Post Family Vision for Trail Goes Back Two Decades

By Bob Grese, Director, Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum

Providing safe walking and bicycle access to Matthaei Botanical Gardens has been a long-standing dream. Among the earliest advocates for that dream were long-time Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum supporters Norris and Helen Post.

 

While they were working with Washtenaw County Parks to build the Hoyt Post Trail at Parker Mill in the 1990s, Norris and Helen envisioned an extension of that trail to connect with Matthaei Botanical Gardens, linking both important community and University of Michigan properties. Washtenaw County Parks explored a variety of possibilities for the trail to Matthaei, including a utility corridor and route along Dixboro Road.  More recently, support by Radrick Farms Golf Course and the Adventure Leadership Center allowed the route used for what has become our new trail linking Parker Mill County Park at the south end with Matthaei Botanical Gardens at the north.

 

Post family members Jeffrey Post &Nancy Carstens.

I am especially grateful for the partnership with Norris and Helen whose early vision led towards the

development of this trail. The Post family’s legacy of support continues, thanks to Jeffrey Post, Nancy Post Carstens, and Garry Post, whose generous contributions helped make the trail their parents envisioned a reality. Nancy and Jeffrey have personally created the Post Family Legacy Fund to help support the ongoing care and maintenance of the trail, and also provide a home for future contributions to be made by friends, family, and all passionate lovers of this trail!

In addition to providing a safe walking and biking route, by increasing access to the gardens this trail also helps us achieve our goal of engaging a more diverse group of people with nature. I know that all of our staff at Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum are delighted to have the trail open and see so many enthusiastic users now reaching Matthaei Botanical Gardens on foot or via bicycles! 

Sustainable Food Systems at the University of Michigan: Progress Report 2017

Campus Farm Manager Jeremy Moghtader announced that the 2017 progress report for sustainable food systems is now available for viewing.

The report is the work of of Lilly Fink-Shapiro (Sustainable Food Systems Coordinator - U-M School for Environment and Sustainability), Alex Bryan (Director of the U-M Sustainable Food Program) and Jeremy (Campus Farm) pulling together info from all the groups doing work on campus around food.

Drew Horning, interim director of the Graham Sustainability Institute, had this to say about the report: "It's really impressive to see all of the food activity captured in an integrated way like this. This work continues to set the U-M standard for a coherent and compelling organization of topically specific sustainability work across campus. Nice job and continue the good work!"

 

Follow this link to read the report: Sustainable Food Systems at the University of Michigan: Progress Report 2017

The University of Michigan is in a unique position as a non-land-grant, tier-1 research institution with a strong and growing foundation in transdisciplinary sustainable food systems work. This report highlights the impacts from the collaboration of several different campus partners: 

• Chapter 1. Research and Teaching (U-M Sustainable Food Systems Initiative)
• Chapter 2. Student Leadership (U-M Sustainable Food Program)
• Chapter 3. U-M Campus Farm
• Chapter 4. U-M Dining and Operations

The Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail is Open!

Although it was a very rainy morning, dozens of supporters came out to the grand opening celebration of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail on Saturday, October 14. Visitors warmed up with Zingerman's coffee, enjoyed conversation with one another, and learned about bike repair from Common Cycle. Delightful comments and thank yous were shared by Director Bob Grese, Matthaei family lawyer and friend Ira Jaffe, Associate Director Karen Sikkenga, Ann Arbor Charter Township Supervisor Michael Moran, and DNR Trust Fund Grant Coordinator Merrie Carlock. InterimVice Provost Michael Solomon read a supportive letter written by University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel and Morgan Crowther, daughter of Regent Emeritus Fredrick Matthaei, Jr. engaged the crowd in a traditional Matthaei family chant.

Following the speeches, the ribbon was cut and the trail became officially open! National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Toyota Motor Company bicyclists and many walkers braved the weather and enjoyed a stroll down the trail. For more details about the Matthaei Botanical Gardens trail, click here.

Thank you to everyone who supported the trail through the planning process and attended the grand opening! We hope the people of Ann Arbor and our surrounding communities are able to enjoy the trail soon and often. See photos below from the grand opening:

Photo credits to Scott Soderberg of Michigan Photography.

