Summer 2024 Newsletter Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

An understanding of the natural world and what's in it is a source of not only a great curiosity, but great fulfillment. — David Attenborough

Dear Friends of the Arboretum,

Summer is in full swing and things are a-buzz all around the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. Signs of life fill the air—from the sweet scents of the hydrangeas to the pollinator highways between flowers brimming with nectar and pollen. Nothing beats the excitement and tantalizing discovery of your favorite summer perennial full of flower buds on the brink of blooming.

While this heat and drought proves to be a challenge for many, the robust community of plants at the Arboretum, especially the native plants, boast of their resilience in the face of adversity. While their mechanisms for survival took some time to evolve to what it is today, there is still a lesson to be learned. Nature favors adaptability—the key to succeeding lies in the willingness to adapt to a challenge even if that means taking a step back to conserve resources for another day.

Your takeaway may be a little different, nonetheless, we encourage you to take stock of your summer challenges and blessings and take solace in the magical moments that the summer has to offer. We hope that, even in this heat, the Arboretum can provide you exciting and tantalizing discoveries that propagate great curiosity and fulfillment.

— Arboretum Staff

Support Your Local Woodland Sanctuary!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Great Garden Giveback campaign during the Spring Celebration Plant Sale! We raised over $1,500 to support ongoing projects to increase the biodiversity and resiliency of the Arboretum for years to come.

With your help, we can succeed in our pursuit to usher in a future defined by Restoration, Resilience, and Reciprocity.

Updates from the Arboretum

From plants sales and garden bed development to the eradication of invasive plants....

Our landscaping crew have been diligently working throughout the season. Once it became apparent that we were in for a hot and dry one, our lead landscapers, Megan and Owen, shifted their focus from mass planting perennials to targeting and eradicating Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) — a highly invasive tree from Asia. This tree is a problem because of its rapid growth, its ability to inhibit the growth of other plants around it, and its role as the perfect host for an equally nasty invasive species called the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula).

Photo by Dendroica cerulea from Flickr of Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) full of seed pods.

If you've visited the Arboretum this summer, you may have seen these unwanted lanternflies hopping or flying from plant to plant. They suck the sap from their targets before moving onto the next, and in their wake is a sticky residue that has been known to encourage the growth of black sooty mold. While these critters aren't harmful to humans (they don't bite or sting), they do target native trees and food crops like grapes and cucumbers which can negatively impact food security in our communities.

Photo by Stephen Ausmus (USDA) of the Spotted Lanternfly as a winged adulted and as a red nymph (one of two nymph forms).

What can you do to knock back the growing problem?

  1. Control Tree of Heaven: Locate appropriate resources to cut and treat Tree of Heaven with herbicide. Blue Ridge Prism is an excellent resource to use if you would like to learn how to identify invasive species and how to properly treat them.
  2. Kill the Spotted Lanternfly On Sight: This can be fairly tricky, because they are quick little guys with what seems like spidey-senses. They can be squished, sprayed with a soap & water mix, vinegar, or neem oil. However, vinegar should not be used near desirable plants as it will cause damage to plants.
  3. Scrape Away Eggs: Females lay their eggs in September to then overwinter. To prevent an infestation later down the line, you can scrape off the eggs into a bag of alcohol solution.

For more information on the Spotted Lanternfly, please visit www.ext.vt.edu/spotted-lanternfly

Something Old, Something New

Planting annual beds have been a long held tradition at the Arboretum, however, this will be the last year we plan annual beds; instead, we will be introducing perennials that will do much better stabilizing the soils. Our landscaping team is excited to plan for the future with sustainability in mind.

One of the last mass plantings before the heat was turned up.
Megan gets a hand from our education intern, Victor, while setting up our summer floating beds.
Two of our landscapers, Timothy and Josh, planted a handful of American Hop-Hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) and Yoshino Cherry (Prunus × yedoensis) trees near the perimeter of the Arboretum

Honoring 16 years and 8 months of dedication and advocacy.

Arboretum staff collaborated to create a plaque that would honor Jan Sievers Mahon's years of advocacy and hard work.

