The bulbs are about to bloom, the teapots are polished, and the instruments are tuned. In fact, all's ready for the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens' Tulips, Tea and Tunes II at the spectacular waterfront Southport Island home and renowned gardens of Marylouise Cowan. There's still time to purchase tickets for this very special fund-raising event, to be held on Wednesday, May 15, from 2 to 5 p.m. But with only 100 spaces, now is the time to call.

Mrs. Cowan's lovely home boasts a sweeping view across the Sheepscot River towards Seguin Island, an extraordinary art collection, and even an indoor swimming pool. Music by cellist Andrew Richter and pianist Kevin Kiley will waft through the house and out into the garden. But there's more than a multitude of blossoms, delightful music, and a magnificent view to enjoy at this repeat performance. There will be delicious finger foods and other culinary delights. Visitors will also see the massive outdoor sculptures of vegetables and garden implements in "Mr. McGregor's Garden," and can watch seals and shore birds from the deck at the edge of the sea.

About two-dozen CMBG volunteers from throughout the region, along with the staff at Rabbit Point, as the property is known, are helping to make the day a success. Presidents of garden clubs from throughout the mid-coast have been invited to pour tea in the living room.

"We are grateful to Mrs. Cowan, not only for hosting this wonderful event, but also for her many years of continued support for Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens," said CMBG Executive Director Tom Flood. "This is a wonderful fund-raiser. It benefits the Gardens while providing an opportunity to visit Mrs. Cowan's beautiful property when the bulbs are at their peak."

Approximately 50,000 new bulbs are planted each autumn. As many as 100,000 bulbs, comprising hundreds of varieties, may bloom throughout the season. Mrs. Cowan chooses the color combinations and designs, and head gardener Gregory Bond creates the plans using her favorite bulbs and flowers. Most of the bulbs come from Holland, although a few are from Virginia and Washington state. Three gardeners plant bulbs for most of the months of October and November.

The party sold out quickly last year and was a tremendous success. Tickets are $40 for CMBG members and $50 for non-members. For more information about this and other Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, or for tickets to Tulip, Tea and Tunes II, call 633-4333 or e-mail CMBG@mainegardens.org with VISA or Mastercard.

On May 18, CMBG will offer a Wildflower Photography Workshop, in the morning at the Botanical Gardens office in the old firehouse in Boothbay center and in the afternoon at the 128-acre grounds in Boothbay. Then, on May 26, "An Evening in Sherwood's Forest" will provide an opportunity to enjoy a remarkable dinner in a remarkable setting at the Werner home on Southport.

Other upcoming events in the Botanical Gardens during the next couple of weeks include a wildflower walk on May 31, a bird walk on June 1, and a lady's slipper celebration and count on June 8, The fifth annual "Hidden Treasures of the Boothbay Peninsula" house and garden tour, an immensely popular fund-raising event, will be on Friday, July 19. Other events and educational activities for adults and children are scheduled throughout the summer.