Kid Science and Plant Event Planned at Clovis Botanical Garden

Tucked away on Clovis Avenue, between Alluvial and Nees in Clovis, is a beautiful three-acre garden that many would call a hidden gem.

The Clovis Botanical Garden is a water-wise garden, made up of plants and landscapes that are native to California and grow well in a Mediterranean climate.

          The all-volunteer ran garden opened in 2002. Gates are open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there’s no fee to enter and explore the grounds.

          Visitors use the space to meditate, snap photos and amerce themselves in nature.

          Several times a year the garden hosts “Science Saturday” events for children grades K-4^th.  The next one is taking place on Saturday, March 7^th from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. It’s $5 per child.

          The theme for the workshop is “Pollinators.” Kids will learn about bees and hummingbirds.

          “There’s always an art activity that is connected to the topic,” said Pat Wynne, a board member with the Clovis Botanical Garden. “It’s very hands on.”

          It’s not unusual for visitors to spot lizards and birds while inside the garden. Both are things children usually get pretty excited to see.

          “We really need to educate and expose our children to nature,” said Carole Bence, a longtime volunteer with the garden. “I’m all for children coming out to explore.”

          Also coming up in March is the Clovis Botanical Garden’s “Spring Into Your Garden” event. It’s taking place Friday, March 20^th and Saturday, March 21^st. Over 500 plants will be for sale. They are water-wise and native to California.

          In addition to the plant sale, during the Saturday portion of the event, a garden tour, exhibitors and guest speakers will be on hand to answer questions and educate the public.

          Local horticulturist, John Pape will speak at 10 a.m. about “Caring for Climate Appropriate Trees.” At Noon, Elinor Teague will speak about “Fertilization in Our Hot Dry Climate.”

          “It’s fun,” said Bence. “It’s very well organized. People who come will get great advice for their garden.”

          There’s a $5 fee to attend. Children and Clovis Botanical Garden members are free.

          Anyone interested in learning more about “Science Saturday,” “Spring Into Your Garden” or anything else related to the Clovis Botanical Garden can visit their website at ClovisBotanicalGarden.org