Delaware Botanic Gardens sets season opening March 14

The Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek will open for its sixth season at 9 a.m., Thursday, March 14, at 30220 Piney Neck Road, Dagsboro.

Ray Sander, president, said, “Welcome back for another season of natural beauty, and experiencing the gardens and wildlife as they spring to life again. Our board, volunteers and staff are excited to share our new features, including the Hedgerow Garden and the DelDOT shore restoration project which added 0.30 acres to our 1,000-foot Pepper Creek shoreline. These features join the Piet Oudolf Meadow Garden, which continues to be one of the region’s most valuable examples of native plants and horticulture. All these environmentally sound projects are key examples of DBG’s long-range land stewardship and commitment to sustainability. DBG staff and volunteers have been working all winter to be ready for members and guests to enjoy a safe natural oasis away from the stresses of everyday life. In the Piet Oudolf Meadow Garden, Rhyne Garden, Learning Garden and Folly Garden, we now have over 200,000 spring bulbs emerging.”

Stephen Pryce Lea, director of horticulture and educational programs, said, “Thanks to a mild winter and a hardworking team, we have made great progress in the gardens. We planted 21,500 additional spring bulbs last November, adding to a spectacular 200,000 spring bulb display. See the new DelDOT Shoreline restoration project, which was completed in December, and 7,000 new plantings are going into this new shoreline area this spring. The 12-acre woodlands are ready with dogwood and redbud trees soon to be showing their bright spring colors. Come and enjoy yourself, and experience nature’s spring beauty.”

Sheryl Swed, DBG executive director, said, “We have expanded our garden experience and also expanded the list of DBG 2024 learning opportunities. We invite you to become a member and get involved by joining our wonderful team of DBG volunteers. We have garden steward, docent and administrative opportunities for volunteers.”

Delaware Botanic Gardens is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. For more information, go to delawaregardens.org.