Gardening event is a sign of spring

The annual Davidson Horticulture Symposium turns our thoughts from mittens and wind chills to blooming trees, flowers and the promise of new life.

The 26th annual symposium, scheduled for Tuesday, March 2 on the Davidson College campus, features top-notch speakers and attracts gardeners from all over the Southeast. This year's theme is "Through the Seasons: A Southern Garden's Journey."

"After a lot of brainstorming, we came to this theme because gardens change in a way that people change, seasons change and life changes," said Mary Wilson Stewart, Davidson Garden Club president.

The event will focus on the evolution of both the garden and the gardener, reflecting how change can reflect beauty and inspiration.

The symposium attracts renowned speakers from all over the world.

Speakers include Alan Armitage, whose lecture is titled "So You Think You Like Plants: Annuals, Perennials, Bulbs and Vines That Will Feed Your Habit"; William Welch, whose lecture is titled "Rediscovering the Wealth: Heirloom Plants for Southern Gardeners" and "Buried Treasures: Heirloom Bulbs for Every Season," and Robin Ripley, whose lecture is titled "The Artful Vegetable Garden and Pam Baggett: Planting Words, Cultivating Thoughts: How to Grow a Garden Diary."

The keynote address will be delivered by W. Gary Smith, a former associate professor of landscape design and construction at the University of Delaware and a recipient of the 2004 ASLA Design Merit Award.

The day will also include discussion and focus on individual gardening interests, a tour of the Davidson College Arboretum, a book signing, plant sale and lunch.

Dick points out that the event is possible only through the cooperative relationship they have with the college. Held each year during its spring break, there is much support from faculty and staff. ."

The Davidson Garden Club, which has about 35 members, has a long history of beautifying our town. For Christmas in Davidson, they are responsible for lining Main Street with flower baskets. They landscaped the front of the Armour Theatre, where the Davidson Community Players are located. They hold a fall plant sale and also sold plants at last year's 5K "Run for the Green," sponsored by the Davidson Lands' Conservancy.

The symposium is limited to 400 participants. The cost is $85 and $45 for students. Pre-registration is required. For information, visit davidsonsymposium.org.