Stephanie Bruneau and Bryan Thompsonowak, Education Staff, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Join this early evening walk to explore our flowering cherry (sakura) collection. If you look forward to our cherry blossoms each spring, what better way to enjoy them than during the quiet evening hours? Each participant will receive a self-guided tour upon arrival, setting you up on a stroll through the garden in which you will learn about the many types of cherry species here at the Morris and what makes each of them unique.  Your walking tour will lead you to a table set up underneath one of our most majestic flowering cherry trees, where you’ll be able to sample several types of sake in celebration of two great Japanese traditions in one night! 21+ only, please. 

Thursday, April 2 
5:00 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Bob Gutowski, Former Director of Visitor Experience and Education, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Join us for a special after-hours wander through the Garden! Together we’ll watch the colors of sunset fade into twilight, how the evening changes the sounds and feel of the landscape. Using red lights to keep our night vision intact, we’ll uncover details that are often missed in daylight. This special after-hours experience will be led by Bob Gutowski, an experienced horticulturist, naturalist, educator, and Morris historian. We will stick to level paths and start from the Welcome Center. This program is held twice this spring. Choose one date or join us for both! Please register for each session separately. Pricing is per session. 

Thursdays: April 16, May 14 
7:00 – 8:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Off the Beaten Path: Mushroom Walk with the Philadelphia Mycology Club 
Sam Bucciarelli, President of the Philadelphia Mycology Club  

Join the Philadelphia Mycology Club on a walk around the Morris, looking for fungi growing behind the scenes of the main garden display! We will explore the grounds for fungi growing in the garden beds and amongst the trees and discuss how to document and identify them. We'll also discuss the important roles these fungi might be playing in the overall health of the gardens.  

Leading the tour is Sam Bucciarelli, president of the club. Sam is an educator with a passion for ecology, especially as it pertains to fungi and the role they play in helping our ecosystems thrive.  

Saturday, May 9 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

Private Tour of Calder Gardens 
Erin Monda, Horticulture Manager, Calder Gardens 

Calder Gardens is Philadelphia’s newest public garden designed by renowned Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf, located in Fairmount. Join Horticulture Manager Erin Monda for a tour of the Calder Gardens landscape, where she will cover the construction and installation of the garden, Oudolf's designs, plant highlights and some of her favorite combinations, and management of the garden. Admission into the building to discover Alexander Calder's art is included. (Exploration of the indoor portion of the Museum is self-guided.) 

Wednesday, May 20 
1:00 – 3:00 pm 

Members: $65 / Non-members: $70 

Please go to our TRIPS section to register for this event

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Get outside and enjoy winter birding at Barnegat Light in New Jersey. Situated on the northern tip of Long Beach Island, it is a great place to see winter ducks. This area is an e-bird hotspot and as we walk along the Barnegat Inlet jetty, we hope to see common eider, harlequin ducks, long-tailed ducks, scouters, and brant.
 
Bring your binoculars and a snack. Walking is required. We will walk over sand, rocks, and on uneven surfaces, so please wear sturdy shoes. Dress warmly and in layers. Meet Sharon in the parking lot of the Barnegat Lighthouse.   

Tuesday, March 10 
9:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Betsy Nutt, Bluebird Society of PA 

Join us for an engaging program discussing the biology of bluebirds and the habitat necessary for attracting them and conserving them. We will also talk about bird box monitoring and predator control.  We will start inside the Welcome Center and then take a walk through the Morris Wetland to see and discuss the bluebird boxes in the field. You may want to bring your binoculars! 

Betsy Nutt is a member of the speakers’ bureau of the Bluebird Society of Pennsylvania and is a Penn State master gardener volunteer. Many generations of Betsy’s family have been involved with bird study and conservation. Her eldest son is a master falconer. She and her husband have always loved bluebirds and established a 15-box bluebird trail on their small farm in Blue Bell. Betsy is part of a team that monitors 50 bluebird houses and two kestrel boxes. 

Friday, April 10 
1:00 – 3:00 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Troy Bynum, Whitemarsh Foundation  

Join us for a morning exploring the birds at the Dixon Meadow Preserve. Covering 14 acres of land, the Dixon Meadow Preserve includes a boardwalk measuring nearly two-thirds of a mile. The preserve is a haven for birders, walkers and those who enjoy the area’s natural flora and fauna. Each of these three walks will highlight different birds as the meadow’s residents shift in each season! 

Troy Bynum, owner of TB Wildlife Photography LLC, is not only an enthusiastic birder but also a passionate wildlife photographer. Troy’s work focuses on capturing and showcasing the remarkable colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures that are abundant throughout the natural world. In his work, Troy draws attention to the oftentimes overlooked naturally occurring beauty found in the wild. Troy is on a mission to accentuate and celebrate the inherent magnificence of nature. He is the Whitemarsh Foundation’s resident birder and wildlife photographer.  
  
Meet at the Dixon Meadow Preserve, 548 Flourtown Rd, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444. Bring your binoculars.  Please wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Dates, times and registration below.  Choose one date or join us for all three! Register for each session separately. Pricing is per session. 

Saturday April 11
8:00 – 9:30 am  

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30

Saturday June 13
8:00 – 9:30 am  

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30

Saturday September 5
8:00 – 9:30 am  

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Explore some of the best spots for autumn birding at the Morris! We will visit the Morris’s natural areas including wetlands, meadows, and the woodlands along Wissahickon Creek. These areas provide great habitat for a wide variety of birds year round. 
 
We will see resident birds as well as migrating raptors, warblers, and sparrows. If time permits, we will also have a chance to look for birds in other Morris habitats. These sessions are for beginning or experienced bird watchers. Bring binoculars. Each single-session class will meet at the Morris Wetland. Park in the meadow next to the entrance kiosk and meet Sharon there. 

Choose one date or sign up for all three! Pricing is per session. 

Wednesday, April 22 
7:30 – 9:30 am 

Wednesday, May 6 
5:30 – 7:30 pm 

Wednesday, May 27 
7:30 – 9:30 am 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Pack your binoculars and get ready for a wonderful day of birding with Sharon! First we will spend the morning exploring the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge looking for spring migrants and shore birds. This beautiful refuge is considered one of the best birding areas in the region. The refuge protects more than 48,000 acres of southern New Jersey coastal habitat and is located on one of the Atlantic Flyway's most active flight paths, making it a critical link during seasonal bird migration. After a lunch break, we will take a short drive to the Ocean City Welcome Center and enjoy the heron rookery located there!

There will be many opportunities for great photos, even with your phone! Pack your lunch, a water bottle, and dress for the weather. 

Thursday, April 30 
9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Members: $85 / Non-members: $90

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Join us on a birding tour at Laurel Hill East, one of Philadelphia’s very special places. We will walk through this beautiful arboretum and look for spring birds among the towering trees and diverse plantings. We will be guided both by Sharon and a cemetery tour guide who will help us learn about the landscape and its history, too! 
  
Established in 1836 as the second major garden-designed cemetery in the U.S., Laurel Hill is the nation’s first National Historic Landmark Cemetery. Laurel Hill’s natural beauty, serenity, and views of the Schuylkill River make it a great place to go for a peaceful walk or retreat from the city.  This beautiful green space is complemented by the breathtaking art, sculpture, and architecture that can be found there.   

Please bring your binoculars. Parking is available within the cemetery. We will meet at the gatehouse courtyard at the cemetery’s main entrance at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132.   

Tuesday, May 5 
7:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $45 / Non-members: $50 

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Beginning and experienced birders are welcome on a birding adventure to Peace Valley Nature Center in nearby Doylestown. A great place to go birding, Peace Valley has as its centerpiece beautiful Lake Galena and offers trails that wind through varied habitats including woods and meadows. More than 250 species of birds have been sighted at Peace Valley, including cardinals, woodpeckers, finches, titmice, and sparrows, as well as osprey, cormorants, kingfishers, and a variety of ducks.  

Please bring binoculars, a water bottle, and dress for the weather. We will meet at the Peace Valley Nature Center Visitor Center, 170 North Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA 18901. 

Friday, May 8 
7:00 – 10:00 am 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Visit Briar Hill Preserve, see some spring migrants in the early morning light, and still get to your desk on time! Briar Hill Preserve, a beautiful piece of preserved land in the Wissahickon Watershed, is located next to Whitpain Township's Prophecy Creek Park. Together we will explore this forested and meadow habitat for spring arrivals. This park is known for its pristine ponds and connecting walking trails.  