Jan Sievers Mahon has spent nearly two decades being a vocal advocate for the future of the Arboretum. Having retired in May of 2024, Jan finds herself finally enjoying the simple pleasures of her home garden and much needed rest and relaxation. The work she has done can be seen sprinkled throughout this woodland sanctuary and her impact will be felt for years to come.

Along the trail to the At Home in the Woods Family Garden from the parking lot, you can find a Jan's plaque on a great big White Oak (Quercus alba).

August Art Exhibition

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum Presents

Theresa Markiw

Theresa's art exhibit can be found in the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday through Friday from 8 am - 4pm.

Theresa Markiw was born in Montreal, Canada of Ukrainian emigres and grew up in New Jersey. She began studying at the Philadelphia Museum of Art at the age of eight, followed by a decade at the Barn Studio of Art in Millville, NJ, with renowned marsh painter and mentor Pat Witt. While at "the Barn," Theresa studied with many visiting artists, including Morris Blackburn, Oliver Grimley, Chinese brush painter Phoebe Shih, and iconographer Piedman Shofronoff.

In 2006, Theresa left years of diplomatic service to join her university professor husband in Tennessee and devote herself full time to painting. In 2018, she and her husband moved to the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, where she continues to paint and exhibit. Throughout her career, Theresa has pursued a parallel life as a professional artist, exhibiting in over 80 solo and group shows in the US, Canada, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan.

Theresa's art exhibit can be found in the Frances Plecker Education Center until August 30th

Open Monday through Friday from 8 am - 4pm

The summer of fun continues...

Explorer Camp 2024!

First Day of Explorer Camp began on July 29th for 20 eager kids!

This year's theme is "Incredible Invertebrates"!

For the past 25 years, the Arboretum has strived to encourage children to deepen their friendship with nature. The Arboretum Explorer Camp is the perfect place for budding naturalists, animal lovers, and young outdoor enthusiasts!

Through a collaboration between the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and JMU's School of Professional and Continuing Education's Youth Programs team, 40 campers will embark on a week long marathon of environmental education and outdoor fun. Campers this year completed the "X-Kids" program from the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation.

The campers were enthralled to see the pond full of bull frogs, turtles, and fish!
Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink in the wild air. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

It's nearly here...

2024 Fall Wine & Cheese!

Thursday, September 5th | 5:30 - 7:00 pm

Our semi annual Wine & Cheese in the Trees event is right around the corner!

The evening's presentation will feature Shenandoah Mushrooms Company. Joe Holmes, along with his partner Joann, own and operate this full-service gourmet mushroom farm that vends at the Harrisonburg Farmer's Market. The talk will include a crash course on types of mushrooms and gourmet mushrooms, and then a walk-through of the way Shenandoah Mushrooms grows on their farm. Also included:

  • Exciting new frontiers of mushroom cultivation
  • Mycoremediation and other novel uses of mushrooms
  • Advice for starting your own growing operation at home

JMU Dining Services will provide delicious hors d'oeuvres that include ingredients derived from local sources with a variety of thirst-quenching beverages, including wine and beer, chosen to complement the flavors. A chef from JMU Dining Services will be available to chat with guests about how the menu was developed. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, and additional alcoholic beverage options will be available for purchase at our cash bar (registration includes one free beverage ticket upon entry).

Put this event on your calendar today and register before spots fill up!

Save $10 on registration by becoming a member!

GENERAL EVENTS

Evenings with Bats!

Next meeting on Friday, August 16 | 7:45 - 8:45 pm | FREE

Last dates for Evenings with Bats: September 6 at 7:15 pm & September 20 at 7 pm

Meet around the Pond

Members of our local chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists, in partnership with Bat Conservation and Rescue of Virginia, will be hosting Evenings with Bats by the Pond in the Arboretum.

Visitors should arrive 15 minutes before sunset to hear a brief presentation about bat conservation and behavior, followed by the opportunity to watch bats of the Arboretum emerge for their evening hunt. Master Naturalists and BCRV volunteers will also be hosting a bat call monitoring station as part of the evening, and visitors can watch and learn more about acoustic monitoring, and what it's telling us about the bats who live in the Arboretum.

