Daily Dirt at Botanica

FREE subscription with a membership purchase

2011-03-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

For a limited time, with the purchase or renewal of a Botanica membership, you receive a FREE, one-year subscription (or additional year if you are a current subscriber) to Better Homes & Gardens® magazine. Purchase your membership online, in-person or call 316-264-0448.

Botanica is a great place to entertain, exercise or escape. Join today and receive free garden admission year-round, guest passes, discounts on events and programs, gift shop purchases and a whole lot more. Plus, your membership contribution will help to support Botanica’s educational programs and floral displays, helping to make your public garden a premier choice for education and entertainment in the Midwest. Membership levels start at just $45. For a complete list of levels and benefits, visit botanica.org. Join in-person at Botanica, online at botanica.org, or contact Kathy Scott, Director of Membership at membership@botanica.org or 316-264-0448.

What a deal!

2010-12-03T12:37:00.000-08:00

Today you can purchase a family membership on groupon.com for $25. Take advantage of this great deal and then take advantage of all the benefits of membership year-round!

Illuminations, Botanica's Festival of Lights!

2010-12-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

Come see the Gardens glow! Join us for Illuminations, a family-friendly event that showcases Botanica's 9 1/2 acres in a completely different light. More than 4,000 luminaries and tens of thousands of lights combine with nature to create a stunning atmosphere and a "HO, HO, HO" lot of holiday fun! Get into the holiday spirit with a visit from Santa Claus, live music, warm drinks and homemade goodies.

The event runs December 3-4, 10-11 and 17-18 from 5:30-8:30pm each night. Tickets can be purchased in advance at any area QuikTrip. Tickets are $7 for adults ($6 for Botanica members) and $3 for children 2-12. Members must purchase their tickets at Botanica to receive their discount.

Call 264-0448 or log on to www.botanica.org for more information. Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Check out the progress on the Downing Children's Garden!

2010-12-02T18:28:00.001-08:00

Check out the newest posts on the blog, Peepholes In The Fence, from our friends at Simpson & Associates. It's completely dedicated to following the construction of our newest project, the Downing Children's Garden. See images from their perspective and words from their experiences here:

http://botanicachildrensgarden.blogspot.com/

Live Butterfly Release tomorrow

2010-08-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

Join us on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at 10am for the opportunity to release a live butterfly into the Butterfly House! It's a great way to interact with nature and its included with garden admission or membership.

Look what has landed at Botanica

2010-06-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Great Blue Heron by Dennis P. Anderson has landed at Botanica. This magnificent, stately bird will now permanently grace the northern bank of the Boeing Pond. Donated by the family and friends of Jim Bean, this sculpture radiates the beauty of flight and looks as if it is taking off to fly between the established trees surrounding the pond. Come take a look at our newest sculpture, as well as the waterlilies and other aquatic plants that are blooming on the pond now!

Peepholes In The Fence

2010-06-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

Check out this blog from our friends at Simpson & Associates. It's completely dedicated to following the construction of our newest project, the Downing Children's Garden. See images from their perspective and words from their experiences here:

http://botanicachildrensgarden.blogspot.com/

Happy hour meets horticulture every Tuesday

2010-06-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Tuesdays on the Terrace has started the season off with two great performances by Amanda Lind and The Flatland String Band. Don't miss live music from 5:30-7:30pm, a cash bar with a featured drink each week and, of course, the beautiful gardens of Botanica. Happy hour meets horticulture every Tuesday night from June-September. Your garden admission or membership is your cover.

Upcoming performances include:

June 15: Begonias and Blue Moon, live music by RKO Blues
June 22: Moonflowers and Margaritas, live music by Bruce Huss
June 29: Daisies and Dreamin' Caribbeans, live music by Samba Groove
July 6: Cosmos and Cosmopolitans, live music by Mead Street Blues Reunion
July 13: Wildflowers and Whiskey Sours, live music by the Irish Jam Band

Pack a picnic and join the crowd!

Memorial Day Fun

2010-06-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on Memorial Day at Botanica. The Gardens were packed with guests, ready to see the Butterfly House, the irises, roses, peonies and more! The Wichita Community Concert Band played a great show, featuring American March music, and Hiland Dairy provided free ice cream! Thanks go to Downing & Lahey and to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, who sponsored the festive event for the community.

Check out our new ride

2010-06-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

BIG THANKS go to Foley Equipment Company, who donated a Walker mower to Botanica. As we expand and take on additional acreage, a second mower will come in quite handy! Thanks to Foley for their in-kind contribution and their support of the Gardens.

Two new garden sculptures

2010-06-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

Art and nature go hand in hand. At Botanica, the outdoor sculpture and other artistic features nestle in to complement the plant material and enhance the aesthetics of the Gardens and the visitor experience. We have two new sculptures being added to our permanent art collection.

Ceres: Goddess of Agriculture was the keeper of the harvest and was credited with teaching humans how to grow, preserve, and prepare grain and corn. This bronze rendering of Ceres was donated by the Parriott family in honor of Martha Parriott. The sculpture graced the courtyard of their family home for years and now has a home among the foliage in the Parriott Terrace Garden.

Great Blue Heron is a magnificent, stately bird that will permanently grace the northern bank of the Boeing Pond. Donated by the family and friends of Jim Bean, this sculpture radiates the beauty of flight.

Take the time on your next visit to look at these great new additions, as well as our complete outdoor sculpture collection and take in the beauty that occurs when art gracefully combines with nature.

Downing Children's Garden Groundbreaking

2010-06-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

April 29 was an exciting day for Botanica, as well as for the Wichita area. With the help of our donors, volunteers, architects, contractors, community advocates, City representatives, staff and other friends, we officially broke ground on the Downing Children's Garden. You could see the excitement and anticipation on the faces of the sixty students from TOPS and The Independent School, who took great delight in moving soil with their small trowels (and on the faces of the big kids too!). Watch the area frequently for progress, as the face of the acreage will change quickly, creating a beautiful and flourishing garden that will provide opportunities for young minds to learn and explore nature.

