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English Walled Garden Fall Walk
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New! Do you enjoy visiting the English Walled Garden in the summer? If so, don’t miss it in fall! Experience the garden in October, when seasonal changes are evident, and the light angles create unique visual effects. Glimpse the stunning morning glories and late-season chrysanthemums. Learn about various plant-management styles used to maintain interest and to protect beneficial populations. Dress for the weather.
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 9 – 10 a.m. Heather Sherwood, senior horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Meet at English Walled Garden |
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New! Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the power of words during this unique experience. Walk leisurely on the serene paths of the Garden and along the way, read and discuss selected poems that celebrate nature, the wilderness, and plants. Discover how poetry can enrich your appreciation of the natural world. Perfect for poetry lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful, creative escape. Dress for the weather.
Friday, October 2, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.
Brook Nelson, assistant horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Meet at Visitor Center
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Not Available
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Bulbs for a Stunning Spring
Autumn is the time to act for spring color. Discover how to incorporate spring-blooming bulbs into your garden. Whether you want to add a naturalistic element or an eye-popping statement, learn what and how to plant for early, mid-, and late spring joy in the garden. After class, visit the Garden’s Fall Bulb Sale and apply your newfound knowledge. Jill will be available at the sale to provide advice.
Saturday, October 3, 2026, 9 – 11 a.m.
Jill Selinger, horticulture educator
Linnaeus Room, Regenstein Center
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Not Available
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Enjoy a morning walk exploring the trees at the Garden. Each month, we will visit a different section of the Garden and learn about the trees unique to that area. Dress for the weather.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Mark Zampardo, Ph.D., horticulture educator
Meet at Visitor Center
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Not Available
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New! This immersive introduction to tree identification provides a half-day outdoor experience to develop and hone your skills in tree recognition. Learn the fundamental concepts used in dendrology—the scientific study of trees—while examining some of the area’s most common trees. Leave class with a solid foundation for observing and describing the trees you encounter every day, with recommendations for resources and strategies to improve your own independent study. Class will be held outdoors and will include a half-hour break. Bring a bagged lunch or snack. Dress for the weather.
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Levi O’Brien, arborist, dendrologist, and tree educator
Classroom 6, Learning Center
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Not Available
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Trees and Shrubs with Beautiful Fall Color
Want to create a landscape of autumn showstoppers? When selecting trees and shrubs for the landscape, consider several characteristics including good fall color. You will learn to incorporate seasonal interest through trees and shrubs that exude the warm, vivid colors of a fall landscape. A Garden walk is included. Dress for the weather. The School’s CEUs=3 hours OPC elective
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 1 – 4 p.m.
Mark Zampardo, Ph.D., horticulture educator
Classroom 1, Learning Center
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Tree Anatomy and Physiology
New! Jargon is often used poorly, both when biologists talk to horticulturists, and when horticulturists talk to clients. Discover how to make sense of biological principles—for yourself and your clients—and how to apply them to your work. Learn the different parts of a tree, how they function, and practical implications for tree care professionals. Dress for the weather as parts of this class may be held outside. The School’s CEUs=6 hours OPC elective
2 Sundays, October 11 – October 18, 2026, 1 – 4 p.m.
Levi O’Brien, arborist, dendrologist, and tree educator
Classroom 2, Learning Center
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Focal Point Plants | Online
Many well-designed landscapes rely on focal points to draw the eye to a certain location in the garden. Focal points can be either non-living structures and elements or an interesting and effective plant. Discover some of the most striking plants that can become powerful focal points when thoughtfully selected and placed in the landscape. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance. The School’s CEUs=2 hours OPC elective
Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Mark Dwyer, owner, Landscape Prescriptions by MD
Online Course
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Not Available
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Bonsai | Bring Your Own Tree
Not sure what to do with your bonsai? Bring a tree of any species for consultation with the Garden’s bonsai staff. Learn new techniques for shaping, styling, and designing your bonsai in this studio-style workshop.
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 5 – 8 p.m.
Elle Nieto-Brodnick, bonsai assistant, Chicago Botanic Garden
Bonsai Studio, Grainger Center
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New! Discover the diverse world of succulents and cacti. Focus on some of the most common varieties grown in homes, and explore practical care tips, including how light, watering, and temperature needs differ from species to species and change with the seasons. Learn how these plants grow and thrive in their native environments. A few exotic and rare species will be highlighted as well. Class will include a short walk through the Arid Greenhouse, offering a chance to see a few exceptional specimens up close.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.
Laura Nulty, assistant horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Design Studio, Regenstein Center
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Not Available
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Dig, Divide, and Store Dahlias
Dahlias are a highlight of the late-summer garden. Gain hands-on experience in how to prepare them for the dormant winter months. Learn how to dig up and divide the tubers and how to store them over the winter. Reap the rewards of your labor with a pot of tubers to store at home and then plant in your garden next spring. Class is a hands-on, outdoor experience; bring gloves if desired. Dress for the weather; class will move indoors if needed.
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 9 – 10 a.m.
