News
72 Hour Membership Drive
Celebrate Nature, Celebrate Moms: Botanical Garden Launches 72-Hour Membership Drive
In celebration of National Public Gardens Day and Mother’s Day, the Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University is launching an exclusive 72-hour Membership Drive beginning Friday, May 9, and concluding on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11.
This thoughtfully timed campaign invites the community to embrace spring’s natural beauty while supporting our region’s premier living laboratory and honoring the nurturing women in our lives.
New Benefits: Join or renew your membership during the 72-hour drive and receive:
● Guest passes
● Discounts at local businesses
● Advanced noticed and reduced fees on special events
“Public gardens are living museums that inspire discovery and provide peaceful sanctuary,” said Todd Beasley, Ed.D., Director of the Botanic Garden. “National Public Gardens Day reminds us of their importance, and what better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than by giving the gift of nature.”
Membership directly supports crucial biodiversity preservation, innovative educational programs, and the maintenance of accessible green spaces for all. With vibrant spring blooms creating a spectacular display throughout the garden, this weekend offers the perfect opportunity to become part of our growing community of plant enthusiasts and environmental advocates.
Join online at or in person at the Garden Administration Office.
https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/51435/donations/
About the Garden
The Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University is a living laboratory and public garden connecting people with plants while inspiring environmental stewardship. The Garden’s collections, displays, and programs foster knowledge and appreciation of the Southeastern Coastal Plain’s native flora and fauna, preserving the natural legacy of our region for future generations. The Garden participates in the American Horticultural Society’s Reciprocal Admission Program.
Garden Closing at 2PM | Thu May 8

April 24th | Gather & Grow | Agricultural Alchemy
- Thursday, April 24th
5:30PM – 6:30PM
Jared Jester
Founder & Owner
Hull & Husk (Bluffton, South Carolina)
Hull & Husk transforms agricultural waste into premium cooking pellets. Jared collects discarded husks, shells, pits, and grounds from peanuts, pecans, and peach pits from regional farmers, giving these materials new life as sustainable cooking fuel.
These versatile pellets provide consistent heat, burn cleanly, and impart a superior “Sweet & Nutty” flavor to grilled foods. See firsthand how innovative thinking transforms “waste” into a value-added product that enhances our everyday cooking while reducing environmental impact.
Join us at the Heritage Pavilion for demonstrations and tastings of grilled treats prepared with these innovative pellets. Arrive early as space is limited!
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To learn more about becoming a Garden Member, please call the Garden at 912-478-1149
or click here: Become A Garden Member.
$25. Includes program, lite bites, and refreshments. [$20 for Garden members]
Click to Register

Botanic Garden to Have New Saturday Hours
Thursday, March 27 at Noon // Gather & Grow
- Thursday, March 27
Noon – 1PM
In the Garden of Good Eatin’, Snakes Were Framed Common Snakes You Might Find in Your Garden, and Why They Aren’t All Bad.
Lance McBrayer
Professor and Curator of Herpetology
Department of Biology Georgia Southern University
Ever wondered how lizards outsmart predators or survive extreme heat? Dr. Lance McBrayer has the answers. At Georgia Southern University, this passionate biology professor divides his time between teaching fascinating courses on Herpetology and Evolution, conducting hands-on research in Florida’s Ocala National Forest, and curating an impressive collection of 36,000 reptile and amphibian specimens. Since 2007, Dr. McBrayer has transformed our understanding of how animals perform critical survival tasks, publishing groundbreaking research while inspiring the next generation of scientists. His work bridges laboratory precision with wilderness exploration, revealing the remarkable adaptations that allow creatures to thrive against all odds.
Join us at the Garden for an exciting Gather & Grow featuring Dr. Lance McBrayer! Discover the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians as this renowned Georgia Southern University biology professor shares insights from his extensive field research.
$25. Includes program, lunch, and refreshments. [$20 for Garden members]