Please bring binoculars and wear good walking shoes. We will meet at Prophecy Creek Park, 205 W. Skippack Pike, Ambler, PA 19002. 

Monday, May 11 
7:30 – 9:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Evansburg State Park is a 3,000-acre park in southcentral Montgomery County between Norristown and Collegeville. Consisting of mixed hardwood forests, old fields and meadow habitat, with the Skippack Creek running through, this park is the perfect location for an early morning birding adventure during the peak of songbird migration. We will be looking for warblers, orioles, thrushes, and perhaps a bald eagle. 

Please bring your binoculars, a water bottle, and wear good walking shoes. We will meet at the Evansburg State Park Office and Visitor Center, 851 Mayhall Rd, Collegeville, PA 19426. 

Wednesday, May 13  
7:30 – 10:30 am 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

On this trip we will be birding along the Perkiomen Trail, the former rail bed of the Perkiomen Line of the Reading Railroad. This gravel trail, preserved as open space, runs along the Perkiomen Creek in Montgomery County. We will look for spring migrating and resident birds. Along the way we will visit the Perkiomen Valley Park, which has a variety of good birding habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and open-grass areas. We hope to see herons, kingfishers, waterfowl, ospreys, woodpeckers, hawks, bluebirds, a variety of songbirds, and possibly a bald eagle.   

Tuesday, May 19 
7:30 am – 10:30 am 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45 

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Join us for an evening of birding in the Wissahickon section of Fairmount Park. We will meet at Forbidden Drive and stroll along the beautiful Wissahickon Creek, a designated Important Bird Area by the Pennsylvania Audubon Society. In this green corridor, which features a variety of great bird habitats, we hope to see spring migrants to our area including wood ducks, northern water thrushes, veeries, tanagers, and many different warblers as well as resident and nesting birds.  

Please bring your binoculars and wear good walking shoes. Meet Sharon in the Wissahickon section of Fairmount Park at the concrete picnic tables at the intersection of Bells Mill Road and Forbidden Drive. 

Thursday, May 21 
6:00 – 8:00 pm 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30

Cindy Skema, Botanical Scientist, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 
  
And you thought all trees look alike in winter! Learn to see both the obvious as well as the more subtle characteristics that make winter tree identification interesting. The class will begin indoors with a lecture introducing essential identification techniques and a review of important winter characteristics such as bud morphology, habit, leaf and bundle scars, bark, and fruit. The group will then move outside for a stroll through the Morris to put your knowledge to work. Dress for the weather.  

Thursday, February 19 
10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Lori Litchman, Author; Teacher; Poet

Welcome the new year with some self-care! We’ll start with a grounding meditation and then take a short mindful meander around the Morris to observe winter beauty. Then, we’ll head inside where it’s warm and cozy for a poetry writing workshop focusing on winter-themed poems. Mindfulness in nature and reading/writing poetry have many potential health benefits including stress reduction and increased cognitive health.

We’ll read several poems for inspiration and then set out to write some poems based on our observations. Participants will have some time to share their poems with the group (optional!). No background or previous experience writing poetry is necessary! 

Journals will be provided for each participant! (But, feel free to bring your own if you’d prefer.)  Please bring something to write with and dress for the weather.

Lori Litchman is an outdoor writer and poet. She has an MFA in creative writing and is the author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Philadelphia. She’s a former high school English teacher who is passionate about helping others tap into their creative selves. She has trained at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health to be a Mindful Outdoor Leader. 

Saturday, January 10 **Rescheduled for Jan 24th**
1:00 —3:00 pm

Members: $30 | Non-Members: $35

Lori Litchman, Author; Teacher; Poet 

Join us to mark the spring equinox with mindful intention! We’ll start with a grounding meditation and then take a mindful meander around the Morris to observe the flowers and trees waking up from their winter slumber. If weather permits, we’ll gather in the outdoor classroom to read and write poetry under the spring canopy of beech trees. In the case of inclement weather we will gather indoors where it’s warm and cozy! Mindfulness in nature and reading/writing poetry have many potential health benefits including stress reduction and increased cognitive health. 

We’ll read several poems for inspiration and then set out to write some poems based on our observations. Participants will have some time to share their poems with the group (optional!). No background or previous experience writing poetry is necessary!  

Journals will be provided for each participant! (But feel free to bring your own if you’d prefer.)  

Lori Litchman is an outdoor writer and poet. She has an MFA in creative writing and is the author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Philadelphia. She’s a former high school English teacher who is passionate about helping others tap into their creative selves. She has trained at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health to be a Mindful Outdoor Leader. 

Saturday, March 21 
1:00 – 3:00 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Mitch Roberge, Artist; Horticulturist, Haverford College 

When the cherry trees bloom, the Morris becomes a living watercolor. Join Mitch Roberge for a morning of painting inspired by the soft light and color of spring. You’ll learn approachable watercolor techniques and practice capturing the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. Come early to wander the gardens and take in the scenery before class begins.

Register with a friend and bring a snack! A materials list will be emailed to all participants in advance of the class. 

Saturday, April 4 
10:30 am – 1:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Jessica Liddell, Owner, Bella Mosaic 

Fused glass is a vibrant medium perfect for creating light-catching art. In this hands-on, two-session class, students will explore the basics of glass fusing, from cutting and layering glass to choosing colors and designing pieces that move in the breeze. You’ll craft a radiant fused glass wind chime that’s perfect for brightening a kitchen window, porch, or garden nook. Instructor Jessica Lidell is an experienced glass artist who has taught adults and children for years and has exhibited her work in a wide range of venues. This is a two-session class. Materials will be provided. 

Two Thursdays: April 9, April 16 
12:30–2:30 pm 

Members: $90 / Non-members: $100

Jack Hobe, Wildlife Artist, Birder, Freelance Educator  

Join naturalist and wildlife illustrator Jack Hobe for a three-part workshop series on drawing birds! Each session focuses on a different bird group—songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl—offering practical techniques to help you capture their unique shapes, postures, and movements on paper. Weather permitting, each class may conclude with an optional short walk for those who feel comfortable sketching outdoors. 

No prior art experience is required—each workshop welcomes all skill levels! Bring a sketchbook or paper, pencil, and colored pencils or watercolor (if desired). Different subjects will be explored in each session. 
Descriptions below. Sign up for one, or all three! Register for each session separately. Pricing is per session.

Saturdays: April 18, May 23, June 20 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

How to Draw Songbirds: Session 1 
Learn to sketch the lively songbirds in your backyard, using tricks for capturing posture, proportions, and feather patterns before they flit away. We’ll also take a look at ways to simplify birds’ feathers, wings, tails, and feet. 

Saturday, April 18 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members:  $30 / Non-members:  $35

How to Draw Raptors: Session 2 
Discover techniques for drawing perched and soaring birds of prey, including gesture sketching fo­­r circling hawks. 

Saturday, May 23 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members:  $30 / Non-members:  $35

How to Draw Waterfowl: Session 3 
Master the challenges of drawing ducks, geese, and swans, from their distinctive beaks to partially submerged bodies. 

Saturday, June 20 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members:  $30 / Non-members:  $35

Meg Lemieur, Artist and Illustrator 

Ready to take a deep dive into the natural world? Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for observing and recording the flora and fauna around us. Utilizing our inner scientist, writer, and artist, we will learn to capture the intricate details we find. These four classes will provide an encouraging and supportive atmosphere to learn the tools and techniques for observing, recording, and sketching our surroundings at the Morris.  Each class will explore a new area in the garden.

Meg Lemieur is a nature-focused illustrator based in Philadelphia, whose mission is to celebrate the diversity, interconnectedness, and amazing feats of the natural world. Her illustrations have been published in numerous tabletop games, in comic anthologies, and as large-scale educational tapestries. She lends her skills to a variety of advocacy campaigns and was an Artist in Residence with the PA Environmental Council for 2025.  

• Class 1 will cover an intro to Nature Journaling, learning to break down how to observe and record plants in our journals using prompts, questions, and conversation to heighten your awareness and ability to notice more.
  

• Class 2 will lead participants through a series of intentional questioning exercises to focus our creative, curious minds on figuring out a mystery that we find in a small corner of the Morris.

• Class 3 will turn us in many directions as we learn to use changing perspective to identify and understand plants and the world around us.

• Class 4 will deepen our observational skills as we learn to record the passing of time, noticing how plants shift and change through their lives.

 
Choose one session or join us for all four!  Pricing is per session.  Register for each session separately.

