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Many Arboretum Adult Classes & Programs Postponed or Canceled
Please check the COVID-19 Arb Classes Updates Webpage for the latest updates.
Programs that remain on this page are still open for registration!
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Gardening & Horticulture - General
Classes & Workshops
Grow your green thumb with helpful advice from industry experts, researchers and professionals! Learn best practices, useful tips, and proven techniques for keeping your yard and garden healthy and sustainable in Minnesota.
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Creating a Home Landscape You Can Love and Enjoy
FALL Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon
September 19, October 3, 17 & 31, November 14, 2020
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$200 member/$250 non-member, includes Arboretum admission and all supplies
Couples price! $225 member couple/$280 non-member couple, for couples working together on the same project
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Online Live Webinar: Apple Breeding in Minnesota
Janet Sinner Endowed Horticultural Lecture Series
Thursday, October 22
6:30-7:30 p.m.
David Bedford, Senior Research Fellow - Department of Horticultural Science, University of Minnesota Apple Breeding Program; part of the team that created the Honeycrisp apple
Apples are in the Arboretum's roots... literally! Join David Bedford, one of the creators of the Honeycrisp, to learn more about this delicious fruit and its past, present and future in Minnesota... including:
- A quick history of apple evolution and domestication
- How and why the apple breeding program began over a century ago
- The current apple breeding process and how new varieties are developed
- Some exciting new up and coming research
Zoom: Participation in this live online interactive class requires that you use the free Zoom video conferencing service. You may watch and participate through any smart device, such as a smart phone, pad or laptop. To get the best experience, we recommend you install Zoom on the device you plan to use.
How to register: Registration is per household using the same computer. Register using the email address you want to use for communications about this class. If you would like to register multiple different households on different computers, please register them each separately with separate emails. Registered attendees will receive the link needed to join in their initial purchase confirmation by email. The Arboretum will also send a reminder email with the link approximately 2 days prior to the start date.
Questions? Send class-related questions to the Arboretum virtual host, Laura Vogel, lbvogel@umn.edu
Limit 500, Live Webinar on Zoom platform
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$10 member/$25 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Seasonal Evergreen Make-and-Take: Winter Wonders Wreath
Saturday, November 14, 2020
9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Laura Vogel, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Adult Education Manager
Level: No experience necessary!
Supplies: All supplies are included in the fee for a ~14" diameter wreath (varies slightly based on the wreath maker)
Where better to create a show-stopping evergreen wreath than an Arboretum? Enjoy a fun, casually-festive Arboretum atmosphere as you custom create your own wreath...great for your own seasonal decor, or as a gift!
- Learn why evergreens are so well-suited for winter outdoor display
- Follow step-by-step guidance to create a full, botanically diverse wreath on a wire frame
- Add unique botanical touches such as cones, pods, fruit, and perhaps even citrus!
You will go home with a beautiful creation that will welcome visitors throughout the holiday season, and the skills needed to make more wreaths in the future!
Bring from home: gloves and pruners, a garbage bag to safely transport your wreath, and dress for sap!
Limit 24, Hort & Ops Multipurpose Room (directions will be emailed prior to class)
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$75 member/$90 non-member, includes Arboretum admission and all supplies |
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2021 Extension ProHort Core Course
Registration Deadline: December 1, 2020
Online Class At-Your-Own-Pace starting January 2021
ProHort is for industry professionals, homeowners, educators and anyone looking for comprehensive horticulture foundation education from University of Minnesota Extension. The ProHort Core Course includes the same online classes offered for the Master Gardener Volunteer Core Course. Receive the same instruction at the same time, without the obligation of volunteering or continuing education!
This course consists of 14 modules that can be completed online, at-your-own-pace. There is a knowledge quiz at the end of each module:
- Botany & Horticulture
- Soils, Composting & Fertilizers
- Herbaceous Plants
- Woody Plants
- Lawn Care
- Weed Management
- Growing Vegetables
- Growing Fruit
- Indoor Plants
- IPM
- Plant Pathology
- Plant Diagnostics
- Entomology
- Living with Wildlife
Optional Introductory Live-Online Meet-and-Greet for Registered Participants
Thursday, January 7, 5-6 p.m.
