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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
Saturdays January 4 & 18, February 1, 15 & 29, 2020: 1:30-4:30 p.m. (150-01-04-20)
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 and other site characteristics
- 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
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Sold out. Add your name to the waitlist, we will contact you if a spot opens.
Saturdays January 4 & 18, February 1, 15 & 29, 2020
1:30-4:30 p.m. (150-01-04-20) |
$200 member/$250 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
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!
Choose a session
Tuesday, January 14, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 150-01-14-20
Saturday, February 22, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 150-02-22-20
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!
Limit 14, Oswald Visitor Center - Azalea Classroom
Optional Add-on Session: 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
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Tuesday, January 14, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
$41 member/$56 non-member, without add-on session
$56 member/$71 non-member, includes Optional Plant Sourcing add-on session |
all fees include Arboretum admission and all supplies
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Saturday, February 22, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
$41 member/$56 non-member, without add-on session
$56 member/$71 non-member, includes Optional Plant Sourcing add-on session |
| all fees include Arboretum admission and all supplies |
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Science of Plant Propagation: Seeds
150-01-18-20
Saturday, January 18, 2020
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!
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. |
Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Science of Plant Propagation: Cuttings
150-01-25-20
Saturday, January 25, 2020
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!"
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. |
Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Science of Plant Propagation: Grafting
150-02-01-20
Saturday, February 1, 2020
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 a form of 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!
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. |
Limit 24, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Establishing and Maintaining Prairie Communities
150-02-01-20-01
Saturday, February 1, 2020
1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Beth Markhart, Prairie Restorations
Bring your laptop and learn how to bring an important native plant community onto your property, whether a small garden or large landscape. In this course, you will:
- Discover the benefits of prairie communities, from soil-building to attracting beneficial insects
- Learn how to model native prairie plant communities on a scale that works for your property
- Interact with other prairie gardeners through fun, interactive learning using internet real-time activities during class
- Leave with a site-planning handout and list of resources, plus an understanding of how to establish your own prairie community in the spring.
Bring from home: an internet-accessible laptop (Sorry, no smart pads or phones)
Limit 40, Tashjian Bee and Pollinator Discovery Center - McVay Learning Lab
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$47 member/$62 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Science of Plant Propagation: Soils
150-02-08-20
Saturday, February 8, 2020
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.cfans.umn.edu/sites/g/files/pua891/f/media/lawn_and_garden_2018.pdf)
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. |
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 & Repotting Orchids at Home
150-02-08-20-02
Saturday, February 8, 2020
9 a.m.-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 28, Oswald Visitor Center - Azalea Classroom
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$35 member/$50 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Growing Tillandsias & Bromeliads at Home
150-02-08-20-03
Saturday, February 8, 2020
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 28, Oswald Visitor Center - Azalea Classroom
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$35 member/$50 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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Pruning Essentials: Deciduous & Coniferous Trees
150-02-08-20-01
Saturday, February 8, 2020
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)
NOTE Be sure to come dressed for the weather (layers are recommended for indoor classroom time) and ready to spend time outdoors!
COUPON
Register for both Pruning Essentials Classes Feb 8 & 15 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. |
Limit 22, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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The Power of Balance: Stone Sculptures for your Garden
125-02-15-20
Saturday, February 15, 2020
9:30 a.m.-noon
Peter Juhl, stone balancing artist, www.temporarysculpture.com
Level
No experience necessary
Supplies
Use an assortment of the instructor's practice rocks during class
Dazzle your friends with a new skill that looks like magic and combines elements of meditation, sculpture, and performance art.
- Create impossible looking balances using ordinary stones!
- Learn and practice simple techniques using shape, weight and friction
- Gain insights on photographing your creations including design and composition
- Receive helpful tips on more advanced balancing
You'll leave grounded, refreshed, and able to repeat your balancing act in your own garden or anywhere with stones.
NOTE This workshop is designed for adults; because a general understanding of gravity and physics is discussed, suggested minimum age for this class is 12.
Limit 24, Learning Center - Tree Place
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$42 member/$57 non-member |
| includes Arboretum admission |
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Creating Habitat for Birds and Butterflies in your Yard & Garden
Select a session
Saturday, February 15, 10:30 a.m.-noon 150-02-15-20-02
Saturday, March 14, 1-2:30 p.m. 150-03-14-20
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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Saturday, February 15, 10:30 a.m.-noon
$25 member/$40 non-member, includes Arboretum admission
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Saturday, March 14, 1-2:30 p.m.
