Hidden Lake GardensBotanical Gardens and

Arboretum

6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50)Tipton, Michigan 49287

517-431-2060

www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDONSTED, MI

PERMIT NO 16

In This IssueA Message from the Manager ............................................................. Page 2

Fall Classes at Hidden Lake Gardens ............................................... Page 3-6

Volunteer Opportunities .................................................................... Page 6

Max Adler Memorial ....................................................................... Page 7

Master Gardener Program ............................................................ Page 7

Calendar of Events ..................................................................... Page 8

a view from the gardens

Calendar of Events

Published for the Friends of Hidden Lake Gardens Fall 2008

❁ Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts (LCVA) Art Show At Hidden Lake Gardens .....................................September 27 - December 10❁ Fall Foliage Festival ..............................................................................Saturday, October 4❁ Heirloom Flowers: Everything Old is New Again* ............................................................. Tuesday, October 7❁ Bonsai & Penjing Lecture and Demonstration* .............................................................................Thursday, October 9❁ Autumn Tree Identification & Color Walk* ........................................Saturday, October 18❁ Goofy Gourds & Harvest Party for Preschoolers* ................................................................................ Tuesday, October 21❁ Pruning Fundamentals* ..................................................................Saturday, November 15❁ Williamsburg Christmas Workshop* .............................................. Thursday, December 4❁ Hidden Lake Gardens Annual Holiday Festival .........................................................Saturday, December 6, 2008❁ Evening of Lights ............................................................................... December 7, 13 & 14❁ Holiday Candle Centerpiece* .........................................................Saturday, December 13

*Pre-registration is required. Please call us at 517-431-2060 to reserve your spot!

Enjoy the Colors of the Season at theFall Foliage Festival - October 4th

The FALL FOLIAGE FESTIVAL will be held at Hidden Lake Gardens on Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This is a spectacular time to visit Hidden Lake Gardens when fall foliage turns brilliant colors with lots of fun filled activities planned for the entire family. Wagon rides will take visitors through the arboretum. There will be hands on craft activities for kids, live animals, and life size scarecrows decorating the grounds. This will be a day of food and fun for the whole family to enjoy. Hidden Lake Gardens, MSU’s botanical garden and arboretum features attractive natural landscapes, a conservatory, display gardens, and tree and shrub collections.

Admission is $3 per person / FREE for MembersFor more information call (517) 431-2060.

Another summer is behind us and what a summer it has been. “Dry” has been the word here at the Gardens. Thank goodness for the irrigation system in the areas around the Visitor Center and in the Collections. This season we have added many new plantings and a few new features causing more than usual concern.

The front gate went through a total plant make over in June, and we have been struggling to keep the plants watered ever since. Hopefully, fall will bring showers and cooler temperatures. These plants will come into their own over the next few years and provide our visitors a sight to see as they enter the Gardens. The planting is to be a four season show

so keep an eye out for the changes. Thanks to Dr. Bob Schutzki, Callista Watson and Josh Cook, from MSU, for designing the entrance landscape for us.

We hosted the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association Annual Field Day at the Gardens on August 14 and had an attendance of over 650 landscape professionals. Everyone enjoyed the exhibits as well as our 3 major collections. Tours were given by Chub Harper in the Harper Collection, Clarence Owens in Hosta Hillside and Jack Wikle in the Bonsai Courtyard. These gentlemen were assisted by others as well, and I thank you all for making this a great day at the Gardens. I know that over 250 of the participants visited the Harper Collection on the two guided tours and countless others visited on their own.

I hope you will join us for the Oh These Irish Hills Festival on September 20th. We are thrilled to have them back to celebrate this wonderful location and event.

The Fall Foliage Festival is always a treat for all, and we are expecting the same this year. Look for new scarecrows throughout the Gardens as we are working on refurbishing and reinventing some of our friends.

For all of you that contributed to our 2009 calendar “thank you”. They are being printed as I write this and will be for sale soon. A very special “thanks” to Nancy Smith for pulling it all together. We could not do what we do without the help of dedicated volunteers like Nancy.

Hidden Lake Gardens - Scout Programs

Hidden Lake Gardens offers programs for Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts. The 1—1/2 hour outdoor program, taught by Hidden Lake Gardens staff, focuses on the relationship between plants, people, and animals, using hands-on activities and exploration of our diverse natural areas to fulfill badge requirements.

