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Past Meetings |
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterHayes Jackson, "Evergreen Liliaceous Perennials"
A perfect alternative to some of the better known perennials for all-season interest! Hayes Jackson is the Urban Regional Extension Agent for Calhoun and Etowah Counties in Alabama. A popular speaker, his topics will include such seldom-used perennial species as Aspidistra, Rohdea, Disporopsis, Ruscus and more.
December, 2011
No Speaker Meeting this month!
If it is really December already (where has another year gone so quickly again??), we'll be posting details for next year's Speaker Meetings soon!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Garden Wisdom: Notes from a Gardening Life"
Edith Eddleman is a well-know North Carolina designer and perennial plant expert whose original plan for the Raulston Arboretum border set a new design standard. Adept at creating cutting edge combinations, she'll discuss things she's learned from the garden itself or from other gardeners.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Discovering the Beauty of Japan – in its Culture, in its Gardens"
Linda Copeland coordinates the annual tours of Garden Vistas. Her presentation will share images from the tour to Japan in November, 2010.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Second Spring"
Long weekends in Manhattan have never been long enough to see the gardens. Just a few months ago, Linda Askey spent a week and followed spring north. She fell back in horticultural time to the season of peonies, lilacs, and spring ephemerals. Come along for a glimpse of a season almost forgotten, and consider the take home lessons that are the second best souvenirs, plants being the first.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Native Vines"
Dan Long of Brushwood Nursery in Athens, GA, grows an astounding array of climbers. In this presentation, he’ll focus on native vines, including beautiful new selections of Wisteria, Lonicera, and Passiflora.
July, 2011 No meeting scheduled, due to PPA Symposium, July 17-22, in Atlanta
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A Granite Scree Garden: A Limitless Pleasure"
Legendary plants man Don Jacobs of Stone Mountain will describe the rare perennial treasures he grows, with surprisingly little maintenance, in a specially-constructed garden bed. Designed to cultivate a group of challenging species, it supports everything from Mexican sedums to pitcher plants to rare bulbs. Don’s garden and nursery, Eco Gardens, is renowned among plant collectors around the world.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A Garden of Remembrance"
The first in a new annual series presented in memory of Barbara Allen, a past president of GPPA. Barbara understood the connection between art and horticulture and shared that knowledge without reservation.
Ryan Gainey, Georgia’s most renowned garden designer, inaugurates this series. His theme derives from poet James Terry White, who wrote, “The heart is a garden; remembrance is its sweetest flower.” If one is fortunate, Ryan believes, one’s garden is filled with memories of people and places, embodied in the garden’s plants, design, and fittings. These remembrances keep our memories ever present. He’ll share stories and memories of the people, plants, and places that have influenced him. An event not to be missed!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 (a change from our regular date) at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Proven Perennials from the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Comparative Trials"
Richard Hawke is Plant Evaluation Manger at the Chicago Botanic Garden. He’ll review the latest findings for some of the most popular perennial species, based on extensive plant trials at this respected public institution.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Bee a Better Gardener"
Jennifer Berry is Apicultural Research Coordinator and Lab Manager at UGA. A well-known lecturer on honey bees, she’ll discuss their natural history, recent population decline, and how gardeners can contribute to their survival.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Clematis for the Southern Garden: An Update"
Lyndy Broder serves on the Board of Directors of the International Clematis Society and is a past president of GPPA. She’ll describe the best of the new clematis offerings, including 10 natives that belong in Georgia gardens.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Shady Characters Turned Superstars: Plant Successes from Atlanta Botanical Garden"
Jamie Blackburn, Curator of Woodland Gardens at ABG, takes a fresh look at new selections and reliable favorites that thrive in shade. Learn how to make the most of your patch of woodland.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Bringing Nature Home"
Douglas W. Tallamy is professor and chair of the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. In his award-winning book, Bringing Nature Home, he explains why native plants play an indispensible role in natural ecosystems and how including natives in home gardens supports a range of native wildlife.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Retro-Gardening"
As gardening trends come and go, what are the plants that we keep returning to? Elizabeth Dean of Wilkerson Mill Gardens cultivates an array of exceptional woody species. She’ll offer suggestions for old favorites and new selections that continue to give us joy.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Annuals Old and New, Including Hot Tropicals from UGA Research"
Dr. Bodi Pennisi is Associate Professor of Horticulture at UGA, where she conducts research and publishes widely on the landscape application of tropical plants for the floriculture industry. She will report on the best annuals and tropicals for Georgia and their garden uses based on their performance at the UGA Trial Gardens.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Uncommon Ferns for Shade and Sun"
