It’s easy to think of spring as the busy season in the Springfield Botanical Gardens—but the more time I spend here, the more I realize it’s always busy. Winter just looks different. There’s planning, planting, and preparation happening all along, and then spring shows up and puts it all on display. That’s part of what inspired this column—creating a space to share more of what’s happening here, both the visible and the behind-the-scenes moments that make the Gardens so special.
As I continue settling into my role with Friends of the Garden, I wanted to create a space like this—something a little more personal. Each month, I’ll share what’s happening across the Gardens: the good things, the interesting moments, the people doing incredible work, and the details that make this place so special.
One of the things I’m especially looking forward to this season is spending time in the Roston Native Butterfly House. If you’ve ever considered getting more involved, our upcoming Docent Trainings are a wonderful place to start—Wednesday, April 22 at 5 pm and Saturday, April 25 at 10 am. (You can sign up for one of these trainings here)
I’ll be at the Wednesday evening session myself, learning alongside you, and I’d love for you to join me. It feels only right to experience this special place the same way so many of our volunteers do—by stepping in, learning a bunch, and being part of the story.
More than anything, I’m grateful to be here—and grateful for each of you who helps these Gardens thrive.
I’ll see you out there. 🌿
Kathryn Wall, Executive Director