Plant-A-Palooza

2010-06-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

What a great time we had at our first Plant-A-Palooza preview party and rare plant auction on April 22. Despite rainy weather, our friends and garden enthusiasts had a blast in the Gardens- dining on our gourmet picnic fare, enjoying refreshing cocktails, shopping our plant sale and bidding/outbidding each other on a plethora of silent auction items. Thanks go to McCurdy Auction Services for an outstanding and humorous live auction, with some unique plants going to wonderful homes. This event was sponsored by Kaw Valley Greenhouses, The LDF Companies, McCurdy Auction, Justus Fugate, Law Offices of Henry & Mathewson, P.A. and Elton Parsons.

FREE Admission on Mother's Day!

2010-04-12T08:17:00.001-07:00

This Mother's Day, celebrate or remember your mother with flowers at Botanica. On Sunday, May 9, Botanica will be open from 1-5pm for your viewing pleasure. Stroll through the Gardens to see spring perennials in action, including irises, peonies, poppies and roses and get a first look at some of the new annuals that we will showcase this growing season.

It's a great family outing, perfect for all ages. The best part is that admission is FREE for everyone!

Sponsored for the community by: AngelWorks Foundation, Don Hattan Chevrolet, Galichia Medical Group and Healing Waters Med Spa & Cosmetic Clinic.

$3 Thursdays are back!

2010-04-08T06:28:00.000-07:00

Due to its popularity, we have continued our $3 Thursdays promotion. Every Thursday, admission to Botanica is only $3 per person. As always, children under 3 and members are free. Hours of operation on Thursdays are 9am-8pm, offering all day access to the Gardens! This is not combinable with any other discounts or promotions.

Now open for extended hours

2010-04-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Now that spring is here, the Gardens are open for extended hours for your viewing pleasure. Current hours of operation are Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm and Sunday 1-5pm. We are also open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings until 8pm. Make plans to enjoy the Gardens soon!

Tulips are in bloom!

2010-04-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

It's amazing what a weekend can do. With just a few tulips blooming at the end of last week, today almost 1/3 of our tulips in bloom! Most of the early varieties are blooming in a wide variety of colors. They are quite simply the harbinger of spring and can't help but make you smile. Come see our beautiful spring show!

Tulip sighting!

2010-03-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

On a garden walk this morning I had my first tulip sighting, just west of the Button Fountain on the south edge of the Peony Collection. Although there is color everywhere, the bright red tulip with its yellow center just jumped out at me. With the build-up of spring, it is exciting to see the tulips start to bloom...I can't wait to see what the next two weeks bring.

It's getting to look a lot like spring!

2010-03-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

The riding lawnmower is running full speed ahead, waterlilies have been divided and repotted and perennials have been cut back - all signs that the growing season is officially here! The Gardens are chock full of blooms from daffodils, hyacinth, pansies, lungwort, winter jasmine, winter honeysuckle, redbud trees, forsythia and lenten rose- and many other trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs are filling up with buds. After the dormancy of winter, everything is getting ready to put on a colorful show. This time of year, things change every day in the Gardens, so make plans to visit early and often. Remember that we still have Lunchtime Lectures and catered lunches on Wednesday afternoons and that admission is still just $3 every Thursday.

See you in the Gardens and happy spring!

See The Gardens Glow at Illuminations

2009-11-23T18:04:00.000-08:00

Come see the Gardens glow! Join us for Illuminations, a family-friendly event that showcases Botanica's 9 1/2 acres in a completely different light. More than 4,000 luminaries and tens of thousands of lights combine with nature to create a stunning atmosphere and a "HO, HO, HO" lot of holiday fun! Get into the holiday spirit with a visit from Santa Claus, live music, warm drinks and homemade goodies.

The event runs on November 27-29, December 4-6 and 10-13 from 5:30-8:30pm each night.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at any area QuikTrip. Tickets are $7 for adults ($6 for Botanica members) and $3 for children 2-12. Members must purchase their tickets at Botanica to receive their discount.

Call 264-0448 or log on to www.botanica.org for more information. Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Illuminations Tickets On Sale NOW!

2009-11-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

Get ready to see the Gardens glow! Avoid standing in line at the event and get your tickets to Illuminations at any area QuikTrip. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3 for youth and are on sale now! Tickets for members are $6 and can be purchased at Botanica.

Tickets are good for any evening: November 27-29, December 4-6 and December 10-13 from 5:30-8:30pm each night.

Enjoy fine art and beautiful gardens tomorrow at Gallery in the Gardens

2009-09-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

Celebrating its seventh year, we invite you to experience Gallery in the Gardens, a unique art show and sale set against the beautiful backdrop of Botanica’s 25 themed gardens. Art combines with nature as more than twenty artists from across Kansas provide a wide variety of quality artwork, including: paintings, jewelry, photography, pottery, glass, sculpture and more. The event runs from 10:00am-5:00pm on September 12 and is $7 per person at the door.

$3 Thursdays continues!

2009-09-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Due to its popularity, we have continued our $3 Thursdays promotion. Every Thursday, admission to Botanica is only $3 per person. As always, children under 5 and members are free. Hours of operation on Thursdays are 9am-8pm, offering all day access to the Gardens! This is not combinable with any other discounts or promotions.

Live Butterfly Release TUESDAY at 10:30am

2009-08-21T06:50:00.001-07:00

Join us on Tuesday, August 25 at 10:30am for the opportunity to release a live butterfly into the Butterfly House! It's a great way to interact with nature and it is included with garden admission or membership.

Bruce Huss live tomorrow night!

