Spring Field Trip: Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

Hey folks! This past Sunday we went out to the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center located in Memorial Park. Unfortunately, it happened to rain heavily that morning, and it was also during Spring Break, so turnout was reduced. Still, it was a blast for those of us who went!

We started off looking at the indoor section of the Arboretum while waiting for the rain to end and for other members to join us. There was actually an ongoing plant sale at the Arboretum, with over 100 flowers, shrubs and trees for sale.

There was also a large display of native Texas flowers, most of which could be found in the trails. 

There were also plenty of exhibits featuring animal habitats, both real and artificial. 

 

Crayfish, turtles, and tadpoles!

Afterwards, the rain had stopped, so we decided to walk the trails. One of our members who regularly visits the Arboretum acted as a tour guide of sorts, pointing out every tree and vine he recognized, and we actively looked for labeled flora to check off on our comprehensive list.

Cherry laurel in bloom

We didn't see any wildlife on the trails (save for some minnows in a pond), but there was vegetation everywhere. It was noted that much of the plant life we encountered was only a few days or weeks from blooming or developing leaves, hence why most trees we saw had no leaves on them, so we may return in a few weeks to see the full beauty of the Arboretum.