Vanilla Orchid Blooms in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens Conservatory

Several staff members recently noted that the vanilla orchid (Vanilla planifolia) growing in the tropical house of the conservatory had flower buds.

According to staff horticulturist Mike Palmer, it's been close to 30 years since there's been a blooming vanilla orchid in the conservatory. Mike says he thinks it was former staffer Connie Crancer who planted the orchid. The Vanilla planifolia orchid is native to Mexico.

Two blooming vanilla-orchid flowers in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens seen from the side and from below. It's a beautiful flower in its own right, but not particularly fragrant. And it definitely doesn't smell like vanilla.

It's not widely known that vanilla (the spice/flavoring) comes from an orchid, and a climbing vine at that. The first flowers of this orchid that was planted some 10 years ago are dangling from its vine on the yerba mate tree. Individual flowers only last a day or slightly more. Vanilla flavoring comes from the seed pod of the vanilla orchid. The pod is harvested and cured, which ferments and dries the pod. The result is the vanilla "bean" that we see in stores. Vanilla extract is made from beans that are soaked in an alcohol-based liquid such as brandy, rum, or vodka. 

Mike attempted to pollinate the vanilla flower. In nature, the flower is pollinated by a native bee. In order to ensure a steady supply of pods to meet the demand for this one-of-a-kind flavoring, most vanilla orchids are pollinated by hand. It's an elaborate, complicated process that instills a sense of appreciation for this flower and the bee that does the job in nature. Stay tuned for the result!

Some fun facts on vanilla:

1. It is the only orchid with an "edible" fruit.
2. It is difficult to get a fruit by hand pollination, unless you know the trick.
3. It is the second most expensive spice behind saffron.
4. The flowers or leaves do not smell like vanilla.

Celebrating the University of Michigan Bicentennial and Matthaei-Nichols long-time members by planting an oak tree at Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Long-time members of Matthaei-Nichols joined us on Friday, September 29 for an oak-tree planting that celebrated their support and the University of Michigan Bicentennial. Guests gathered in the auditorium at Matthaei Botanical Gardens for some great food, followed by a trip outside to plant the oak tree, a native white oak. Director Bob Grese, curator David Michener, and others spoke about the tree and our mission, and members and volunteers talked about what it means to be connected to and engage with the Arb and Gardens. Even the desserts were decorated with miniature candy oak leaves and acorns! 

Thanks to everyone for a beautiful evening - see photos below:

Catherine Andrea and Robin Mendenhall
Photo credit: Thor Helgeson

Group photo

The Bicentennial oak tree under the existing black cherry tree

Member Cathy Bach

Bob Grese and Denise Tanguay
Photo credit: Thor Helgeson

Volunteer and Member Dave Wooten

Delicious Desserts

Tree planting preparations

The Bicentennial oak tree

In celebration of the U-M Bicentennial and long-time members of Matthaei-Nichols, 2017.

Trail opens linking University of Michigan botanical gardens with campus and area trail systems

On Saturday, October 14, at 10 am, the newly constructed Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail officially opened to the public! 

For directions to the botanical gardens click here.

The paved, 10-foot-wide trail runs approximately 2 miles roughly parallel to Dixboro Rd. Starting

A map showing the trail connecting from the

Washtenaw Border-to-Border trail and Gallup Park

from the botanical gardens, the trail travels through varied landscapes that include parts of the botanical gardens, Radrick Golf course, and the University of Michigan Adventure Leadership program grounds.

The completed trail caps a multi-year collaboration with government entities, corporations, the University of Michigan as well as multiple individuals and donors.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail connects to the Washtenaw Border-to-Border trail system and beyond, and it provides safe, healthful, and nonmotorized transportation options for U-M staff and students and the general public to get to Matthaei from central campus and other areas.

Bikers, walkers, and strollers welcome are welcome on the trail. Dogs on leash are allowed on the trail.

The trail head begins near the U-M Campus Farm at the south entrance to the botanical gardens.

For directions to the botanical gardens click here.