George Sanko, founder of the Perimeter College Botanical Garden, will describe new, garden worthy ferns that deserve a place in gardens here. New to the trade, they include native and exotic species that will appeal to the new gardener and to fern-loving experts.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Rain Gardening in the Home Landscape"
Gardeners today seek earth-friendly solutions to the problem of runoff that can also contribute beauty to the landscape. Helen Kraus and Anne Spafford, horticulturists at NC State University, are authors of the ground-breaking book Rain Gardening in the South. They will address rain garden design, construction, plant selection, and problem solving. (Book signing)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Chlorophyll in His Veins"
J. C. Raulston was the most important, some would say beloved, figure in American horticulture in the latter part of the 20th century. He established the NC State Arboretum that now bears his name. Simply “J.C.” to his gardening friends, his contribution to horticulture is documented in award-winning author Bobby J. Ward’s latest work. Learn about the man, his fascination with plants, and how “J.C.’s plants” found homes in gardens everywhere. (Book signing)
Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Plants to Excite and Plants to Delight: Falling Off the Cutting Edge"
Tony Avent’s goal at Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, NC, is "…to change the way America gardens by offering the best, the newest, and the strangest fun, garden-worthy perennials…" He’ll tantalize his audience with a list of favorites from recent plant trials and captivating new discoveries.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Getting the Most Out of Your Garden"
Erica Glasener is a horticulturist and writer. As host for 13 years of HGTV’s “A Gardener’s Diary,” she has visited some of America’s most inspired gardens. She will suggest plant combinations for different gardening styles and ways to achieve four seasons of interest. (Book signing)
Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Designing with Tropicals"
Georgia’s hot and humid summers provide ideal conditions for tropical plants, such as cannas, bananas, elephant ears, bromeliads, and tropical ferns, and more. Andrew Bunting, horticulturist at the Scott Arboretum in Pennsylvania, will illustrate how they combine with perennials and annuals in beds and in containers. He will also discuss cultural requirements and overwintering practices.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Perennials for Purgatory"
Jimmy Turner is Senior Director of Gardens at the Dallas Arboretum. He will report on the best performers from the Arboretum’s grueling trial program. They include natives, new plants, cultivars and just plain tough perennials that can handle heat and humidity. Jimmy will also share tips and tricks for the plants’ production and care.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Armitage’s Choice: Twenty Outstanding Perennial Plants for Georgia"
America’s perennial guru, Allan Armitage, is a renowned professor of horticulture at UGA, a popular lecturer, and author of numerous books. He’ll describe his personal favorites from the UGA Trial Gardens. (Book signing)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"How Plants Get Their Names"
Think plant nomenclature is dull? Join John Manion, Historic Gardens Curator at the Atlanta History Center, for this informative and humorous look at the origins of plant names and their botanical and historic associations.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Gardens of Devon and Cornwall: The Hidden Season"
Jim Garner is Executive Director of Lockerly Arboretum in Milledgeville and a frequent traveler to English gardens. Join him as he tours the lesser-known gardens in England’s Southwest during the quiet months of fall and winter.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Fallscaping"
Perennial garden diva Stephanie Cohen returns to Atlanta for a talk based on her latest book about “the stepchild of the seasons.” She will suggest trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs that can contribute to an extraordinary display. Expect a lively and informative foray into the fall garden.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Nature Knows What Nature Needs"
John Strickland of Going Green Organics describes the features and benefits of feeding the soil organically. Organic fertilizers promote a healthy balance of microbial growth, minerals and nutrients that allows plants to achieve their full potential.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Plant Exploration in W. China and Vietnam"
Nurseryman and plant collector Scott McMahan reports on his most recent seed-collecting trip to Asia. Learn about his latest great plant discoveries, along with a few funny and sometimes harrowing travel incidents.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"My Year-Round Garden"
John Elsley is one of the Southeast’s most revered plant experts and a spokesperson for Klehm’s Song Sparrow Nursery, a mail order source for rare and specialty species. He’ll reflect on his ever-changing approach to planting his Greenwood, SC, garden. Elsley’s wisdom and personal reflections on gardening in our region always inspire. He’ll also introduce the latest rare and choice Song Sparrow offerings.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A Pleasure Garden in Water and Stone"
Jim Scott’s wondrous garden on Lake Martin in Alabama has appeared on national television and in numerous garden publications. This attorney’s remarkably personal design incorporates inspiration, expert plantsmanship, beautifully crafted local materials, and even humor. Learn how this luscious and joyful garden came to be and how it continues to evolve.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Exciting New Perennials and Companion Plants"