Fridays: May 1, 8, 15, 22 
10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Margaret Saylor, Botanical Artist 

Have you always wanted to practice plant illustration but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you enjoy botanical illustration already, and would love an afternoon carved out in the Morris’ beautiful setting to practice your technique in the presence of a skilled instructor? Join us for this fun and engaging experience designed for botanical artists of all levels—and work at your own pace to discover your own illustration style. Frequent demonstrations from artist Margaret Saylor will clarify the painting progress. A materials list will be emailed to all participants in advance of the class. 

Artist Margaret Saylor creates highly detailed, textural botanical paintings and drawings that capture the essence of a simple object from nature and present it as an exquisite jewel in an ethereal setting. She specializes in mushrooms, fungi, and woodland plants and combines accurate illustration with the beauty of shape, form, and color.  

Wednesday, May 13 
1:00 – 4:00 pm 

Members: $90 / Non-members: $95 

Maeve Gavin, Owner, The Flower Mama 

Join us for a fun and creative floral design class with The Flower Mama! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll design your own four-piece bud vase arrangement using a vibrant selection of seasonal blooms—all sourced from our Best of Philly-winning flower truck, Rosebud, a beautifully restored 1959 vintage VW and Philadelphia’s most famous flower truck.  

You’ll hand-select your four vases and receive a carrying case for easy transport while learning tips and best practices for working with flowers. Don’t forget to snap plenty of photos with Rosebud after class—it’s the perfect backdrop for your floral masterpiece! 

Friday, May 15 
1:00 – 2:30 pm 

Members: $60 / Non-members: $65 

Mitch Roberge, Artist; Horticulturist, Haverford College 

Join us in the garden and learn the basics of watercolor in this two-part class. During this course, you will complete one study per week, focusing on a different technique for capturing beauty in the natural world. Together, we will experiment with layering colors, creating texture, and building value as you find inspiration around the Morris Arboretum & Gardens. 

This class will be held outside, with an indoor space available in case of inclement weather. Bring a snack and drink. A materials list will be emailed to all participants in advance of the class.  

Two Saturdays: June 6 and 13 
10:30 am – 1:30 pm 

Members: $70 / Non-members: $75

Sara Robbins, Fiber Artist, Educator 

Create stunning silk scarves using leaves and other natural materials in this one-day workshop! Eco or botanical printing is a technique that allows the natural dye materials in plants, called tannins, to transfer the print of the plants onto fiber. The result is a beautiful, organic design that is ecofriendly. We will be making contact prints on 100 percent silk scarves by layering on the damp cloth leaves and other plant materials that have been dipped in iron water. We will be using a heat press to transfer the prints onto fiber using heat and moisture. One of the fun parts of eco printing is the unpredictability in the results. What a plant looks like in nature may be different on your scarf, yet still beautiful. You will love the results! Perfect for beginners and experienced textile artists alike. Each participant will create two silk scarves.  

Prior to class, students will be sent a list of plant materials that work well with eco printing. Students should try and bring what they can. Plant materials will also be provided by the instructor. Bring a lunch/snack, water, and creative enthusiasm!  

Friday, June 12 
10:00 am – 2:30 pm 

Members: $135 / Non-members: $140 

Becca Kohn, Manager of The Sewing Room; Education Assistant, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Mending at the Morris! Give your favorite clothes a new life while learning fun, creative, visible mending techniques. Bring a worn garment and stitch with us in a cozy, supportive space. We’ll walk through a few different stitches and provide materials and guidance. The instructor will offer one-on-one support and a flexible approach you can use on future projects. An easy, satisfying way to care for what you already love. Each participant will receive a kit of mending materials for use in the workshop that will also enable you to take your new skills home with you! 

Wednesday, June 17 
4:00 – 6:00 pm 
 
Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Jessica Liddell, Owner, Bella Mosaic 

Mosaic art is an amazing medium for creating unique pieces for both indoor and outdoor spaces. In this hands-on, two-session course, students will learn about mosaic design, cutting tile, assembling, and grouting projects. You will work on creating your own unique wall hanging for indoor use. Instructor Jessica Liddell has been teaching ceramics to adults and children since 1995. She has exhibited her work nationally and has directed collaborative public arts projects in community centers, camps, and schools. This is a two-session class. Materials will be provided. 

Two Fridays: July 10, July 17 
12:30 – 2:30 pm 

Members: $90 / Non-members: $100 

Al Paris, Professional Chef/Restaurateur

These demonstration classes will cover the creation of a meal focused on products from Erdenheim Farm. Each class will include a discussion about how the food is raised or grown on the farm, followed by a cooking demonstration by Chef Al Paris, and finish with a chance to eat and savor the creation. Chef Al Paris has owned and created the culture and cuisine of 13 award-winning restaurants—most recently Paris Bistro in Chestnut Hill. He believes that all cooks can create their own distinct cuisine through the clarity of their vision and the use of the freshest seasonal ingredients.

The class meets at the Sheep Barn parking lot at Erdenheim Farm (5051 Flourtown Road, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444).

A different seasonal menu is offered, and typically changes monthly. Please sign up for each session separately.   Registration and menus located below.

MENU: Warm, buttery, homemade buns. Smashed fried potato salad including farm greens and sweet onion vinaigrette. Pomegranate leg of lamb with rainbow chard and garnet yam polenta. For dessert Chef will make a coconut cream tart and quick cherry jam. The meal features Erdenheim Farm lamb, eggs, and greens.

Saturday, January 24
12:00 - 3:00 pm 

Members: $115 | Non-members: $125 

MENU: The class will start with classic cheddar scones. Chef will also make a beet salad with pickled eggs, goat cheese and microgreens. The main course will include beef tenderloin Guinness pies. For dessert Chef will serve fresh lemon fritters with star anise apple raisin compote. The meal features Erdenheim Farm beef, eggs, and microgreens. 

Saturday, February 28  **Rescheduled to Saturday, February 21**
12:00-3:00 pm 

Members: $130 / Non-members: $140

Tama Matsuoka Wong, Forager, Meadow Doctor, Lawyer, Author, and Owner of Meadows + More 

Spring is the time when people are tired of winter root vegetables, but it is still too cold for most farmed vegetables. This is the perfect time to explore the bounty of forageable, nutritious, and delicious "weeds" right at our feet! Join Tama for a morning of exploring the most delectable of these wild plants in the Morris’s meadows, focusing on nettle. Stinging nettle offers health benefits, is highly nutritious, and is widely available!  

Come hungry! We will learn all about nettles, and sample some delicious and nutrient-rich recipes, like Nettle Soup, Nettle Quiche, Nettle Pesto, and more. Then, we’ll go out in the field so you can learn how to harvest the plants safely, and how to tell which plants will be most delectable. While we are in the meadow, we will identify and discuss other spring edibles, too! This class meets in the Bloomfield Farm Horticulture Center, across from the main garden entrance. Bring garden gloves if you have them. 

Saturday, April 11 
10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members:  $45 / Non-members:  $50

Liz Aubry, Bartender, Bar Lizette 

Spring forward into a treasure trove of cocktail ingredients. With the frost lifting, the home gardener has plenty of fresh ingredients to turn into seasonal cocktails. From fresh herbs and flowers to early harvest produce, learn how to bring your spring garden to the glass. 

This class will focus on flavor combinations and cover techniques and ingredients accessible to the home bartender, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Morris Arboretum & Gardens at sunset. This class is for ages 21+. Ample tastings included - BYO cheese and crackers if you desire a snack with your sips! 

Sunday, May 3 
6:00 – 8:00 pm 

Members: $60 / Non-members: $65 

Growing Minds at Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a program series for kids and families that inspires a sense of wonder about the natural world within the beautiful setting of the Morris. The classes represented in this section offer children and their caregivers the opportunity to connect meaningfully with nature through a wide variety of creative and educational programs.

 Parents and caregivers are asked to stay with children for classes.

Rebecca Silvey, Environmental Educator 

Children ages 2–4 years and their favorite caregiver are invited to join us to explore the outdoors and learn about some fun early science subjects like leaves, weather, soil, and insects. In each class we will take time to do an age-appropriate activity and read an engaging story outside in nature! 

Our adventures might take us on uneven terrain, so  all participants should wear sturdy shoes and be willing to leave strollers behind.  Class occurs rain or shine so please dress for the weather and bring sun protection and water. In the case of extreme weather we will move indoors.  Siblings should register as participants.  

Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before the class starts so you can find your way to our starting spot at the fairy woods.  