Join us at: 

Matthaei Botanical Gardens
1800 N. Dixboro Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Calling All Artists: Apply for the Holiday Artist Market at Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Holiday Artist Market: Sunday, December 3, 2017, 10 am - 4:30 pm

Application deadline: September 30, 2017 Notifications: October 18, 2017

Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum invites you to apply for our holiday artist market in December! Here's how it works: Submit your original, nature-inspired work for consideration---jewelry, sculpture, glass, photography, paintings, fiber, etc. We're looking for a variety of different arts and crafts at an affordable cost range. For a modest fee we supply you with a table and seating. You sell your art directly to the public, keep the proceeds, and garner the exposure to the U-M and local communities. For details read more below.

Click here to apply for our artist market.

The details:

• $30 per table. 
• Each set-up includes one 6’ or 8’ table and chairs (see below for table size info). We set up the table and chairs prior to your arrival. Participating artists are required to be present at their booth for the duration of the market hours.

Extras: To enhance your booth, you may request to add on these extras. Supplies are limited.

• Easel - $2 each
• White table cloth - $5 (supplies limited)
• An additional  4’ x2’ table, creates L-shaped table configuration  $15 (room 125 and auditorium only)
• An additional  8’x18” table creates L-shaped table configuration  $15 (room 139 only)
• An additional 8’ x 30” of floor space (good for sculpture or free standing display). $20

Rooms and tables:

Auditorium: The largest room, it will have 18-20 booths. Each booth has an 8’x30” table. The space behind and to the sides of the booth is very limited. Vendors should plan on keeping their booth and items contained to the table. This space can hold two L-shaped table configurations. with an extra 4” table (+$15) and one booth with extra 8’x30” of floor space ($20).

Room 139: The smallest room, it will have 6 booths. Each booth has a 6’x30” table. While the table is smaller there is more room behind and to the side of the booths. This space is good for easel displays and a less cramped space. This space can hold one L-shaped table configuration with an extra 6’x18” table (+$15).

Classroom 125: Room with 7 booths. Each booth has an 8’x35” table. The tables are directly next to each other but there is more room behind the booths. This space can hold two L-shaped table configuration with an extra 4” table (+$15).

To apply click here to fill out the application. Please fill out the application completely. Required fields are marked with a red asterisk *. Payment required upon acceptance. Once accepted, instructions for payment will be sent to you; payment is expected within a week of acceptance.

We look forward to your submissions!

Zombie 5K in Nichols Arboretum

A run to die for! 

The unthinkable has happened. Nichols Arboretum is an obstacle course of marauding zombies in this 5K run over the Arb's trails. Can you survive to the finish line? Registration available now. Member discount on registrations. For more information and to register click here. 

Friday, October 13, 6 pm, University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum, 1610 Washington Hts., Ann Arbor (across from U-M hospitals).

How it works:

Participants run through the Arb for a 5k race unlike any other in the Arb before! Each runner receives a belt with two flags that act as “lives.” On the 5K course zombies attempt to take your lives in order to infect you! 

The goal is to make it out with at least one life flag and be a “survivor.” Survivors are rewarded by being entered into raffles to win gift cards and cool items. Want to up your chances of survival? You can purchase extra flags for $5 or you can ask your friends and family to sponsor you and buy them for you!

All proceeds support the Arb and help keep it a pristine (and zombie free) place for the community to enjoy nature.

Cool t-shirt!

For more info and to register visit the Zombie Run web page.

Local Conservation Partners Contribute to Control of Michigan’s First Invasive Japanese Stiltgrass

In early August of this year, the conservation community was made aware of Michigan’s first population of Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum), a notoriously invasive sprawling grass introduced from Asia in the early 20th century when it was used as packing material for fine china. The population is on private land in Scio Township with important nearby natural areas and public parks from which it could spread quickly throughout Michigan. Stiltgrass can grow in most environments where it can quickly cover the surface and eliminate other species.