Ted Stephens, owner of Nurseries Caroliniana, is a plant explorer and grower of new and unusual species and cultivars for incorporation into Southeastern garden cuisine. His nursery sells retail, wholesale, and mail order.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Lessons on Design, Plants, and Life from The Homestead Border"
Laura Coit is a horticulturist, garden writer, and garden designer who lives and gardens on Martha’s Vineyard. In this lecture she will describe The Homestead Border at the Polly Hill Arboretum, which combines shrubs, perennials, self-sowers, natives, and bulbs in seasonal combinations with a sunset color scheme.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Wonderful World of Ferns"
Eleanor Craig is the owner of Fern Ridge Farms and an award-winning exhibitor at the Southeastern Flower Show. She has more than 25 years of experience in horticulture, specializing in ferns for the past 12 years. She will explore fascinating new selections for Georgia gardens.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Secret’s in the Soil"
Perennial gardeners understand the important role of soil in a successful garden. Mike Smith of Longwood Plantation produces Farmer D’s organic soil products that enhance plant performance without compromising the environment. Learn about their production and Farmer D’s association with Whole Foods Market.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Roses Are Plants Too"
Paul Zimmerman of Ashdown Roses in Campobello, SC, promotes roses as another long-blooming shrub for Southern gardens. He'll debunk many outdated ideas, while encouraging a healthy and organic garden environment.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Restoration of Ferrell Gardens at Hills and Dales Estate"
This architecturally significant home and its gardens, located in LaGrange, have recently undergone a remarkable restoration. It includes the historic nineteenth century gardens established by Sarah Ferrell and enhanced by Fuller and Alice Hand Callaway a century later. Horticulturist Jo Phillips, who worked with Mrs. Callaway, will describe this extraordinary garden's history and plants for the future.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Hostas in the Garden"
Mike Shadrack is co-author with Diana Grenfell of The Color Encyclopedia of Hostas, published by Timber Press. His knowledge and photographic skills will be on display as he describes how these important shade-loving perennials enhance gardens.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Salvias for Southern Gardens"
No one knows more about the best salvias for the South than plant expert Richard Defresne. Based in North Carolina, he hs evaluated hundreds of salvia species and cultivars. This important genus includes many drought-tolerant ornamental sages that deserve wider use.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Creating Space and Scale with a Versatile Small Tree"
Fred Spicer is Executive Director of the Birmingham Botanical Garden and a landscape architect. This design-focused talk will provide insight into the benefit of including a thoughtfully selected small tree in one's garden.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Native Plants in the Garden: From Novelty to Mainstream"
Native plant expert and author Margie Hunter will describe the benefits and beauty of native plants and why they are worthy of inclusion in the perennial border.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Perennial Picks for the University of Tennessee Gardens"
Sue Hamilton is Director of the U. T. Gardens in Knoxville. Renowned for their seasonal beauty, the Gardens yield important data concerning the most durable and attractive plants for Southeastern gardens. This is a "must attend" lecture for drought-weary gardeners.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Learning to Garden with Drought"
Horticulturist and landscape professional Jim Harrington has decades of experience planting and maintaining specialized gardens in metro Atlanta. Learn his time-tested practical solutions to the South's water shortage and ways to "assist" in the garden's survival.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Asters for American Gardens"
As Research Horticulturist at Mt. Cuba Center in Greenville, DE, Jeanne Frett has conducted comparative evaluations of more than 50 species and cultivars of native asters suitable for the mid-Atlantic region. She will describe the best performers for Georgia gardens, including inspiring suggestions for companion plants.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Conifers That Will Grow in a Closet"
Shade gardeners looking beyond hosta, ferns, and other herbaceous species will be inspired by conifer expert Mike Francis, owner of The Maple Farm and Greenhouse Nurseries. He will present a surprising array of conifers that tolerate shade and contribute height, variations in texture, and even winter interest to southern gardens.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Plants for Green Roofs in Georgia and Other Garden Uses"
Ed Snodgrass, owner of Emory Knoll Farms in Street, MD, is the largest supplier of plants for green roofs in the US. He and his wife, Luci, are the authors of Green Roof Plants published by Timber Press. He will discuss the environmental benefits and construction of green roofs, the perennial plants that make them work, and their application in ordinary gardens.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. NOTE: 2nd Tuesday due to Thanksgiving
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Essential Perennials from Goodness Grows"
Rick Berry, co-founder with Marc Richardson of Goodness Grows, is the speaker. Thirty years ago Rick and Marc launched their now legendary Georgia nursery, Goodness Grows. Committed to growing heirloom perennials and reliable new selections, they continue to educate gardeners. Rick will review the nursery's history and discuss the beautiful and adaptable perennial plants that thrive in the South.