2009-08-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Enjoy live music, a cash bar and beautiful Gardens tomorrow night as Bruce Huss takes the stage for Tuesdays on the Terrace. The event runs from 5:30-7:30pm, with the Gardens open until 8pm. Pack a picnic, enjoy a few drinks from The Bar's Open and see thousands of annuals in bloom.

The event is included with admission or membership.

Get good deals at Botanica today.

2009-07-23T09:19:00.001-07:00

Not only do we have $3 admission today until 8pm, but the Friends of Botanica garage sale is today until 5pm. Yes it is inside and yes there are some good deals on plants and misc stuff!

Birding at Botanica on Tuesday

2009-07-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

Join us to see the birds that call Botanica home throughout the year on this one-hour walk through the Gardens with Pat and Roy Beckemeyer. All levels of birdwatchers are encouraged to attend. Program is included with admission or Botanica membership.

$3 Thursday tomorrow!

2009-07-15T06:45:00.001-07:00

Every Thursday in July and August, admission to Botanica is only $3 per person. As always, children under 5 and members are free. Hours of operation on Thursdays are 9am-8pm, offering all day access to the Gardens!

This is not combinable with any other discounts or promotions.

Enjoy an Italian feast at Alfresco Gala

2009-07-06T14:22:00.001-07:00

There’s no better way to enjoy the summer weather than relaxing with friends and family at
Botanica’s 9th annual Alfresco Gala, July 19th at 7pm, feasting on some of the finest food and drink in Wichita. Soak up the summer breeze while sipping on tasty cocktails and savoring gourmet dishes as Botanica’s themed gardens become the ethereal backdrop for this culinary experience.What makes this event even better is that it is a fundraiser for Botanica, a premier community attraction that generatesenthusiasm for horticulture and enlightens people through educational, artistic and cultural experiences. This event will be a night to remember, but your contribution will have a lasting benefit for the Gardens. Please join us for great food, fun and flowers.

Tickets are $75 per person. Reservations required by July 12. Call Jamee Ross at 316-264-0448 to make your reservation or reserve your space online .

$3 Thursdays!

2009-06-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

This is not combinable with any other discounts or promotions.

Tomorrow Night- Tuesdays on the Terrace: Coneflowers & Cuba Libres

2009-06-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

This isn’t your garden variety afterwork party. Every Tuesday night (June-September), Botanica pairs a floral bloom with a featured cocktail for Tuesdays on the Terrace. It’s all about the art of mixology and horticulture and gathering with friends and co-workers for a good time in the Gardens. We like to think of it as social irrigation!

Join us this Tuesday, June 16, from 5:30-7:30pm for:

Featured Bloom: Coneflowers
Featured Cocktail: Cuba Libres
Live Music by: Amanda Lind

Event is included with admission or membership.

The Quilted Garden- this Sunday!

2009-06-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

June 7: The Quilted Garden, 10am-5pm

Botanica invites you to share in the excitement of The Quilted Garden, a unique outdoor quilt show where more than 200 quilts set in the beautiful backdrop of Botanica’s 25 themed gardens. Most quilts have a botanical theme or are pieced together with botanical fabrics, creating the perfect complement to the flowers and shrubs in the Gardens. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3.50 and are available for purchase at Botanica in advance or at the gate. Lunch will also be available for purchase for $7.50 from Piccadilly. Plus, see a selection of quilts from junior quilters, bid on beautiful quilts in our silent auction, or make a $1 donation to Botanica for the opportunity to win a French Braid quilt or a fun-filled basket!

Spring perennials put on quite a show

2009-05-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Even if you made it to the Gardens to visit earlier this spring, you can't miss what is blooming now! The colorful waves of daffodils and tulips are gone, but the Gardens are full of irises, peonies, azaleas, alliums, wood hyacinths, pansies, columbines and so much more! Take time to visit soon to enjoy this spectacular show of spring color!

Mother's Day is FREE for everyone!

2009-05-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 10, 10am-5pm
Skip the bouquet and give your mother an entire garden! The perfect place to take your loved one for a memorable day, Mother’s Day at Botanica is fantastic: with beautiful flowers, elegant sculptures, flowing streams, FREE admission and activities for all ages.

Plant Sale pre-orders due April 15

2009-04-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

Make plans to shop for your landscape at our first-ever plant sale on April 26 from 1-5pm. This is a unique opportunity to shop from an incredible variety of perennials that have been divided from our collections and from a hand-picked selection of new trees, shrubs and perennials. Plus, a variety of plants have been selected for pre-order, so you can reserve your plant by April 15 and pick it up the day of the sale. For an order form, e-mail Mia Jenkins at mjenkins@botanica.org or Janet Gordon at pmckernan@botanica.org.

The BIG Bulb Sale!

2009-04-14T16:59:00.000-07:00

The big tulip bulb sale that is! That's right, after their bloom season, we sell our tulip bulbs for $0.15 a piece! With more than 90 varieties to choose from, there are plenty of colors and types to make a colorful impact on your yard next spring.
We dig them up as they finish up, so each week we'll have new varieties for sale.
Mark your calendars for the following dates and times:
April 17: beginning at 8am,
April 24: at 8am and
May 1: beginning at 8am
Start digging for nickels and dimes, grab your garden gloves and bring a plastic bag or two to take your bulbs home.

And if you haven't been to Botanica to see the tulips this spring- don't wait, visit The Gardens today!

FREE Family Fun Fair: February 7

2009-01-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

Break cabin fever by joining us for our annual FREE Family Fun Fair, February 7 from 10am-1pm. Learn about the winter garden and its creatures and participate in more than ten activities. Admission to the Gardens and all craft activities are FREE! The first 125 families will also receive a free birdhouse. Sponsored for the community by: Target Corporation

Become a fan of Botanica on Facebook!

