March 2025 Events

Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper
February 1 to May 21, 2025

"Only a human who listens will hear when nature talks."
-Ivan Evigvår, the oldest and wisest troll of them all

Have you heard the BIG news?! Trolls are coming to the Garden to help save the humans. At the great "Trolliefolkyfest" in a secret place, six young trolls made a pact to band together and help save the humans by rediscovering nature and teaching us how to live in harmony with the earth. They recognized the hope within each of us to take action and make positive changes toward a greater future. From the communicator Ronja Redeye to rebel Basse Buller and Ibbi Pip the optimist, these gentle giants are here to save the humans. Lean into the lore that this larger-than-life fairytale brings to the Garden this spring as art and nature intertwine in this exciting exhibition.

Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans is presented by International Paper and produced by Imagine Exhibitions.

Learn more at membg.org/trolls

 

Troll Tram Tours
Wednesdays-Saturdays, February 1-May 21
10 am-2 pm

Join docents for a tram tour of Thomas Dambo’s Trolls: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. The tram will leave the tram stop approximately every 20 minutes. A special thank you to Town Village Audubon Park. 

Free with Garden admission. No reservation is necessary. Canceled if raining.

 

DISCOVERING PAINTING…….. it's never too late!!!! Exhibition by Bob McCabe
February 10-March 31, 2025
Reception: February 23, 2-4 pm
On view in the Grand Hallway

“I always liked to draw, which drew me to majoring in architecture in college. While there I took a ‘graphics’ class which explored various media, including two weeks focused on watercolor painting. I really enjoyed that experience and told myself that ‘I should do more of this!’  Well, that didn’t happen, and I got caught up in the blur of career, family, and life.

So, fast forward five decades, and I found myself retired in Nashville, Tennessee, and as I was approaching my 75th birthday, in 2016, I decided to take an ‘Introduction to Watercolor Painting’ class at the Watkins Art Institute. Well, I guess the result of that was what they call an epiphany.  I became obsessed with learning how to paint and for the last eight years I have been ‘thrashing’ about exploring watercolor, then acrylic, and most recently oil painting. When I began painting I started an Instagram page as a ‘Journal’ of the work I was doing and if you go to bobmccabestudio on Instagram you will see a record of the work I have produced since the beginning. Painting has been a wonderful and fulfilling addition to my life and my only regret is that I didn’t start sooner.

The collection of work in this show is my attempt to give you some sense of my journey.  I hope you enjoy it. Just remember…………. it's never too late to try something new!!!”

LET’S EAT Exhibition by Carolyn Moss and Georgia Smith
February 10 - March 30, 2025
Reception: March 2, 2-4pm
On view in Fratelli’s Cafe

“Delightful unexpected table scapes of food and delicious plates of fruits and vegetables will make you lick your lips in hunger as you enjoy the LET’S EAT! Exhibition by Carolyn Moss and Georgia Smith during February and March at Fratelli’s Cafe. 

Two artists painting on the same canvas? Not for everybody but Carolyn and Georgia find it exciting, challenging, and just plain FUN as they bump brushes while collaborating on their  creations! It combines each artist’s love for creating delicious food and beautiful tables in an effort to make life a bit more FUN for those invited to ‘the party.’

Carolyn spent years as a magazine editor and art teacher… but loves painting….especially unexpected, unpredictable subjects.  

Georgia had a successful catering and food design business for many years…but the love of tablescaping to create a unique environment for others is what makes her heart beat fast! 

HOSPITALITY is overflowing and interwoven not only through the paintings of Carolyn and Georgia but in the life heartbeat of their friendship. Each artist brings a unique style and  ambience to the table. Whimsical strokes meet an educated brush is perhaps the proper phrase.”

 

Sisters of the Brush and a Brother Paint Their Dreams Exhibition Featuring Works by Phyllis Boger, Patrick McGee, Barrie Foster, Ann Brown Thomason, and Jana Jones
February 12-March 31, 2025
Reception: February 23, 2-4 pm
On view in the Visitors Center

Artist Bios:

Phyllis Boger enjoys working with her 100 plus brushes in acrylics, alcohol inks, and dyes on silk. She has been known to ruin some of those brushes by using glue while collaging. Phyllis has an MFA in painting. She enjoys teaching and sketching while traveling.

Barrie Foster is a retired museum director and enjoys painting in all the mediums. She currently teaches art to the veterans at the VA hospital in Memphis, to senior citizens for Creative Aging, and to the 4H children in Tipton County. She especially loves painting en plein air.