• Click here to read more about identifying Japanese stiltgrass

Rather than wait for stiltgrass to arrive on their lands, staff from Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, City of Ann Arbor Natural Areas Program, Washtenaw County Parks Natural Areas Preservation Program, and Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum at the University of Michigan worked with the Michigan DNR and two private landowners to eradicate all known stiltgrass. Each organization was already part of The Stewardship Network Huron-Arbor Cluster which allowed for the capacity of an immediate control effort in combination with significant on-the-ground efforts by the landowners. Bob Grese, Director of Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, notes “Japanese stiltgrass is a key example of a highly invasive species where we have a chance to pull together to identify and contain an invasive species while it can still be controlled and before it negatively impacts our native plants and animals.”

Japanese stiltgrass images courtesy invasive.org.

While partners report that stiltgrass will have to be controlled next year from seed that remains in the soil, they have halted the expansion of the population. The organizations are working together to better delimit the population, find it elsewhere, and determine how to restore habitats that have been impacted.

Even if invasive species are first found on private land, prevention, early detection, and quick response is the most cost-effective solution by local governments in managing invasive species. These organizations contributed some resources to the problem now so that they slow the spread, train employees, and raise awareness to reduce the impacts of stiltgrass on lands in their jurisdictions. “The most efficient way to deal with invasive species is to keep them from getting established in the first place. If we can team up to quickly eradicate this new infestation of Japanese stiltgrass, we may be able to keep it out of Michigan, or at least out of Ann Arbor.”

The Jackson and Washtenaw County Conservation Districts and others are heading up an effort to start a Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area in Jackson, Washtenaw, and Lenawee Counties. This will make it even easier to conduct surveillance and control of invasive species that seriously impact the quality of our environment. “Finding and removing stiltgrass and other invasive species is one of the best ways to protect our wetlands, prairies and forests”, says Evan Pratt, Water Resources Commissioner for Washtenaw County who is a partner in the effort.

Conservation partners need help from the public in finding stiltgrass that may be out there. For more information on identifying stiltgrass, see: http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-1457/ANR-1457.pdf and report it to Greg Norwood, Invasive Species Coordinator, Michigan DNR-Wildlife Division, norwoodg@michigan.gov, 517-342-4514 or Krista Dickerson, Michigan DNR-Wildlife Division at DickersonK1@michigan.gov, 517-284-6168.

Grand Opening Celebration of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail - Saturday, October 14

On Saturday, October 14, the newly constructed Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail officially opens to the public! Please join us from 9:30 am to noon to celebrate the grand opening of the trail. If you plan on joining us, we encourage you to RSVP here.

For directions to the botanical gardens click here.

Below you can find a schedule of morning events:

9:30-11:30 am -- Activities at the trail head (near the Campus Farm off the gardens' south entrance)

• Mobile Bike Repair Stand by Common Cycle
• Face-painting  by Doodlebug Ink
• Coffee and Food Truck by Zingerman's Roadhouse
• Matthaei-Nichols Membership booth

10 am -- Ribbon cutting and brief remarks to officially open the trail

A map showing the trail connecting from the
Washtenaw Border-to-Border trail and Gallup Park

10:30 am -- Children's activities in the Gaffield Children's Garden

11:30 am -- Garden tours available 

• Campus Farm tour by Campus Farm Manager Jeremy Moghtader
• Great Lakes Gardens tour by Curator of Native Plants Mike Kost
• Conservatory tour by Mike Palmer

Bikers, walkers, and strollers welcome. Although pets are allowed on the trail, we ask that you do not bring your pet to the celebration.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens
1800 N. Dixboro Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Fall 2017 Events and Education Programs at Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum

Fall 2017 programming at Matthaei-Nichols begins in September. Check out our programs on composting, preserving herbs, beekeeping, birds, ikebana, and bonsai, to name a few. Fall calendar runs September through December.

Most are FREE and held at Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

SEPTEMBER

Sun. & Mon, Sept 3 & 4, 5:30 pm

Welcome Week Shakespeare Performance for Students

A revival of this summer’s play The Tempest. Directed by Kate Mendeloff and performed by students and faculty. Free for students with ID. Performances start 5:30 pm. 1610 Washington Hts. entrance to the Arb.

Wed., Sept. 6, 7 pm

Composting with a Twist

Presenter: Ann Arbor Garden Club

Compost happens. And there are many ways to make it. Join Master Gardener Mary Fowler as she shares her own recipe for home composting. Part of Ann Arbor Garden Club’s Hands-on Home Gardening series.