Gratitude Walk

Sunday, August 18 | 10-10:30 am | FREE

Meet outside the Frances Plecker Education Center

Join Naturalist and Positive Psychology Practitioner, Anna Finch, on a brief but meaningful walk through the lovely arboretum grounds. You will be guided on a mindful journey filled with gratitude, heartfelt prompts, and questions to connect deeper to yourself and the natural world around you. Bring a journal if you would like to reflect along the way and share with others if you feel comfortable doing so!

Experience Sound Bathing

Tuesday, August 20 | 6-7:30 pm | $25 per session

Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace (beside the Education Center)

Using gongs, crystal and Tibetan bowls, voice, drums, shakers, and chimes, Connie Magee will take you on a sound journey that will relax and de-stress you and bring your whole being back into a state of harmony on all levels; physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Connie Magee is a multi-modality massage therapist, medicine woman, Yoga Instructor, and meditation teacher. Registration required.

Tai-Chi on the Terrace

Saturdays, August 24th - September 14th | 8-9 am | $15 per session

Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace. In case of rain, meet at the Pavilion.

Tai chi, or Taijiquan, is an ancient Chinese martial art originally created for combat and self-defense. Tai chi has since evolved into a gentle, low-impact form of exercise that can improve muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. Join Grayson Pritchard of Blue Heron Healing Arts as he guides you through the flowing motions and breath work of tai chi.

Grayson Pritchard, a certified instructor of Taijiquan, Baguazhang, Xingyiquan,and Qigong, is the owner of Blue Heron Healing Arts— a school of martial arts for children and adults, and energetic arts for health and healing. Visit his website at www.blueheronha.com.

Monarch Tagging & Release

Saturday, August 31st | 11 am - 12 pm | FREE

Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace

We invite participants of all ages! Join butterfly enthusiast and Virginia Master Naturalist, Gail Napora, for our Monarch Tagging and Release. Gail will journey with you through the life cycle of the butterfly with images, trace the route of migration from all points north to Mexico, then share the details of tagging as attendees help hold the butterflies and then release them.

Bonsai Club

Next meeting on Tuesday, September 3 | 6-8 pm | FREE

Meet at the Frances Plecker Education Center

Have you always wanted to explore bonsai as a hobby or are just curious about the art? Join presenters, Clark Driver and Simon Jilg, at Frances Plecker Education Center for a short lecture, bonsai displays, and door prizes! For questions and concerns please reach out to ShenandoahValleyBonsaiSociety@gmail.com

Shamanic Sound Bath & Holotropic Breathwork

Tuesday, September 24th | 5:30-6:45 pm | $40 per session

Meet at the Pavilion (near the Pond)

Join experienced musicians & Shamanic healers Connie Magee & Matthew DeRubertis for an unforgettable breathwork session with Shamanic sound healing, amid nature. Gong, chimes, guitar, ukulele, drums, singing bowls and many other instruments are used creatively to guide you into the deepest possible journey space- where emotional, mental, spiritual and physical healing can be accessed. Brainwave entrainment has been used for millennia in all cultures, for the healing of their people. Safe container, fully guided. Registration required.

Project Learning Tree: Explore Your Environment

Saturday, September 14 | 9 am - 3 pm | $11 registration fee

Meet at the Frances Plecker Education Center

Pack a lunch, dress to be outdoors, and join us for a great day at JMU's Edith J Carrier Arboretum. At the completion of this workshop, you will receive a certificate of completion, an Explore Your Environment PLT guide, & have the confidence & skills to use PLT activities with K-8 students.

Upcoming Talks

Houseplant Propagation Workshop

Thursday, August 29 | 3-4 pm | FREE

Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace (beside the Frances Plecker Education Center)

Join owners of Out of the Ordinary Plants for a informative workshop on propagating plants. From plant selection down to the growing medium, learn everything you need to know to hit the ground running!

Out of the Ordinary Plants is a mother & daughter run business which specialize in growing uncommon and rare houseplants. They are based in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Learn more about Out of the Ordinary Plants at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067584842366.

Repotting & Caring for Houseplants

Thursday, September 12 | 3-4 pm | FREE

Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace (beside the Education Center)

Back by popular demand, local gardener, Laura Williams will be revisiting her talk about repotting houseplants as well as other important tips for keeping a happy and healthy houseplant. Join us for a informative demonstration on proper potting techniques, pest control, and much more!

