Mary Priestley

In a six-week frenzy, nature’s garden puts on a matchless show.

“Things change so quickly, it’s just amazing,” said Mary Priestley, president of the Tennessee Native Plant Society and curator of the Sewanee Herbarium at the University of the South.

Many gardeners busy themselves tending their plots in spring, But it’s worth taking a free gander at landscaping done by the master (or mistress) — for inspiration and pleasure.

Spring lasts only six short weeks, Ms. Priestley said. If you’re looking for hiking buddies or a botanical guide, here are some expert-led hikes to get you going.

TODAY

Wildflower hike, Sequatchie Valley Institute, 1233 Cartwright Loop, Whitwell, Tenn. Staff and friends lead walks to see spring wildflowers, such as bloodroot, phlox, trout lily and trilliums. Choice of short or strenuous trips. 10 a.m. hayride to site, 11 a.m. hike (all times CDT). $5-20 donation sliding scale. 423-949-5922, ashley@svionline.org. http://svionline.org/what-we-do/scheduled-events.

WEDNESDAY

Wednesday Walks at Noon, University of the South, Sewanee Herbarium, Sewanee, Tenn. Meet at Morgan Steep, weather permitting, to look for trailing arbutus and other signs of spring. Free. 931-598-5327, ygottfri@sewanee.edu.

APRIL 4, 11, 18 and 25

Wild About Wildflowers, Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn. Join the park’s naturalist in the picnic area for an easy, guided wildflower hike. The hikes will include flower identification, cultivation tips and good exercise. 1–3 p.m. Bring water and a sack lunch. Limit 40 participants. $3 parking. 706-657-4050.

APRIL 5

Weekend Walk in Shakerag Hollow, University of the South, Sewanee Herbarium, Sewanee, Tenn. Jon Evans leads hike through a mecca for wildflower lovers. 1:30 p.m. CDT. Free. 931-598-5327, ygottfri@sewanee.edu.