Samantha Nestory, Horticulturist, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden

Did you know that less than 1% of insect species are considered pests? That leaves a lot of room for insects that we can learn to love, like the beneficial bugs in your garden! Beneficial insects can control pests, reduce (or eliminate) the need for pesticides, and make your garden healthier and more sustainable, so it’s important to be knowledgeable about them. In this class, we will learn about the benefits of some key insect groups, how to identify them, and how you can attract them to your yard. Feel free to come with questions about your own mystery insects and let’s learn just how cool bugs can be!

Wednesday, August 19 | 10:00am - 11:00am

Members: $10 | Non-members: $15

Robin Rick, Facilities and Landscape Manager, The Woodlands

In this online class we will focus on creating colorful gardens in small spaces. We will use the cemetery’s cradle graves, which are similar to raised garden beds, as our inspiration. Robin will begin with a history of The Woodlands' nationally recognized volunteer Grave Gardener program, including the 18th and 19th century horticultural history of the site as context. We will then look at the specific plants and plant combinations that do well in the Grave Gardens, providing blooms and interest from late winter through fall. The Woodlands is the former country seat of William Hamilton from 1770 to 1813. Its Schuylkill River site was designed by Hamilton to reflect a picturesque English landscape. In 1840, local investors purchased the estate and transformed the grounds into a rural cemetery. Still active today, The Woodlands Cemetery was named a National Historic Landmark District and provides an oasis of nature amid the bustling University City neighborhood.

Friday,  September 4
10:00 am –11:00 am 

Members $10/ Non-members $15

Eloise Gayer, Horticulturist, Morris Arboretum

Container gardening is an excellent option for those who have limited yard space, want to spice up their deck, roof or patio, or who don't want the hassle of a full-on garden. This class will discuss a few of the endless container gardening possibilities including herbs and vegetables, succulents, and ornamental containers for all seasons (especially fall!). We will use examples from both public and private gardens to learn about the principles of container design, looking at color, texture, and height variations. You will learn all aspects of caring for a container garden including choosing a container and soil mixture according to your growing goals, planting, watering, deadheading, fertilizing, and any other maintenance tasks. We will also explore potential plant palettes for thriving containers, and methods of overwintering container plants for reuse year after year.

Friday, September 11th |  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

Jenny Rose Carey, Author and Renowned Gardener

Shade is one of the most common garden situations homeowner’s have, but with the right plant knowledge, you can triumph over challenging areas and learn to embrace shade as an opportunity instead of an obstacle.  Join Jenny Rose Carey, renowned gardener, educator, historian and author in a one hour session to appreciate your shady garden areas. Using images from her own garden at Northview in Ambler, and other gardens in England and America, see what other gardeners have done with their gardens, and learn some simple techniques to improve your shady areas. Jenny Rose will share her top shade garden plants, teach you how to look at the amount of shade that you have, and give you some techniques that will increase your chances of success. Jenny’s latest book Glorious Shade celebrates the benefits of shade and shows you how to make the most of it. 

Wednesday,  September 16 | 10:00am - 11:00am

Members: $10 | Non-members: $15

Marc Radell, Master Gardener Emeritus, Penn State Extension

Landscaping successfully is both an art and a science, requiring a well-thought-out balance of aesthetics and functionality. Through proper design and planning, you can create a livable landscape that looks beautiful all year. This course combines the theoretical with the practical to help you understand some of the fundamental elements of artistic design and how to apply them to a realistic plan for your home landscape. We will cover the principles of color, line, form, unity, and focalization and learn how to incorporate them into a detailed plan that will help you achieve the look you want in keeping with your site conditions. Along the way, we will also discuss some basic maintenance and pest management tips.

Wednesday, September 30 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Alex Correia, Horticulturist, Longwood Gardens

With a few packets of seed and some thoughtful planning, anyone can create a spectacular vegetable garden that is both beautiful and productive all season long. Using examples from Longwood's Ornamental Kitchen Garden, Alex will discuss strategies for maximizing harvest and beauty in the edible garden, such as succession and companion planting, and utilizing a wider palette of common and unusual plants.

Friday, October 2 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Irene Barber, Horticulture Educator, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Plant high. Amend the soils, don't amend the soils. Water frequently, water infrequently. In this online class, Irene Barber will clear up your confusion.  She will review how to properly prepare the soil, plant, and water your plants to create a successful garden.  Plants want to grow and can surprise us all when they adapt to challenging conditions.   However, it's less costly, risky, and more successful when you use the soil, moisture, and light conditions plants need to thrive, and use initial planting techniques that set them up for successful growth. Irene Brady Barber, Horticulture Educator and Horticultural Therapist, HTR, serves as one of the instructors for the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens’ Certificate in Native Plants and Ecological Horticulture.