2009-01-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

Visit our page on Facebook and become a fan of Botanica, The Wichita Gardens to receive updates on events and programs, invitations, notices and other specials. It's easy, just log on to www.facebook.com, log in to your account and find the page for Botanica, The Wichita Gardens!

The Bird is the Word!

2009-01-08T15:27:00.000-08:00

Birds abound in the winter garden. Here are a few bird species that were recently spotted in the Woodland Bird Garden!
American Goldfinch
American Robin
Dark-eyed Junco
House Sparrow
Northern Cardinal
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Visit the Woodland Bird Garden this winter to see if you can see these and other species. Or participate in our Birding at Botanica program on the third Tuesday of each month at 9:00am. It's free with admission or with your Botanica membership.

Photography Workshop this Sunday, January 11

2009-01-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, January 11 from 1-4pm, join professional photographer Jeff Cowell for a workshop on Photography In Cold & Inclement Weather. Learn about the photographic challenges that come with cold and inclement weather, about how to protect your gear and yourself while you capture great images and see how to get the best shots even when the weather doesn't cooperate. Fee is $40, $30 for Botanica members. Bring your camera and apply what you've learned in the winter garden after the workshop! Call Diana Jones or Karla Jahn at 316-264-0448 to register.

See The Gardens Glow at Illuminations!

2008-11-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

Come see the Gardens glow! Join us for Illuminations, a family-friendly event that showcases Botanica's 9 1/2 acres in a completely different light. More than 4,000 luminaries and tens of thousands of lights combine with nature to create a stunning atmosphere and a "HO, HO, HO" lot of holiday fun! Get into the holiday spirit with a visit from Santa Claus, live music, warm drinks and homemade goodies.

The event runs on December 5-7 and 10-14 from 5:30-8:30pm each night.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at Botanica. Tickets are $7 for adults ($6 for Botanica members) and $3 for children 2-12.

Call 264-0448 or log on to www.botanica.org for more information.

Robin Macy in Concert- Thursday, Oct 9

2008-10-01T15:57:00.000-07:00

We invite you to celebrate the garden with us for our final Concert in the Gardens in 2008, as Robin Macy and friends entertain you with their "Songs From The Garden."
This will also be the Wichita public debut of Macy's new group, The Cherokee Maidens, featuring Jennifer Pettersen and Monica Taylor singing western swing in three-part harmony.

The concert begins at 7pm. A catered meal is available for purchase or you are welcome to bring in a picnic.

Tickets are $12 ($10 for Botanica members) and are available for purchase in advance by calling 316-264-0448.

Gallery In The Gardens is September 21

2008-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Celebrating its sixth year, we invite you to experience Gallery in the Gardens, a unique art show and sale set against the beautiful backdrop of Botanica’s 25 themed gardens. Art combines with nature as more than twenty-five artists from across Kansas provide a wide variety of quality artwork, including: paintings, jewelry, photography, pottery, fibers, glass, sculpture and more. The event runs from 10:00am-5:00pm on September 21 and is $6 per person at the door.

Early Opening for Members this Saturday

2008-09-04T07:00:00.001-07:00

Don't forget, the Garden gates open at 7am for members this Saturday, September 6. Enjoy complimentary donuts and coffee and see the Gardens as they wake up! Take a relaxing morning stroll, capture a few photographs or get inspiration for your yard. It's a great way to spend a Saturday morning.

Hosta Lecture on September 3

2008-08-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

Members of the Hosta Society of Wichita recently transformed part of the Beverly Blue Garden, dedicating an area to all of the Hostas of the Year. Join Karl Miller, gardening enthusiast and past-president of the Hosta Society of Wichita, for a Lunchtime Lecture on the design and construction of the garden and learn about the highly acclaimed hostas that are planted in it.
Lecture is Wednesday, September 3 from 12:15-1:00pm and is included with membership or garden admission.

Gardens open on Labor Day

2008-08-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enjoy the Gardens on your day off! For your viewing pleasure, Botanica will be open from 9am-5pm on Labor Day. Enjoy the beautiful color and design of our summer annuals, combined with wildflowers, waterlilies and more than 80 creative containers.

Live Butterfly Release TUESDAY at 10:30

2008-08-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Join us on Tuesday, August 26 at 10:30am for the opportunity to release a live butterfly into the Butterfly House.
Included with garden admission or membership.

FREE Admission Saturday, August 23!!!

2008-08-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

Enjoy free admission to the Gardens this Saturday, August 23, from 9am-5pm thanks to the Wichita Daylily Club. While you are here enjoying the Gardens, make sure to stop by the Club's annual daylily sale from 10am-3pm and pick up a few new varieties to add to your landscape.

Victoria Water Platters: Now in bloom!

2008-08-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

These summer stunners are now in bloom on the Boeing Pond. The Victoria amazonica, or Victoria Water Platter, is native to the quiet shallow waters in tropical South America, but each summer they make an appearance at Botanica. They are noted for the huge size of their leaves (4-6 feet in diameter) and their night-blooming, pineapple-scented flowers that bloom in the summer (opening at dusk and closing by noon). Each flower only lasts 2-3 days, opening white, but turning pink to rose-purple as it ages. Catch them now on the pond!

Enjoy an Italian feast at Alfresco Gala

2008-06-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

There’s no better way to enjoy the summer weather than relaxing with friends and family at
Botanica’s 8th annual Alfresco Gala, June 29th at 6:30pm, feasting on some of the finest food and drink in Wichita. Soak up the summer breeze while sipping on tasty cocktails and savoring gourmet dishes as Botanica’s themed gardens become the ethereal backdrop for this culinary experience.What makes this event even better is that it is a fundraiser for Botanica, a premier community attraction that generatesenthusiasm for horticulture and enlightens people through educational, artistic and cultural experiences. This event will be a night to remember, but your contribution will have a lasting benefit for the Gardens. Please join us for great food, fun and flowers.

