News and Stories

Enjoy a rainbow of tulips in peak bloom tomorrow on Facebook Live

CINCINNATI, OH (April 10, 2020) – The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has never looked more beautiful, but only a few lucky Zoo employees will get to enjoy its gorgeous gardens in person during this year’s peak bloom.  Others who usually flock to the Zoo in April to see the magnificent tulip display, will not be able to smell the blooms but can see them tomorrow at 3 p.m. during a live virtual tour of the botanical garden.

“The garden will be at its absolute best this weekend,” said Cincinnati Zoo’s director of horticulture Stephen Foltz. “It’s a shame that visitors can’t come see them, but I will do my best to share the beauty with people at home.”

The Zoo has been bringing animals to millions with its daily Home Safari Facebook Lives since it closed on March 15.  Tomorrow’s safari, led by Foltz, will be a little different, with the focus on flowers and plants, but will include an at-home activity like the previous safaris.  All safaris and activities can be found on the Zoo’s Home Safari Resources web page.

“We’re going to challenge people to plant a pollinator garden,” said Foltz.  “It’s so important tosupport our pollinator friends as they do their job to keep our environment healthy.  Just a few potted plants can make a difference.”
The Zoo launched its Plant for Pollinators Challenge, presented by Simple Truth, last year with the goal to get 500 people to plant and register a pollinator garden.  It reached, and actually doubled, that goal and is continuing the program in 2020.  Step-by-step instructions for small, medium or large gardens are provided.
In addition to sharing flowers virtually, Foltz and the horticulture team have been delivering them to area hospitals and nursing homes. One recipient sent this note of thanks –

“I recently was in the hospital with Covid19 and double pneumonia.  I am doing much better and home from the hospital now.  I just wanted to THANK the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden for sending the lovely flowers.  After spending a couple of weeks in a sterile hospital room where everyone is suited up and afraid to come close, it was incredible to have a beautiful sign of life with vibrant colors and incredible aroma come through the door.  It really meant everything.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Sponsor Recognition

Without revenue from admissions, events, and food/retail sales, sponsorship support is vitally important to Cincinnati Zoo.  The Zoo would like to thank JP Morgan Chase & Co. and Macy’s GIVESfor continuing to support its horticulture programs during the closure.