Arrangements are made for groups of 8-20 scouts, groups must be accompanied by two adults. Please call to make arrangements at least two weeks in advance. The cost of the program is $6 per scout. Extra chaperones and siblings are $3 per person. Program fee includes educational materials, use of equipment (i.e. binoculars, ID guides, etc.) and garden admission. To make arrangements call 517-431-2060 or email Karen Gentry gentryka@msu.edu.

A Message from the Manager

2 A View from the Gardens

Hidden Lake GardensBotanical Gardens

and Arboretum

6214 Monroe Rd.Tipton, Michigan 49287

(Located on M-50 eight miles west

of Tecumseh)

755 acres of Gardens and Natural Areas

Flower GardensPlant Conservatory

Hosta HillsideDwarf Conifers

Hiking TrailsBiking

Picnic AreaLake

Educational ClassesWeddingsGift Shop

Open Daily (except winter holidays)

October thru April 8:00 am – dusk

November thru March 8:00 am– 4:00 pm

Admission $3.00 per person

517-431-2060

www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

Max Adler MemorialOn Saturday, July 19, at Hidden Lake Gardens an Acer saccharum (sugar maple) was dedicated to Max Adler by the Sauk Trail Audubon Society, of which he was a founder. For many years Max lead groups on nature walks and taught classes at the Gardens. The plaque on the tree reads “A Life’s work devoted to nature” —a worthy, well-earned tribute.

Max Adler was a paradox!

He was the ultimate example of the absent-minded professor. He often couldn’t find his shoes, never had the correct pair of glasses when he needed them and was a disaster at managing audio-visual equipment. On the other hand, he was an exact scientist when documenting biological findings. His notes were exact, succinct, and detailed in his journal, written by hand in the smallest of print.

He was like Ichabod Crane “Tall, thin, and gangly with a look of ineptitude. He was scruffy and unkempt”….when was the last time you saw him with a new haircut?

And yet….He had a brain that was jam-packed with wonderful facts that amused, entertained and, more importantly, educated all of us, plus hundreds of students throughout the years. He was a ”wonderful man, a delight to be around”. To those of us who knew him well, he was a great confidant, adviser, educator, and friend.

Max was a retired professor of botany from Eastern Michigan University, but he loved, especially, working with young kids. There are many, many wonderful stories about Max Adler. Who else could build a meal on Wild Edible Plants or share with one the courtship flight of the Woodcock? This man, who first appeared to be an unusual character, has become to those who knew him well a hero—a man who gave of himself and his knowledge willingly and relentlessly, not only to his friends and students, but to his community.

One might be reminded, when thinking of Max, of a line from Oliver Goldsmith’s poem, “The Deserted Village”, “and still they gazed and still the wonder grew, that one small head could carry all he knew!”. MAX E. ADLER ~ October 29, 1934—February 27, 2007

Fall 2008 7

Steven Courtney

Master Gardener ProgramHidden Lake Gardens in Lenawee County will be offering the Master Gardener Program. Starting on Saturday, January 10, from 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., and running for twelve consecutive weeks. The course teaches research based horticulture principles and environmentally sound gardening practices. Participants in the program put their training to work as volunteers sharing their gardening knowledge with their community through a variety of gardening related activities.

Classes are taught by MSU-Extension staff and experts from southeastern Michigan covering flower gardening, soils, vegetables, woody ornamentals, pest management, indoor plants, tree and small fruits, lawn care, basic botany and diagnostics. Michigan Master Gardener certification is achieved upon completion of the course work and 40 hours of volunteer commitment.

The course fee is $235 and includes an 800-page Master Gardener reference notebook. Application can be obtained by contacting Hidden Lake Gardens at (517) 431-2060 or visit our website www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu to print out an application.

Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts (LCVA)Art Show At Hidden Lake

GardensSeptember 27 - December 10

The Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts (LCVA) is excited to be doing another exhi-bition at Hidden Lake Gardens this fall. The LCVA is a group of local artists that operate a non-prof-it gallery in down-town Adrian, MI. Our first collabora-tion with Hidden Lake Gardens was such a success that we decided to do it again. We have been out working at the Gardens on lots of new pieces. The resulting artwork will be on display at Hidden Lake Gardens in the Visitor’s Center from September 27th through December 10th. We will have a dessert reception from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, October 18th where the public is welcome to come and visit with the artists. We are once again happy for the opportunity to work and exhibit in such a beautiful loca-tion. Please come and enjoy the show! Select pieces may be purchased by con-tacting the LCVA Gallery. This is a free event on Saturday, October 18th from 1p.m.-3 p.m. for the dessert and artists reception. LCVA112 West MaumeeAdrian, MI 49221517-265-4403 http://lcvamembers.blogspot.com

Fall Classes at Hidden Lake Gardens

Fall 2008 36 A View from the Gardens

Oh These Irish Hills!4th Annual Festival

September 20, 2008 • 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.At Hidden Lake Gardens

6214 Monroe Rd. (M-50) Tipton, Michigan 49287For more information:

517-431-2060 www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu517-592-7003 www.otih.org

Oh These Irish Hills!…is a non-profit organization formed in the late summer of 2004 with the stated purpose of advancing an Irish Hills legacy that involves area individuals,

groups and organizations in activities that celebrate the beauty of the place,the spirit of the people and progression of its history.

This is an Alcohol–Free EventPlease no coolers

and no pets

Fall Foliage FestivalSaturday, October 410:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

What a spectacular time to visit Hidden Lake Gardens when fall foliage turns brilliant colors with lots of fun activities planned for the entire family! Wagon rides will take visitors to the corn maze and the arboretum. Artisans will demonstrate their arts which include wood carving, chainsaw carving, fiber spinning and weaving among others. There will be hands on craft activities for kids, live animals, and the grounds will be decorated with life size scarecrows. This will be a day of food and fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Admission is $3 per person/Members FREE

Heirloom Flowers: Everything Old is New AgainTuesday, October 76:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The old-fashioned flowers our great grandmothers loved were colorful, fragrant, hardy and just as perfect for today’s gardens as those of yesteryear. You will discover some forgotten plants as well as rediscover some old

Volunteer Opportunities Do you enjoy being at Hidden Lake Gardens? Do you enjoy working with people? Gardening? Assisting with special events? Helping the Gardens grow?

We need people like yourself to help us with many activities that take place at Hidden Lake Gardens. If you enjoy the public events at Hidden Lake Gardens, we could certainly use your help. Lots of volunteers are needed to help put on the May Plant Sale, the October Fall Festival, and the December Holiday Festival. We need help with everything from parking cars, to greeting people, lighting candles and serving refreshments. For those who enjoy gardening – consider joining the Gardening Volunteers. These individuals help plant annuals, weed, water and care for perennials in the Demonstration Garden. They also help with pruning, weeding and mulching in the ornamental shrub collection. Our hiking trails are being maintained with the help of volunteers. Consider volunteering a Saturday morning to clear brush and help improve our trails. Each year we receive more and more requests for guided tours. Docents are needed to give tours to adults and children. We provide training to teach you about the conservatory plants and the natural areas of the Gardens. We also help you learn how to give a tour with confidence and ease. Docents find it very enjoyable to share their knowledge with others. If you would like to give guided tours plan to attend the Docent training in April. If you would like to volunteer to help with any of these activities, please call Karen @ 517-431-2060.

Fall 2008 5

favorites. Learn the history of flowers that would have been grown in southeastern Michigan in the 1840’s-1880’s and the modern equivalents for today’s gardens. You will also find out everything you need to grow these plants in your own garden, plus fun facts besides such as hidden Victorian flower meanings, medicinal and everyday uses. Monica will also briefly touch on gadgets and plants popular in Midwestern seed catalogs of the late 1800’s. Instructor, Monica Milla, is an Advanced Master Gardener that researched, designed and maintains Cobblestone Farm an 1860’s fountain garden in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Cost $16/$14 for Friends of Hidden Lake GardensPre-registration required (517) 431-2060

Bonsai & Penjing Lecture and DemonstrationThursday, October 97:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

The Lenawee County Master Gardener Association would like to invite the public to join them in a lecture and demonstration by Robert Bishop, a Bonsai and Penjing artist. Penjing is the Chinese term used to describe a styled miniature tree or landscape in a pot. Using marble trays, ying rock, hydraulic cement and small plants, Robert creates mountain landscape penjing works. Robert is a member and presenter at the Ann Arbor Bonsai Club and Four Season Bonsai Club.

