Spring Has Sprung At MB Botanical Garden

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA —Spring has definitely sprung at the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden. Currently blooming are poppies, wildflowers, and sage, according to Charlotte Marshall, president of the MBBG board. A succulent section will be ready by summer.

"We have transitioned from drought-resistant plants to native California plants, which attracts more wildlife," Marshall said. "These plantings are doing extremely well right now and look beautiful."

The Garden never closed to the public during the pandemic and has brought in more volunteers. "We've had students who couldn't go to school come in and take advantage of their community service hours here," Marshall said "As a result, in addition to our core group of volunteers, we've had extra man-power to maintain the grounds."

There are several new attractions to look for during a visit, Marshall said. One volunteer, Lauren Mittleman, a local Girl Scout, put up a Bee Hotel. "Local bees don't build hives," Marshall said. "So they need a space to lay their eggs. Our Bee Hotel is a place where they can stay until their babies are born." This attraction is located at the center of the garden.

Miracosta High School student Ethan Greenberg, who's also an avid birdwatcher, installed three boxes to specifically attract western bluebirds. "We've already sighted several bluebirds and eventually hope to install a camera to capture their comings and goings," Marshall said.

Also new to the location is a toolshed with a butterfly-shaped roof that was specifically designed to collect rainwater. Visitors have an opportunity to view a rain-harvesting demonstration.

Marshall suggests there are also a few surprises in store for visitors. One local resident crochets little caterpillars and quietly places them around the property. Visiting children can try to find them throughout the garden.

Also, look for the neighboring hawks. "A hawk couple has made a home on the property adjacent to the garden," said Marshall. "They sit there in the sycamore trees and are magnificent to see."

There is currently no signage for the new attractions, but Marshall hopes they will be installed in April.

The MB Botanical Garden is open daily from sunrise to sunset. No reservations are required, but visitors must comply with COVID regulations, which include wearing a mask, social distancing, and hand washing. Marshall says there's a great view of the entire property from the Peck Avenue entrance, so you can gauge how many visitors are in the garden when you arrive.

If you are interested in volunteering, Marshall recommends calling ahead to prevent overcrowding.