Jana Jones is a native Memphian who spent her professional RN career in executive administration. She later returned to her artistic roots, working in watercolor,ink, and pastels. Her art encompasses a wide variety of styles and subject matter; she enjoys nothing more than putting thoughts and visions to paper and canvas. This "politically incorrect student of life" spends her time painting by the lake in the Ozark foothills. 

Ann Brown Thomason is a recently retired physician who loves to paint landscapes, water, and sky in oils. Much of her inspiration comes from her travel and the Forgotten Coast area in Florida.

Patrick McGee uses oil paint to capture what he sees in the world around him. From daydreams to brush strokes Patrick paints landscapes, cityscapes, and some surreal scapes and draws inspiration from the drama of daily life.

 

MBG Member Morning
March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1, December 6, 2025
7-9 am

Join us the first Saturday of each month for our MBG Member Mornings.

Free for MBG Members. Canceled if raining.

 

Pruning Essentials
March 1, 2025
9 am - 12 pm 

Join Robin Howell, curator of the Japanese and Asian gardens at the Memphis Botanic Garden, for an in-depth workshop on mastering pruning tools and techniques. This comprehensive class begins with indoor instruction. Robin will cover how to choose the right tools, proper tool care (including sharpening), and the timing and techniques essential for effective pruning.   

The learning continues outdoors with a hands-on session, where you'll put your new knowledge into practice. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. If you have pruners at home, bring them along to sharpen and use during the class. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this workshop will equip you with the skills to care for your plants like a pro! 

Category: 

• Horticulture 

Skill level:  

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• You will learn the basics on how, why, and where to prune your plants. 

• Demonstrations and hands-on learning will take place outside. 

What's included in this class: 

• This class includes three hours of instruction from an on-staff horticulturist. 

Things to know: 

• Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and are appropriate for the weather.
  This class will include mild to moderate amounts of walking, possibly over bumpy terrain.

• If you own a pair of your own pruners, feel free to bring them to practice with and learn how to sharpen. Otherwise, pruners will be provided for practice.

Pricing:

• MBG Members $20/Non-Members $25

 

Click to register.

 

Flower Tots: Storytime at the Garden
Thursdays, March 6-April 24, 2025
10-11 am

Join us for storytime at the Garden every Thursday in March & April at 10 am followed by a motion activity or show and tell for Pre-K and Kindergarten-aged children (with an adult).

Spring 2025 Schedule:
March 6 - In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb by Marion Dane Bauer
March 13 - The Life of a Plastic Bottle by Suzanne Fossey
March 20 - We Walk Through the Forest by Lisa Ferland
March 27 - The Busy Tree by Jennifer Ward
April 3 - Nature Is an Artist by Jennifer Lavallee and Natalia Colombo
April 10 - Plant the Tiny Seed by Christie Matheson
April 17 - I Hear You, Forest by Kallie George
April 24 - In a Garden by Tim McCanna

Free with Garden admission. Canceled if raining.

 

Weed Wrangle

March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6, September 5, October 3, November 7, 2025

9 am-12 pm

Dig in and join us at the Garden on the first Friday of each month this spring and fall to help remove invasive and exotic plants in our Woodland for our monthly Weed Wrangle. Different methods for removing will be demonstrated and tools will be provided, however, feel free to bring your own if you wish. Weed Wrangle is part of the Partners 4 Plants initiative through The Little Garden Club of Memphis.

Click here to register

Trolls & Trowels: Family Play Day at the Garden
March 8, 2025
10 am-2 pm

Spring break is sprouting! Join us for a whimsical, wonder-filled adventure in the Garden, where friendly Trolls will share fun hands-on nature activities to bring a little magic back to your own backyard and help us nurture nature.

• Plant seeds with gentle Rosa Sunfinger and learn how to grow a garden that welcomes wildlife.

• Use nature as your palette with the artistic Basse Buller

• Set a Troll Goal with communicator Ronja Redeye as we read a special story to spark your love for the earth.

• Try your hand crafting with recycled materials with creator Kamma Can

• Show your love for wildlife by making a bird feeder with Ibbi Pip

• Discover the wonder of nature with Sofus Lotus

Plus grab a picnic lunch from one of our food trucks while enjoying the lively, family-friendly tunes of Andrew Best.

Free with Garden admission. Canceled if raining.

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

 

Vegetable Seed Starting
March 9, 2025
1-3 pm

Ready to grow your own vegetables at home? This entry-level, hands-on workshop is the perfect place to start! Led by the horticulture staff at the Memphis Botanic Garden, you'll learn everything you need to know about creating and maintaining a thriving vegetable garden.   