Tuesay, October 6 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Marc Radell, Master Gardener Emeritus, Penn State Extension

You may have learned in school how all plants contribute to the “circle of life” by making the energy of the sun available to animals, including humans.  Did you also know that native plants are especially important to maintaining healthy ecosystems?  Lean more about how you can improve the local environment and at the same time add beauty and reduce maintenance by using native plants in your yard.  We will discuss the many benefits of native plants and some sure hits for your own landscape.

Wednesday,  October 7 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Chantel White, Teaching Specialist for Archaeobotany, Center for the Analysis of Archaeological Materials (CAAM), University of Pennsylvania Museum

The field of archaeobotany (archaeology + botany) provides a unique window into long-lost historical gardens. Through the careful analysis of seeds and other preserved plant material, archaeobotany can help identify the plant species that were once cultivated in gardens. This class will provide participants with a behind-the-scenes look into the Penn Museum’s Archaeobotany Lab where 200-year-old plant evidence from historical Bartram’s Garden in Philadelphia is currently being analyzed. Participants will learn how preserved seeds are microscopically examined and identified, and how the results from Bartram’s Garden are providing new information about the horticultural history of the city.

Friday, October 9 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Bill Cullina, F. Otto Haas Executive Director,  Morris Arboretum, University of Pennsylvania

Raising your own plants from seed is like deciding to brew your own beer or knit your own sweaters – it is a commitment to immerse yourself completely in something you feel passionately about. When I collect and clean seeds, sow them and nurture the young plants to adulthood, they are old friends by the time they find a place in my garden. It is one of the most profoundly satisfying things I can think of to spend my time doing and not complicated if you know a few simple techniques. Starting from seed also gives you access to an incredible diversity of species available from specialty nurseries, collecting forays, and plant society seed exchanges, and your own back yard. In this workshop I will first cover the basics of seed collection and cleaning followed by seed sowing and overcoming dormancy.  Then I will put these practices to work with a livestreamed demonstration using a dozen or so representative trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Wednesday, October 14 | 10:00 am - 11:30 am

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Eloise Gayer, Horticulturist,  Morris Arboretum

Once your outdoor garden has been put to bed, you'll have plenty of time in the winter to give your houseplants the care they've been craving! During the summer, my tropical houseplants live outside, get watered by the rain, and basically fend for themselves. In winter, however, it's a little more difficult to mimic the warm conditions in which these plants naturally thrive. During this class, you'll learn about the cultural requirements for a variety of common (and uncommon) houseplants - light, humidity, pest control, potting medium, and watering, plus tricks to keep them healthy and pest free during the winter months. We will also cover several methods of propagation for houseplants - leaf and stem cuttings, root division, and starting plants from seed. Bring any unwell houseplants to the class and ask for advice at the end!

Friday, October 16 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Members $10 | Non-Members $15

Kathy Salisbury, Director, Ambler Arboretum and Adjunct Professor, Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture, Temple University

Make winter an exciting time in your garden.  At the Ambler Arboretum you can find flowers blooming from November through March. Learn how Arboretum staff  create a winter wonderland and discover some great plants to add to your garden including Mahonias, Corylopsis (winter hazel), Edgeworthias (paperbush), willows, witch hazels, and early blooming bulbs. Come and learn about your frosty flower options (and even a little bit about who pollinates them) from Arboretum Director Kathy Salisbury.

Friday, October 16 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

Eva Monheim

Whether they're flowering shrubs or evergreen, these long-lived plants occupy a great deal of space in our landscapes; yet they don't capture as much attention as perennials, annuals, or even trees. Color, shape and form, and the dramatic line they bring to the garden help soften harsh areas, mask unsightly views and provide habitat to bring nature to our environments. Shrubs are plants with low maintenance and high performance not to mention the huge role they play on stormwater and erosion management. These are just a few of the topics Eva will share with you. Bring your questions and enthusiasm. There will be time for Q & A after class.

Tuesday, October 20 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

Samantha Nestory, Horticulturist, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden

While fall may seem early to think about the pests of next year, there is plenty you can do during the winter months to reduce pests in your spring garden. Learn how to identify common pests of ornamental and vegetable gardens.  We will discuss several measures you can take to treat and prevent these pests. From strategic garden planning to egg removal, there are many ways you can utilize the off-season to promote a healthier garden in the next season.

