Caribbean Sea up to the tropical forests of the Maya Mountains, one can find such spectacular varieties as the iridescent Blue Morpho butterfly, the well-named Owl Butterfly that feeds on overripe fruit at dawn and dusk, and the dainty, transparent glasswing. When you visit the Conservatory you can enjoy both North American and Central American butterflies in the butterfly exhibit tent as part of your general admission. Sponsored by WMEE 97.3, the Edward M. and Mary McCrea Wilson Foundation, and Media 401. For more info, visit www.botanicalconservatory.org or call (260) 427-6440. Regular admission is $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.
May $1 Night
Thursday, May 5, 5-8 pm
On the first Thursday evening of the month, visitors can enjoy a reduced admission price for all their guests ages 3 and up. This month, enjoy the Butterflies of Belize exhibit along with the Tropical and Desert Gardens. Children 2 and under are admitted free.
Science Fun for Everyone: Science Magic
Saturday, May 7 and 21, 11 am & 1 pm; and Thursday, May 19, 6 pm
Is magic real? We’ll never tell! But we will show you how to do some pretty amazing tricks and share the science explaining how they work. From floating things to grabbing strings to amazing potions that change colors right before your eyes, you’ll be sure to go home with a greater appreciation for the magical world all around you. Regular Conservatory admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17. Participants in NISTEM (www.nistem.org) earn points for attending. For info, call (260) 427-6440.
Mother’s Day Plant Sale
Friday, May 6, 4-7 pm
Saturday, May 7, 10 am-5 pm
Sunday, May 8, Noon -4 pm
WE’RE MOVING! That’s right the Mother’s Day Plant Sale will be held at the McMillen Ice Arena in McMillen Park, 3901 Abbott Street. Indoors, all on one level, plenty of room to shop and a drive-up area to load your purchases — we are very excited! About 600 varieties of plants will be available for purchase at our three-day public plant extravaganza. You’ll find specialty herbs, tomato plants, and foliage perennials along with the usual great quality annuals, perennials, tropicals, vegetable plants, color bowls, mixed containers, and hanging baskets. These sturdy plants are grown by the fine folks at the Lawton Park Greenhouse and sold as a fundraiser to support quality public programming at Fort Wayne’s botanical garden. The supply is replenished throughout the weekend, but come early for the best selection. Volunteers will be on hand to assist you in plant selection and loading. Conservatory members are invited to shop early at our preview sale on Thursday May 5, 4 – 7 pm. Memberships will be available for purchase that evening if you want to beat the crowd and get the first choice. Please check our website www.botanicalconservatory.org for a list of plants. For more information, call 260-427-6440. Sponsored by Majic 95.1 FM and Media 401.
Mother’s Day in the Garden
Sunday, May 8, Noon – 4 pm
Treat Mom to a special outing at the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory on Mother’s Day. By “Mom” we mean your mother, of course, but also grandmas, aunts, and anyone else who means “Mom” to you! Your mom will not only enjoy the beautiful displays of flowers for free, but also our Butterflies of Belize exhibit. Each mom will receive a special Mother’s Day plant while supplies last. Regular Conservatory admission applies for the rest of the family. Sponsored by Majic 95.1 and Media 401.
May Art Exhibit: Mattie Watson—Photography
May 1 – June 30
Meet the Artist: Sunday, May 8, 1 – 3 pm
Mattie developed an interest in photography at a young age and now enjoys the versatility of digital photography for fully exploring her creative options. She feels she gains a deeper appreciation of natural beauty, especially in the magic of birds, clouds, sunrises and sunsets. Exotic locations are not necessary to her, just an interest in the life wherever she is. Contact artist to purchase her work. Regular Conservatory admission applies to see displays or enjoy the artist’s opening reception: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under. For info, call (260) 427-6440.
Spring Bonsai Display
Saturday, May 28, 10 am – 4 pm
Explore a forest of miniature trees carefully trained and pruned by members of our local bonsai club. Elms, maples, junipers and other familiar plants look just like their outdoor cousins – but a fraction of their size! The club also grows tropical bonsai that don’t need special winter treatment. Learn about this fascinating hobby. Bonsai pots and young plants will be available to purchase. Sponsored by the Fort Wayne Bonsai Club. Regular Conservatory admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.
Iris Show
Sunday, May 29, Noon – 3 pm
One of America’s favorite garden flowers takes center stage during the annual Iris Show. A glorious range of colors, some fragrance, and a variety of forms will be found in irises displayed as individual cut flowers and in floral arrangements. Entries are judged for their perfection. Sponsored by the Northeast Indiana Iris Society. Regular Conservatory admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.
Botanical Brew Competition
On-line Registration thru May 30
Bring your best bottle of home-brewed beer for the Conservatory’s 4th Botanical Brew Competition held in early June. The sanctioned competition follows the guidelines of the American Homebrewers Association and the Beer Judge Certification Program. Winners will be announced at 5:30 p.m. during the Botanical Brew & Q event on June 12. On-line registration is April 1-May 30 through www.fortwayneparks.org. Entry drop-off will be May 28-June 4 at the Botanical Conservatory or at Brewer’s Art Supply. Entry fee: $8 first entry, $4 other entries. For details call (260) 427-6446 or visit www.botanicalconservatory.org.
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