Garden Care: Marie's Garden

The Land Trust's Garden Gnomes program invites families to help care for Marie's Garden, a pollinator habitat nestled within Blevins Gap Nature Preserve. This hands-on volunteer morning gives kids and parents a chance to learn about native plants while weeding, watering, mulching, and planting alongside other nature-loving families. It's a wonderful way for children ages 5-14 to connect with the outdoors, understand how gardens support local wildlife, and feel the satisfaction of caring for a real community space—all while taking in the preserve's lovely hilltop views. The workday starts at 8:00 AM on Thursday, August 27 at the Blevins Gap Trailhead on Cecil Ashburn Drive. No gardening experience is necessary, and the Land Trust provides extra tools, gloves, and water for participants. The event is free, though registration is required for each person attending (adults included), as everyone needs to sign a waiver. Plan to arrive in sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring your own water bottle, snacks, and work gloves if you have them. This is a genuine work session rather than a demonstration, so kids should be ready to get a little dirty and stay engaged for a couple of hours. If weather or trail conditions force a cancellation, registered participants will receive an email notification. It's a low-key, rewarding way to spend a summer morning outdoors as a family while making a tangible difference for pollinators in Huntsville.