April Reflections in the Garden
Topic: "Pollinator Gardens"
Our workshop on Pollinator Gardens will teach you everything you need to know to create a thriving habitat for bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators. Learn how to choose the right plants, design a garden that attracts pollinators, and support their vital role in our ecosystems. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this session will provide practical tips and inspiration to help you cultivate a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden.
Speaker: Janine Kharey, President of Wild Ones and Butterfly Expert from St. Francisville
About the Speaker:
Janine Kharey is a dedicated educator, multimedia artist, Master Naturalist, Master Gardener, and the visionary founder of Wild Ones Greater Baton Rouge. Her lifelong passion for nature is vividly expressed through her role as curator of a stunning quarter-acre habitat in suburban East Baton Rouge Parish. This sanctuary, featuring over 225 native plant species, also serves as a haven for butterflies and other pollinators.
Janine’s commitment to conservation extends beyond her garden and backyard nursery where she grows plants for habitat gardens. She has created and expanded a native plant seed repository focusing on plants with local genetics, especially wild plants used by Lepidoptera as host plants. Her work has preserved species like Downy Lobelia, Narrowleaf Silk Grass, and Prairie False Foxglove, sharing seeds with growers and expanding awareness of their ecological value.
As the mother of two engineers working on innovative technologies in clean energy, Janine embodies a deep connection to environmental stewardship, inspiring others to embrace sustainability. Whether snapping GPS-tagged photos of pollinators visiting native plants or ethically collecting seeds to safeguard biodiversity, Janine’s efforts have left a lasting impact on Louisiana’s natural heritage.
Event Details: April 7, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
Reflections in the Garden is a monthly "lunch and learn" series presented by the Friends of LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. The lectures are generally held on the first Monday of the month at noon at the Botanic Gardens.
Reflections in the Garden is live-streamed to members of the Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens through Microsoft Teams. In-person attendance is open to both members and nonmembers with registration.
May Reflections in the Garden
Topic: "Succulents 101"
Ready to grow your own stunning succulent collection? Our workshop, Succulents 101, is perfect for beginners and plant enthusiasts looking to learn the basics of succulent care and cultivation. Discover how to select the right succulents for your space, create the perfect soil mix, water effectively, and provide the ideal light conditions to keep your plants healthy and vibrant.
This hands-on session will also cover tips on propagation, pest management, and creative ways to display your succulents, from terrariums to unique arrangements. Whether you’re a budding gardener or simply want to add a touch of greenery to your home or office, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and skills to grow a thriving succulent garden.
Speaker: Rozlan Fransen, Baton Rouge Succulents
Rozlan Fransen is the founder and passionate green thumb behind Baton Rouge Succulents, a thriving local business dedicated to bringing the beauty and versatility of succulents to homes, offices, and events throughout the region. With years of experience in plant care and design, Rozlan has become a go-to expert in cultivating, arranging, and propagating succulents, as well as educating others on how to keep these resilient plants thriving.
Rozlan’s journey into the world of succulents began with a simple love for their unique forms and low-maintenance appeal. Today, that passion has blossomed into a mission to inspire others to embrace the joy of gardening, no matter their experience level. From creating stunning custom arrangements to offering expert advice on plant care, Rozlan combines artistry and horticultural knowledge to help every plant enthusiast succeed.
As an advocate for sustainable living and a lover of all things green, Rozlan is committed to fostering a deeper connection between people and nature, one succulent at a time. Whether through workshops, consultations, or stunning creations, Rozlan continues to make a lasting impact on Baton Rouge’s gardening community.
Event Details: May 5, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
Music in the Gardens Sunset Sounds, Garden Views, and Good Company
Back for year three, Music in the Gardens kicks off summer with live music in the stunning Orangerie Garden at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens.
Bring your favorite people, your best picnic setup, and your dancing shoes. We’ll have the tunes, the views, and a lineup of local food trucks to purchase a meal or snacks. BYOB is welcome!
Tickets: $5–$20, available online and at the door Friends of the Gardens members: 20% off up to 4 tickets
All proceeds support the Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens.
Let’s raise a glass to summer—see you in the Gardens!
June Reflections in the Garden
Topic: "Roses: Propagation and How to Care for Them"
Speaker: Connor Cavalier, LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Connor Cavalier is a Research Associate Specialist at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, where he focuses on specialty crops. Combining his expertise in agricultural research with a passion for sustainability, Connor works to improve the cultivation, health, and productivity of diverse crop systems.
At the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, Connor plays a pivotal role in advancing innovative practices, including pest and disease management, soil optimization, and sustainable growing techniques. His work directly supports local growers and agricultural communities, contributing to the success and resilience of specialty crop production. Connor’s dedication to agricultural science and sustainable practices ensures a lasting impact on the industry and the environment.
Event Details: June 2, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
Topic: "Integrating Culture, Art, and Science in Contemporary Landscape Design (Shade Landscaping and with Ferns)"
Landscape design encompasses the analysis, planning, and creation of our exterior living spaces. It lies at the intersection of culture, art, and science, influencing both the planning and execution phases. It harmonizes aesthetic form and structure with the scientific principles of horticulture that help plants thrive. However, we must not overlook the cultural dimensions that shape our outdoor living experiences.