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Tuesday, May 15, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
NOTE! Parking will be in the Swan Coach house parking lot off Slaton Drive.
"The Complete Garden"
Jason Powell will discuss his approach to creating a new garden that will meet all your expectations. Learn the five elements that are necessary for your garden to be complete.
Powell is the owner of Petals from the Past in Jemison, AL, which specializes in antique roses, heirloom shrubs and hard-to-find perennials. He holds an MS in horticulture from Texas A&M.
| Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center |
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"New Forms of Favorite Perennials" Tried and true perennials are the backbone of the Southern garden. Horticulturist, writer, photographer, and lecturer Linda Askey takes a look at new selections and fresh combinations that bring these perennial favorites into 21st century gardens. Her lecture is sponsored by Fafard. |
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Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
"Public and Historic Gardens of Germany: Surprising Revelations"
American garden travelers are often unaware of the great horticultural traditions to be found in Germany. Join landscape architect, garden historian and author Jim Cothran for a lively tour of that nation's exceptional public parks and gardens.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
"William T. Smith & Assoc.: Two Decades of Residential Garden Design"
Bill Smith's commissions include the Georgia Governor's Mansion and residences through the Southeast, both large and small. His first Atlanta garden was featured on The Victory Garden television program. An avid gardener, he enjoys growing and experimenting with a variety of perennials and flowering shrubs in his Atlanta and Highlands, NC gardens.
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Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center "Gardens To Go: Creating a Container Garden" Renowned author and lecturer Sydney Eddison describes the process of transforming an empty patio into a container garden. She'll illustrate how containers can divide spaces, enclose garden rooms, frame views, direct traffic, and dramatize entrances. |
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Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center "Recent Observations from a South Carolina Garden: Renowned plantsman and popular lecturer John Elsley is Director of Horticulture at Klehm's Song Sparrow Nursery in Avalon, Wisconsin. Learn about some of the indispensible plants in his garden as well as fascinating new selections. Elsley contributed to the development of The American Horticultural Society Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. |
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, March 20, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center "Design Adventures at the Chelsea Flower Show" Atlanta landscape architect Brooks Garcia has worked on several award-winning show gardens at Chelsea. He'll report on his experiences at what has been described as the greatest flower show on the planet. |
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Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center "Designing Hydrangea Heaven with Penny" The late Penny McHenry is forever linked with the genus Hydrangea. Landscape designer and GPPA member Sandra Jonas designed Penny's renowned garden, and she will reflect on its creation and the friendship that evolved in the process. |
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Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall Atlanta History Center "Perennials at Yew Dell Gardens" Paul Cappiello is Executive Director of the restored Yew Dell Gardens in Crestwood, KY. His work on the selection, introduction, and evaluation of new ornamental plants has earned him national and international recognition. He is the author, with Don Shadow, of Dogwoods, published by Timber Press. |
Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Modern Day Plant Hunters"
Bobby Ward is a retired environmental scientist an past president of the North American Rock Garden Society. He is the author of The Plant Hunter's Garden: The New Explorers and Their Discoveries, published by Timber Press.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Winter Interest in the Landscape"
Popular writer and garden lecturer Pam Beck is based in North Carolina. She will illustrate how to have a beautiful garden during the sometimes forgotten months from fall to spring.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Mt. Cuba Center: Inspiring Gardeners to Broaden The Plant Palette"
The Mt. Cuba Center in Greenville, DE is dedicated to the evaluation of species native to the Piedmont. Director Rick Lewandowski will suggest some uncommon, but gardenworthy, alternatives for discriminating gardeners.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Garden as a Place of Sanctuary"
UGA Asst. Prof. and Landscape Architect David Berle will discuss theories and ideas for creating a garden sanctuary. He will cover both traditional and non-traditional techniques employed by designers for achieving a sense of privacy and providing a comfortable space in the garden.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Growing Clematis in a Southern Garden"
Lyndy Broder is a member of the International Clematis Society and contributes the "Clematis of the Month" feature on the group's website. She has lectured in the U.S. and Cambridge, England. Her frequently photographed garden in Henry County, GA is home to hundreds of clematis. Lyndy's favorite reference books are shown at right.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A World of Ferns"
Judith Jones operates Fancy Fronds, a retail and mail order nursery in Gold Bar, WA. She brings a fresh approach to the diverse world of ferns for those who garden in the shade.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
"Containing the Unusual"
Nursery owner and plantswoman Rita Randolph grows rare and choice species in Jackson, TN. While most gardeners use annuals in pots, she believes that perennials and collector's plants also merit a place in lushly-planted containers. Visit Randolph's Greenhouses.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Hardy Palms"
If you thought palms belonged only in Florida, don't miss Joe LaVert's survey of the species that are hardy here. He will also include some agreeable companion plants.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
"Trilliums for Georgia Gardens"
More trillium species are native to Georgia than to any other state. David Mellard will describe the trilliums he cultivates, and he will extend a rare invitation to visit his personal collection.