Mon., Sept. 11, 7 pm

Preserving Your Herbs

Presenter: Herb Study Group

Advanced Master Gardener and Herb Study Group President Madolyn Kaminski give a presentation on preserving herbs, including new ideas and recipes. A nonalcoholic sangria will be served.

Tues., Sept. 12, 6:30 pm

The Evolution of Beekeeping:  History, Making, and Use of Skeps

Presenter: Ann Arbor Backyard Beekeepers

A presentation on skeps by Roger Sutherland, professor emeritus at Schoolcraft College in Livonia. Skeps are beehives made of coiled straw, with a single opening at the bottom. This technique for making beehives has been largely discarded because of the difficulty of accessing the bees and hive for inspection.

Wed. Sept. 13, 6-7:30 pm

Catching Your Breath

Presenter: Mich. Alzheimer’s Disease Center

A free monthly program for caregivers of adults with memory loss. Designed for learning skills for continued health and well-being. Info and to register: 734.936.8803.

Sat. & Sun., Sept. 16 & 17, 10 am-4:30 pm

Cactus & Succulent Society Exotic Plant Sale

Presenter: Mich. Cactus & Succulent Soc. and SE Michigan Bromeliad Society.

Cactus and succulents are enjoying a surge of interest thanks to their unusual forms, colors, and easy care. This annual show features a large selection of cactus, succulents, bromeliads, and air plants for sale in a variety of sizes. Books, growing materials and a broad selection of plants are also available for purchase. Plus, free presentations on bromeliads and how to grow and care for them at 1 pm on both days of sale. Info: 248.380.7359.

Mon., Sept. 18, 7:30 pm

Using Non-natives and Native Plants in Art

Presenter: Michigan Botanical Club

Local artist Jane Kramer talks about her installation Foreshadowing – Endangered & Threatened Plant Species and how she uses native and non-native plant material in her art by placing shadow images of native plants onto paper made from invasive plants.

Wed., Sept. 20, 7:30 pm

Birds of India

Presenter: Washtenaw Audubon Society

Join Washtenaw Audubon member Amurthur Ramamurthy for a look at some of India’s 1,266 bird species, among the most interesting and colorful birds on the planet. Dr. Ramamurthy is a native of India and an avid birder and photographer.

Thurs., Sept. 21, 1-2:30 pm

Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging

Presenter: Ann Arbor Ikebana Intl. Chapter

Create your own seasonal Ikebana arrangement with guidance by a certified instructor. Cost: $20, which covers flowers and instructor. Please bring your own containers. No experience needed. Reservations required. Info:  a2ikebana@gmail.com.

Wed., September 27, 6:30 pm

Annual Club Bonsai Auction

Presenter: Ann Arbor Bonsai Society

A live and silent  auction of members’ bonsai and bonsai-related supplies and tools. Non-members are welcome to attend the auction and purchase items.

OCTOBER

Mon., Oct. 2, 7 pm

Wild Herbs

Presenter: Herb Study Group

Advanced Master Gardener and Herb Study Group President Madolyn Kaminski presents a slide show and presentation on wild herbs. Herb tea will be served.

Wed., Oct. 4, 7 pm

Winter Seed Planting

Presenter: Ann Arbor Garden Club

Get ready for spring with Glenda Perry, master gardener and flower show judge. Glenda shares tips on best practices for starting seeds in your home throughout the winter. Part of Ann Arbor Garden Club’s Hands-on Home Gardening series.

Sat., Oct. 7,  9-10 am

Native Plant Sale Member Hour

Matthaei-Nichols members enjoy a special one-hour sale of native plants prior to the public sale opening. Join us for coffee, tea, and breakfast munchies.

Sat. & Sun., Oct. 7 & 8,  10 am-4:30 pm

Fall Native Plant Sale

A sale of native herbaceous and woody plants, many grown at Matthaei Botanical Gardens by staff and volunteers. A local nursery will also be on hand with woody plants and trees.

Sat., Oct. 7, 10 am–4 pm

African Violet Show and Sale

Presenter: MI State African Violet Society

African violets and other flowering plants in the Gesneriad family are on display and sale. Learn how to keep these popular houseplants in bloom all year long by attending a free hands-on growing skills workshop at 11:30 am.