Tickets are $75 per person. Reservations required by June 25. Call Jamee Ross at 316-264-0448 to make your reservation.

Woodland Bird Garden OPENS June 15!

2008-06-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate the grand opening of Botanica's 25th themed garden as the Woodland Bird Garden opens June 15 at 1:00. The Woodland Bird Garden is an enhanced natural habitat that features more than 300 newly planted trees and shrubs with a variety of perennials that will be a source of food and shelter for a variety of birds year-round and some splashy annuals for color. See the plants that will attract and support bird populations, view some of the more than 93 species of birds that call Botanica home throughout the year and learn how you can enhance your habitat to attract our feathered friends.
For your viewing pleasure the Woodland Bird Garden will be open starting June 15 from Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 1-5pm.

The BIG bulb sale continues on May 16

2008-05-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

The big tulip bulb sale continues! The last of our tulips will be sold for $0.15 a piece at 8am on Friday, May 16.
Start digging for nickels and dimes, grab your garden gloves and bring a plastic bag or two to take your bulbs home.

Rare Plant Auction this Sunday!

2008-04-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

Join the Wichita Garden Council for their Rare Plant Auction, Sunday April 27 at 7pm. Bid on rare, hard to find, and extremely new trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and tropicals.
Here are just a few of the more than 50 plants that will be up for bid:
African Mask
Bird of Paradise Bush
Black Tulip Magnolia Tree
Clerodendron 'Blue Butterfly'
Desert Willow
Dwarf Bald Cypress
Dwarf Blue Atlas Cedar
Golden Chain Tree
Hosta 'Fragrant Dreams'
Japanese Maple 'Beni Shichihenge'
Japanese Variegated Falopia
New Dawn Viburnum
Pee Gee Hydrangea on a standard
Pink Princess Philodendron
Seven Son Flower Tree
Snail Vine
Spring Cactus
Threadleaf Arborvitae on a standard
White Fringe Tree
Yellow Bird Magnolia

Admission is $2, FREE for members and light snacks and beverages will be served. Auctioned items will benefit your landscape and proceeds from the auction benefit Botanica.

The BIG Bulb Sale!

2008-04-18T16:37:00.000-07:00

Rose Pruning Workshop APRIL 6!

2008-04-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

Mystified as to how to prune your roses? Don’t know how much to prune, when to prune or if you even need to prune them? Join members of the Wichita Rose Society from 1-3pm on SUNDAY, APRIL 6 for a workshop on Spring Care for Roses. Participate in hands-on demonstrations for pruning different types of roses, and get information on the tools you need and how to care for them. Gain tips on how to rejuvenate old roses, what to look for when you buy new roses, and what to do when fertilizing for spring. Bring your questions and your pruners, as we will head out to the Brosius Rose Garden after the presentation for some hands-on training in pruning. Fee is $5. No registration is required.

Get your gardening questions ANSWERED!

2008-03-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

Think about it…we’re all guilty of the same thing. When we have a question about our gardens at home, we attempt to hunt down the one person that has the answer- our Landscape Supervisor, Pat McKernan.
We are excited to announce the start of a 17-week promotion with 104.5 The Fox that will give you the opportunity to get your gardening questions answered.

Log on to www.1045thefox.com and click on Gardening Tips with Steve Campbell or simply e-mail your question to Steve at scampbell@1045thefox.com.

Each week, Steve will select a question to have Pat answer during his show on Friday afternoon. The person who submits the “winning” question will get their question answered and will receive two complimentary passes to Botanica, all without having to track Pat down!

Take advantage of this great opportunity and e-mail Steve your question today!

Shop 'Til You Drop at Arnold's Greenhouse!

2008-03-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Join us Tuesday, April 29th for a shopping excursion to Arnold's Greenhouse in LeRoy, KS. The bus will leave Botanica at 8am and be back at Botanica by 6pm, providing you ample time to shop for the newest additions to your landscape.
At Arnold's Greenhouse, you'll find 3,500 Varieties of Plants with over 450 NEW varieties for 2008! Plus, thanks to the Arnold's, you will receive a 10% discount on all purchases and transportation on a trailer for purchases that will not fit on the bus.

Trip fee is $45.00, $40.00 for Botanica members. The fee includes: bus transportation, bottled water & snacks on the bus, plus a class on "Plant Combinations for Continuous Color" presented by owner Rita Arnold.

To reserve your space or for more information, call Diana at 316.264.0448 or e-mail her at djones@botanica.org.
To find out more about Arnold's Greenhouse, visit www.arnoldsgreenhouse.com.

See us at the Wichita Garden Show: March 5-9

2008-02-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

Need ideas to spruce up your yard this spring? Want to learn about all of the educational opportunities available to you in horticulture or just shop the latest in plants and products on the market? Look no further than the Wichita Garden Show, March 5-9 at Century II. Make sure to stop by Botanica's booth in Exhibition Hall while you're there.

For more information, visit www.wichitagardenshow.com

An Entire Garden For Your Valentine

2008-02-06T10:06:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day is less than two weeks away! If you're stumped on what to get your sweetheart, look no further than a membership to Botanica. Your loved one can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Botanica's themed gardens throughout the four seasons and take advantage of the Gardens' wide range of programming and events.

Annual memberships start at $45 and allow you free admission to the Gardens for one year, a subscription to Cultivate, our member newsletter, reduced rates to select educational programs and special events, a 10% discount on all purchases in The Gift Garden, and much more. A gift that is beautiful, practical, and easy to purchase- how sweet is that?

To view a complete listing of membership levels and benefits, visit www.botanica.org. For more information on Botanica, or to order your gift membership, call Kathy Scott at 316-264-0448.

Share your vision for Botanica's Children's Garden

2008-02-02T13:40:00.000-08:00

The Children’s Garden at Botanica will be a place where families can experience nature together and will provide an opportunity for children to understand how plants function and people function with plants. The Garden will feature multiple opportunities for learning and discovery and will plant the seeds to develop children’s personal connections to the environment.