$25 member/$40 non-member, includes Arboretum admission |
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Pruning Essentials: Shrubs, Woody Vines & Herbaceous Species
150-02-15-20
Saturday, February 15, 2020
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)
NOTE Be sure to come dressed for the weather (layers are recommended for indoor classroom time) and ready to spend time outdoors!
COUPON
Register for both Pruning Essentials Classes Feb 8 & 15 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. |
Limit 22, Marion Andrus Learning Center - Garden Lab
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$41 member/$56 non-member |
includes Arboretum admission
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New Perennials & Exciting Combinations for MN Gardens
150-02-15-20-01
Saturday, February 15, 2020
1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Mike Heger, Lecturer and Author of "Perennials A to Z", Retired Owner Ambergate Gardens
One of the most enjoyable things about designing with perennials is the myriad combination possibilities in the landscape. Explore:
- Selection process including flower shape, plant form, foliage color and texture
- Exciting examples that illustrate these principles
- Other unique possible combinations for your garden(s)
- New and recent perennial introductions that have proven to be good performers in the North
You will leave with a comprehensive list of new perennials and combinations to try!
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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Promise of Spring: Forcing Branches to Bloom Indoors
150-02-29-20
Saturday, February 29, 2020
9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.
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 like pussy willows and forsythia! Brighten your home space with these beautiful blooming branches or gift them to a friend. In this class, you'll learn:
- What kinds of tree and shrub branches can be forced
- Where to get branches for forcing, or how to wisely harvest them from your own plants
- How to coax tree and shrub branches to bloom early and indoors
- Take home several branches to practice what you've learned
Limit 22, 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
150-03-07-20
Saturday, March 7, 2020
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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Get Growing: A Day of Garden Workshops
150-04-04-20
Saturday, April 4, 2020
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Beginner to Intermediate Gardeners
Cabin fever has hit and you are dreaming of your best yard yet for 2020, but who has time to learn everything? This day-long buffet of classes is the answer - you will get "Cliffs Notes" on a wide range of gardening topics! You'll finish the day motivated and educated for the best garden season yet!
Choose any 5 sessions
Custom-select your perfect day filled with your choice of available presentations and workshops on topics from soil and compost to trees and turf!
All-inclusive pricing
$95 member/$110 non-member, includes your custom choice of sessions, coffee, breakfast refreshments, lunch and take-home bag filled with gardening goodies
Garden Goodie Bags
All participants receive reusable bag filled with take-homes from your selected sessions--a binder of handouts and an assortment of plants, seeds, and other garden goodies!
Limit 80, Visitor Center
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Kitchen Gardening: A Bountiful Edible Landscape
150-04-18-20
Saturday, April 18, 2020
9:30 a.m.-noon
Rhonda Fleming Hayes, Author, Photographer, Gardener, Magazine Contributor
Kick your vegetable garden aesthetic up a notch! In this class, you will:
- Learn about the history of "Potager-style" kitchen gardens from French Medieval times, and their resurgence into modern garden trends
- Hear about the basic design of a potager, including symmetrical geometrical beds with the vegetables planted in patterns or groups rather than in rows, often with flowers, fruit and herbs intermingled
- See how you can incorporate some or all of these ideas into your landscape that are useful for you
- Learn Rhonda's tips for growing successful and bountiful kitchen gardens
Limit 24, 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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Give the Gift of an Arboretum Educational Experience
Join the experience-giving trend this holiday season...your thoughtfulness will not only benefit the recipient, but will benefit the Arboretum, too! Learn more
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Questions?
Arboretum Education Office Hours
Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sat - Sun, noon - 4 p.m.
Email Arboretum Education at
arbedu@umn.edu
Call Arboretum Education at
612-301-1210
Member Perk!
Arboretum Members may invite non-members to attend a class with them at the discounted member rate! Simply register for all participants at the same time in the same order and select the "member" rate for each person at checkout.
Cancellation Policy
Prior to registering, please review the cancellation policy
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 and complete the steps, or call 612-301-1210. There is no obligation to register if a spot opens. If the waitlist shows enough demand, additional class sessions may be added.
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