On this walk, native plant advocate, Sarah Roberts, will guide us in a delightful discovery of spring's bounty of native flora where we will also learn to identify the distinguishing characteristics of the growth cycle of particular species. We will look for early spring woodland flowers, spring ephemerals, and trees and shrubs flowering and leafing out. Sarah asks and states, “Have you ever seen false mermaid weed? It isn't showy, but it's cute.” And she’ll share her love for the leaf buds on hickory trees — ‘one fat bud bursting through its covering of scales to send out a foot-long twig with 8 or 10 leaves, each comprising 5 or 7 leaflets’, a marvelous display of nature's intelligence. You are certain to be drawn in as we study the flowers, plants, and shrubs of Herrontown Woods.
Our Guide: Sarah Roberts, local native plant advocate, has planted and tended to over 23 native gardens, with her first and favorite being her own 3 acre spread in Belle Meade.
Hike Rating: Light Will involve on-trail walking over uneven ground with some off trail exploration. Wear sturdy, water proof, shoes.
Meet: 600 Snowden Lane, Herrontown Woods, Botanical Art Garden (“Barden”)
Time: 10:00 AM. 20 persons maximum. Light Rain or Shine. If there is heavy rain, the event will be scheduled at a later date TBD.
Cost: $10/person, Children are FREE (all proceeds go to the stewardship of Herrontown Woods). Reserve your spot by Registering Now!
'Walk with Nature' is a new series of expert-guided, paid walks designed to introduce the community to the many wonders of Herrontown Woods throughout the seasons. This year, in addition to the Spring Natives Walk, we plan to offer a Historical Walk, Geology Walk, a Dragonfly Walk, and a few others — so check our calendar or sign up for email updates to stay in the know. And no worries: it isn't meant to be a master class, but a gentle and easy way for expert researchers and enthusiasts to share their knowledge and help you to get to know a little more about what one can see walking through the woods. All proceeds go to the stewardship of Herrontown Woods. We’ll See You in the ‘Woods!