We are excited to welcome Abra Lee of Conquer the Soil on March 13, 2023 to speak about The Invincible Garden Ladies.

It was nothing short of a grand affair when Blanche Hurston launched her Florida floral business during the roaring twenties. And when it came time to sell beautiful blooms, the mighty Mahalia Jackson made customers an offer they couldn't refuse! From the ordinary to the extraordinary--join in as we shine the spotlight on these lady legends in horticulture who forged a path to economic and social freedom, providing inspiration for plant lovers today.

About Abra

Abra Lee is an international speaker, writer, and founder of Conquer The Soil, a community which explores the history, folklore, and art of horticulture. She has spent a whole lotta time in the dirt as a former municipal arborist and airport landscape manager and is currently the Director of Horticulture at Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta. Her essays have been featured in publications including The New York Times and Wildflower Magazine. Lee is a graduate of Auburn University College of Agriculture and an alumna of the Longwood Gardens Society of Fellows, a global network of public horticulture professionals.

Lectures are held at the Unitarian Church at 4 Archdale Street, Charleston, SC 29401. Two parking decks, Queen Street parking garage (93 Queen St) and Majestic Square (corner of Archdale and Market streets), are within a short walk and have a flat rate in the evening of $5. There is also limited street parking. Please contact our office for handicap parking options.

Thanks to our sponsor Bartlett Tree Experts, CHS Hort Lectures are FREE for Members. Become a member today! Lectures are $20 at the door for non-members.