April at the Botanical Garden runs the gamut - from two sessions about our animal inhabitants to a Mad Hatter's garage sale. The mad-cap garage sale is Saturday, April 20, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sparling Pavilion, 5941 Mason Rd. in West Sechelt. From garden items to furniture, collectibles, household items and a few truly unusual items, this will be a rewarding sale for everyone. The parking lot gate will open at 8:30, but early birds will be composted rather than admitted! Admission is free.
The bees are wide awake now, buzzing, feeding, laying eggs and making honey. Local beekeeper Harry Meier is keen to show people of all ages how the hives operate. Join him Saturday, April 27, 1 p.m. at the Garden. A special display hive allows you to see inside. Those nervous about getting close can watch the bees through a glass viewing window without being exposed to them. The beehive demonstration is managed by the Sunshine Coast Beekeeping Association, and is located near the vegetable garden. Admission is by donation.
There are masses of salamander and frog eggs (called spawn) now floating in the ponds, and on Sunday, April 28, at 2 p.m. Lee-Ann Ennis from the Iris Griffiths Centre will take families and other participants on a salamander crawl. Learn how to spot egg masses in the ponds near your own home. Dress for the weather; boots are recommended for getting close to the pond edge. Admission is by donation.
An aquarium is already set up by the Sparling Pavilion so children and adults can view the growing amphibians whenever the Garden is open: daily 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. during spring. Magnifying glasses are provided to give you an intimate look as the tiny creatures develop. Many thanks to the Garden's sponsor, Sunshine Coast Credit Union, for assisting in operating and developing the Botanical Garden.
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