There will be an optional introductory meet-and-greet with Laura, your teaching assistant, and fellow students! We will go over how to log in, share our burning questions we're hoping to learn from the course, and talk about live learning opportunities along the way. The meeting is optional and will be pre-recorded for those who cannot attend the live session. Please check your email: a link to this optional online meeting was sent in your class registration confirmation.
Optional Live-Online Facilitated Q&A Sessions
6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays, January 21 - April 8
You may optionally choose to virtually attend a Q&A session with your classmates and facilitators (and occasional guest experts) online to review the module content. Registered attendees will receive links to attend these sessions if desired.
How it works - online
You will receive course login information and details by email from your Course Teaching Assistant, Laura, on or before January 8, 2020. The online course is self-paced, and you will have access to complete all the online information, modules, and quizzes through December 2021. If you have questions or challenges with accessing the online course, Laura will be available to assist you (reference her contact information below)!
Reference manual is included
A reference manual will be mailed to you prior to the course start date, approximately mid-December. Enter your mailing address at checkout, or leave your address blank if you do not want a paper manual (help save a tree!).
Time Commitment
Expect an average of 40 - 60 hours to complete all the course material and quizzes.
Certificates of Completion
Earn a Certificate of Completion by passing each of the 14 online knowledge quizzes that are available after each module.
Cancellation policy
$50 refund for cancellations on or before December 15, 2020. No refunds after December 20. Course registration is transferable through December 31, 2020.
Registration Deadline: December 1, 2020
Questions for the ProHort Teaching Assistant?
Contact Laura Vogel at lbvogel@umn.edu
Limit 100
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$550 Arb member or member of Endorsing Organization/$590 non-member, includes manual and optional Q&A sessions |
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Creating a Home Landscape You Can Love and Enjoy
WINTER Saturdays 1:30-4:30 p.m.
January 9 & 23, February 6 & 20, March 6, 2021
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Do you dream about having a beautiful home landscape or have a specific landscape project in mind, but don't know how to get started? In this progressive, five-session workshop, your own yard is your class project! Learn in class and through take-home assignments:
- Theory and principles of landscape design
- How to analyze soils
- Proper plant selection for your site
- How to develop a functional, manageable, environmentally sound, cost-effective, and visually pleasing design unique to your home setting
In addition to class group learning, there will be time for the instructor to check-in and provide advice specific to each participant's project.
HOMEWORK FOR REGISTERED STUDENTS
Read this letter from your instructor
Please bring the following information to the first workshop session:
- A dimensioned sketch of your site (the entire property) that includes all existing buildings, structures, and hardscapes (e.g., house, garage, driveway, walkways, patios, decks, utilities, play sets, outbuildings, fencing, dog kennel, etc.) that will be retained. Existing trees and other plants that will be retained should also be included. Again, note this is just a dimensioned sketch, not a to-scale drawing.
- A plot plan of your site if available on hand or if you can get one from your city or county
- Pictures of your site - at minimum, you should have photos of all four elevations of the residence (front, back, and each side) and any other views that provide context and information that might be helpful to you and help others understand your site; pictures may also be stored and shared electronically with an iPad, laptop computer, or other electronic device (the minimum size for printed images should be 5" x 7").
- A Completed Client Interview Form (provided separately).
- A Completed Site Survey Form (provided separately).
Limit 16, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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WINTER Saturdays 1:30-4:30 p.m.
January 9 & 23, February 6 & 20, March 6, 2021
$200 member/$250 non-member, includes Arboretum admission and all supplies
Couples price! $225 member couple/$280 non-member couple, for couples working together on the same project |
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Plant Selection: Right Plant, Right Place, Right Purpose!