Discover the key conditions for successful growth, gain practical tips for garden upkeep, and wrap up the session by planting your own seed tray to take home and nurture. Whether you're a gardening novice or just looking to refine your skills, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to grow fresh, delicious produce right in your backyard! 

Category: 

• Horticulture 

Skill level:  

• Entry – Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• This class will go over the basics of starting your own garden at home. Topics will include how to start seeds indoors, build a bed, and maintain it as your vegetables grow. 

• Your instructor will walk you to our Urban Home Garden and demonstrate our techniques on growing vegetables. 

• You will select your own seeds and start a seed tray to take home. 

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers all materials and tools needed for the class. 

• Two hours of instruction from an on-staff horticulturist.   

Things to know: 

• Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and are appropriate for the weather. 

• This class will include mild to moderate amounts of walking, possibly over bumpy terrain. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $25/Non-Members $30

• Register no later than March 6, 2025

 

Click to register.

 

Troll Play Days Drop-In Activities

March 10-15, 2025

10 am-2 pm

 

Join us at the Garden for your spring break with play days inspired by Thomas Dambo's TROLLS: Save the Humans exhibition, on view from February 1 to May 21. Drop by each day for an activity alongside our larger-than-life visitors.

 

• March 10 - Meet Ibbi Pip at Daffodil Hill and make a bird feeder to feed our bird friends.

• March 11 - Meet Basse Buller over by the Delta Garden and create nature art.

• March 12 - Meet Rosa Sunfinger by the Youth Education and Tropical Plant House and decorate a seed bookmark.

• March 13 - Meet Ronja Redeye by the Tram Stop and listen to our very own Ms. Kristen read a story at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, and 1 pm.

• March 14 - Meet Kamma Can in the Great Lawn and learn about recycling as you make a craft using recycled materials.

• March 15 - Meet Sofus Lotus by the Japanese Garden and use your senses to explore nature.

 

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

 

Free with Garden admission. Canceled if raining.

 

 

Pruning Hydrangeas
March 15, 2025

9-11 am

 

Ever wondered why your hydrangeas never bloom? The answer might lie in when and how you’re pruning them. Join Robin Howell, curator of the Japanese and Asian gardens at the Memphis Botanic Garden, for an enlightening workshop on the unique pruning techniques and timing required for different types of hydrangeas.  

This hands-on class includes outdoor demonstrations and plenty of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Bring your own sharp pruners if you have them and practice using your own tools under expert guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this class will help you unlock the secrets to vibrant, blooming hydrangeas! 

Category: 

• Horticulture 

Skill level:  

• Intermediate – we recommend our pruning essentials for a beginner-level class on pruning. 

What to expect: 

• You will learn about the specific requirements of pruning hydrangeas. 

• Demonstrations and hands-on learning will take place outside. 

What's included in this class: 

• This class includes two hours of instruction from an on-staff horticulturist. 

Things to know: 

• Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and are appropriate for the weather.
  This class will include mild to moderate amounts of walking, possibly over bumpy terrain.

• If you own a pair of your own pruners, feel free to bring them to practice with and learn how to sharpen. Otherwise, pruners will be provided for practice.

Pricing:

• MBG Members $20/Non-Members $25

 

Click to register.

 

 

 

Basse Buller-Inspired Forever Flowers: Forged Copper Flower Jewelry Making Class

March 16, 2025
10 am-5 pm
 

Do you want to create flowers for your garden that will always be in bloom, or maybe you would prefer to wear them? In this class, you’ll learn how to create your own forever flowers from copper sheet and wire. You’ll learn how to cut the pieces that will be layered, how to hammer them to give them natural-looking texture and shape, and how to assemble them without soldering.  

  

Templates are included for both jewelry size and garden stake size, and we will talk about how to scale the patterns up and down and what considerations need to be made for resizing. There will also be additional patterns included for other flowers that can be applied to making fine jewelry. Findings to make one pendant are included and chains or additional supplies will be available for purchase in class.  

  

All tools needed to complete the projects will be available for use in class. Torches for annealing will be available, and if you’re not comfortable using a torch, annealing will be done for you. If you have small jewelry hammers, a steel block, shears, small files, or jewelry pliers, you’re welcome to bring them. 

 

Category: 

• Art Class 

Skill level: 

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• This class will teach you how to create copper flowers for jewelry or for yard stakes. 

• You will learn how to cut, hammer, assemble, and anneal (or heat treat) copper sheeting. 

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers all materials and tools needed for the class.   

• This class includes 7-hours of instruction from local artist Brandy Boyd. 

