calendar of events

There's always something happening at the Arb & Gardens, whether it's a single cactus blooming in the Conservatory or a few thousand people enjoying Earth Day celebrations. Free guided tours. Prescribed burns. Gardening and art classes for kids and adults. School field trips. Seasonal exhibits. Let our calendar help you find the activity that's right for you and your family.

calendar of events:

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Skunk cabbage gets its name from the odor it produces to attract insect pollinators. Take a walk in the Arb or on the Botanical Garden trails and see if you can spot this unique plant.

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events for March 17

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Matthaei Botanical Gardens - Celebrating 50 Years on Dixboro Road Spring 2012 Exhibit and Display
The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens is 50 this year! Help us celebrate a half century on Dixboro Road: travel back in time to see images of the Botanical Gardens’ buildings and conservatory as they were being built; discover historic plants in the conservatory; learn how faculty take advantage of the Botanical Gardens' unique qualities to conduct research; and experience the Botanical Gardens as one of the best places on campus for students, faculty, staff, and the public to discover, learn, and connect with nature. Free conservatory admission. 734-647-7600.

Location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Category: Events
Date: 2/25/2012 to 4/8/2012
Date Details: During Conservatory open hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs - Sun 10am - 4:30pm; Wed 10am - 8pm
Eco-Restoration Workdays- MBG
Enjoy and learn about the beautiful natural areas at Matthaei Botanical Gardens as you contribute to our restoration efforts. Education and tools provided. Individuals welcome to drop-in; groups register in advance. Volunteers under age 18 must submit a permission form prior to participation; those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Questions? (734) 647-8528 or tgriffit@umich.edu
Location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Category: Volunteer Opportunities
Date: 3/17/2012
Date Details: Third Saturday of every month; meet in West Lobby Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd.
Time: 9 am to 12 pm
More info: click here
Recent Awards
Sponsored by Great Lakes Judging (Orchids) Student judge Ed Cott discusses and presents at least one species and several hybrids recently awarded by the American Orchid Society (AOS). Also, a discussion and presentation of at least one species and several hybrids recently awarded by the AOS (different from Cott presentation). Free.
Location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Category: Adult Education
Date: 3/17/2012
Date Details: Room 125
Time: 11 am
The ABC’s of Hybridizing Bromeliads
Sponsored by the Southeast Michigan Bromeliad Society. A slide-show presentation by Paul Wingert on the basic principles of hybridizing bromeliads, his own methods, and how he grows them from seed to bloom. Paul will show parents and progeny and indicate what characteristics species are likely to pass on. Free.
Location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Category: Adult Education
Date: 3/17/2012
Time: 2 pm
~~Blustery Day~~ CANCELED
As March winds blow away the last of winter, take a hike to look for signs of spring. Later, warm up inside while you compose a spring poem, make paper flowers to take home, or decorate a paper kite. A Winter Adventure Saturday program at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. $5.00 per child includes activities and materials. Limited class size; preregistration requested.

Location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Category: Kid's Stuff
Date: 3/17/2012
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
More info: click here