Speaker: Jeff Carbo, Carbo Landscape Architecture
Jeffrey Carbo, PLA, FASLA, of Baton Rouge, La., is an alumnus of LSU, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture in 1985. Carbo is a Landscape Architect with over 35 years of experience in professional practice. In his role as Founding Principal, Carbo provides leadership in client relations, conceptual design, budget development, design criticism, project management, and construction observation. He serves as multi-discipline team leader, with hands-on skills in quality assurance and details.
At LSU, Carbo is a member of the College of Art & Design Dean’s Circle and serves on the Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture Alumni Advisory Council. In 2007, he received the College of Art & Design Distinguished Alumni Award and was a member of the Forever LSU Campaign Cabinet. In 2011, he was inducted into the LSU Alumni Hall of Distinction, the highest honor given to LSU graduates. CARBO Landscape Architecture is a current USGBC Member and was honored as one of the top 100 fastest growing LSU Tiger businesses during the LSU 100 Awards ceremony in April 2011.
Carbo is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and has been an active member in the local chapter for years. He served as president of the Louisiana Chapter of ASLA in 2000. In 2005, he was elected to the ASLA Class of Fellows. He served on the ASLA National Education Programming Committee and has been a speaker at ASLA Annual Meetings in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011.
Carbo has also been a speaker at numerous state, regional, and national conferences, as well as design conferences and garden organizations throughout the South regarding his firm’s work and philosophy. He has overseen over 80 award winning CARBO projects throughout the Southeastern United States.
Event Details: July 7, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
August Reflections in the Garden
Topic: Photography in the Garden
Randy’s expertise lies in landscape photography, where he masterfully captures the delicate interplay of morning and evening light. With two published photographic books featuring the vibrant imagery of the Baton Rouge area, he brings a unique perspective that blends legal precision with artistic creativity. In this workshop, you'll learn to transform everyday garden scenes into stunning visual narratives, mastering techniques that highlight nature’s beauty in every detail. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, join Randy for an inspiring journey into the art and science of garden photography
Speaker: Randy Roussel, Attorney at Phelps Dunbar
Randy Roussel is an attorney but has had a life long interest in photography. He enjoys landscape photography, capturing the morning and evening light. Randy has published two photographic books containing images of the Baton Rouge area.
Event Details: August 4, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
September Reflections in the Garden
Topic: Container/ Small Gardens
The average American yard has shrunk by 40% since the 1980's. This can make gardening challenging! Even small spaces can be beautiful and productive. Learn how to make the most of your space by utilizing container gardening and other methods. We'll look at vegetable and herb gardening, ornamentals, and fruit trees.
Speaker: Anna Timmerman, Assistant Extension Agent
Anna Timmerman is an LSU AgCenter Horticulture Agent stationed in Plaquemines and St. Bernard Parishes. From 1999-2006 Timmerman focused on growing cut flowers, nursery stock and market vegetables in West Michigan for sales to local chefs and at two farmer's markets on the fourth-generation family farm. From 2008-2012 she worked in Chicago, Illinois providing custom vegetable, microgreen, and edible flower production services on urban properties and rooftops owned by several Michelin-ranked chefs. From 2012-2017, Timmerman owned and managed a landscaping company in New Orleans, focused on edible gardening, historic garden restoration, urban agriculture, and stormwater mitigation plantings using native species. Timmerman recently completed a Master’s thesis on containerized citrus at LSU and plans to pursue her PhD in Horticulture while running the new Louisiana Citrus Center of Excellence as a research farm in Violet, Louisiana in partnership with the Meraux Foundation. She lives and gardens in the Upper 9th Ward of New Orleans.
Event Details: September 8, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
October Reflections in the Garden
Topic: Tales from the Wild
Tales from the Wild - Janie Braud, Louisiana Master Naturalist since 2016, will introduce you to a few of our members that have found a special niche in "wild" Louisiana. Nature nerds at heart - we love learning about frogs, mushrooms, bats, bees, plants, birds, and more. During this presentation, you will hear from ordinary people that have discovered extraordinary things. LMNGBR has a TOP 20 International ranking of species documented for the 2024 City Nature Challenge.
Speaker: Janie Braud, Master Naturalists
Janie has been an active participant in Burden activities since the Project Learning Tree Trees and Trails was first established (guessing 15 years ago) - representing East Baton Rouge Parish Schools as a Science Curriculum Specialist. Prior to that, she taught biology and environmental science at Tara High School for 27 years. Upon retiring, Janie was part of the volunteer group that hosted school field trips on the trails. Currently she is serving on the Board of the Friends of Burden. As a Master Naturalist since 2016, she has served as a Board Member of local, state and national organizations. She received her Master Gardener certification during the "Covid remote -learning year" - 2020. Other organizations that she is active in include: Wild Ones of Greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana Native Plant Society, Louisiana Photographic Society, and her church - St Luke's Episcopal. Her favorite thing to do is slow hiking in nature with her camera.
Event Details: October 6, 2025 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens is a 501(c)5 non-profit organization. 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