Fall Colors!

Wednesday, September 25 | 11:30 am - 12:30 pm | FREE

Meet at the Frances Plecker Education Center

Breathe in the crisp, cool air of autumn and enjoy the brilliant palette nature paints for us. Discover why the intensity of fall colors varies from year to year. Learn from Virginia Master Gardeners about some of the reliable plants you can add to your landscape to add a pop of color in the fall!

Beneficial Insects + Build an Insect House!

Tuesday, October 1 | 11:30 am - 12:30 pm | FREE

Meet at the Education Center

STOP! Before you squish that bug, join us to find out how different insects are helpful to our gardens and flower beds. You will learn from the Virginia Master Gardeners why it is important to encourage insects to visit your garden and how to attract them by knowing what they eat, where they sleep, and how to identify them in their various life stages.

Following this free talk is a demonstration on building insect houses. For $15 you can get a kit to construct your own insect house!

Herb Gardening 101

Thursday, October 3rd | 3-4 pm | FREE

Meet at the Education Center

From indoor vs. outdoor growing to best winter herbs, local gardener, Laura Williams, will be giving an informative talk all about herb gardening! Afterwards, take a trip through the Arboretum's community herb garden!

Youth Programs

Storytime in the Understory

Thursday, August 22 | 11-11:30 am | FREE

Meet at the Storytime Spot in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden (next to the Pavilion)

Preschoolers and their families are invited to enjoy 30 minutes of nature-themed reading at the Storytime Spot in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden.

Gnome Home & Fairy House Building

Tuesday, August 13 | 11:00-11:45 AM | FREE

Meet in our Storytime Spot in the Family Garden

In this imagination-based program, we invite preschool to elementary-aged children and their families to come to the Storytime Spot in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden to hear an enchanting story about forest fairies and the magic of nature. Then you'll build your own fairy house or gnome home for the Arboretum out of natural materials found in the woods!

Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE)

MWEE is a multiday, investigative project that engages students in thinking critically about watersheds inside and outside the classroom. Last year all of the fourth-graders in Harrisonburg City had the opportunity to visit the Arboretum for a day, attending activities that explained issues like stormwater runoff, erosion, and pollution sources that impact watersheds. Before and after their visit to the Arboretum, students explore watershed concepts in class, which helps to solidify their understanding of the importance of watersheds and their impact on the ecosystem.

This October, the Arboretum will again host a MWEE for all fourth-graders in Harrisonburg! We are gearing up to create an unforgettable experience that can help foster connections between children and their environment—in hopes that they can become thoughtful stewards of the land. Following this, in November, we will host a pilot watershed day for Harrisonburg seventh-graders. We hope this pilot can serve as a launching pad for a future MWEE for all seventh-graders!

Mark your calendars!

Our semi-annual plant sale is coming soon!

Get access to all Fall Plant & Bulb Sale plants a day in advance! All plants will be available for purchase, in-person, on September 26th to Edith J. Carrier Arboretum Members.

Members! Please keep an eye out for an email for an early access link to the Pre-Sale Tree Sale plant list and order form! The following week, a follow up email will be sent for early access to our plant list and online order form for the Spring Celebration Plant Sale!

Edith J. Carrier Membership Includes the Following:

  • Reciprocal Admissions Program- EJCA Membership card entitles you to special admission privileges and discounts at 300 gardens throughout North America and the Cayman Islands. (Including Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens and Maymont)
  • Subscription to Better Homes & Gardens (Free one-year digital magazine)
  • 10% Discount on EJC Arboretum Plant Purchases, T-Shirts, and select gift shop items
  • Access to Member-Exclusive Events such as our Plant Pre-Sale!

To become a Member now, please drop off your donation ($35 or more, cash or check only) at the EJC Arboretum before you shop! You can become a member through our website with a credit card also, but please note: online membership donations via credit card after September 4th will not be processed in time for the plant sale.

A token of our appreciation! Use this coupon at the plant sale in addition to your membership discount!

Until next time...

Thank you for supporting your local woodland sanctuary!