Since we seem to be on the topic of edible weeds we may as well discuss lambsquarters, another frequently present and commonly eaten, nutritious and versitile weed. Botanically known as Chenopodium album, it is a member of the family Amaranthaceae and therefore related to several common (and uncommon) agricultural crops, including spinach (Spinacia oleracea), beets […]
Start here….finish there, don’t touch anything, and stay on the path ~ the rules we are used to. So imagine the spark of joy when I paid my $5 and started out to see some botanical sights, to hear the last thing the gatekeeper said, “You don’t have to stay on the path.” That first step off into the planting areas was a bit scary, I was waiting to hear the groundskeeper scold me. I overheard a guide telling children that is was ok to touch. What? Actually touch the plants? Shocking! Even more shocking ~ there was no prescribed route. Go this way or go that way….you’ll end up somewhere. Western Kentucky Botanical Garden is a very pleasant place to wander about. A smallish garden overall, but well-tended and obviously loved. An easy drive into Kentucky and well worth the time. I’ll certainly be going back. ~Linda A.
A great opportunity…
The herbarium is offering participants the opportunity to produce a careful botanical drawing this Saturday, July 22, 9-11 AM in the herbarium, spending quality time with a member of the botanical world, really seeing what they are looking at. We will include a few botanical terms to enhance participants’ appreciation and help them understand exactly what it is that they are seeing and drawing. Paper and pencils will be supplied, or participants may bring their own materials if they wish. Meet in the herbarium, on the first floor of Spencer Hall. Email <marypriestley@bellsouth.net> if you have questions. 
Members present: Joann Anderson, Judy Stewart, Bill Bowker, Virginia Fiumefreddo, Jan Williams, Susan Harbison, Linda Sullivan, Linda Al-Sangar
Thanks to everyone who brought cuttings to propagate and share – we had quite a few varieties. It’s always fun to get a new plant from a fellow gardener. We hope all the many cutting grow strong and tall with bountiful flowers. Hydrangeas are among our most beautiful flowering shrubs.