Wednesday, November 6 | 10:00am - 11:00am

Members: $10 | Non-members: $15

Larry Weaner, FAPLD, Principal, Larry Weaner Landscape Associates (LWLA) and Founder of New Directions in the American Landscape

Ethan Dropkin, MLA, Landscape Designer, LWLA

Demand for high performing, ecology-based landscapes is increasing faster than the availability of the specialized knowledge to achieve them. This intensive, live, virtual course (three hours on Day 1, three hours on Day 2) provides real world guidance for designing and documenting all phases of native landscape development, including native plants and ecological processes specific to the mid-Atlantic US. Attendees will receive a 100+ page, password-protected digital manual that documents all aspects of the program, including plant selection criteria, plant recommendations, ecological process-based management specifications, and guidance for maximizing the aesthetic and experiential landscape appeal.

This course carries 3 CEUs for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-1, Practice-1, Management-1).

Thursday and Friday, December 3 & 4 | 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm (both days)

Registration Fee:   $150

Abra Lee, Owner, Conquer the Soil

Black Americans have always been trailblazers, leaders, and visionaries in the world of horticulture. Join in as we celebrate the incredible career paths they have taken. From the first Black florist west of the Mississippi to an entomological artist extraordinaire to head gardeners, businesswomen, and academics who have led the way shaping future generations of horticulturists. This historic journey is a can't miss discussion of their endearing legacy.

AbraLee is owner of Conquer the Soil, a community that celebrates horticulture beyond the world of plants. She has been an estate gardener, greenhouse assistant, municipal arborist, county extension agent, and landscape manager for two international airports. Lee is a graduate of Auburn University College of Agriculture and an alumnus of the Longwood Gardens Society of Fellows, a global network of public horticulture professionals.

Friday, October 23 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

The Barnes Endowed Lecture is presented annually in memory of Laura L. Barnes, founder of The Barnes Foundation Arboretum.

Sharon Meeker, Birder

Ducks are beautiful birds, many with striking plumage. It can be relatively easy to identify many duck species if you know what to look for.  Because they are large birds they can be seen in open water and it is easy to pick out field marks for identification.  In this online Zoom class Sharon will share her images of ducks that can be found in this area. We will learn about different types of ducks including divers and dabblers and we will also talk about sea ducks.   She will point out their identifying features and describe the kinds of places where they are usually seen.  Sharon will share her love of ducks provide recommendations for hot spots to go birding in winter.

Friday, November 13 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

Jason Lubar,  Board Certified Master Arborist and Associate Director, Urban Forestry, Morris Arboretum

This two-session, on-line class is for tree care professionals and interested homeowners/property managers looking to expand their knowledge about the biological and structural components of trees and how these components interact with each other and their surroundings. We will present various techniques to increase the tree’s lifespan and preserve their natural beauty and landscape functionality.

In the first session, we will review basic tree physiology and define tree “health.”  We will discuss what soil is and why it’s so important, consider truths and dispel myths about tree roots, define root zones and the effect construction can have on trees, and discuss how to irrigate properly.

During the second session, we will explore fertilization and answer such questions as “is it necessary” and discuss how it affects tree growth and shifts the tree’s energy budget. Tree pruning and its effects will be discussed in detail including pruning stress that results from over-thinning, topping, or removing too much live wood. We will also discuss age-adjusted tree care for our ancient/veteran trees.

This course will provide attendees the information needed to make sound decisions about tree care on their or their client’s property, so bring your tree-related questions and plan to have lively discussions!

This two-day course carries 2 CEU's for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-0.75, Practice-0.75, Management-  0.50).

Two Wednesdays, October 21 & 28 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Two-session Fee:  $50

Gilbert High, Jr., Esq.,  Senior Partner, High, Swartz LLPr,

Learn about the legal aspects of tree care in the urban and suburban environment including trespass and liability concerns as well the arborist’s and homeowner’s duty to take care of trees. We will explore some of the differences between common law, state, and municipal law and how these laws affect our understanding of boundary trees, easements, rights-of-way, and the trees planted in these areas. A knowledge and awareness of some of these legal distinctions can be of great benefit to the practicing arborist, municipal arborist, shade tree commissioner, and land owner in determining how best to limit liability and properly care for trees on private property and in the public sector. Gilbert High, Jr. is a senior partner in the regional firm of High, Swartz LLP. The majority of his practice is concentrated in the field of municipal law. This course carries 1 CEUs for ISA certified arborists (S=0, P=0, M=1)..

Wednesday, December 2 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Fee:  $25

Maura McCarthy, Executive Director, Fairmount Park Conservancy

In the days of Covid-19, parks have become a refuge and an even more critical part of our communities.  The Fairmount Park Conservancy (FPC) is a champion of Philadelphia parks and open space.  Its Tree Philly initiative educates local property owners, businesses, and neighborhood residents on the importance of the urban tree canopy and gives away over 4,000 trees each year.  Maura will highlight the challenges of maintaining these public spaces and a healthy urban forest. She will discuss city funding for parks and how it is coordinated and will demonstrate how FPC is a collaborator with other groups like Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.  Important capital projects FPC is working on and some of its future plans will be highlighted.

