As perennials melt down, annuals die and deciduous trees and shrubs drop their final leaf, the primary group of plants that can give us dependable winter color are the needle-leaved evergreens which, botanically speaking, we call conifers. Dozens of different conifer genera featured in the Hidden Lake Gardens Harper Collection are now front and center in full winter display. Many have taken on a new winter color of plum and bronze instead of their
summertime blues and greens, and you may be surprised by how their colors, textures, and buds stand out in the winter white landscape. We will closely observe winter buds that are protecting their primordial structures from the cold winter’s chill, and these would not be seen in the growing season of summer, but are now waiting silently for warm spring winds to return.

Come brighten your winter day with a 1.5 hour guided tour with Jon Genereaux to listen to the soft whispering of these sleeping beauties. This will be a slow walk thru the collection with plenty of coniferous conversation as well as hot beverages and a snack. Dressing appropriately for the outdoor environment is a must as well as trekking poles and walking sticks to help move on slippery rolling terrain. Bring cameras as there will be plenty of opportunities for close observation.

PLEASE NOTE: This walk will be mostly on mowed lawn with a sloping to hilly terrain – it is not wheelchair, stroller, or wagon friendly. Mostly a full-sun site.

Cost: $10 member / $15 non-member / $5 ages 13-17.

Limit: 25 Participants. Please call 517-431-2060 to register.