Select a session
Saturday, January 16, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Julie Weisenhorn, Horticulture Educator, University of Minnesota Extension
After a long, cold winter it's easy to go a bit wild at the garden center, but proper plant selection is critical to sustainable landscapes and the overall success of a design. Learn proper plant selection by:
- Understanding the site itself - its soil, light, moisture, exposure, size, etc.
- Choosing plants that will thrive in your specific site
- Work in Extension's Plant Elements of Design plant selection database to try out your new knowledge on your own landscape
You will leave the class with increased confidence to make plant choices in your 2020 garden, and an understanding of tools that are available to help!
Required Equipment
A wifi-ready device, such as a laptop or tablet. Smartphones will also work, but not preferred!
Optional Add-on: Plant Sourcing
Same day as class, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Stay for an optional Plant Sourcing add-on to learn:
- How to find sources for specific species and cultivars, from local garden centers to mail in catalogs
- Tips and tricks for choosing healthy plants
- Leave with a list of resources so you can plan your garden with confidence
Limit 14, Oswald Visitor Center - Azalea Classroom
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Saturday, January 16, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m
Class Only $41 member /$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
Class + Plant Sourcing Add-on $56 member/$71 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
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Saturday, February 20, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Class Only $41 member /$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
Class + Plant Sourcing Add-on $56 member/$71 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Science of Plant Propagation: Seeds
Saturday, January 23, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Seed catalogs are starting to flood the mailbox-so tempting! Make the most of your purchases by understanding the science of seed propagation. You will learn about:
- Biology and practice of sexual propagation through seeds
- Basic seed collection and storage methods
- How to overcome seed dormancy
- Tried-and-true techniques to grow a wide variety of plants from seeds
- You will take home several seed-based projects for spring growth!
Science of Plant Propagation is a 4-part series. Take one class or multiple classes to build your science foundation!
Seeds - Saturday, January 23, 9 a.m.-noon
Cuttings - Saturday, January 30, 9 a.m.-noon
Grafting - Saturday, February 6, 9 a.m.-noon
Soils - Saturday, February 13, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for 2 or more Science of Plant Propagation classes and save $8 off each class! Use coupon code 8OFF at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order. Not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission and all supplies |
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Science of Plant Propagation: Cuttings
Saturday, January 30, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Create new plants from existing ones! Jim will show you how to propagate plants asexually (without seeds) using a variety of fascinating techniques. Learn:
- Basics of asexual propagation and biology
- How and when to divide plants, take cuttings, use layers, and more
- How cuttings are used for commercial production
- You will prepare your own cuttings and take home a personal "greenhouse-in-a-pot"
Science of Plant Propagation is a 4-part series. Take one class or multiple classes to build your plant science foundation!
Seeds - Saturday, January 23, 9 a.m.-noon
Cuttings - Saturday, January 30, 9 a.m.-noon
Grafting - Saturday, February 6, 9 a.m.-noon
Soils - Saturday, February 13, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for 2 or more Science of Plant Propagation classes and save $8 off each class! Use coupon code 8OFF at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order. Not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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The New Perennial Movement
Saturday, January 30, 2021
1-3 p.m.
Mike Heger, Lecturer and Author of "Perennials A to Z", Retired Owner Ambergate Gardens
Learn about the latest planting design trend for perennials, dubbed "the new perennial movement." Beyond short-lived showy flowers, learn how to appreciate perennials' foliage and functional benefits that bring beauty and joy year-round. Join Mike and other gardening enthusiasts for beautiful images and engaging discussion as you learn:
- The origin and inspiration for this style
- How to find beauty in natural plant communities, patterns and rhythms found in nature
- How landscapes in this style require less inputs and create habitats that benefit all fauna
- Appreciate structural, architectural, seasonal qualities
- Explore functional use of perennials for green infrastructure
Limit 40, Tashjian Bee and Pollinator Discovery Center - McVay Learning Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Science of Plant Propagation: Grafting
Saturday, February 6, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Grafting is the technique of combining two different plants so that they grow together. It is an art and science that is used in the production of many plants. In this class, you will learn:
- Biology of grafting as asexual propagation
- Different grafting techniques used to propagate plants
- Appreciation for the skill and experience grafting takes
- How to make a graft through hands-on practice
- How to take care of the grafted plants you get to take home!