This course carries 1 CEU for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-0.5, Practice-0, Management-0.5).

Thursday, October 22 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Fee:  $25

Nick Fisichelli, Forest Ecology Program Director, Schoodic Institute, Acadia National Park

Ongoing and future climate change challenges land managers to encourage both current and future forest ecosystems. The magnitude of potential forest change is matched only by the uncertainties in future conditions and how trees will respond to these conditions. On-the-ground research experiments on tree seedlings are needed to understand which tree species will thrive and which will struggle under emerging conditions.  This research helps guide forest management responses to climate change. This talk highlights seedling experiments that contribute to the expanding toolbox of climate adaptation approaches that can be used by forest ecologists and managers.

This course carries 1 CEU for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-0.5, Practice-0, Management-0.5).

Thursday, October 29 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Fee:  $25

Michael J. Raupp, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Entomology and Extension Specialist, The University of Maryland

How does global warming affect us and other creatures on earth?  Join internationally recognized expert Mike Raupp as he reviews evidence for and possible causes of climate change.  See how warmer temperatures alter the geographic ranges of insect pests, their seasonal life cycles, and interactions among plants, animals that eat plants, and their natural enemies.  Learn about invasive species and urban heat islands.  An entomology professor at the University of Maryland and Science Channel Expert, Mike has more than 250 publications and has made more than 1,200 presentations on the ecology and management of insects and mites.  His book, Managing Insects and Mites on Woody Landscape Plants, is a standard for the arboricultural industry.

This course carries 1 CEU for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-0.25, Practice-0.25, Management-0.5).

Thursday, November 5 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Fee:  $25

Paul Meyer, Retired F. Otto Haas Executive Director, Morris Arboretum

Urban stresses of limited soil space, reflected heat, deicing salts, and more limit options for street side plantings.  Yet, maintaining species diversity is critical as we deal with climate change, and new, virulent pests and diseases.  In his illustrated talk, Paul Meyer will review urban stress factors and suggest 12 underused species to build the diversity in our urban forest.  

This course carries 1 CEU for ISA Certified Arborists, (Science-0.5, Practice-0.5, Management-0).

Friday, November 12 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Fee:  $25

Troy Bynum, Wildlife Photographer

Troy Bynum is a wildlife photographer and avid birder local to the Philadelphia area. Troy will share his process for capturing stunning nature photos in the Wissahickon section of Fairmount Park and in some of his other favorite spots like John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. Troy will showcase some special birds and other animals he has been able to photograph, discuss the changing seasons in the Wissahickon, and talk about some of his equipment used to capture these beautiful images. Join us for a presentation of gorgeous images sure to inspire you to get out and enjoy the world around you.

Wednesday, November 4 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Members:  $10 | Non-members:  $15

Ginger Mimmo Rohlfing, Artist and Educator

Join us for a virtual exploration of art with organic materials! We will explore every-day nature and incorporate our findings into fun art projects using a variety of media. Each lesson will include step by step instruction for little hands and allow for lots of creativity through learning.

(List of suggested materials provided prior to class day)

Wednesday, October 7 and 28 | 10:30am - 11:30am

Fee for two sessions:   Members: $20 | Non-members: $30

Ehren Gross, Environmental Educator, Briar Bush Nature Center

In these last few months many of us have been able to explore our backyards, local parks and nature trails more than we ever have in the past and you’ve probably realized that you don't have to go to another country or even a zoo to see exciting animals; we have them right here in our own backyards!   In this program, you'll meet animals from right here in our own state of Pennsylvania and learn why they are worthy of some hometown pride.

Friday, October 23 | 10:00 am - 11:00am

Members: $10 | Non-members: $15

Ehren Gross, Environmental Educator, Briar Bush Nature Center

Curious about the big birds you see high in the sky when you’re in your backyard, in the woods or at the beach?  We’re delighted to have Briar Bush Nature Center give us an up-close look at these beautiful and highly adapted birds.  Whether you call them "raptors" or "birds of prey," this group of birds is made for power and predation.  They have keen eyesight for detecting food at a distance or during flight, strong feet equipped with talons for grasping or killing prey, and powerful, curved beaks for tearing flesh.  We will explore this group of birds through feathers, bones, and appearances by looking at a live red-tailed hawk and screech owl.

Friday, November 6  | 10:00 am - 10:30 am

Members: $10 | Non-members: $15