This event is open to the public. Cost $ 3 garden entrance fee. Call to reserve a spot 517-431-2060

Autumn Tree Identification & Color WalkSaturday, October 1810:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Experience the beauty of Hidden Lake Gardens in the autumn. Join Karen Gentry, horticulturist and Hidden Lake Gardens’ Education Coordinator, for a fall walk through the gardens and learn to identify trees with and without their leaves. Dress for the weather.

Cost $3 entrance fee/ free to friends of Hidden Lake GardensPre-registration required (517) 431-2060

Goofy Gourds& Harvest Party for PreschoolersTuesday, October 2110:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

It’s harvest time in the garden; join us for a morning of learning about the bountiful foods of fall. We will make silly crafts with pumpkins, gourds and mums for you to take home and share with your family.

Cost $8/$6 for friends of Hidden Lake GardensPre-registration required (517) 431-2060

Pruning FundamentalsSaturday, November 1511:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

The key to maintaining a beautiful and healthy landscape is to know the correct technique for pruning. Karen Gentry, horticulturist and Hidden Lake Gardens’ Education Coordinator, will instruct an indoor class on pruning methods, tools and timing. Emphasis will be on shap-ing, size reduction, thinning and renewal techniques. The class will continue outdoors for a demonstra-tion on pruning shrubs and small ornamental trees. You will learn how to maintain natural form while eliminating future problems. Come dressed for the weather.

Cost $18/$16 for friends of Hidden Lake Gardens Pre-registration required (517) 431-2060

Williamsburg Christmas WorkshopThursday, December 46:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season with a fresh Williamsburg style decoration. Create an elegant, natural piece utilizing fresh fruit, cones and greens. Pam Meinke, instructor for

Lenawee ISD Tech Center Horticulture Program, will demon-strate easy projects that can be done at home. A beautiful door piece will be constructed to take home. Please bring gloves, pruning shears and wire cutters.

Cost $40/$35 for friends of Hidden Lake GardensPre-registration required (517) 431-2060

4 A View from the Gardens

Hidden Lake Gardens Annual Holiday FestivalSaturday, December 6, 20082 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Join the festivity of the holiday season and enjoy the scenic rolling landscape of Hidden Lake Gardens illuminated by over 2,000 candle luminaries. Stroll candle lit paths to the conservatory and leave winter behind in the tropical dome. Musical groups will lift your spirits as they perform holiday favorites throughout the day.

Santa will arrive early to visit with children and the young at heart in the Gardens’ visitor center. Children can also visit the craft room for some holiday fun.

Lenawee ISD Tech Center students bring the joy of the season indoors with beautiful holiday decorations.

Visit the Gift Shop during the festival for unique holiday gifts and garden items.

Hidden Lake Garden’s staff appreciates your support throughout the year and hopes you will join us on December 6 and share the joy of the season.

Admission is $3 per person/Members FREE

Evening of LightsDecember 7, 13 & 145 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Enjoy a winter walk with friends and family, luminaries will be lit throughout the grounds and the Gift Shop and Conservatory will be open until 8 p.m. for holiday shopping.

Admission is $3 per person/Members FREE

Holiday Candle CenterpieceSaturday, December 1310:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Join Pam Meinke, instructor for Lenawee ISD Tech Center Horticulture Program, in this popular workshop as she teaches you how to create a fresh evergreen centerpiece that you can enjoy long into the holiday season. Learn the steps of constructing the design using greens, candles and accessories. Each participant will create an arrangement to take home. Bring the fresh scent of evergreens into your home in a pleasing holiday display. Please bring a sharp knife, scissors, and wire cutters to class.

Cost $ 24/$20 friends of Hidden Lake Gardens

Pre-registration required (517) 431-2060

Plan Ahead for yourOutdoor WeddingIf you have you ever dreamed of having an outdoor wedding, let Hidden Lake Gardens make your dreams come true! We offer several different garden settings depending on the number of guests you are anticipating. Charges for a wedding include a reservation charge, security deposit, advance entry fees, as well as entry fees for a rehearsal (if desired).

Please call 517-431-2060 for further information.

Please pre-register by calling 517-431-2060 or download the registration form from our website www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

and mail it to: Hidden Lake Gardens • 6214 Monroe Rd. • Tipton, Michigan 49287