The Crosby Arboretum is hosting two events within the next two weekends that will be both fun and educational for the entire family.
This Saturday, May 23, the arboretum will be hosting Glen Ladnier who will be speaking about native orchids of South Mississippi, said Senior Curator Jill Mirkovich. Some of the orchids Ladnier will be speaking on include Rosebud Orchids, Fringed Orchids and Rose Pogonia Orchids, said Mirkovich. He will discuss the flowers’ habitats, and their characteristics. Ladnier will also touch on common conservation techniques.
After the presentation, a short walk will bring participants to the arboretum’s south bog to look for native orchids. Ladnier is a member of the Gulf Coast Orchid Society, and a long time authority on Mississippi orchids. The presentation is free for members, and $5 for nonmembers. Contact the arboretum at (601) 799-2311 by May 22 to register.
On Saturday May 30, the arboretum is hosting a spring botany walk. Dr. Mac Alford, Herbarium Curator and Associate Professor at the University of Southern Mississippi, will be leading the walk, said Mirkovich. Alford’s research at the University of Southern Mississippi focuses on plant systematics and floristics. Alford will give a short indoor presentation on plant taxonomy and ecology. After the presentation, the program will move outside for a field walk to explore the arboretum’s native plant exhibits. The program is free to members, and $5 for nonmembers. Contact the arboretum to register by May 29.