We invite you to join award-winning garden designer, Herb Schaal, in our Terrace Room on Monday, February 18 at 7:00pm, for an informal community meeting to hear about our proposed Children's Garden and share your ideas for what Wichita's Children’s Garden should be.

FREE Family Fun Fair- February 2

2008-01-16T15:24:00.000-08:00

Break cabin fever by joining us for our annual FREE Family Fun Fair, February 2 from 10am-1pm. Learn about the winter garden and its creatures and participate in more than ten activities. Admission to the Gardens and all craft activities are FREE! The first 100 families will also receive a free birdhouse. Sponsored for the community by: Target Corporation

New Executive Director named to lead Botanica

2008-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce that Marty Miller has been named as the third Executive Director for Botanica, The Wichita Gardens.
Miller comes to Botanica from the City of Wichita, where he has served as the Assistant Director of Housing and Community Service. He brings years of public service experience and a background in project fundraising to the Gardens, along with an excitement for expansion and new life for Botanica.
Miller will start his new post on January 14, replacing Diane Post who has served as the interim director since July of 2007.

http://www.kansas.com/news/local/story/267229.html

Happy Holidays from the Gardens!

2007-12-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

It's time to celebrate the season, so the garden gates will be closed December 24 and 25 and January 1. Only the warmest of holiday wishes to you and yours. We thank you for your support of Botanica in 2007 and look forward to sharing the Gardens with you in 2008.

Don't miss the last weekend of Illuminations!

2007-12-06T10:01:00.001-08:00

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday are your last chances to see the Gardens glow! Join us for Illuminations, a family-friendly event that showcases Botanica's 9 1/2 acres in a completely different light. More than 4,000 luminaries and tens of thousands of lights combine with nature to create a stunning atmosphere and a "HO, HO, HO" lot of holiday fun! Get into the holiday spirit with a visit from Santa Claus, crafts, live music, warm drinks and homemade goodies.

The event runs December 7-9 from 6-9pm each night.
Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door at Botanica. Tickets are $8 for adults ($7 for Botanica members) and $3 for children 2-12.

May your holidays be merry and bright!

Illuminations Starts Friday!

2007-11-19T13:03:00.000-08:00

Come see the Gardens glow! Join us for Illuminations, a family-friendly event that showcases Botanica's 9 1/2 acres in a completely different light. More than 4,000 luminaries and tens of thousands of lights combine with nature to create a stunning atmosphere and a "HO, HO, HO" lot of holiday fun! Get into the holiday spirit with a visit from Santa Claus, crafts, live music, warm drinks and homemade goodies.

The event runs on November 23-25, 30 and December 1-2, 7-9 from 6-9pm each night.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at Botanica. Tickets are $8 for adults ($7 for Botanica members) and $3 for children 2-12.

Call 264-0448 or log on to www.botanica.org for more information.

Photo Competition Winners Announced

2007-11-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

Last night was the awards reception for Botanica's annual photography competition, A Portrait of Botanica. This competition captures the beauty of Botanica through the art of photography and provides a forum to display and sell the work of amateur photographers. The competition is sponsored for the community by DPI.

Twenty-five awards totaling more than $1,250 were given out by a panel of judges. Linda Mae Richardson took home top honors in the adult division for her photo, entitled "Amberwing" and Emily Ritter took home top honors in the youth division for her photo, "Taking Flight."

Adult Division
1st PLACE: Linda Mae Richardson: "Amberwing"
2nd PLACE: Gary Martin: "Reflections of a Water Lily"
3rd PLACE: Beverly Strouse: "Chard Tree"

Youth Division
1st PLACE: Emily Ritter: "Taking Flight"
2nd PLACE: Kelsey Prather: "Beauty Sleep"
3rd PLACE: Evan Riepe: "Unfolding Magnolia"

Congratulations also go to the following photographers for their award-winning photos:
Tammy Bach, Ben Foster, Kelly Gottschalk, Jennifer Keller, Carmen Latimer, Sara Penner, Marsha Phelps, Gary Taylor, Sigrid Trombley and Charlotte Wilson.

Orchid Show and Sale this weekend

2007-10-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

Join us on on Saturday, November 3 from 10am-5pm and Sunday, November 4 from 10am-4pm for the Kansas Orchid Society's annual Tabletop Show and Sale. See beautiful orchid specimens, buy orchids of your own or learn more about these fascinating plants from members of the KOS.

Daffodil Sale- September 20

2007-10-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

Join us on on Saturday, September 20 from 10am-3pm for the annual Daffodil Sale. Find new varieties to add to your garden or just learn more about daffodils from members of the Wichita Daffodil Society. Shop early- they sell out fast!

Tuesdays on the Terrace-Toad Lilies & Bat Bites: September 16

2007-10-10T17:01:00.000-07:00

This isn’t your garden variety afterwork party. Each month (April-October), Botanica pairs a floral bloom with a featured cocktail for Tuesdays on the Terrace. It’s all about the art of mixology and horticulture and gathering with friends and co-workers for a good time in the Gardens. We like to think of it as social irrigation!
Featured Bloom: Toad Lilies
Featured Cocktail: Bat Bites
Live Music by: Good Question
Hors d'oeurves provided by: DeFazio's

Gallery in the Gardens this Sunday!

2007-09-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

Celebrating its fifth year, we invite you to experience Gallery in the Gardens, a unique art show and sale set against the beautiful backdrop of Botanica’s 24 themed gardens. Art combines with nature as more than thirty artists from across Kansas provide a wide variety of quality artwork, including: paintings, jewelry, photography, pottery, fibers, glass, sculpture and more. The event runs from 10:00am-5:00pm on September 16 and is $6 per person at the door.

