Read Sophia's letter about the Chicago Botanic Garden's new member magazine, Keep Growing, and the exciting changes that will make more information available to larger number of people, and share more widely the Garden's resources and expertise.








Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center

Thursday, March 18, 2 p.m.

Join Dr. Greg Mueller, the Garden’s vice president of science and academic programs, on a small, personal tour of the Plant Science Center. This is an exclusive opportunity to tour the new facility, where the Garden conducts its critical plant conservation research.

Reservations are required. E-mail or call the President’s Circle hotline at (847) 835-6925 to make your reservation.




Antiques & Garden Fair Preview Evening

Thursday, April 15, 6 – 10 p.m.

Celebrate the 10th year of the Antiques & Garden Fair as it returns to the Garden in 2010! Enjoy priority shopping and elegant fare. Ticket prices begin at $200; call (847) 835-6944 for more information.




Bonsai Silhouette Show Preview Party

On Thursday, January 28, President’s Circle members enjoyed a preview of the Bonsai Silhouette Show, a beautiful exhibition featuring deciduous trees from the Garden’s Bonsai Collection.

View photographs from these and past President’s Circle events (the password is “circle”).



Chicago Flower & Garden Show

Saturday, March 6 – Sunday, March 14
Preview Benefit, Friday, March 5
Navy Pier

The Garden is partnering with Scott Byron & Co. to create an elegant display featuring the Garden’s world-renowned bonsai collection. Enjoy interactive container garden workshops with Garden horticulturists, have questions answered by the Plant Information Service, and stock up on gardening books at The Garden Shop booth in the Marketplace. Garden members will also enjoy a discount on show ticket prices.

Bonsai: Beginner – Basics and Fundamentals

April 11 – May 16, 2010

During this six-week course, discover and learn the techniques and principles that guide the art of bonsai. Each session will include a detailed lecture and assistance with design, styling, and wiring. Intermediate, advanced, and novice courses are also offered.





Please click on each of the photos above for information on these fun Garden events.



When your first issue of Keep Growing arrives in the mail, I encourage you to read about A Bloomin’ Festival. This new event combines A Bloomin’ Sale—the Midwest’s premier plant sale made possible by the dedication and expertise of the Garden’s remarkable Woman’s Board—with a festive open-air festival and marketplace. While winter retains a firm grip on the Garden landscape, I feel energized by early signs that spring is drawing near, and anticipate the new gardening season.

Every day, it is an honor and privilege to serve the Chicago Botanic Garden. Your support makes it possible for people to enjoy beautiful gardens, and to live better, healthier, and more satisfying lives. Please know I would love to hear from you any time.

With warm regards,

Sophia Siskel
President & CEO
Chicago Botanic Garden