David recommends two books on Trilliums, one by Fred Case, who gives you a technical overview of the group, and another by our own Don Jacobs, who offers "several good introductory chapters" to Trilliums.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center
"Trekking in Bhutan: A Search For Rare Finds"
Plant explorer Scott McMahan travels the world looking for new and garden-worthy plants. He'll describe some of the newest candidates for Southern gardens propagated at his cutting-edge nursery in Clermont, GA.
Read about plant exploration with Dan Hinkley's book "The Explorer's Garden".
Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Panel of Perennial Experts"
A panel of experts in all areas of perennial plants will be on hand for this lively exchange - answering questions from the audience and sharing insights from their years of gardening experience.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Dazzling Dahlia"
Dahlias contribute reliable color from summer until frost. John Kreiner, president of the Dahlia Society of Georgia, describes the best varieties for Southern gardens and how to make them thrive. John recommends "The Encyclopedia of Dahlias" that was recently released.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Small English Gardens Off the Beaten Track."
Paula Refi, member and past-president, will present this lecture which includes how to search for personal little gardens as well as slides of some that she has discovered over the years.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"The Latest in Daylily Hybridizing"
Harold McDonell has grown and bred daylilies in Fayetteville for more than 30 years. He is immediate past president of the Daylily Society of Greater Atlanta. He will discuss new introductions, cultural requirements, and the latest recommendations for combating daylily rust. Mr. McDonell says, "One of the best daylily information books that I can recommend is an American Hemerocallis Society book titled 'An Illustrated Guide to Daylilies'. It contain 112 pages covering daylily culture, hybridization, flower types, daylily history and more. Price is $8.00. Minimum order by credit card at the AHS site is $25.00.
The AHS website contains much information about daylilies and the activities of The American Hemerocallis Society. It also provides membership information. AHS membership is $18.00 a year and members will receive four quality Daylily Journals each year.
A good commercial daylily garden in the Atlanta area is Kennesaw Mountain Daylily Garden. Information about this garden may be accessed on the garden's website. This is a beautiful garden where numerous modern daylily cultivars are grown to perfection. It is well worth a visit in mid June at the height of bloom season."
Click on this image to reach the AHS website.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterHellebores: An American Passion
Judith and Dick Tyler will introduce exciting new forms of lenten rose bred at their respected nursery, Pine Knot Farms, in VA. They will discuss cultural practices and acquaint us with rare Helleborus species collected on their international travels.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterCommon Diseases of Perennials in the Southeast
Jean Woodward, Extension Plant Pathologist at UGA, will describe the symptoms and treatment for the most prevalent diseases affecting herbaceous perennials.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Evergreen Perennials for the Shade Garden" Hayes Jackson Horticulturist and Extension Agent in Anniston, Alabama, will survey evergreen perennials to enliven the shade garden, with a special look at epimediums.
