As many residents are beginning to reclaim their lawns and gardens from the receding floodwaters, the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens offers expertise and resources.
The museum hosts the 26th Annual Garden Symposium from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, April 22, followed by a plant sale on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Several guest speakers present at the symposium. This year features a talk by Neil Odenwald and Biedenharn horticulturist Frances Davidson. They will discuss container gardening, and the challenges of gardening within the confines of a smaller space.
"Neil Odenwald is just a great resource for us. He was the head of the Horticulture Department at LSU for many many years, and has really helped guide the museum. A lot of people around here love Neil," says Executive Director Ralph Calhoun.
Following that discussion, landscape architect Norman Kent Johnson discusses gardening on a much larger scale. Author Patty Roper shares ideas about using floral arrangements for entertaining purposes. Those attending the Symposium will then get the first chance to peruse the available plants before the official sale on Saturday.
"The plant sale is wonderful. We actually send one of our staff members down to Houston to a nursery where they pick up some items that you just don't get at your regular nurseries and big-box stores here in Monroe," says Calhoun.
Additionally, Louisiana Tech University, Treesearch, and the Monroe Garden Study League will also be selling plants. Local honey will also be available to purchase. Patrons are urged to arrive early, as supplies are expected to be sold quickly.
For more information, visit the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens website, or call 387-5281.
