Discover Nature Programs

Through a partnership with the Louisiana Master Naturalist of Greater Baton Rouge (LMNGBR) we are proud to offer exciting new Discover Nature programs featuring local and national experts who are in touch with nature and are eager to share their experiences. All programs will be held in the Imo Brown Complex in the Beverly Brown Coates Auditorium at Hilltop Arboretum.

For Hilltop, LMNGBR members, and students registration is $10, $15 for non-members. Discover Nature programs are free for Members Magnolia Level ($250) and above. 

“Rooted in Beauty: Using Louisiana Native Plants in Cut Flower Arrangements” 
Featuring: Jen Blanchard
Tuesday, June 24, 6:30-8pm

Are you a flower farmer, gardener, or floral designer looking to grow stunning, sustainable blooms that thrive in Louisiana’s climate? Are you interested in learning how to harness the beauty and resilience of native plants to elevate your floral arrangements? 

Join us for an inspiring and informative talk with Jen Blanchard, expert botanist, and a passionate advocate for native species, who brings years of experience in Louisiana ecology and sustainable agriculture. Jennifer will highlight the best Louisiana native species for long vase life and visual appeal, offer guidance on how to grow and harvest them effectively, and explain their added ecological benefits—like supporting pollinators and improving soil health. Whether you're just starting out or looking to diversify your flower offerings, this event will provide valuable insights and inspiration.

Come discover how growing local can help your flowers—and your yard—flourish! 

Photo credit: Jen Blanchard

Jennifer Blanchard is a Botanist and Instructor of Horticulture in the School of Plant Environmental and Soil Sciences (SPESS) at LSU. She is also a PhD student with a research focus on the extraction of natural plant products for use in industry. Ms. Blanchard has earned both a bachelor’s degree in environmental biology (University of Southern Mississippi, 2006) and a Masters in Earth and Environmental Science (University of New Orleans, 2009). She began her professional botany work in 2004 while attending USM where she conducted vegetation surveys and wetland delineation for the geology department. While in graduate school she began working for Colorado State University under the very well-known Botanist: Dr. Charles Allen. After completing her master’s degree, she worked as a research botanist for The Pollinator Partnership of North America. With over two decades of experience in botanical research and environmental sciences studies she is enthusiastic about sharing information on the propagation and use of native plants in cut flower farming and in the garden or landscape and all the value-added benefits these plants provide to the environment.

“Pressed & Preserved: A Two-Part Flower Pressing Workshop” 
Featuring: Connie McLeod
Tuesday, July 29 and August 12, 6-8pm
Cost: Hilltop, LMNGBR members and students $60, Non-members $75
Program is limited to 15 participants

Join us for a hands-on, two-part workshop celebrating the art of flower pressing! 

In Part One, we'’ll forage the Hilltop Meadow for seasonal blooms and foliage and learn how to assemble a flower press to preserve your gathered finds. Connie will inspire us with a presentation on the process behind her botanical art creations, some of which will be available for purchase. 

Note: Part One must have dry weather. If rain is predicted, date may be rescheduled.  

In Part Two, we’ll reunite to transform our pressed flowers and foliage into beautiful botanical works of art. Hands-on demonstrations and materials will be provided, no experience necessary. Attendees will walk away with two framed pieces- perfect for displaying or gifting!  

Connie McLeod is a Baton Rouge native and received her BA from LSU. She recently retired from a career as an Art Director. She has taken her love of design, and turned her small garden into her oasis, full of color and texture. She started pressing the garden flora and turning the flowers, petals, and leaves into art. She calls herself a botanical artist and can often be found in her friends’ gardens foraging their plants. She is a Master Gardener and a Master Naturalist.

For more information about this event, please contact us at LSU Hilltop Arboretum at 225-767-6916, visit www.lsu.edu/hilltop, or email info@friendsofhilltop.org.

Program Details

Hilltop, LMNGBR members and students $10
Non-members $15

Registration for Rooted in Beauty

Pressed and Preserved is a 2-part program. Hilltop LMNGBR members and students $60, non-members $75

Registration for Pressed & Preserved

Questions? Contact Hilltop by email info@friendsofhilltop.org or call 225-767-6916.