Holden Forests & Gardens will welcome acclaimed horticulturist and author Abra Lee to the Holden Forests & Gardens on Saturday, May 16.

During “Conquer the Soil: Love Stories of Black History & Horticulture,” Lee will explore the legacy of Black Americans in horticulture, gardening, and agriculture through stories from her upcoming book, “Conquer the Soil: Black America and the Untold Stories of Our Country’s Gardeners, Farmers, and Growers.”

Through historical research and personal storytelling, Lee highlights generations of Black gardeners, farmers, and plant experts whose contributions helped shape the American landscape.

Lee is the director of horticulture at the historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta and is a graduate of Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama.

She is also an alumna of the Longwood Gardens Society of Fellows and a past Creative Resident at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House. Her work and research have been featured by “The New York Times,” “NPR,” “USA Today,” “Fine Gardening,” and “Veranda” magazine.

“Abra Lee brings a powerful and important perspective to the world of horticulture,” said Ed Moydell, president and CEO of Holden Forests & Gardens, in a statement. “Her work illuminates the stories of gardeners and growers whose knowledge, resilience, and love of the land helped shape our country’s agricultural and horticultural traditions. We are honored to host her at Cleveland Botanical Garden.”

The event, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., offers an opportunity to hear Lee discuss the historical and cultural connections between plants, people, and place. Her talk will explore how gardening traditions have been passed down through generations and why recognizing these stories helps broaden our understanding of American horticulture.

Tickets are $20 each. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Holden Forests &Garden’s event page.