January 2010

PRESCRIBED BURN DEMONSTRATION   

Every Thursday and Friday 

In January and February

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Native plant communities benefit from burning.  Learn fire management techniques and observe a prescribed burning demonstration by Crosby Arboretum Burn Manager Terry Johnson.  Wear old clothes and boots, dress for the weather, and bring a lunch.  Program will be available only if environmental conditions are favorable: please call the arboretum office one hour prior to this event to confirm it will be proceeding as planned.  Admission is free.  Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  Reservations requested.  Call (601) 799-2311 to register.

SMALL SPACE VEGETABLE GARDENING        

            Friday, January 8

            12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Are you envious of the growers at your local farmer’s market?  It does not take a large area to have a bountiful garden.  It does not even take soil.  Dr. Gary Bachman, Extension Horticulturist with the MSU Coastal Research and Extension Center will talk about the trials and tribulations of having a small, urban market garden.  Free to Arboretum members; $5 for non-members.  Please register by January 7.

PLANT EXPLORATION: TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH BUDDY LEE

            Saturday, January 9

            10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Put on your hiking shoes and  journey to some fabulous destinations where native plant fanatics love to trek without ever having to leave your seat in this fun and informatiive program with Robert E. “Buddy” Lee, creator of the Encore® Azalea and one of the most respected plant breeders and horticulturalists in North America.   Buddy will also include  a discussion on care and maintenance of landscape plants.  Members free; non-members $5.   Register by January 8.

WHAT’S EATING MY PLANTS?     (Adults)

AND SHOULD I GET EXCITED?   

            Saturday, January 16

            10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

You may get excited, in a good way!  Darla Pastorek, with the USDA Southern Horticultural Laboratory in Poplarville, will talk about how important it is that you have a yard alive with caterpillars and other insects.  She will reveal what plants will benefit you most in attracting butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. Members free, non-members, $5.  Please call to register by January 15.

 HOME LANDSCAPE DESIGN  (Adults)

Saturday, January 23                     

10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Prepare for shopping for plants at our Arbor Day Plant Sale next month!  Senior curator Pat Drackett will discuss how you can use basic landscape design principles as a framework to analyze your property and guide in your planting decisions.  Tips and tricks for success, and an overview of some outstanding plants for Mississippi landscaping will also be discussed.  Free to Arboretum members; $5 for non-members.  Register by January 22.

FORGE DAY:  BLACKSMITHING & METAL-

WORKING DEMONSTRATIONS        (Family)

            Saturday, Jan. 30

            9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Join us for the second year of this all day event showcasing members of our area metalworking organizations including the Mississippi Forge Council and the Gulf Coast Blacksmith Association.   Various metalsmithing techniques will be demonstrated, making this a great opportunity for those interested in getting started in metalworking.  Just come and simple enjoy the day of demonstrations, or try your hand at the forge. Children age 8 with a parent or guardian may also participate.  Those doing forge work must complete a waiver form prior to participating.  Safety equipment for participants will be provided.  Admission is free for Arboretum members; $5 for non-members; $2 for non-members’ children.