Jazz Under The Stars

2007-08-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

Join us Thursday, September 13 at 7:30 pm for the second installment of our Concerts in the Gardens series featuring the Pete Zimmer Quintet.

This highly touted quintet has been called "The best kept secret in straight ahead jazz circa 2006" by All Music Guide and drummer Pete Zimmer has been called one of the most talented composers to ever sit behind a drum kit. They have taken New York by storm and are ready to entertain you at their Wichita debut. Make plans to join us for a fine example of modern mainstream jazz in the colorful backdrop of the Gardens in autumn.

Tickets are $12 ($10 for Botanica members) and are available for purchase in advance by calling 316-264-0448.

Teddy Bear Picnic- Septem"bear" 8

2007-08-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

A "paw"sitively magical time is in store for you at our annual Teddy Bear Picnic. Throughout the Gardens, children can listen to stories, learn about bear facts, visit the Well-Bear Clinic, watch a magic show, and participate in numerous other "beary" fun activities. Teddy Bear Picnic is from 9am-2pm on Septem"bear" 8. Admission is $6 per person at the door. Children under 2 and teddy bears admitted free. This event is made possible by Wichita Clinic.

Woodland Bird Garden Groundbreaking August 23

2007-08-13T08:26:00.000-07:00

Join us as we break ground on our 25th themed garden!

August 23rd
1:30 pm
South of the Water Well Garden

FREE Photography Workshop: August 11

2007-08-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Join us on Saturday, August 11 from 7:00-7:45am for a FREE Photography Workshop with Ric Wolford. Whatever your skill level, learn tips and techniques to enhance your photos at Botanica. After the workshop, stay until 9:00am to photograph the Gardens. No reservation required.

Remember that the deadline for the Portrait of Botanica Photography Competition is September 21. Complete details for this year's competition are available at www.botanica.org.

FREE Ice Cream Social!

2007-07-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

Make plans to celebrate Botanica's 20th anniversary at our 4th annual Ice Cream Social, Tuesday, July 31st from 6:30-8:00pm. Reflect on the past and present at the Gardens, relax to the sounds of the 312th Army Band and enjoy a beautiful summer evening with complimentary beverages and ice cream. Bring your friends, family and neighbors, because admission is FREE for everyone!

Rock with the Roses

2007-07-05T06:08:00.000-07:00

Join us Thursday, July 12 at 7:30 pm for the second installment of our Concerts in the Gardens series featuring jazz artist David Basse.

Basse has been an integral part of the Kansas City jazz scene for more than twenty years, using his talents as a vocalist, bandleader and drummer to entertain audiences worldwide. Basse will be joined by Bob Bowman, Tim Cambron, Joe Cartwright and Bobby Watson. Their magnificent blend of both instrumental and vocal jazz in the beauty of the Gardens will turn a summer evening into something special.

Tickets are $12 ($10 for Botanica members) and are available for purchase in advance by calling 316-264-0448.

In Bloom at Botanica: Bird of Paradise

2007-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Caesalpinia gilliesii 'Yellow Bird of Paradise'

Where: Shakespearean Garden

Description: This drought-tolerant shrub quickly grows to a height of 10' with an 8' spread. It will produce clusters of yellow flowers with long, red stamens. As the pods mature, they split spewing seeds.

Growing Tips: Prefers a sunny location to part shade. It likes sandy, well-drained soil. May be pruned to encourage a more dense growth.

Also Blooming: Crocosmia, Butterfly Bushes, Daylilies and many varieties of annuals

The Quilted Garden

2007-05-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

June 3: The Quilted Garden, 10am-5pm

Botanica invites you to share in the excitement of The Quilted Garden, a unique outdoor quilt show where more than 225 quilts set in the beautiful backdrop of Botanica’s 24 themed gardens. All quilts have a botanical theme or are pieced together with botanical fabrics, creating the perfect complement to the flowers and shrubs in the Gardens. Tickets are $7 for adults and $3.50 and are available for purchase at Botanica in advance or at the gate. Lunch will also be available for purchase from Friends of Botanica.

Mid-America Fine Art Gallery: Dale Strattman

2007-05-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Make plans to join us June 5th from 6-8 pm for the opening reception for our June gallery artist, Dale Strattman. Strattman's showing will feature 36 black and white botanical photographs showcasing the texture and contrast of flowers and foliage. If you can't join us for the opening, stop by the Gardens any time from June 5th-June 28th to see the beauty of nature in black and white.

In Bloom at Botanica: Astilbe

2007-05-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Astilbe x arendsii 'Fanal'

Where: Woodland Wildflower Garden

Description: This deep-garnet red feathery bloom rises above the bronze-green foliage on this shade loving perennial. It grows in mounds reaching a height of 2'.

Growing Tips: Prefers shady locations and moist soil.

Uses: Great herbaceous plant for adding texture and color to your shade garden.

Also Blooming: Poppies, Indigo, Penstemons and Coreopsis.

FREE Garden Party Friday!

2007-05-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

Enjoy spring color in the Gardens, children's activities, a book signing with Annie Calovich and a great entertainment line-up! All activities and entertainment are FREE with your Wichita River Festival button.

Entertainment Schedule
11:30 United States Air Force Academy Band: Blue Steel
11:30 Book Signing with Annie Calovich
4:30 The Dance Center
5:30 Boeing Concert Band
6:15 Wichita Broadway Singers
7:15 Senseney Community Band

Sponsored for the community by Johnson's Garden Centers, Koch Siedhoff Hand & Dunn & B-98 FM

Mother's Day is FREE for everyone!

2007-05-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 13, 1-5pm
Skip the bouquet and give your mother an entire garden! The perfect place to take your loved one for a memorable day, Mother’s Day at Botanica is fantastic: with beautiful flowers, elegant sculptures, flowing streams, FREE admission and activities for all ages.
This event is sponsored for the community by AngelWorks.