A review of the book "The Genus Epimedium and Other Herbaceous Berberidaceae Including the Genus Podophyllum" appeared in Perennial Notes, and you can read it here.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"How to Succeed With Hostas"
Jack Driskell is Vice President of the Georgia Hosta Society and a Lifetime Georgia Master Gardener. Based on more than 20 years cultivating hostas in Georgia, he will suggest the best varieties and techniques to make them thrive. Jack says that GPPA member W. George Schmid's book on Hosta is still "The Bible"
Tuesday, April 19, 2005 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Some Ideas on Perennial Design"
With more than 20 years of experience, Jane Bath is among the most respected garden designers in the region, and her legendary nursery, Land Arts in Monroe, GA, is the source for unusual species. She will focus on the practical realities of creating a perennial garden.
The Land Arts website offers lots of plant information.
Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Consider the Leaf"
Judy Glattstein returns after an absence of several years to inspire us with the possibilities provided by foliage. A prolific writer and garden educator, Glattstein is renowned as much for her wit as for her knowledge of plants.
Thursday, October 21, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterSpecial Parking Announcement - Please plan to park in the Swan House parking lot for this meeting. Click here for driving directions and then scroll down to "TO SWAN HOUSE ENTRANCE".
"Underused Natives for Perennial Gardens"
Jan Midgley - Native plant expert, author and plantswoman Jan Midgley owns Wildflower, a native plant nursery in Wilsonville, AL. She will describe seldom-used native species for southeastern gardens.
(Book signing and plant sale.)
Thursday, September 23, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterSpecial Parking Announcement - Please plan to park in the Swan House parking lot for this meeting. Click here for driving directions and then scroll down to "TO SWAN HOUSE ENTRANCE".
"Ferns of the World"
George Sanko - Botanist and explorer George Sanko has amassed the nation's largest fern collection in a public garden at Perimeter College Botanical Garden. He will discuss the future of hardy ferns, including exciting new introductions from around the world.
Thursday, August 19, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"From Garden To Vase"
Sandra Sandefur - Learn to bring the outdoor garden indoors, as Sandra Sandefur shares ideas for creating naturalistic arrangements. She will illustrate practical tips for cutting, preserving and arranging materials from everyday gardens.
Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A Tropical Heat Wave"
Norman Winter is an extension horticulturist with Mississippi State University and the author of Paradise Found: Growing Tropicals in Your Own Backyard. Winter will illustrate ways of incorporating these exciting plants into your own private Eden.
Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History CenterNOTE! This meeting will be held at Kennedy Hall, Atlanta History Center and we are being asked to park in the lot off Slaton Drive. Here are driving directions to the Swan House (Slaton Drive) entrance.
"Japanese Maples for Georgia Gardens"
Mike Francis - Plantsman Mike Francis grows more than 350 Japanese maple cultivars at his nursery, the Maple Farm at Greenhouse Nurseries, near Decatur. He will discuss the selection and cultivation of the very best for our region.
Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Bringing Perennials to the People:
Adventures in Public Garden Design"W. Gary Smith - Landscape architect, artist and educator W. Gary Smith has designed public gardens across the U.S. Learn how he showcases perennials in a range of cultural situations.
Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"New Perennials from Wayside Gardens"
Chris Hansen is Director of Horticulture at Wayside Gardens in Hodges, SC. He will describe the latest perennial offerings from this legendary plant provider.
Thursday, March 18, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Gardens of the Pacific Northwest"
Jack Driskell - Join GPPA's own Jack Driskell, hosta specialist and Lifetime Master Gardener in Cobb County, for a plantsman's romp through some of the most extraordinary private gardens in and around Seattle and Portland.
Thursday, February 19, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Callaway's Legacy of Plants"
Patricia Collins - Director of Education, Patricia Collins, is our guide as we visit The Gardens at Callaway, where many plants have stories to tell. Learn about its founders, Cason and Virginia Callaway, and about Fred Galle, the first Director of Horticulture, and the unique flora they nurtured and promoted.
Thursday, January 15, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Turning Saturday Night Fever Into a Little Dirty Fun"
Walter Reeves - host of popular radio and television garden programs, will explain the basics of soil science. Expect lots of useful information laced with humorous anecdotes. (Book Signing)
Thursday, Novmber 20, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Passionate Gardeners of South Africa's Western Cape"
Linda Copeland - GPPA board member Linda Copeland, co-author of "Who in the World is Nellie Stevens?", takes us with her on a tour of South African gardens.
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Perennial Evaluations at the Chicago Botanic Garden"
Richard Hawke - Richard Hawke is Manager of Plant Evaluation Programs at the Chicago Botanic Gardens. His systematic observations of important perennial genera will guide gardeners to the very best perennial plant performers.
