LENDONWOOD SETS SPRING WORKDAY TO ‘WAKE UP THE GARDEN’ MARCH 24

Volunteers are needed to help “Wake Up the Garden” at Lendonwood Gardens on Saturday, March 24.  The spring workday usually has about 70 volunteers of all ages and abilities to help get the eight-acre botanical garden ready for the tourist season.  Lendonwood is located at 1308 Har-Ber Road in Grove.

Workers do not have to be experienced gardeners, just be willing to help out and have fun, said Jim Reynolds, coordinator of the event.  “Lendonwood is a special place, but we could never do it without the help of everyone who participates, including Grove Rotarians, youth groups and other members of the community.”

Several thousand people visit Lendonwood each year, enjoying colorful azaleas, rhododendrons, Japanese maples, daylilies, hostas, dogwoods, peonies and many more plantings.  Highlights include the Oklahoma Garden, featuring plants that thrive in the state’s unpredictable climate.  Other popular stops are the Japanese Pavilion, Koi Pond, Hummingbird Garden and the Angel of Hope Statue and Garden.

Reynolds said volunteers may choose from a wide variety of work tasks during the spring workday.  “We need help with everything from light tasks to heavy-equipment operation.” 

Examples of tasks include re-sealing benches, removing selected shrubs, planting annuals, mulching beds, repairing walkways, dividing plants, picking up downed branches, trimming trees and painting the maintenance barn, among other tasks.

Teams will be formed to work together on specific tasks, Reynolds said.  “For people new to the area, it’s a great way to make new friends while contributing to the community.  Our returning volunteers look forward to another great day of camaraderie and work.”

Volunteers are asked to gather at 8:30 a.m. for coffee and donuts by the barn at the back of the garden.  Supplies for the various projects will be available on site, although volunteers should bring their gloves and wear comfortable work clothes. 

Lunch will be provided, including the ever-popular cookies donated by Grandwood Assisted Living.  The workday usually concludes at about 2 p.m., but any amount of volunteer time is appreciated, Reynolds said.

In case of inclement weather, “Wake Up the Garden” will be held on Saturday, April 7.

For more information about the March 24 workday, contact Lendonwood Gardens at 918-786-2938.