February
Tuesday 2nd - Sunday 21st February
Exhibition: Images of Starlight
The night sky has always fascinated people.Recent advances in digital photography have made the imaging of its splendours ever more accessible. This exhibition is a celebration of its wonders and beauty and showcases the work of amateur astronomers from all over Ireland.
Organised with the Irish Astronomical Society and the Irish Federation of Astronomical Societies.
Wednesday 3rd February
Lecture: Flowers - How plants made butterflies, bees and wasps
Flowers are more than just beautiful objects. They exploit the wind, water, insects, birds, bats, and even humans to do their bidding. Matthew Jebb, Director of the National Botanic Gardens, will explain how flowers also brought about the evolution of a huge diversity of the insect world and were themselves a product of the Age of Dinosaurs.
Time: 3.00pm, Education and Visitor Centre
Sunday 14th February
Valentine’s Day Guided Walk: Budding Romance
Come along for a bracing and romantic stroll in the Gardens as we observe the first signs of spring. Snowdrops herald the arrival of the new season while some of the fragrant winter flowers linger on. Inside the glasshouses exotic blooms evoke warmer climes. An alternative Valentine’s Day activity to delight the senses!
Time: 2.30pm, meet at the Education and Visitor Centre
Thursday 18th February
Lecture: Myths, Fantasy and Frilly Knickers
Explore the fascinating history of snowdrop collection and cultivation in Ireland with galanthophile Assumpta Broomfield.
Time: 8.00 pm. Organised with the Alpine Plant Society
Thursday 25th February
Lecture: Rowallane – Interesting Plants with a Sprinkling of Irish Heritage History
Averil Milligane, Head Gardener at Rowallane, will share her insights after 12 years at this well-known garden, looking at the origins of some of the remarkable plants, and the links to the history of Co Down and the Irish nursery industry.
Time: 8.00pm, Education and Visitor Centre
Organised with the Irish Garden Plant Society
Opening Saturday 27th February
Exhibition: Bonsai at the Botanic Gardens
An extensive exhibition of Bonsai from the collection of Andrew J. Murray will be on display in the Teak House throughout March. Watch the Bonsai burst back into life, displaying the splendid spring foliage of maples, cherries, and many other beautiful plants.
Daily in the Teak House