Garden Care: Marie's Garden

The Garden Gnomes volunteer group welcomes families to help care for Marie's Garden at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, a hands-on opportunity to support local pollinator habitat while enjoying mountain views. This August morning workday involves weeding, watering, mulching, and planting—simple tasks that even younger children can participate in alongside parents. It's a wonderful way for kids to learn about native plants and the insects that depend on them, all while making a tangible difference in their community's green spaces. The session begins at 8:00 AM on August 31st at the Blevins Gap Trailhead on Cecil Ashburn Drive. There's no cost to participate, and no gardening experience is necessary—the Land Trust provides tools and extra work gloves if you need them. Each family member participating needs their own registration (guardians can sign waivers for children), so be sure to complete separate forms for everyone attending. Plan for about two hours of outdoor work, though you can certainly leave earlier if needed. Dress kids in sturdy closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your crew, along with work gloves if you have them. The early morning start time is ideal for beating the summer heat, making this especially manageable for children ages 5-14 who might not have the stamina for a full day of outdoor work. If weather looks iffy, check your email the morning of—the organizers will notify registered participants if conditions force a cancellation.