Six Mondays: April 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18 
10:30 – 11:15 am  

Members: $145 / Non-members: $165

Becca Kohn, Manager of The Sewing Room; Education Assistant, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Let your imagination run wild as we create whimsical fairy houses together! We will use a combination of found natural materials, clay, and other special bits & bobs in this magical, hands-on experience for all ages. We will start indoors and use tools to construct our bases and create some one-of-a-kind accessories for our fairies. From there, you are free to join us in bringing your creations down to the enchanting Whimsical Woods and continuing to decorate with found natural materials! Each child should be registered as a participant.  

Saturday, April 25 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm 
 
Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Erin Park, Children’s Yoga Instructor; Youth Educator 

Join us for Yoga Stretch & Flow, a delightful adventure for kids ages 2–7 and their families! In this lively and engaging class, kids will flow through fun yoga poses inspired by the wonders of nature, stretch like flowers, wiggle like playful animals, and move with the breeze. Together, we’ll explore the magic of the outdoors, build strength and flexibility, and enjoy playful, mindful movement. Kids will also get creative with nature-inspired arts and crafts to celebrate the beauty around us. It's a joyful experience that combines yoga with outdoor exploration, encouraging kids to relax, stretch, and enjoy the beauty of the season.  

Erin Park is the playful yoga guide who brings joy and laughter to children’s adventures! Having a children’s yoga certification and over 10 years of teaching experience working with children in an educational environment, she decided to mix her love of both. She creates magical classes filled with storytelling, games, and imaginative poses that nurture young hearts and minds. Certified in child-friendly yoga techniques, Erin fosters confidence, creativity, and connection in every child, empowering them to explore movement and mindfulness with curiosity and kindness!     

Bring your own yoga mats if you have them. Choose one date or join us for all four! Register for each session separately, below.

Saturday, May 2; Friday, May 22; 
Saturday, June 13; Wednesday, June 24
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Saturday, May 2
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Friday, May 22
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Saturday, June 13
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Wednesday, June 24
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Ginger Mimmo Rohlfing, State Certified Art Instructor; Art Educator at Moore College of Art & Design and Woodmere Art Museum 

Bring your little ones to discover the birds of the Morris. We will focus on five local birds and create dynamic mobiles with the birds in flight! Children will discover migration patterns while making their own birds with mixed media materials including paint, feathers, beads, and more. When each bird is made, they will take flight in a marvelous hanging mobile to take home. A discovery worksheet will be included so that children can try to find birds throughout the Morris after artmaking. This will be a fun morning of art and learning! 

Saturday, May 30 
10:00 – 11:30 am 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Stephanie Bruneau, Assistant Director of Adult Education, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 
Staff Members, Penn Vet, Wildlife Futures Program 
  
Come join us for an all-ages program all about fireflies, bats, and other creatures of the night! 

Did you know that fireflies are not flies, but are actually beetles? Or that our planet is home to over 2,200 firefly species, and that over 30 species can be found in PA? Or that “glow worms” are actually firefly larvae, and can be found lighting up the soil all around us at night if we only know where and how to look?   
  
In this program, we will explore the natural history of fireflies, ways of observing and telling them apart, and what we can do to make our gardens more “glowing.” Then, representatives from the Penn Vet Wildlife Futures Program will tell us about the work that they do to help our state’s wild species thrive, and about some of our nighttime neighbors that come out when the sun goes down!  

The program will conclude with a short night walk in the garden where we will look for these nocturnal neighbors, and see some light-flash conversations in person.  

One registration covers one adult and one child. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Additional adults will require additional registration.  

Thursday, June 25 
7:30 – 9:00 pm 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

LISA ZAHREN, Mindful Dance Instructor

The invitation is to keep moving, warm ourselves from the inside out.  Each week we will combine elements of Open Floor Dance, Nia Technique and mindfulness practices as we explore the hidden gems of The Morris in winter. We will begin indoors to warm up before hiking to a location in the Arboretum to dance and move with the quiet of the season. Several scientific studies have shown that getting exposure to natural light on winter mornings helps improve mental health and sleep. (Read more HERE)
 
These classes are appropriate for all abilities and fitness levels, no experience necessary, just a willingness to explore on a winter adventure. This will be a hybrid indoor/outdoor class so please dress appropriately and in layers. In the case of very cold weather or precipitation, we will spend more time indoors. We will meet at the Welcome Center.

Lisa has been teaching embodied movement and dance since 2011, including in therapeutic settings. She is a certified teacher of Nia Technique and Open Floor Dance Practice. 

We are offering three sessions this Winter. Sign up for one or all three below!  

(Session 1 - December has been cancelled)

LISA ZAHREN, Mindful Dance Instructor

3 Wednesdays: January 7, 14, 21
10:15 - 11:30 am

Members: $70 | Non-members: $80

**Single-session walk-ins always welcome on fair-weather days $30. Exact change cash payment is required; please arrive 10-15 minutes early. (no member discount)

LISA ZAHREN, Mindful Dance Instructor

3 Wednesdays: January 28, February 4, 11
10:15 - 11:30 am

Members: $70 | Non-members: $80

**Single-session walk-ins always welcome on fair-weather days $30. Exact change cash payment is required; please arrive 10-15 minutes early. (no member discount)

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 

Honor the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. with a reflective, heart-centered morning in nature. Join Maura Manzo for a guided mindful walk through the peaceful paths of Morris, followed by a loving kindness meditation that cultivates compassion for ourselves, our communities, and the world around us. 

This gentle, all-levels experience invites you to slow down, connect with the natural world, and reflect on themes of nonviolence, kindness and unity. Through the combined practices of mindful walking and meditation, you’ll leave feeling grounded, inspired, and more deeply attuned to the values that Dr. King celebrated. 

Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and bring an open heart to this reflective MLK Day gathering. 

Maura Manzo is the founder and director of Camaraderie, Ambler. Her teaching integrates traditional yoga, body‑mind healing practices and community‑centered wisdom to support personal and collective well‑being.   Camaraderie will be donating all proceeds to Weavers Way Co-op’s Food for All Program.

 
Monday, January 19 
3:00 – 4:00 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Margaret Kinnevy, Naturalist; Community Nurse Educator; Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine 

This curated set of walks begins as winter recedes, and signs of spring begin to emerge all around. Our experience on each walk will look and feel different as the seasons change. 

Together we will venture a few steps off the paved pathways, to the hidden-in-plain-sight areas where you will wish to return for quiet contemplation or to delight in spring’s crescendo of blooms and scents. We will experience the witch hazel blooms, the magnolia blossoms, and more.  

You will learn easy ways to stay warm outdoors in the cooler seasons and find a sense of peace and wellbeing as spring emerges both in the natural world and within yourself. 

We will meet at the Welcome Center.  The class is all outdoors and will be held rain or shine so please dress for the weather. Choose one date or join us for all 4! Pricing is per session.  Register for each session separately.  

Wednesdays: February 25; March 11; March 25; April 8 
1:00 – 2:30 pm 

Members: $15 / Non-members: $25

Lisa Zahren, Mindful Dance Instructor 

Using gentle, easy-to-follow guidance and open, free-flowing movements, we will experience the Morris with all of our senses through embodiment practices, dance, and mindfulness. This practice invites you to dance and move in your body’s way. All bodies celebrated and welcomed. 

Each of the sessions will meet at the Welcome Center and begin with a short, mindful walk to the location for that week. Once there, we will follow a guided movement and some stillness meditation to open all the senses and connect with that area of the Morris. 

Lisa has been teaching embodied movement and dance since 2011, including in therapeutic settings. She is a certified teacher of Nia Technique and Open Floor Dance Practice. 

Three series of dates to choose from, or join us for all 3 series! Pricing is per series.  Please register for each series separately. 

Series 1  
Three Wednesdays: April 1, 8, 15 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $70 / Non-members: $80

Lisa Zahren, Mindful Dance Instructor 

This second of our Nia Dance series also begins with a short, mindful walk to the location for that week. Once there, we will follow a guided movement and some stillness meditation to open all the senses and connect with that area of the Morris.  Dates and registration below.

Series 2  
Three Wednesdays: April 22, 29, May 6 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $70 / Non-members: $80 

Lisa Zahren, Mindful Dance Instructor 

This third of our Nia Dance series also begins with a short, mindful walk to the location for that week. Once there, we will follow a guided movement and some stillness meditation to open all the senses and connect with that area of the Morris.  Dates and registration below.

