Garden Care: Marie's Garden

If your family is looking for a hands-on way to connect with nature, the Garden Gnomes volunteer group offers a wonderful opportunity at Marie's Garden. Located at the scenic Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, these monthly workdays invite families to help maintain a vibrant pollinator garden through simple tasks like weeding, watering, mulching, and seasonal planting. It's a chance for kids and adults alike to learn about native plants and pollinator habitats while enjoying the preserve's beautiful views and fresh air. The August workday begins at 8:00 a.m. at the Blevins Gap Trailhead on Cecil Ashburn Drive SE. No gardening experience is necessary, making this accessible for families with children as young as five. The Land Trust provides extra tools, work gloves, and water, though participants should bring their own water bottles, snacks, and gloves if they have them. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for safe outdoor work. Registration is required for each person attending, as everyone needs to sign a waiver (parents can register on behalf of their kids). This is an ideal outing for elementary-aged children who are ready to dig in and contribute to a real conservation project. The early morning start time helps families beat the August heat, and the social atmosphere makes it easy to meet other nature-loving families in the Huntsville area. If weather or trail conditions look iffy, registered participants will receive an email notification about any cancellations.