Delaware Botanic Gardens names new head of horticulture
The Delaware Botanic Gardens recently announced Stephen Pryce Lea as its new head of horticulture.
“We conducted a nationwide search and were very fortunate to attract Stephen from his previous post as director of garden operations at the Philadelphia Zoological Gardens, Philadelphia. He holds a bachelor of science degree in horticulture from Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire, England,” said Carol McCloud, vice president and director of volunteers. “Stephen is a perfect match for our growing gardens and our volunteers, who all have a thirst for knowledge about native plants and best garden practices.”
“Stephen has an amazing love of plants and teaching. He has 30 years of experience in all facets of public and private garden operations, and is a devoted garden educator and champion of lifelong learning,” said Sheryl Swed, executive director.
The gardens will open for the 2021 season at 9 a.m., Thursday, March 18. “While the gardens have been closed during the winter, progress has continued at DBG with the further development of exciting garden features, the completion of the Woodlands Garden circumferential pathway, and the finishing touches on the joint Center for the Inland Bays-DBG Living Shoreline project, including a new observation platform overlooking Pepper Creek,” said Ray Sander, DBG president.
Hours will be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday to Sunday. Admission is free for members and anyone under age 16. For nonmembers, the cost is $12 per person. Guided tours will be available at 10 a.m., Thursdays and Saturdays at a cost of $10 per person.
“Like last year, our goal is to make the gardens a safe and healthy place to enjoy the beauty of nature. We will be following CDC and state COVID-19 guidelines, and all staff, members and guests will be required to wear face masks and practice social distancing and and washing. Reservations will be required to ensure our guests can enjoy their timeline at the gardens without confronting crowding,” said Swed.
The Delaware Botanic Gardens is located at 30220 Piney Neck Road, Dagsboro. Admission and tour reservations are required.
For more information and to make reservations, go to delawaregardens.org.