Tues., Oct. 10, 6:30 pm

Beekeeping Resources, Education, and Programs for Military Veterans

Presenter: Ann Arbor Backyard Beekeepers

A presentation by Army vet and MSU entomologist Adam Ingrao about options for veterans to keep bees. Presentation covers grants vets can apply for, education programs such as Heroes to Hives, labeling and marketing programs for veteran produced products, and federal resources like the USDA-NRCS program for pollinator habitat seed.

Fri., Oct. 13, dusk

Zombie Run - Run for the Arb, Run for Your Life!

Nichols Arboretum is an obstacle course of marauding zombies in this 5K run/walk over the Arb's trails. Can you survive to the finish line? Registration begins spring 2017. Member discount on registrations.

Mon., Oct 16, 10-11:30 am

Catching Your Breath

Presenter: Mich. Alzheimer’s Disease Center

A free monthly program for caregivers of adults with memory loss. Designed for learning skills for continued health and well-being. Info and to register: 734.936.8803.

Mon., Oct. 16, 7:30 pm

Restoring Michigan Prairies and Seed Mix Experimentation

Presenter: Michigan Botanical Club

A presentation by Eastern Michigan University Assistant Professor of Biology Emily Grman.

Wed., October 18, 6:30 pm

Wiring Your Bonsai Plants

Presenter: Ann Arbor Bonsai Society

All invited to a workshop by Mauro Stemberger, award-winning bonsai artist and wiring expert. Stemberger provides a wiring demonstration and works hands-on with attendees. Ann Arbor Bonsai Society members: bring trees to be wired.

Wed., Oct. 18, 7:30 pm

Spain with Washtenaw Audubon

Presenter: Washtenaw Audubon Society

Join Washtenaw Audubon’s field trip organizer Bryn Martin for a report on our most recent international field trip: Spain. From desert to high in the Pyrenees, we visited various habitats and saw over 200 species of birds, including the elusive wallcreeper.

Thurs., Oct. 19, 1-2:30 pm

Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging

Presenter: Ann Arbor Ikebana Intl. Chapter

Create your own seasonal Ikebana arrangement with guidance by a certified instructor. Cost: $20, which covers flowers and instructor. Please bring your own containers. No experience needed. Reservations required. Info:  a2ikebana@gmail.com.

Fri., Oct. 20, time TBD

Pumpkins, Lanterns, & Leaves

Join us after hours in the gardens with pumpkins, masks, and other harvest-themed fun. Then top off the evening with a parade of lanterns that kids and families make and take home. This is a ticketed event; member discounts apply. Ticket information and reservations available in September.

Mondays, Oct. 23-Dec. 18, 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Mindfulness-based Dementia Care

A free, 7-week program specifically designed for family caregivers of persons with dementia. Learn how the practice of mindfulness can help you cope with the challenges and stresses of dementia care, and also greatly improve the experience of the person in your care. Program time slot listed is tentative. For class times or to register call U-M Memory Connection at 734.936.8803. Program runs Mondays, Oct. 23 through Dec. 18. Presented by Mich. Alzheimer’s Disease Center. Free.

NOVEMBER

Wed., Nov. 1, 7 pm

Dutch Spring Flowers

Presenter: Ann Arbor Garden Club

Club member Betty Bishop shares pictures from her trip to Holland and the bulb fields of Keukenhof. This show garden features over 7 million spring bulbs. Part of Ann Arbor Garden Club’s Hands-on Home Gardening series.

Sun., Nov. 5, 10 am-2 pm

Annual Hosta Seed Exchange

Presenter: Hosta Hybridizers

All invited to participate in the seed exchange. Bring planned or open-pollinated seeds from your garden and trade with other attendees. Bring 25-30 seeds in small coin envelopes marked with the cross and your name.) Also, a presentation on red traits in hostas by Doug Beilstein.

Mon., Nov. 6, 7 pm 

Herb Garden Winter Prep

Presenter: Herb Study Group

A presentation by Advanced Master Gardener and Herb Study Group President Madolyn Kaminski on overwintering herbs, extending the gardening season, and the best autumn and winter tasks to ensure a healthy herb garden in spring. Herb tea will be served.

