Boston Flora

Tag: Eric Ruquist

  • Saturday, May 2, 9:30 am – 3:00 pm – A Gathering of Primroses

    Berkshire Botanical Garden is pleased to host the New England Chapter of the American Primrose Society and the Berkshire Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society for their joint meeting and judged primrose show on May 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. BBG values its long-standing relationship with both groups and is honored to provide a home for this annual spring event.

    The New England Chapter’s Primula Show will take place in BBG’s Leonhardt Galleries. The program includes two free presentations by Jodie Mitchell, owner of the world-renowned Barnhaven Primroses, in France. Since taking over the nursery from her parents in 2019, Jodie has continued Barnhaven’s 90-year, six-generation history. Her talks — “Auriculas and Other Rock Garden Primulas: How to Grow, Propagate and Create Your Own Varieties” and “Barnhaven Primroses: Ninety Years of Passion and Survival” — will offer both practical information and background on the nursery’s development.

    Although primroses have been viewed historically as symbols of protection and healing (Druids, Celts and Norse celebrated the primrose as a sacred and mystical flower), this gathering focuses on the practical side of gardening. Attendees will view judged displays, exchange plants, purchase new varieties, and learn more about growing primula.

    The event also includes a guided tour of BBG’s grounds with Director of Horticulture Eric Ruquist, highlighting the primrose area of the Woodland Garden and the Foster Rock Garden. (Chapter members only).

    Overall, the day reflects BBG’s ongoing partnership with the two societies and its commitment to supporting the regional gardening community.

    Admission: FREE for chapter members and BBG members.

    Open to the public with garden admission. Garden tour for Chapter members only. For more information visit https://www.berkshirebotanical.org/gathering-primroses-springs-most-charming-flowers-take-center-stage

  • Wednesday, August 17, 10:00 am – 11:00 am – The Art of Cut Flowers

    Come to the cutting garden at Naumkeag in Stockbridge, Massachusetts on Wednesday, August 17 at 10 am to learn about the flowers growing in season, and how to cut, care for and grow them in your own garden. Participants will leave with their own flower bouquet. Led by Naumkeag horticulturist Eric Ruquist, the program, run by The Trustees, is $9 for TTR members, $15 for nonmembers. Register by calling 413-298-3239, x 3013, or email cpetrikhuff@thetrustees.org.  Image from www.photosjoy.com.

  • Thursday, August 7, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm – The Beautiful Garden of Bunny Williams

    Join head gardener Eric Ruquist on Thursday, August 7, for a tour of the beautiful country garden of renowned interior designer and author Bunny Williams. Located in the northwest corner of Connecticut, the tour is timed to take advantage of the height of this magnificent garden’s flora display. In addition to an insider look at maintaining one of Connecticut’s most beautiful gardens, Mr. Ruquist will focus on the cutting garden and demonstrate how he brings the garden indoors with beautiful floral arrangements. Participants are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the property following the program.

    Eric Ruquist is an artist, gardener and for 13 years the head gardener for Bunny Williams. He was curator of flower garden collection at Stonecrop Gardens, located in Cold Springs, NY, and greenhouse manager for a private estate in Westchester County. Eric thinks of himself as a plantsman and also gardens his own riverside property in Falls Village.

    Bring a bag lunch and dress for the weather. Participants can choose to carpool or drive separately. Those joining the carpool should meet in the parking lot at Berkshire Botanical Garden for a 9:15 am departure. Carpool will return at approximately 1:30 pm. (Program time in Falls Village, CT, is 10am – noon.) BBG members $50, nonmembers $60. To register, visit http://www.berkshirebotanical.org/ai1ec_event/the-beautiful-garden-of-bunny-williams/?instance_id=2618.

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