Winter 2021
In this Issue
Manager's Message
Despite the challenges of the past year, good things have happened at Green Spring Gardens! Read Nicole's message as she recaps 2020 and looks forward to more great things in 2021.
FROGS Talk
FROGS President Ivy Sinaiko talks of the resilience of Green Spring Gardens staff and recognizes our members and community friends, who have provided much support this past year. Without you, 2020 would have indeed been bleak for us!
Faces of Green Spring
How does a North Dakotan find her way to Virginia? Read Brenda Skarphol's story on how she came to Green Spring Gardens and her many contributions to the gardens.
Winter Gardening for Wildlife
Winter presents special challenges for animals and insects—food and water become scarce, deciduous trees drop their leaves, and animals have fewer places to hide. The winter landscape becomes a welcome habitat for wildlife seeking shelter.
Adapting to our Environment
As it became clear that schools would not be resuming in the spring of 2020, let alone Green Spring Garden field trips, we started to brainstorm ways we could safely and effectively interact with the community.
The Show Must Go On ... Virtually
The pandemic has catapulted many of us—including Green Spring’s education staff—into a strange new virtual world. Read how Debbie Waugh, Green Spring Historian has navigated this new adventure.
Follow the Signs to Green Spring Gardens
There are many signs at Green Spring Gardens to help visitors navigate, keep people safe, and teach them names and best practices. Gioia Caiola Forman talks about some of the signs you'll see at Green Spring.
The Moon Gate Garden Project
To commemorate Green Spring’s first fifty years, plans are in progress for a Moon Gate Garden! What's a Moon Gate? Learn more about the Moon Gate Project and how you can help contribute to the Giving Tree!
Announcements
- Historic House Opens Doors for Private Visits. While we wait to welcome walk-in visitors back to the Historic House, take the opportunity to reserve a private visit. Schedule a private visit or learn more.
- It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and fellow FROGS board member Bill Peters of Springfield, Virginia, who passed away unexpectedly on December 30, 2020.
Gardenline — Winter 2021
Nicole Mitchell, Manager, Green Spring Gardens
Co-editors: Sunny Greene, Ivy Sinaiko, Debbie Waugh
Website layout: Mindy Nash
Contributions? Comments? We would like to hear from you! Please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 703-642-5173 (TTY: 703-803-3351), or write us at:
Gardenline
Green Spring Gardens
4603 Green Spring Road
Alexandria, VA 22312