Tues., Nov. 14, 6:30 pm

Comb and Nest Architecture

Presenter: Ann Arbor Backyard Beekeepers

Presentations by organic beekeeper and teacher Chris Harp and organic beekeeper Grai St. Clair Rice on “reading” your hive and on comb and nest architecture, including naturalist and biodynamic methods and unique hive designs.

Wed., Nov. 15, 7:30 pm

Birding Panama

Presenter: Washtenaw Audubon Society

A presentation by retired U-M professor Lathe Claflin on the birds of Panama, with over 250 species seen, included rarities such as crested eagle, harpy eagle, and streaked xenops.

Thurs., Nov. 16, 1-2:30 pm

Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging

Presenter: Ann Arbor Ikebana Intl. Chapter

Create your own seasonal Ikebana arrangement with guidance by a certified instructor. Cost: $20, which covers flowers and instructor. Please bring your own containers. No experience needed. Reservations required. Info:  a2ikebana@gmail.com.

Fri., Nov. 17, 10 am-2 pm

Caregiver Wellness Day

Presented by MI Alzheimer’s Disease Center

This free program for learning skillsessential for continued health and

well-being is designed for caregivers of adults living with memory loss.

Registration required by Nov. 4. Info and to register: 734.936.8803.

Mon., Nov. 20, 7:30 pm

What, My Herbicide Did That?!

Presenter: Michigan Botanical Club

A presentation by David Roberts, Ph.D. on the variety of herbicide uses and their unexpected or unintended aftereffects.

Nov. 25, 2017–Jan 7, 2018

Sacred Plants - Holiday Conservatory Exhibit

Focusing on plants in our conservatory collection, the holiday exhibit explores how certain plants figure in myth, lore, and ritual for cultures around the world. This annual winter/holiday event also features seasonal flowers, decorated trees, kids activities, holiday items in the Garden Store, and more. Discounts in the Garden Store for Matthaei-Nichols members. Free. Note: Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Open New Year’s day.

Nov. 25, 2017–Jan. 7, 2018

Holiday Art Exhibit

A display of art created by U-M students, faculty and staff, and members of the local and regional communities. Stay tuned for exhibit details later in 2017. Free.

DECEMBER

Sun., Dec. 3, 10 am-4:30 pm

Holiday Artisan Market

Our first holiday artisans market was such a success we’re offering it again in 2017. This year, dozens of local artists as well as U-M students and staff are selling their high-quality crafts and art. No member discount on merchandise. Free.

Sat., Dec. 9 , time TBD

Kids Holiday Greens Workshop

Our annual holiday greens/craft program for kids. Choose from a selection of evergreens and ribbons and decorate a bough for the door or mantle. Make winter related crafts to take home. Class fee TBA.

Sat., Dec. 9, 10 am-noon

Holiday Greens Workshop

Presenter: Ann Arbor Garden Club

Denise Looker conducts a workshop for making bows and wreaths and other arrangements and keeping them looking fresh. Join the potluck brunch during the workshop. Held in greenhouse 3 at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Cost: $20. Reservations: Nancy Hart, nhartgreen@aol.com. Free to Garden Club members. Bring pruners. Part of Ann Arbor Garden Club’s Hands-on Home Gardening series.

Thurs., Dec. 14, 1-2:30 pm

Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging

Presenter: Ann Arbor Ikebana Intl. Chapter

Create your own seasonal Ikebana arrangement with guidance by a certified instructor. Cost: $20, which covers flowers and instructor. Please bring your own containers. No experience needed. Reservations required. Info:  a2ikebana@gmail.com.

Sat., Dec. 16, noon-2 pm

Father Christmas

The annual visit by the real McCoy, Father Christmas. In town for one day only. Free.

Wed. Dec. 20, 6-7:30 pm

Catching Your Breath

Presenter: Mich. Alzheimer’s Disease Center

A free monthly program for caregivers of adults with memory loss. Designed for learning skills for continued health and well-being. Info and to register: 734.936.8803.