DBG OPENS 2024 SEASON MARCH 14th

Ray Sander, President of the Delaware Botanic Gardens (DBG) at Pepper Creek, announced that the 37-acre botanic gardens near Dagsboro will Open the Garden Gates for its Sixth Season at 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 14th. Sander said, “Welcome back for another season of natural beauty and experience the gardens and wildlife as they spring to life again.” 

Sander continued, “Our Board, Volunteers and Staff are excited to share our new features, including the Hedgerow Garden and the DelDot shore restoration project which added 0.30 acres to our 1,000-foot Pepper Creek shoreline. These features join the Piet Oudolf Meadow Garden, which continues to be one of the region’s most valuable examples of native plants and horticulture.  All these environmentally sound projects are key examples of DBG’s long range land stewardship and commitment to sustainability.  DBG staff and volunteers have been working all winter to be ready for members and guests to enjoy a safe natural oasis, away from the stresses of everyday life. In the Piet Oudolf Meadow Garden, Rhyne Garden, Learning Garden and Folly Garden we now have over 200,000 spring bulbs emerging.” 

Stephen Pryce Lea, Director of Horticulture and Educational Programs said, “Thanks to a mild winter and a hard-working team, we have made great progress in the gardens. We planted 21,500 additional spring bulbs last November, adding to a spectacular 200,000 spring bulb display. See the new DelDot Shoreline restoration project, which was completed in December and 7,000 new plantings are going into this new shoreline area this spring. The 12-acre Woodlands are showing their spring colors with Dogwood and Redbud trees soon to be showing their bright spring colors. Come and enjoy yourself and experience nature’s spring beauty.” 

The DBG website lists 2024 educational Tours and Classes. For example, on Friday, March 15th at 2 p.m., Stephen Pryce Lea will give a Guided Spring Bulb Tour; and on Thursday, March 28th at 2 p.m., he will also give a Guided Spring Bulb Tour. You can sign-up now at www.delawaregardens.org. 

Sheryl Swed, DBG Executive Director said, “We have expanded our garden experience, and also expanded the list of DBG 2024 learning opportunities. We invite you to become a member and get involved by joining our wonderful team of DBG volunteers.  We have Garden Steward, Docent, and administrative opportunities for volunteers.  Go to the website to sign-up for memberships and volunteer positions.  Come see how the gardens are growing. Please join us, as we welcome spring. 

The Delaware Botanic Gardens are open to the public on Thursdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there are guided tours at 10 a.m. You can register for guided tours in advance on the DBG website or if there is room on the day of your visit. Go to www.delawaregardens.org. The DBG is located a short drive from the beaches at 30220 Piney Neck Road, Dagsboro, DE 19939. Members admission is free, and tours/classes are $10. Nonmembers adult admission is $15, and tours/classes are $10. Children 16 and under receive free admission.  

The mission of the Delaware Botanic Gardens is to create a world-class, inspirational, educational, and sustainable public botanic garden in southern Delaware for the benefit and enjoyment of all.