Trustees of Friends meet each month in the Botanics Offices usually for about an hour and a half when we discuss a packed agenda.
In February we finalised plans for two members meetings in March. Emails have already been sent out to members and there are as I write a small number of places left.
Wednesday 11th March sees Christine Nicholson our principal orchid propagator lead our members on a tour of the orchid display with an emphasis on the Dendrobium collection which is expected to be at its best.
Those attending should congregate near the fish pond in the Kibble ready to start at 10.30.
On Saturday March 14th there is a walk along the River Kelvin to experience the dawn chorus and see the late spring wildlife. Please don’t panic as the dawn chorus will be sung out around 9am! The tour will be led by our local
countryside ranger Alexandra Jackson. Those members fortunate to be on the list should meet in front of the Kibble at 9am. Please be aware that there will be steep steps, uneven and slippery surfaces. By the end of the tour the Botanics Tearoom will be open and serving hot drinks to warm up and have a chat.
Work is underway on the restoration of the flint mill on Kelvin Walkway just above the Belmont Street bridge. This section of the walkway is part of the Botanic Gardens estate. The work has been delayed for several reasons. It is
part funded by a donation from the Friends. A display of the architect’s drawings will form the basis of the Friends contribution to Kelvin in the Kibble. This annual event takes place in the Kibble from 7th -20th April. The plans are for the displays to be manned on 19th April. We are grateful to
Peter Richardson one of our trustees for his expertise and practical help with this project.
Our forthcoming CPH course starts at the end of March. Until recent days the course was fully booked but it now looks like there are cancellations. Details can be found on our website.
Tours of the Kibble are well underway, well attended and greatly enjoyed by visitors and guides alike. Many visitors generously make a donation at the tap and donate machine. These monies are collected by Friends of GBG and form an important income stream to fund our work in supporting the Gardens. Presently tours are on Thursday at 11am and 2pm as well as Saturdays at 11am. We are fortunate to have a great collection of experienced guides but we are always looking for one or two more! Training
will be given. If interested please email tours[at]glasgowbotanicgardens.com
Regrettably we have reports of vandalism in and around the Gardens. The Police have been informed and the Kibble is being illuminated for longer hours. If members notice anything untoward please inform the Police promptly.
During daylight hours members of Gardens staff could be
informed.