The BIG BULB Sale Continues!

2007-05-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

The big tulip bulb sale that is! This Friday (May 4) beginning at 8:00am is the last scheduled date for our annual tulip bulb sale. That's right, after their bloom season, we sell our tulip bulbs for $0.15 a piece! With more than 80 varieties to choose from, there are plenty of colors and types to make a colorful impact on your yard next spring.

Start digging for nickels and dimes, grab your garden gloves and bring a plastic bag or two to take your bulbs home.

In Bloom at Botanica: Azalea

2007-05-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Rhododendron hybrid 'Girard Crimson'

Where: Water Well Garden

Description: Hardy evergreen azalea with crimson red flowers and glossy green leaves. Grows to 3' high and wide.

Growing Tips: Prefers part sun to shade in our area with protection from strong south winds. For a happier plant, give it afternoon shade, amend the soil with an acidifier and fertilize with acid feed.

Uses: Azaleas spruce up woody areas and add accent color to shady spots. Look for an array of colors on the market that are hardy for our area.

Also blooming: Salvia, Verbena, Phlox, Allium, Pansies and some Irises and Peonies.

Get your hands dirty!

2007-04-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

Want to get your hands dirty? Try volunteering in the Gardens!
Garden volunteers assist with seasonal planting, trimming, deadheading, weeding and other general garden upkeep. Or keep your green thumbs busy as a garden specialist and do detail work in the garden of your choice.
Ready to dig in? Contact Lillian Gattis, Director of Volunteer Services at 316.264.0448 or lgattis@botanica.org.

In Bloom at Botanica: Creeping Phlox

2007-04-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Phlox subulata ‘Fort Hill’

Where: John Firsching Pinetum

Description: This creeping phlox has deeply cut flower petals of strong pink with a darker center. It will grow 4-6" in height with a spread of 18-24". It is fragrant and blooms early to mid spring.

Growing Tips: It prefers a sunny location with will drained soil. Shearing the plant back halfway following flowering will promote dense foliage and some reblooming.

Uses: Good ground cover for rock gardens, borders, banks and slopes.

Also blooming: Pansies, Iris, Tree Peonies and Tulips

In Bloom at Botanica: Miniature Iris

2007-04-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Iris 'Wise' MDB

Where: Garden on the Rocks

Description: In spite of the cold weather, this miniature iris is in full bloom! The standard and style arms are dark purple. Falls are darker purple with a dark purple band. The beard is white and gold in throat and is wide and bushy. The ruffled edges and pronounced fragrance are an added bonus.

Growing Tips: Prefers well drained soil and a sunny site.

Uses: A really neat little flower to add to your collection of spring bloomers.

Also blooming: Pansies, Tulips and Tree Peonies.

In Bloom at Botanica: Candymint Crabapple

2007-04-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

Botanical Name: Malus ‘Candymint’

Where: Margie Button Fountain & Peony Collection

Description: This dwarf crabapple has irregularly spreading branches and is smothered with bright pink flowers. It will grow to about 10ft with a spread of 15ft. The foliage is purple tinted, moving to a bronze-green as the season progresses.

Growing Tips: Prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant from a container or balled and burlapped.

Uses: Excellent for smaller lots, container use and patio gardening.

Also blooming: Rhododendrons, Virginia Blue Bells, Pansies and Tulips.

Protect Your Plants

2007-04-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

We've been spoiled the past couple of weeks with unseasonably warm temperatures, but Mother Nature is calling us back to reality tonight with forecasted lows in the low to mid 30s. Most plants will tolerate the cold, but protect any warm season plants with a sheet, bucket or other covering.

The BIG BULB Sale!

2007-04-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

The big tulip bulb sale that is! That's right, after their bloom season, we sell our tulip bulbs for $0.15 a piece! With more than 80 varieties to choose from, there are plenty of colors and types to make a colorful impact on your yard next spring.
We dig them up as they finish up, so each week we'll have new varieties for sale.
Mark your calendars for the following dates and times:
April 20: beginning at 8am
April 27: beginning at 8am
May 4: beginning at 8am
Start digging for nickels and dimes and bring a plastic bag or two to take your bulbs home.

And if you haven't been to Botanica to see the tulips this spring- don't wait, visit The Gardens today!

In Bloom at Botanica: Fringed Tulip

2007-03-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

See what's in bloom this week:
Botanical Name: Tulip ‘Valery Gergiev’
Where: Sally Stone Sensory Garden
Description: This red fringed tulip is a new bulb variety for Botanica this season. It is supposed to be a late bloomer, but our warm temperatures combined with the nice moisture have moved it ahead of normal timing.
Growing Tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Uses: Tulips make an awesome display of color in the spring landscape.
Also blooming: Virginia Blue Bells, Spring shrubs, Lenten Rose and, of course, more Tulips.

NOW OPEN: 43,000 Tulips

2007-03-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest dirt-
There is ALWAYS something great going on at Botanica, but this is something that you just CAN'T MISS! Nothing says "spring" like tulips and with the largest tulip display in Kansas, we have plenty of spring here. More than 43,000 tulips are blooming- in brilliant reds, yellows, pink, purples and oranges. Tulips will be blooming now through April 15 (weather permitting). Visit soon to enjoy a relaxing stroll through the Gardens or pick out new varieties of bulbs to add to your home landscape.

...remember, Botanica is now open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5pm and Sunday from 1-5pm for your viewing pleasure. That gives you more time to see the tulips!

Welcome to The Daily Dirt

2007-03-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome to The Daily Dirt, the best place to get the most up-to-date information on events and happenings at Botanica, The Wichita Gardens. We'll let you know about what's in bloom, what events you can't miss and what tips our pros have for gardening in Kansas.
Check back often to see what's new and get the latest dirt about the Gardens!