Paul James Garden on Cahas Knob

This area is one of the BRWS/VNPS Registry Sites. It is always a treat to visit this world-renowned garden. If it is rhododendrons and azaleas you like, this is the walk for you.  Paul James is one of the founders of our chapter. He is always a gracious host with lots of plants and stories…

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The Forest Canopy

Steve Croy, Forest Ecologist for the Jefferson National Forest, will share his thoughts on the function and life of the forest canopy.  Steve will discuss what dwells in the canopy and what role the canopy plays in the life of the forest. Come see how the lack of light reaching the forest floor affects the…

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Shale Barrens in Botetourt County

Field Trip: Shale Barrens in Botetourt County Our field trip is open to the public, and we welcome new friends to join us. There is no fee required. If you have questions, see the contact information below. This trip will take us to a shale barren affectionately named by early BRWS members “Hopalong Cassidy Pass.”…

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Wetland Orchids in Craig and Giles Counties and West Virginia

Field Trip: Wetland Orchids in Craig and Giles Counties and West Virginia This trip will take us over mountains and through a spectacular valley with fields of bison. Open to the public, and we welcome new friends on our trips; if you have questions, contaci information is below. We should see some rare orchids found…

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Blue Ridge Wildflower Society Annual Picnic

Annual Picnic Mark your calendars now for the chapter picnic and plan on bringing your favorite side dish or dessert. We will be having the picnic with the Roanoke Valley Bird Club. The Bird Club will provide fried chicken and the BRWS will provide barbecue. Plates, utensils, and drinks will be provided. This is a…

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Bogs, Rare Plants and Mountain Tops

Open to members and non-members! You are invited to join us on this overnight field trip to Grayson County.  We will visit two new Virginia Natural Heritage Preserves — Grayson Glades and Big Spring Bog. We will also stop at Mount Rogers on the way home. This trip will give us an opportunity to see…

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Catawba: A Look at Signs of Spring and What Nature Brings

Join Betty and Butch Kelly for a look at last years’ blooms, insect evidence, left over green and skunk cabbage. We will look at winter botany and share hot chocolate. There will be some walking so be prepared for any kind of weather. The public is most welcome to join us. Meet: 1:00 p.m. at…

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Potting Party

Saturday, February 25, 9:00 am – noon, “Potting Party” at Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs We need lots of volunteers to help us pot about 1,300 roots, bulbs and young plants for the plant sale that takes place in May. The club will provide the plants, soil, fertilizer, pots and labels, but we need your…

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Chapter Meeting: Winter’s Green, and How to Lead a Field Trip

Monday, February 27, 7:00pm Chapter Meeting: “Winters’ Green” and “How to Lead A Field Trip” Butch Kelly will share slides for a look at what is green in winter. He will also have a short talk on leading a field trip. If the task seems daunting to you, he will ease your mind. Perhaps we…

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Maintaining the Wildflower Garden

Come to help and to learn! The garden is beautiful and taking care of it is fun. There is plenty of time to share ideas or talk to folks who want to know more about our chapter or about gardening with natives. Please join us for weeding, mulching and checking the plant signage to celebrate…

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