Georgia Southern Botanical Garden

Mission Statement: The Garden promotes knowledge and appreciation of the native plants and animals of the southeastern coastal plain, connects people to the natural and cultural heritage of the region and inspires environmentally responsible behavior.

Centered on an early 20th century farmstead, The Garden offers visitors a unique view of the cultural and natural heritage of the Southeastern Coastal Plain, an area rich in unique and endangered plants. The Garden's nearly 11 acre site, located in the middle of the growing city of Statesboro, includes walking woodland trails, Bland Cottage, Heritage Garden, Rose Arbor, Children's Learning Garden, Camellia Garden, Native Plant Landscape Garden, Native Azalea Collection and Bog Garden.

History

Georgia Southern Botanical Garden is centered on an early 20th century farmstead. Owned by Dan and Catharine Bland, only the core of their original property remains. Mr. Dan, as he was affectionately known, was an amateur naturalist and botanist with a deep appreciation for the native plants of the land he loved so much. Mr. Dan and Miss Catharine lived and farmed here from 1916 when they married until late in their lives. They grew what they needed to live on and grew cotton and raised cows, chickens, and hogs for their own use and to sell. In 1985, Mr. Dan willed the remaining 6.5 acres to Georgia Southern College Foundation to be used as a botanical garden.

Georgia Southern Botanical Garden opened its gates to the public in 1990 and has served both as a resource for the university and community by sponsoring educational tours, workshops, seminars, plant sales, and festivals, and as a place for quiet reflection. The Blands' original home was renovated and now serves as the Garden's visitor center. An updated Master Plan was approved by the Garden's Board of Advisors in 2000, and guides the Garden in its development. Many of the plants Mr. Dan planted, including an allee of Southen Magnolias and American Hollies, remain today and are an important part of the Garden's collections.

The Garden offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners of all ages!

Programs and activities for children include: Children's Learning Garden, Tours, Explorer Camp, and Festivals.

Programs and activities for adults include: Lunch and Learn, Tours, Longleaf Reading Group, and Festivals.

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