Things to know: 

• If you own small jewelry hammers, a steel block, shears, small files, or jewelry pliers, please feel free to bring them to practice with. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $105/Non-Members $120

• Register no later than March 12, 2025

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.

 

Cherry Blossom Picnic

March 22, 2025

10 am-4 pm

 

Celebrate spring with a hanami or Cherry Blossom Picnic on March 22. Enjoy lunch from one of the local food trucks on-site, take a guided tour through the Japanese Garden, and take part in family-friendly activities including shodo name writing, origami with the University of Memphis Language Club, and a tea ceremony during one of the most beautiful times at the Garden. Plus enjoy a Cherry Blossom cocktail and other spring spirits from our cash bar!

 

No registration necessary. Free with Garden admission.

 

Food Trucks: Soi #9, Pok Cha's Egg Rolls, Rice Burner, Wagashi Bakery, Sushi Jimmy. Mempops

Folklore Friends #2 with Becky Zee: Meet Momo

March 23, 2025
1-4 pm

 

You are guaranteed to have a fantastic time in this adults-only ceramics class! Becky Zee will teach you the basics of critter construction by showing you step-by-step instructions in the first of this three-part series. You will make the basic body forms and then have the opportunity to add eyes, teeth, horns, hair, legs or whatever else you want to personalize them. When you are happy with your new folklore friend, you’ll be able to finish it up with colorful clay paints, all in one sitting! All creations will be given a waterproof clear glaze and fired off-site. Finished friends will be ready for pickup two weeks after the class at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Class fee includes all supplies and tools needed to bring your folklore friend to life. All you need to bring is your imagination. 

 

Category: 

• Art Class 

Skill level:  

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• You will learn to create a clay creature through step-by-step instructions. 

• You will have clay paints to decorate your new friend with.  

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers all materials and tools needed for the class.  

• Three hours of instruction from artist Becky Zee, https://www.beckyzee.com/ 

Things to know: 

• This class is 18+.  

• The finished pieces will be returned to MBG for pickup after two weeks and attendees will be notified by the instructor. 

• Please make sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with clay or paint. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $65/Non-Members $75 

• Register no later than March 20, 2025

 

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.

Ecological Landscape Design Workshop
March 29, 2025

9 am-4 pm

 

Whether you are designing a small patch of land in your backyard or a large public space, this workshop will equip you with the necessary information to create a sustainable and stunning landscape. It is open to anyone interested in how to create ecologically conscious and sustainable landscapes, regardless of whether you're a seasoned green thumb or an occasional gardener. You will also have the opportunity to bring in a real-life situation where you want to design or re-vamp a planting. Bring pictures, ask questions, develop your plant community, and put the design on paper in a space where you can get constructive feedback from MBG staff.   

 

Taught by our expert Memphis Botanic Garden horticulturists, you will leave this class with practical, hands-on knowledge, expert advice, and resources that you can utilize for many years to come.   

 

Category:

• Horticulture Class

 

Skill level:

• Entry - It is open to anyone interested in creating ecologically conscious and sustainable landscapes, regardless of whether you're a seasoned green thumb or an occasional gardener.

 

What to expect:

• 9-9:30 am: Introduction into Sustainable Landscape design 

• 9:30-10:30 am: Landscape Archetypes and Plant Communities/Creating a Sense of Place 

• 10:30-10:45 am: Break 

• 10:45-11:30 am: How to Craft Your Plant Palette - Plant Behavior and Design Qualities of Plants 

• 11:30 am-12:15 pm: Lunch 

• 12:15-1 pm: Woodland and Arboretum Tour 

• 1-1:30 pm: Matrix Planting vs Block Planting  

• 1:30-2 pm: Keystone Plants and Host Plants 

• 2-4 pm: Pen to Paper, Designing Your Project with MBG Staff 

 

What's included in this class:

• A personalized plant list curated by MBG staff from real-life experience working with plants in the South

• A copy of MBG’s Goldfinch Meadow design sheets designed by Claudia West, world-renowned landscape designer

• Dedicated coaching and tips from experienced staff on your specific situation

• Breakfast will be provided through Fratelli’s 

• Lunch will be provided through Swanky’s Taco Shop 

 

Things to know:

• "Planting in a Post Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes" by Thomas Rainer and Claudia West is a required book for this workshop. One can be purchased at the workshop for $25 if you do not own a copy. Please indicate during registration if you need to buy one from us.

 

Pricing and registration deadline:

• $200 MBG Members/$250 Non-Members (plus $25 for "Planting in a Post Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes" if you do not already own it, which can be purchased with cash, check, or credit card at the workshop)

• Register no later than March 24, 2025.

 

Click here to register.