Thursday, September 18, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Iris: Marsh to Mountain"
Rex Bishop - Legendary local plantsman Don Jacobs has made a lifelong study of the genus Iris. Learn which species, native or exotic, can enrich the water garden, woodland, sunny border or rockery.
Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Panel of Perennial Experts"
(Participants TBA) - This open forum has become a popular GPPA annual event. Bring your most pressing queries to this gathering of professional perennial practitioners. No problem is too elementary or complex.
Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"European Gardens: An Old and New World"
Vincent Simeone - Vincent Simeone is horticulturist at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in New York. He will describe innovative gardening trends coming from Europe, especially Germany. Learn about unusual new plant varieties and what American gardens are doing to compete with European innovators.
Thursday, June 19, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Get Thee to a Shrubbery"
Elizabeth Dean - Elizabeth Dean of Wilkerson Mill Gardens recommends shrubs that require less attention from the gardener, while adding texture, structure, and ornamental character. They create planting niches for herbaceous perennials. Dean includes suggestions for seasonal color effects.
Thursday, May 15, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Basic Botany for Gardeners"
Rex Bishop - A popular educator and faculty member at North Metro Tech, Rex Bishop helps you come to terms with botanical gardening jargon. Understand what botanical wonders are taking place under your nose and toes. This is a quick review of botany and gardening to make your garden grow better. (Book signing)
Thursday, April 24, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"Made for the Shade"
W. Georg Schmid - In a lecture based on his new book, An Encyclopedia of Shade Perennials, Schmid will highlight some of the unique and diverse plants for shade. He is the author of the landmark monograph Hosta, published by Timber Press. Book signing to follow.Books by W. Georg Schmid at Amazon.com
Thursday, March 20, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center - Please park at the Swan Coach House for this meeting."Clematis for Georgia Gardens"
Lyndy Broder - GPPA President Broder has traveled throughout Europe in her quest for new clematis varieties. Learn which are her favorites among the approximately 100 specimens she cultivates in her Stockbridge garden.
Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center - Please park at the Swan Coach House for this meeting."Gardens in England and Georgia in the Regency Period"
James R. Cothran - A landscape architect and author, Jim Cothran surveys gardening in the early decades of the 19th century and how horticulture in England was reflected in American landscapes of the period. Book signing to follow.Books by Jim Cothran at Amazon.com
Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 7:30 p.m.
McElreath Hall
Atlanta History Center"A Racy Family: The Araceae"
Allan Armitage - University of Georgia Professor of Horticulture and a renowned plant expert, Armitage will focus on everything from Alocasia, to Pinellia, to Arisaema, to the exotic voodoo lilies. Perennial plant connoisseurs will find this lecture especially fascinating. Book signing to follow.Books by Allan M. Armitage at Amazon.com
Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Front Yard Gardening
Lee Anne White is an award-wining photographer and consulting editor at Fine Gardening magazine. Her lecture will document what she sees as a growing trend: locating residential gardens in public view. She will include examples from her frequent travels across the U.S.
Thursday, October 17, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)The Gardener’s Palette: Creating with Color in the Garden
Sydney Eddison resides in Connecticut and is the author of several books, including A Passion for Daylilies and The Self-Taught Gardener. She writes frequently for national gardening publications and will offer suggestions for using color as the basis for a cohesive garden plan.
Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Legends in the Garden: Who in the World is Nellie Stevens?
GPPA’s own Linda Copeland traces the fascinating origins of 46 well-known plants named for individuals. Her presentation takes its title from her acclaimed new book, co-authored with Allan Armitage.
Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Lessons Learned: Indispensable Plants for My Southern Garden
Plantsman John Elsley is Director of Horticulture for Klehm’s Song Sparrow Nursery and held the same position at Wayside Gardens for 20 years. He will reflect on the evolution of his own South Carolina garden and his changing interest in plants and their maintenance.
Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Designing a Dry Streambed
Paula Refi, garden designer and past president of GPPA, will discuss "Designing a Dry Streambed" and the plants that are happy living in and near it. One of the landscapes that she designed, using this element, was featured in, and on the cover of, Fine Gardening magazine.
Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Travels With David
David McMullin, local garden designer and GPPA favorite, will share his observations on many well known gardens in his talk, "Travels With David".
Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Designing With Perennials
Award-winning local landscape architect and plant expert Dottie Myers guides us through the process of creating a perennial garden, whether starting from scratch or re-working a portion of an existing landscape. She’ll discuss plant placement and distinctive combinations.
Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Decorating with Garden Flowers
Becky Baxter has created floral displays at the Georgia Governor’s Mansion and for special events throughout the area. She demystifies the design process with her uniquely humorous approach to gardening, to floral arranging and to life.
Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)The Best of the Daisies
Colston Burrell is a garden designer, author, photographer, naturalist, and teacher based in Virginia. His publications include Perennials for Today's Gardens, A Gardener's Encyclopedia of Wildflowers, and Perennial Combinations. His talk will include the best of the genera Helianthus, Silphium, Ridbeckia and Helenium.
Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Asters and Their Cousins
Dale Hendricks, of North Creek Nurseries, Inc. in Landenburg, PA, is a nationally respected grower of perennial starter plugs for the wholesale industry. His business is dedicated to the propagation and marketing of plants that develop the relationship between people and sustainable outdoor environments.
Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 7:30 p.m.
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall
1580 Peachtree Street (at Peachtree and Spring Streets)Eco Gardens: Past, Present and Future
Local plantsman Don Jacobs describes his favorites among the many rare cultivars he has selected over the years. Learn why directors of arboreta and botanical gardens throughout the world look to his collection for new perennial treasures.
November 15, 2001
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 1580 Peachtree Street
"On the Road with A Gardener's Diary: The Joy of Gardening"Horticulturist and garden writer Erica Glasener describes some of the gardens and garden makers she has encountered in her travels as host of the popular HGTV program.
Tuesday, October 23, 2001
Peachtree Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 1580 Peachtree Street
Panel of Perennial ExpertsThis popular annual event presents experts in growing, maintaining, and designing with perennial plants. The panel will field questions from the audience.
Tuesday, September 11, 2001 - Atlanta Botanical Garden
Designer and longtime GPPA member Becky Baxter has created floral displays at the Georgia Governor's Mansion and for special events throughout the area. She demystifies the design process with her uniquely humorous approach to gardening and arranging.
"Decorating for Special Occasions with Garden Flowers"This meeting will be held jointly with the Georgia Native Plant Society.
August 16, 2001 - Atlanta Botanical Garden
Tony is as well known for his humorous catalog as well as his plantsmanship. Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, NC is a source for a lengthy list of gardenworthy perennial species.
Tony Avent, "Been There, Found That, Pressed It: Gardening With New Native Perennials"
July 19, 2001 - Atlanta Botanical Garden
Plant hunter Barry Yinger describes two of the most intriguing new groups of shade plants for American gardens: the Jack-in-the-pulpits and wild gingers. See the rare and routine, and learn how to use them to enliven your shade garden.
"Jacks and Gingers: An Up-close Look at Arisaemas and Asarums"
Note: This lecture will be held at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
June 21, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
Carol Reese is Ornamental Horticulture Specialist with the University of Tennessee Extension Service. A keen observer of the daily dramas going on in the garden and fields beyond, Carol will tell funny and sometimes moving stories of reptiles, insects, birds and mammals and their interactions with human. Her presentation will also include unusual gardens and purely beautiful plants.
"Beauties, Beasties, and Natural Lore"
May 17, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
May Brawley Hill, art historian and author, surveys old-fashioned American gardens from 1865 to 1915.
"Grandmother's Garden"
April 19, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
Tara Dillard is a garden designer, lecturer, and writer. She reveals lesson learned from her visits to legendary European gardens.
"Centuries of Perennial Sophianism for Your Garden: GPPA Tours Scotland, England, and France"
March 15, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
Dr. Sam Jones is a distinguished botanist and taxonomist, retired UGA professor of botany, and co-proprietor of Piccadilly Farm in Bishop, Georgia. He will discuss recommended selections from among the hundreds of conifer cultivars in the demonstration garden at the nursery.
"Outstanding Conifers for Georgia Gardens"
February 15, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
Jim Harrington, horticulturist, owner of HortInfo, and GPPA past president, gives practical "how-to" advice on perennial garden maintenance.
"The Real Scoop on Perennial Maintenance"
January 18, 2001 - Atlanta History Center
"Luscious Lilies for the Southeast"Carolyn Hawkins, North American Lily Society, Master Gardener, NCSGC Master Judge, discusses the selection and cultivation of the best lilies for Georgia gardens.