Science of Plant Propagation is a 4-part series. Take one class or multiple classes to build your plant science foundation!
Seeds - Saturday, January 23, 9 a.m.-noon
Cuttings - Saturday, January 30, 9 a.m.-noon
Grafting - Saturday, February 6, 9 a.m.-noon
Soils - Saturday, February 13, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for 2 or more Science of Plant Propagation classes and save $8 off each class! Use coupon code 8OFF at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order. Not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Creating Habitat for Birds and Butterflies in your Yard & Garden
Saturday, February 6, 2021
10:30 a.m.-noon
Julie Boden, Gardener and Nature Enthusiast
Are you interested in attracting more birds and butterflies to your garden or patio? Come learn everything you need to know to invite a stunning variety of these winged visitors into your own backyard sanctuary!
- Food, water and shelter
- Which plants will best fit your location to provide food or shelter
- Which species are attracted to different plants
- Simple non-plant additions are helpful to meet the needs of birds and butterflies
Limit 50, Tashjian Bee and Pollinator Discovery Center - McVay Learning Lab
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$25 member/$40 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Science of Plant Propagation: Soils
Saturday, February 13, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Make this your best growing season yet by really knowing and understanding the soil in which you grow your plants. In this class, you will learn:
- How soil is formed
- What you need to know as a gardener about soil texture and structure
- Role played by organic content like compost
- How to maintain good drainage, aeration, and fertility
- What you need to know about the differences between soil in the field and in containers and how to choose container soils
- Recommended (but optional): Have your home soil tested prior to class for additional insight during class. See testing information and fees online (link: http://soiltest.dl.umn.edu/sites/soiltest.dl.umn.edu/files/media/lawn_and_garden.pdf)
Science of Plant Propagation is a 4-part series. Take one class or multiple classes to build your science foundation!
Seeds - Saturday, January 23, 9 a.m.-noon
Cuttings - Saturday, January 30, 9 a.m.-noon
Grafting - Saturday, February 6, 9 a.m.-noon
Soils - Saturday, February 13, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for 2 or more Science of Plant Propagation classes and save $8 off each class! Use coupon code 8OFF at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order. Not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Growing and Repotting Orchids at Home
Saturday, February 13, 2021
9-11 a.m.
Steve Gonzalez, American Orchid Society judge, presenter, and internationally known orchid expert
Are you inspired by the beautiful tropical orchids in the Arboretum Flower Show, and want to grow them at home? Join Steve for an introduction to this gorgeous plant family and how to successfully care for them, as he covers:
- Basic growing conditions needed, from light and water to fertilizer and growing medium
- Popular orchid species that adapt well to growing indoors, and are readily available
- How to get your orchids to rebloom
- Demonstration of when and how to repot your orchid
- Troubleshooting pests and common problems
At the end of class, Steve will pull names out of a hat to give some of his orchids to the students!
Limit 30, Snyder Building - Fireplace Room
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$20 member/$35 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Growing Tillandsias and Bromeliads at Home
Saturday, February 13, 2021
noon-2 p.m.
Steve Gonzalez, American Orchid Society judge, presenter, and internationally known orchid expert
Tillandsias, or "air plants" and bromeliads are commonly seen at garden centers, but have unique growing needs that require a little more knowledge. In this class, you will learn:
- The interesting growing habits of epiphytic plants (plants that commonly do not require soil to grow)
- Some of the most beautiful species and cultivars that you can grow indoors
- Tips and tricks for insuring your tillandsias and bromeliads stay healthy and blooming
- Troubleshooting pests and common problems
At the end of class, Steve will pull names out of a hat to give some of his tillandsias and bromeliads to the students!