Series 3  
Three Wednesdays: May 13, 20, 27 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $70 / Non-members: $80 

Aimée Alegría Barry, Owner, Centaur Tai Chi  

Join instructor Aimée Alegría Barry for a workshop in meditation techniques that work through movement and breath to calm both mind and body. This course is ideal for people of all skill levels who are dealing with stresses and seeking new ways to feel more present and embodied. The program will include qigong stretches, tai chi walking, guided meditation and more, all in the midst of spring’s unfolding in the gardens.

We offer three Saturdays to choose from, or join us for all three! Pricing is per session. Please register for each session separately.   See dates and registration below.

Saturday, April 18 
10:30 – 11:30 am  

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Aimée Alegría Barry, Owner, Centaur Tai Chi  

Join instructor Aimée Alegría Barry for another workshop in meditation techniques that include qigong stretches, tai chi walking, guided meditation and more, all in the midst of spring’s unfolding in the gardens in the month of May. Pricing is per session.

 
Saturday, May 23 
10:30 – 11:30 am  

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Aimée Alegría Barry, Owner, Centaur Tai Chi  

Join instructor Aimée Alegría Barry for another workshop in meditation techniques that include qigong stretches, tai chi walking, guided meditation and more, all in the midst of spring’s warming and unfolding in the beautiful month of June. Pricing is per session.

 
Saturday, June 20
10:30 – 11:30 am  

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Aimée Alegría Barry, Owner, Centaur Tai Chi  

Are you curious about tai chi? Join us for a single-session outdoor tai chi “taster.” The beauty of the Morris will be a peaceful backdrop as you learn more about this martial art practice. Tai chi, a series of postures done slowly, promotes balance, flexibility, and strength. It is known as a soft martial art because it emphasizes a calm mind and relaxed body. No prior tai chi experience is needed. We will meet at the Welcome Center. Dress for the weather. 

Thursday, April 23 
10:30 – 11:30 am  

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Anisa George, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Nationally Certified Health and Wellness Nurse Coach

Shinrin Yoku, also known as Forest Bathing or Forest Therapy, is an ancient practice that is now supported by scientific research. Improved immune function, reduced cortisol levels, increased cognition and memory, and improved mood are just some of the clinical findings from this practice. Facilitated by a trained guide to help support your own relationship to the healing benefits of nature, this experience allows for mindful connection to the “more than human world.” Participants move at a slow pace and are invited to connect in a sensorial way to the beautiful surroundings of the Morris Arboretum & Gardens. Leave the hectic world behind and come explore this ancient wisdom.  

We will meet at the Welcome Center. The class is all outdoors so please dress for the weather. Choose one date per month this spring or join us for all three! Pricing is per session.  Registration and dates found below.

Anisa George, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Nationally Certified Health and Wellness Nurse Coach

Join us in early spring. Shinrin Yoku participants move at a slow pace and are invited to connect in a sensorial way to the beautiful surroundings of the Morris Arboretum & Gardens. Leave the hectic world behind and come explore this ancient wisdom as the gardens awaken.  

Saturday, April 25  
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Anisa George, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Nationally Certified Health and Wellness Nurse Coach

As we move through spring, Shinrin Yoku participants are again invited to connect in a sensorial way to the beautiful surroundings of the Morris Arboretum & Gardens. Come explore this ancient wisdom as the gardens green and bloom.  

Saturday, May 16 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Anisa George, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Nationally Certified Health and Wellness Nurse Coach

As summer nears, Shinrin Yoku participants are immersed in the fragrant and colorful surroundings of the Morris Arboretum & Gardens. Come explore this ancient wisdom as the gardens to life!  

Saturday, June 6
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Aimée Alegría Barry, Owner, Centaur Tai Chi  

Join us for an outdoor tai chi series of 6 sessions, with the beauty of the unfolding spring season at Morris as a peaceful and grounding backdrop for your practice. Tai chi, a series of postures done slowly, promotes balance, flexibility, and strength. While teaching the tai chi form, Aimée Alegría Barry introduces the yin and yang principles that underlie this martial art. Tai chi is known as a soft martial art because it emphasizes a calm mind and relaxed body. 

All levels welcome. Class will be adapted to meet participants where they are. Classes will be held outdoors with an indoor option available for inclement weather. We will meet at the Welcome Center. Dress for the weather. 

Six Thursdays: April 30; May 7, 14, 21, 28; June 4 
10:30 – 11:30 am

Members: $110 / Non-members: $120

Kelly McLeod, Holden Qigong Certified Teacher; Founder, Chee Gong with Kelly Kel 

Curious about qigong but not sure if it’s right for you? Join experienced practitioner Kelly McLeod for this introductory session and discover its potential to help you feel grounded, revitalized, and at ease. Kelly will walk you through qigong postures and movements, while also explaining some of the history and science behind how it helps regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation. After learning and practicing the opening movements of the five elements form, you’ll finish with a guided meditation. Come deepen your understanding and experience the power of qigong to help you feel energized and balanced. 

Tuesday, May 5 
10:30 – 11:30 am  

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Kelly McLeod, Holden Qigong Certified Teacher; Founder, Chee Gong with Kelly Kel 

Join experienced practitioner, Kelly McLeod, for six weeks of Five Elements Qigong amidst the tranquil beauty of the Morris. Embrace the arrival of the autumn season with this ancient Chinese art for fitness and healing. We will practice routines that include breathing techniques, warm-ups, stretching, invigorating exercises, gentle flowing movements, and a brief closing meditation. Each session will let you explore the five-element theory of qigong as you connect your energy with the energy of the natural surroundings to feel grounded, revitalized, and at ease. Regardless of your prior experience, all are welcome to join and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. 

Six Tuesdays, May 12, 19, 26, June 2, 9, 16 
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $110 / Non-members: $120

Meghan Dwyer, Yoga Teacher 

Join Meghan Dwyer for a gentle, all-levels yoga class on the beautiful grounds of the Morris. In tune with the new moon and the changing astrological season, we’ll move slowly, breathe deeply, and connect with nature’s quiet invitation to begin again. 

This practice blends mindful movement, breath, and reflection to help you set heartfelt intentions for the lunar cycle ahead. Supported by Meghan’s intuitive guidance and drawing from her work with earth-based practices, this practice encourages a deep connection to the earth, the season, and your own inner rhythms, supporting intention-setting and gentle renewal. Surrounded by the Morris’s living landscape, you’ll leave feeling centered, renewed, and connected—to the earth, the season, and yourself. 

Meghan Dwyer is a yoga teacher and ceremonialist hailing from Chestnut Hill. She currently teaches at Camaraderie, Ambler. 

Please bring your own mat.  Three different dates and times to choose from, or join us for all 3!  Register for each session separately. Pricing is per session; additional dates and times below. 

Monday, June 15 
11:00 am – 12:15 pm 
 
Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Meghan Dwyer, Yoga Teacher 

Join Meghan Dwyer once again for a gentle, all-levels yoga class on the beautiful grounds of the Morris. In tune with the new moon and the changing astrological season, we’ll move slowly, breathe deeply, and connect with nature’s quiet invitation to begin again. 

Similar to the first session, this practice also blends mindful movement, breath, and reflection to help you set heartfelt intentions for the lunar cycle ahead and deepen your connection to the earth, the season, and your own inner rhythms, supporting intention-setting and gentle renewal.

Please bring your own mat.   

Tuesday, July 14 
11:00 am – 12:15 pm 
 
Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Meghan Dwyer, Yoga Teacher 

Join Meghan Dwyer this evening 'under the new moon' to close out the series of gentle, all-levels yoga class on the beautiful grounds of the Morris. In tune with the new moon and the changing astrological season, we’ll move slowly, breathe deeply, and connect with nature’s quiet invitation to begin again. 

As in the earlier sessions, this practice also blends mindful movement, breath, and reflection to help you set heartfelt intentions for the lunar cycle ahead and further deepen your connection to the earth, the season, and your own inner rhythms, supporting intention-setting and gentle renewal.

Please bring your own mat.   

Tuesday, August 11 
5:15 – 6:30 pm  
 
Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Mary Campbell, Yoga Teacher 

Reconnect with your body, breath, and the beauty of nature in this gentle chair yoga series of four sessions held outdoors at the Morris. Designed for practitioners of all levels, this practice invites you to explore yoga in a safe, supported, and accessible way. 

Whether you are returning to movement after an injury, managing chronic conditions, or simply looking for a gentle outdoor practice, this series offers a welcoming space to move, breathe, and restore.  

