Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University
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Join us in cultivating a brighter, greener future together.
GARDEN EVENT RENTALS
If you are interested in renting the Botanic Garden for a wedding, reception, rehearsal dinner, or other event, please contact our Facility Rental Coordinator at ktucker@georgiasouthern.edu.
FOR A VIRTUAL, VIDEO TOUR OF THE GARDEN, CLICK HERE.
The Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University participates
in the Reciprocal Admissions Program.
Garden Memberships at the Sustainer level and above are granted this benefit at participating Gardens.
Click Here to join or upgrade your membership.
Embark on a journey of discovery at the Botanic Garden, where 11 acres of vibrant gardens unfold across the historic farmstead of Dan and Catharine Bland. Wander winding trails and hidden courtyards, immersing yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of the Southeastern Coastal Plain. Here, generations of ingenuity and respect for the land have woven a tapestry of beauty. Discover a haven for native and heritage plants, including rare and protected species. Peer into the depths of a carnivorous pitcher plant, marvel at the towering longleaf pines, and breathe in the intoxicating fragrance of Confederate jasmine. Connect with the past as you trace the lines of an antique plow or glimpse the 1929 Georgia Magazine cover featuring the Bland’s inspiring farm. The Botanic Garden is a place to enjoy the past, be present in the moment, and cultivate a deeper understanding of our connection to the natural world.
Discover a world of natural wonders and cultural treasures at the Botanic Garden. Explore peaceful woodland trails, vibrant displays of coastal plain flora, and a captivating collection of native azaleas. Stroll through the historic arboretum, delight in the children’s garden, and step back in time at the early 20th-century farm complex and Rural Life Museum. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Whelchel Camellia Garden, wander through serene wetland gardens, and learn in the inspiring Kennedy Outdoor Classroom. The Garden fosters a deeper understanding of the natural world through research and education, offering undergraduate and graduate programs, hands-on projects, internships, and continuing education for the community.
Mission
Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University
- Promotes knowledge and appreciation of the native plants and animals of the Southeastern Coastal Plain
- Enhances the quality of life through the region by presenting classes, events, concerts, festivals, and other cultural and historically driven opportunities that connect learners of all ages with the rich natural and cultural heritage of the region.
- Inspires environmentally responsible behavior by providing a sound scientific context and demonstrating sustainable practices while pursuing scientific, cultural, and creative solutions to environmental challenges.
History
Daniel and Catharine Bland met in 1916 at the First District Agricultural and Mechanical School, now Georgia Southern University. Their lives tell the story of rural farm life on the southeastern coastal plain.
Mr. Dan and Miss Catharine worked hard to coax a living out of the sandy coastal plain soil. They ran a small dairy, raised livestock, and grew pecans, pears and row crops, winning accolades as a model farm from Georgia Magazine in 1929.
Mr. Dan was a self-taught naturalist with a keen interest in the plants and animals from this region. These native plants, along with other classic favorites, have blossomed into the landscape found at the Garden.
For more about the Garden’s history and the history of the Southeastern Coastal Plain, visit
Weathervane Barn and Rural Life Exhibit
Oak Grove One Room Schoolhouse
Click Here for an accessible pdf version of images of Dan & Catherine Bland.
Garden Staff
|
Dr. Todd Beasley, Director | |
 | Bob Randolph, Collections Manager rrandolph@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1149 |
| Becki Akins, Business Manager bakins@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1149 | |
 | Kathy Tucker, Education Coordinator ktucker@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1507 |
| Joshua Jones, Horticulture Manager jdjones@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1149 | |
| Aaron Cohen, Design & Communication Coordinator aaroncohen@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1149 | |
| John Page, Groundskeeper jpage@georgiasouthern.edu (912) 478-1149 |
Current & Holiday Hours
Come and visit
Monday-Friday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM &
Sunday 1 – 5 PM
The Garden is closed on Saturday and all University holidays.
Phone: 912-478-1149
Garden Fauna – Recent Fauna found in the Garden
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