Limit 30, Snyder Building - Fireplace Room
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$20 member/$35 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Pruning Essentials: Deciduous & Coniferous Trees
Saturday, February 13, 2021
1:30-4:30 p.m.
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Pruning is an important gardening practice that is essential for long-term health and vigor of your deciduous and coniferous trees. With Jim's expert guidance, you will:
- Learn when and how to prune and train these types of trees
- Learn how to avoid common mistakes that can cause damage
- Learn how to train newly planted trees
- Visit the Arboretum collections for on-site demonstrations of proper pruning techniques (weather permitting)
- Be sure to come dressed for the weather (layers are recommended for indoor classroom time) and ready to spend time outdoors!
Pruning Essentials is a 2-part series. Take one class or both to build your pruning prowess!
Deciduous & Coniferous Trees - Saturday, February 13, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Shrubs, Woody Vines, & Herbaceous - Saturday, February 20, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for both Pruning Essentials Classes and receive $15 off your total order! Use coupon code DISCOUNT15 at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order, not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Pruning Essentials: Shrubs, Woody Vines, & Herbaceous Species
Saturday, February 20, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
Pruning is an important gardening practice that is essential for long-term health and vigor of landscape plants such as shrubs, woody vines and even most herbaceous species. With Jim's expert guidance, you will:
- Learn when and how to prune and train these landscape plants
- Learn how to avoid common mistakes that can cause damage
- Visit the Arboretum collections for on-site demonstrations of proper pruning techniques (weather permitting)
- Be sure to come dressed for the weather (layers are recommended for indoor classroom time) and ready to spend time outdoors!
Pruning Essentials is a 2-part series. Take one class or both to build your pruning prowess!
Deciduous & Coniferous Trees - Saturday, February 13, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Shrubs, Woody Vines, & Herbaceous - Saturday, February 20, 9 a.m.-noon
COUPON
Register for both Pruning Essentials Classes and receive $15 off your total order! Use coupon code DISCOUNT15 at checkout or call 612-301-1210. Classes must be purchased at the same time in the same order, not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. No cash value.
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Limit 22, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Promise of Spring: Forcing Branches to Bloom Indoors
Saturday, February 27, 2021
9 a.m.-noon
Jim Calkins, landscape and production horticulturist, Research Information Director - MN Nursery & Landscape Assn
After a long Minnesota winter, it's nice to be rewarded with some early spring blooms by hoodwinking tree and shrub branches to bloom indoors through a technique called forcing. In this class, you'll:
- Learn how to successfully coax tree and shrub branches to bloom indoors months ahead of normal
- Learn where to get branches for forcing, or how to wisely harvest them from your own plants
- Take home some branches from a variety of woody species to force at home
- Admire spring bud-break and the blooming process more than ever!
Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Houseplant Patrol: Basic Care, Problem-Solving & Resources
Saturday, March 6, 2021
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Julie Weisenhorn, Horticulture Educator, University of Minnesota Extension
Long winters encourage outdoor gardeners to also be indoor gardeners! In this class, you will learn:
- How to grow flowers, tropicals and herbs inside
- The basics of seed starting How to refresh overwintering plants in time for spring
- Best practices of indoor gardening and the science behind it
- Explore the Greenhouse as you talk about pests, repotting, fertilizing and more
- Take a few cuttings from our Greenhouse to start at home!
Limit 12, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Questions?
Arboretum Education Office
Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.*
arbedu@umn.edu
612-301-1210*
*We are temporarily working from home during Covid-19, we may return phone messages from a home phone
Cancellations & Exchanges
Cancellation policy
COVID-19 Class Updates
Waitlist
The best chance of being enrolled in a sold out class is to add your name to the waitlist. Click the orange "waitlist" button next to the class and complete the form. There is no obligation to register if a spot opens. If the waitlist shows enough demand, additional sessions may be added.
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