Bring a chair if you prefer, or one will be provided, and wear comfortable layers to enjoy the meadow’s fresh air. Mary Campbell is a yoga teacher, reiki master, poet and outdoor enthusiast. She currently teaches at Camaraderie, Ambler.  

Four Fridays: June 5, 12, 19, 26 
10:30 – 11:30 am 

Members: $95 / Non-members: $115

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
Join experienced yoga instructor Maura Manzo for this one-of-a-kind yoga experience on the Out on a Limb exhibit at Morris, suspended 50 feet above ground and surrounded by a canopy of trees, colors, sights and sounds.  
 
This unique practice will be tailored to all skill levels and focuses on poses that promote rootedness, connection, and mindfulness. Human beings are deeply connected to trees and have much to learn from them. Class will end with an extended guided relaxation inspired by one of the greatest teachings of trees: There is beauty that comes from letting go. 
  
This treetop yoga experience is a wonderful way to combine the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the beauty and serenity of the natural world. You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience. One Thursday evening scheduled each month.  Pricing is per session.  Register for each session separately.

  Pricing is per session; Register below. 

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
This treetop yoga course in April is a wonderful way to combine the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the beauty and serenity of spring awakening.  You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience.

Thursday, April 30
5:15 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
This treetop yoga course in May is a wonderful way to enjoy the fragrant beauty and serenity of the trees in bloom. You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience.

Thursday, May 28
5:15 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
This treetop yoga course in June is a wonderful way to combine the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the beauty and serenity of a warm spring evening.  You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience.

Thursday, June 18
5:15 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
This treetop yoga course in July is a wonderful way to enjoy the bird activity in the treetops while the garden is in bloom below.  You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience. 

Thursday, July 23
5:15 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

Maura Manzo, Yoga and Meditation Teacher 
  
Join us for the final treetop yoga of the summer as the garden is in all its summer glory.  You are invited to come early to class and explore the walking trails and gardens within the Morris as part of your experience.

Thursday, August 27
5:15 – 6:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

LEE ARMILLEI, Principal, Landscape Designer, APLD

Welcome to the world of ecological design, where environment and art intersect. Get your creative juices flowing as you combine design process & design principles with the ecology you’ve learned in prior certificate courses. Students will design a predetermined site to create a beautiful and immersive space, supportive of people and the planet.

This intensive two-day workshop starts with the basics of understanding the client, analyzing the site and drafting plans, and builds as students shape the landscape using design principles and ecological themes. Students will then develop a site-specific plant palette and apply it to foundation plantings, natural areas, and the spaces in between. Through a combination of lecture, studio-time, and homework, students will gain real time practice and feedback, learning to make informed decisions in ecological design. Although the class will be working on a predetermined site, each design is sure to be unique!

This course is open to the public; with priority registration offered to individuals enrolled in Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ Certificate in Ecological Horticulture.  Completion of this course counts toward the requirements of the certificate program. This course has been submitted to carry 10 CEUs with LA CES, ISA, PLNA, and the New Jersey Board of Tree Experts. 

2 FRIDAYS, January 23, 30
10:00 am – 3:30 pm

Members: $250 | Non-members: $260

Please go to our Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture section to register for this course.

Dan Lurie, Erdenheim Farm Manager and ISA Certified Arborist 

This class will cover the basics of winter (dormant) pruning of apple and peach trees. The discussion will include how fruit trees grow and produce flowers and fruit, pruning tools, and a demonstration of pruning large mature fruit trees; followed by a hands-on portion of the class where each student will prune a young peach tree.   
 
The class is held at Erdenheim Farm - 5051 Flourtown Road, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444 - where there are 125 fruit trees. Class is outside so attendees should dress appropriately and bring their own pruning shears with a holster. 
 
This class has been submitted for 2.5 CEUs for ISA Certified Arborists. 

Wednesday, February 25 
10:00 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $60 / Non-members: $65 

Eloise Gayer, Rosarian, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Gorgeous summer roses start with late winter garden preparation and planning. This class begins with an overview of rose care, including pruning, planting, fertilizing, and disease prevention. A pruning demonstration will follow, and then you will have the opportunity to practice pruning in Morris’s Rose Garden.  

We will meet at the Welcome Center and then move outdoors to the Rose Garden. Bring your hand pruners, garden gloves, and a kneeling pad. Please dress for the weather. 

Saturday, March 7 
10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

John Janick, Owner, Good Host Plants 

Join John Janick for an in-depth program on how to design and grow a thriving native plant garden that supports biodiversity and beauty year round. Moving past the “why” and into the “how,” this 201-level workshop will guide participants through the key steps of creating a successful native planting—from choosing the right plants for different site conditions to preparing your soil and managing expectations for the first few years of growth. Learn about top-performing native species for sun, shade, wet, and dry areas, and gain practical tips for long-term maintenance and success. Whether you’re starting from scratch or enhancing an existing garden, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to create a resilient landscape that benefits both people and wildlife.  

This program will take place via Zoom; a link will be sent to all registrants in advance of the program. This class has been submitted for 1.5 CEUs and is an approved elective in the Ecological Horticulture Certificate Program.  

Thursday, March 12  
7:00 – 8:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Vince Marrocco, Gayle E. Maloney Director of Horticulture, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

Learn to skillfully prune shrubs and small trees to achieve a natural shape and abundant flowering.  After an in-door lecture, you will have the opportunity to see demonstrations designed to help you master pruning concepts and gain confidence. Formative pruning for young trees and proper pruning techniques for larger, older trees will be covered, as well as naturalistic techniques for creating attractive hedges and methods for reducing the size of overgrown shrubbery.

We will meet in the Welcome Center.  Please bring hand pruners and a small pruning saw to the class. 

Friday, March 20 
9:30 am – 12:00 pm

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40

Eloise Gayer, Horticulturist, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Gardeners and land stewards are uniquely placed to combat our planet’s biodiversity crisis by gardening with a sensitivity to the needs of wildlife. This goal can feel overwhelming given the diverse needs of wildlife communities and the enormity of ecological challenges faced by our remaining natural habitat. This course will begin by offering an overview of these challenges, how they might be addressed in a home landscape, and discuss ecological concepts that underpin wildlife gardening, including forest succession, habitat types (edge, canopy, understory, etc.) and habitat heterogeneity. This foundation will inform the practical aspects of the class, which will focus on horticultural techniques that support and encourage wildlife and their application in a variety of garden spaces. We will also zoom in on specific wildlife groups – birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects – and discuss ways to manage landscapes with these wildlife groups in mind. 

The lecture component will be held online, and two field components will be held in person, one at the Morris Arboretum & Gardens, and the other at a different regional natural area. These field components will include design exercises to help the participant consider how they might adapt an outdoor space to maximize wildlife benefits and will explore examples of successful management for wildlife in existing gardens.

This course is open to the public, with priority registration offered to individuals enrolled in Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture. Completion of this course counts towards the CORE requirements of the Certificate Program. This three-part program has been submitted to carry 9 CEUs.

Wednesday, March 25 (ONLINE)
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Friday, March 27 (Field day)
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Friday, April 3 (Field day)
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Members: $210  |  Non-members: $225

Please go to our Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture section to register for this course.

Allison Houghton, Ecological Consultant; Educator

In this course we explore ecological approaches to common pest and disease problems in landscapes. When (and if) problems do arise, they are often indicators of stress or imbalances in the system. Thinking of pests, weeds, and diseases as indicators (even “allies”!) can give us valuable insights into how to return to an overall state of health and resilience. This course encourages students to build their capacity to read landscapes deeply and develop a stewardship approach to land management. We will cover key concepts like life cycles of pests and diseases, what weeds tell us, and how to recognize early signs of trouble as well as strategic intervention points.

Throughout the course, you will learn how to assess environmental conditions, identify stress factors, and choose the most effective solutions for your needs, whether they involve simple interventions or more complex approaches like integrated pest management (IPM). A key component of the course is building the confidence to evaluate the right strategy for your landscape, understanding the range of options available that offer effective, safe and strategic support for a more resilient landscape. We will also discuss strategies for dealing with weeds and animal pests as well as ways to evaluate overall plant health and susceptibility to stress. Ultimately, this course seeks to empower you to engage more deeply in land stewardship, giving you the tools to make decisions that support the long-term ecological health of your landscape.

This course is open to the public, with priority registration offered to individuals enrolled in Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture. Completion of this course counts towards the CORE requirements of the Certificate Program. This two-part program has been submitted to carry 6 CEUs. 

