Zoom in on Zoo Blooms
By: Staci Giordullo

And you think YOU’VE got landscaping issues. Imagine tending to 75 acres of manicured landscape, including the planting of 80,000 tulip bulbs every fall, just to dig them up in the spring after they’ve bloomed? That’s exactly what the horticulture department at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is responsible for every year. It is a task that overwhelms us at the mere thought, and yet Deb Zureick and Lynn Lutz , two members of zoo’s hardworking team, wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

Education is key
Combined, Lynn and Deb have more than 30 years of experience working at the zoo. Their passion for the job is evident as they strive to educate the public on horticulture. They are frequently asked by visitors, “What is that and where can I get it?” In response, they have worked diligently to label as many plants as possible throughout the grounds and always point visitors in the direction of their local nurseries to find the exact plant they want.

The zoo blooms just in time
Winter can be so harsh, we may think it will never end. Luckily we have such a treasure as the Zoo & Botanical Garden in our own backyard to enjoy the moment the weather turns in our favor. Zoo Blooms is an annual celebration of spring, where the blooming of tulips, trees, daffodils and other flora awaits. The dazzling rainbow of color offers the perfect canvas for photographers and artists.

• This year, Zoo Blooms takes place April 2-29.
• Tours are being offered from the Botanical Center at 11AM on April 14th, 21st and 28th .

Volunteers make it happen
Each fall, the call – or rather the email – goes out: “Volunteers needed for tulip duty.” And year after year, the same devoted group of individuals tends to return for the ultimate gardening challenge. Some volunteers dedicate their time to answering questions and working in the Botanical Center, while others prefer to get their hands dirty. No matter how they choose to volunteer their time, Zoo Blooms would not be the same without them. There is a year-round need for volunteers, if you are interested call the Volunteer Services Office at 513.559.7736.

Did you know?
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a variety of classes, including a landscaping and gardening series.

Fast Fact: The oldest living plant at the zoo is a 175-year-old red oak, located between the reptile house and the lake.

Landscaping tips – from the experts

1. Deb and Lynn have offered their suggestions in order for you to achieve gardening success in your own backyard.
2. Prepare your soil. Be sure to till in some organic matter for the best results.
3. Take advantage of your local nursery. The employees can provide you with invaluable advice. Not sure what your soil needs? Take a pot of it to your nursery and ask.
4. Choose the correct plants for any given location. There’s no need to waste your time and money on a plant that has zero chance to thrive.
5. A healthy plant is worth the price, it is worth the investment.
6. Take the opportunity to be a steward of your piece of the earth. The little things add up in the end.