Wednesday, April 8 (ONLINE)
7:00 pm—9:00 pm

Friday, April 17 (Field day)
9:00 am—2:00 pm

Members: $165 | Non-members: $175

Book Recommendation: 
The Organic Gardener’s Handbook of Natural Pest and Disease Control: A Complete Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Garden and Yard the Earth Friendly Way. Edited by Fern Marshall Bradley, Barbara W. Ellis, and Deborah L. Martin. 2009.

Please go to our Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture section to register for this course.

Jen Monico, Horticulturist, Morris Arboretum & Gardens 

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. We will 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.  

Friday, April 10 
10:00 – 11:30 am 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

Thomas J. Mrazik, Horticulturist and Owner of Goodly Gardens, Worcester PA 

Fall in love today! Whether your garden is modest or vast, formal or informal, the beauty, diversity and ease of care of ornamental grasses (Poaceae) make them well suited to boost your home garden’s attractiveness.  Ornamental grasses have a wealth of forms and colors, lasting from spring into winter. Their grace, elegance, and animation are unmatched. 

In this class you will learn about ornamental grasses’ seasonal growth types, distinctive features, many garden benefits, and how best to care for them. We will explore design principles and explore design options for the home garden, including the increasingly popular naturalistic or meadow styles. We will highlight top cool and warm season ornamental grasses. 

The course format is an interactive presentation, with adequate time for discussion and Q&A. 

Wednesday, April 15 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

Rebecca Dragonetti, Landscape Designer, Nursery Manager at Refugia Design

In this class we’ll find inspiration in the layered structure of natural plant communities and learn from ecology-based models to select native plants based on competitiveness and response to stress in the landscape. We’ll explore related planting design theories put forth by Nigel Dunnett, Thomas Rainer, & Claudia West. These theories will help us learn how to structure plant lists to achieve our desired outcomes, provide more habitat, and require less inputs than traditional landscape models.

We’ll review specific plant lists related to sustainable garden elements including rain gardens, groundcovers, erosion control, and lawn alternatives, in conjunction with observation of plant communities in the fields. We'll also touch on resources for learning about high performing plants in the trade & how to assess plants at the time of purchase.

This three-part class includes two 1.5 hour in-person lectures, and one 3-hour lecture + field day. All sessions will be held in person at the Morris. This course is open to the public, with priority registration offered to individuals enrolled in Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture. Completion of this course counts towards the CORE requirements of the Certificate Program.  This three-part program has been submitted to carry 9 CEUs.

Wednesday, April 22
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Wednesday, April 29
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Saturday, May 2
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Members: $210 | Non-members: $225

Please go to our Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture section to register for this course.

Bob Gutowski, Former Director of Visitor Experience & Education, Morris Arboretum & Gardens  

Join former Director of Education Bob Gutowski in his own lush garden at the height of the vibrant spring season for hands-on, experiential learning to hone your skills in plant division and transplanting techniques. Take away gardening tips along with plants that you’ll have divided or dug as part of the workshop. This practical workshop will include sun and shade, meadow plants, ground covers, border plants, and possibly some woody treasures, depending on what we find ready and waiting for you in Bob’s garden. Come deepen your horticultural knowledge under the guidance of an expert green thumb!

Exact address (in Flourtown) will be provided to registrants via email before the class. Bring a lunch and dress to garden! 

Friday, April 24 
10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

Members: $65 / Non-members: $70

Samantha Nestory, Engagement Manager and Naturalist, Stoneleigh: a natural garden 

Insects rely on plants for a variety of things, such as food, shelter, breeding habitat, and much more. For our native insects, native plant species are of particular importance as they often fill unique needs that other plants cannot. Join us as we learn how insects and native plants interact and support each other in our own backyards. 

After an indoor lecture, we will move out into Stoneleigh’s gardens to explore the plants and their pollinators in the landscape. 

This program will take place at Stoneleigh, a former private estate located in Villanova that is now one of the newest public gardens in the Philadelphia region. Its extraordinary trees, sweeping vistas, and intimate garden spaces reflect more than a century of loving care by three different families. In its new role, Stoneleigh is an intriguing blend of historical landscapes overlayed with beautiful new gardens designed to support and nurture our local ecology. Stoneleigh’s Engagement Manager Samantha Nestory holds ecology and entomology degrees from the University of Delaware and is passionate about ecological gardening, native plants, and insect conservation. 

This course has been submitted to carry 2 LA CES and ISA CEUs and is an approved elective in the Morris Arboretum & Garden’s Certificate in Ecological Horticulture.  

Thursday, May 7 
10:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Mallory Sustick, Landscape Stewardship Manager, Refugia Design

Traditional horticulture often employs a cycle of seasonal tasks to maintain designed spaces, such as mulching, fertilizing, pruning and cutbacks. These practices have long been adopted and applied as the norm for many home gardeners with the intention of keeping gardens looking the same year after year. Gardens are not innately static spaces and are composed of many living things, all of which are dynamic and interconnected. Approaching garden management through an ecological lens requires us to position ourselves in relation to the spaces we’re caring for, as opposed to separate from them.

This course will explore the principles and practices of responsibly stewarding different garden types, prioritizing natural resources and ecosystems to ensure their long-term health and resiliency. We’ll compare and discuss different methods and materials that aim to support functional and delicate ecosystems in the garden. Through a combination of in-class and field-based learning, you’ll gain hands-on experience on how to tread lightly and take cues from nature when managing a designed landscape.

This course is open to the public, with priority registration offered to individuals enrolled in Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture. Completion of this course counts towards the CORE  requirements of the Certificate Program.  This three-part program has been submitted to carry 8 CEUs.

Saturday, May 9 (ONLINE)
9:00 AM—11:00 AM

Friday, May 15 (Field day)
9:00 AM—12:00 PM

Friday, May 22 (Field day)
9:00 AM—12:00 PM

Members: $195 | Non-members: $210 

Please go to our Certificate Program in Ecological Horticulture section to register for this course.

Trevor Schulte, Azalea Meadow Horticulturist, Morris Arboretum & Gardens  

Most people are familiar with the innumerable benefits of living trees, but even after their death, trees provide vital habitat, shelter, and food for wildlife. And beyond their ecological benefits, stumps, branches, and other parts of felled trees can be beautiful garden elements, too! Join Morris Horticulturist Trevor Schulte to learn how dead and dying trees still teem with life, and how deadwood branches and other parts of felled trees are used at the Morris in our garden designs. After a brief indoor presentation, we will walk through the garden with Trevor. We will visit the Morris Stumpery, view some of the snags that the Morris has left standing for the benefit of wildlife, and look at some of the deadwood elements in various garden displays throughout the grounds.  

This course has been submitted for 1.5 CEUs and is an approved elective in the Certificate Program for Ecological Horticulture.  

Thursday, June 18 
1:30 – 3:00 pm 

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30 

Tony Dufour, Registered Landscape Architect, Anthony Dufour Gardens 

In this intensive lecture, we'll cover the advantages and disadvantages of planting nursery stock— harvested, balled-and-burlapped, bare root, grown in containers or root control bags. Participants will gain a solid understanding of handling and transporting trees, identifying the root collar and proper planting depth, and dealing with root defects such as girdling roots. We'll discuss the size of the planting hole, soil amendments (yes or no?), pruning (yes or no?), watering and tools and equipment of the trade.  

This course has been submitted to carry 2 CEUs for ISA Certified Arborists and municipal specialists. 

Friday, April 24 
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Members: $45 / Non-members: $50 

Please go to our School of Arboriculture section to register for this course.

Mitch Roberge, Artist; Horticulturist, Haverford College 

Spring is the season of renewal—for you and your houseplants! As days lengthen and light returns, it’s the perfect time to refresh your indoor collection. Learn the essentials of light, watering, humidity, and pest care to help your plants thrive all year long. A lecture will be followed by a demonstration of potting and propagation techniques, plus a session of Q&A to talk about any specific houseplant woes you may have at home. 

Wednesday, June 24 
5:30 – 7:00 pm 

Members: $35 / Non-members: $40 

Tama Wong, Andrew Conboy, and Mike Van Clef

A participatory workshop on practical approaches for controlling invasive plants, planting for resilience, and adapting to change

Join panelists Tama Wong, Andrew Conboy, and Mike Van Clef in a participatory discussion of common sense, practical, and real-life approaches to controlling invasive plants, and designing, establishing, maintaining and restoring vibrant, resilient landscapes.  Each panelist brings a different but overlapping expertise to the topic, and a shared passion for the health and resilience of the flora and fauna of our Mid-Atlantic region. 
You will be invited to share knowledge, build community, and learn from real-world case studies—highlighting both successes and setbacks. You will leave with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and a deeper understanding of how to control disruptive plants while restoring balance to landscapes ranging from highway medians to backyard gardens. 
Topics will include the difference between ‘maintenance’ and ‘stewardship’; finding value on roadsides and in vacant lots; use / misuse of herbicides; the ‘addition by subtraction’ approach to invasive plant management; mulching and mowing; native plant selection; and so much more. 
Participants will include regional vegetation managers, landscape and municipal professionals, home gardeners, small scale farmers, native species reclamation enthusiasts, and more. 

This interactive forum thrives on collaboration, so come ready to share your own challenges and insights! This program has been submitted for 3 LA CES CEUs.

Friday, February 20th
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Members: $35 | Non-members: $40

Lori Litchman, Author; Teacher; Poet 

Join Lori Litchman, author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles, Philadelphia to explore the Pine Barrens of New Jersey! Black Run Preserve is a bog environment, which provides a soft, spongy surface for our hike. The hike is relatively flat with beautiful bogs to view along the way. We’ll look for signs of beavers and explore the flora of this unique Pine Barrens environment. 

We’ll take a two- to three-mile hike at a meandering pace, pausing regularly to enjoy nature’s beauty. During our hike, we’ll practice being more mindful in nature, starting with a grounding meditation and then by practicing long periods of social silence and minimal talking to allow ourselves to be more present in nature and less intrusive toward our more-than-human kin. This is a great opportunity to explore this nearby and unique natural environment with a knowledgeable guide! 

We’ll meet at the Kettle Run Trailhead. There are two parking lots at this location, one right at the trailhead with an overflow lot across Kettle Run Road.  Please dress for the weather, wear good hiking shoes, and bring some water and a snack. There are portable toilets at the trailhead.  

Saturday, April 4 
1:00 – 3:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Troy Bynum, Whitemarsh Foundation  

Join us for a morning exploring the birds at the Dixon Meadow Preserve. Covering 14 acres of land, the Dixon Meadow Preserve includes a boardwalk measuring nearly two-thirds of a mile. The preserve is a haven for birders, walkers and those who enjoy the area’s natural flora and fauna. Each of these three walks will highlight different birds as the meadow’s residents shift in each season! 

Troy Bynum, owner of TB Wildlife Photography LLC, is not only an enthusiastic birder but also a passionate wildlife photographer. Troy’s work focuses on capturing and showcasing the remarkable colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures that are abundant throughout the natural world. In his work, Troy draws attention to the oftentimes overlooked naturally occurring beauty found in the wild. Troy is on a mission to accentuate and celebrate the inherent magnificence of nature. He is the Whitemarsh Foundation’s resident birder and wildlife photographer.  
  
Meet at the Dixon Meadow Preserve, 548 Flourtown Rd, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444. Bring your binoculars.  Please wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather. Choose one date or join us for all three! Register for each session separately. Pricing is per session. 

Saturdays: April 11, June 13, September 5 
8:00 – 9:30 am  

Members: $25 / Non-members: $30

Please go to our Birding section to register for this course

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Pack your binoculars and get ready for a wonderful day of birding with Sharon! First we will spend the morning exploring the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge looking for spring migrants and shore birds. This beautiful refuge is considered one of the best birding areas in the region. The refuge protects more than 48,000 acres of southern New Jersey coastal habitat and is located on one of the Atlantic Flyway's most active flight paths, making it a critical link during seasonal bird migration. After a lunch break, we will take a short drive to the Ocean City Welcome Center and enjoy the heron rookery located there!

There will be many opportunities for great photos, even with your phone! Pack your lunch, a water bottle, and dress for the weather. 

Thursday, April 30 
9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Members: $85 / Non-members: $90

Please go to our Birding section to register for this course

David Culp, Gardener, Author, Lecturer, and Designer 

Meet at historic Brandywine Cottage in Downingtown, PA, for a personal tour of David Culp’s famous layered garden. You can look forward to seeing Galanthus (snow drops), other early spring ephemerals, emerging spring bulbs, and hellebores.  

David Culp is the creator of the gardens at Brandywine Cottage in Downingtown. He has been lecturing about gardens nationwide for more than 25 years. David is a former contributing editor to Horticulture magazine and served as chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Hardy Plant Society. David is vice president of Sunny Border Nurseries in Connecticut. He is the author of the book The Layered Garden, published by Timber Press. 

Thursday, April 30 
10:30 am – 12:00 pm  

Members: $40 / Non-members: $45

Lori Litchman, Author; Teacher; Poet 

How many times have you driven to the airport and noticed the beautiful wetlands of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge? Join Lori Litchman, author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles, Philadelphia to explore America’s first urban wildlife refuge. We’ll follow the 3.7-mile Wetland Loop Trail at a moderate pace. The trail is relatively flat and traverses a mostly packed gravel trail. Given the distance, the hike is best suited for those with some hiking experience and believe themselves physically able to walk nearly four miles at a steady gait. 

We’ll also keep our eyes peeled for numerous birds, as John Heinz is a prime bird-watching park, especially during spring migration.  

We’ll meet at the trailhead to the Wetland Loop, which is right next to the parking lot. There’s ample parking in the lot and modern bathrooms in the Visitor Center. Dress for the weather, wear good hiking shoes, and bring some water and a snack. 

Saturday, May 2 
1:00 – 3:30 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35 

Sharon Meeker, Experienced Birder and Trip Leader 

Join us on a birding tour at Laurel Hill East, one of Philadelphia’s very special places. We will walk through this beautiful arboretum and look for spring birds among the towering trees and diverse plantings. We will be guided both by Sharon and a cemetery tour guide who will help us learn about the landscape and its history, too! 
  
Established in 1836 as the second major garden-designed cemetery in the U.S., Laurel Hill is the nation’s first National Historic Landmark Cemetery. Laurel Hill’s natural beauty, serenity, and views of the Schuylkill River make it a great place to go for a peaceful walk or retreat from the city.  This beautiful green space is complemented by the breathtaking art, sculpture, and architecture that can be found there.   

Please bring your binoculars. Parking is available within the cemetery. We will meet at the gatehouse courtyard at the cemetery’s main entrance at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132.   

Tuesday, May 5 
7:30 am – 12:30 pm 

Members: $45 / Non-members: $50 

Please go to our Birding section to register for this course

Erin Monda, Horticulture Manager, Calder Gardens 

Calder Gardens is Philadelphia’s newest public garden designed by renowned Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf, located in Fairmount. Join Horticulture Manager Erin Monda for a tour of the Calder Gardens landscape, where she will cover the construction and installation of the garden, Oudolf's designs, plant highlights and some of her favorite combinations, and management of the garden. Admission into the building to discover Alexander Calder's art is included. (Exploration of the indoor portion of the Museum is self-guided.) 

Wednesday, May 20 
1:00 – 3:00 pm 

Members: $65 / Non-members: $70 

Kathryn Butler, Greenhouse and Garden Manager, Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania 

Step out of the city and into the verdant oasis of the James G. Kaskey Memorial Park, home of the BioPond. Established as the first botanical garden of the University of Pennsylvania in the 1890s, this 3.5-acre haven is still cared for by the Biology Department. Its collections reflect generations of horticulturists who have cultivated a densely layered landscape, from the beautiful towering canopy of shade trees to the diminutive herbaceous plants nestled among shrubs and understory trees. 

Join us for a leisurely walk along the park’s winding paths as we highlight standout plants and explore how we select species that will thrive in the park’s varied microclimates. We’ll also discuss the maintenance strategies we use to support a resilient, thriving ecosystem.  

Wednesday, May 27 
11:30 am – 1:00 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35

Andrew Conboy, Certified Arborist & Founder, Community Canopy Project 

From introduced exotics to nursery remnants to rare native species, there is a good diversity of plants within Wissahickon Valley Park. Andrew Conboy, urban forester and ISA Certified Arborist, will lead a walk along Forbidden Drive to point out and discuss interesting trees, shrubs, and wildflowers along the way. He will teach you how to identify these plants, discuss their ecological value, and point out various galls and other wildlife that can be found using these plants.  

We will meet at the start of Forbidden Drive at the end of Northwestern Avenue. Parking is available along Northwestern Ave. Please wear good walking shoes and bring a drink. 

Saturday, May 30 
11:00 am – 1:00 pm 

Members: $30 / Non-members: $35