Audrey Toogood, horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Meet at Entry to Bulb Garden
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New! From wood to bark and railroads to medicine, discover why locust and pine won naval battles and how roller skating changed the industrial textile industry. Explore the physical, ecological, and aesthetic characteristics of trees and how they have affected history and culture. Dress for the weather as the course is held outdoors. The School’s CEUs=3 hours OPC elective
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 1 – 4 p.m.
Levi O’Brien, arborist, dendrologist, and tree educator
Classroom 1, Learning Center
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Not Available
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Autumn Harvest | Fruit Tasting and Cheese Pairing
New! Come taste crisp autumn fruit and flavorful fruit butters with specially selected gourmet cheeses, as well as fresh-pressed apple cider. Recipe cards and suggestions for best uses will be provided as part of the class. All fruit are heirloom varieties grown locally by Midwest Fruit Explorer members.
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.
Members of the Midwest Fruit Explorers
Design Studio, Regenstein Center
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Not Available
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Fairy Garden Terrarium Workshop
Make your own fairy garden terrarium. Indulge your imagination while having fun decorating this miniature garden in a glass jar using small plants, small-scale garden features, and fairy decorations. Containers, soil, plants, and all the decorations needed to create your fairy garden will be provided. Bring gloves and an apron if desired.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m.
Tim Pollak, manager, plant production, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 6, Learning Center
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Not Available
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Native Plants for Year-Round Interest | Online
New! Transform your garden into a multi-season landscape with a variety of native trees, shrubs, and perennials that are suited to your environment, providing color and texture throughout the year. Whether you are refreshing your garden or starting from scratch, get inspired to make wise plant selections that elevate your yard’s natural beauty and enhance its ecological value. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance. The School’s CEUs=2 hours OPC elective
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m.
Duncan Himmelman, Ph.D., college horticulture instructor
Online Course
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11/12/2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
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Living Pumpkin Succulent Centerpiece
New! Get into the fall spirit by creating a centerpiece using real pumpkins and living succulents, with no carving needed. Using succulent cuttings, moss, and dried florals, create either two mini or one medium pumpkin centerpiece perfect for festive tablescape decor. Succulents will take root and can be repotted and enjoyed throughout the year, long after your pumpkin is compost. All supplies are included.
Friday, October 23, 2026, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Leigh Hardy, artist and designer, Indigo & Violet Studio
Classroom 1, Learning Center
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10/23/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
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New! Not only do the seedpods of perennials feed birds and wildlife throughout winter, they also add rich textural and structural elements to the dormant garden. Explore seeds, pods, and stems that bring interesting shapes and structure to the garden. Class includes a walk to view examples in the Garden. Dress for the weather.
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 10 a.m. – Noon
Heather Prince, horticulturist, garden writer and editor
Design Studio, Regenstein Center
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Ghoulish Plants in Folklore | Online
Discover the curious plants that have haunted folklore throughout the ages. From belladonna to zombie plants, you will uncover ghoulish tales and fascinating species. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Julia Zoltowsky, horticulture educator
Online Course
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Not Available
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Plan Next Year's Vegetable Garden | Online
Fall is a great time to start planning next year’s vegetable and herb gardens. Learn about soil preparation and tests, vegetable garden layouts, heirloom and modern cultivars, and when and how to plant for a continued, flavorful harvest. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance.
Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Nina Koziol, horticulturist and writer
Online Course
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10/28/2026 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
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Carnivorous Plant Terrarium Workshop
New! Carnivorous plants are trending in Halloween decorations. Turn a live plant into a ghoulish holiday display. The terrarium becomes a fascinating conversation piece during and after the season. You will learn how and why your little fiend (oops! little friend) has adapted the ability to eat insects and how to care for your terrarium at home. All supplies are included. Class registration will close on October 23. Cancellations after October 23 are not eligible for a refund.
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 6 – 7 p.m.
Kathy Johnson, youth program director, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 5, Learning Center
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10/29/2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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How do seeds germinate and develop into mature plants? How do plants move water up through their roots to their topmost branches? Explore subjects such as the plant cell; anatomy and growth of roots, stems, and leaves; photosynthesis; and the symbiotic association of plant roots with beneficial fungi and bacteria. A supply list will be sent. Prerequisite—Botany 1. PGL 2 and GDC requirement
7 Mondays and 5 Wednesdays, November 2 – December 16, 2026 6:30 – 9 p.m. (no class November 11 and 25)
Jeffrey Gorra, biologist, X-Bar Diagnostics Systems, Inc.
Classroom 5, Learning Center
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11/2/2026 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
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Advanced Bonsai | Pine Bonsai Workshop
New! Get ready to refine both technique and artistic vision when working with pine bonsai species. This class focuses on critical seasonal practices such as decandling, needle thinning, and energy balancing to promote ramification (branching) and maintain tree health. Learn how to apply advanced wiring and styling methods to create refined branch structure, improve silhouette, and enhance the tree’s aged appearance. Emphasis is placed on timing, precision, and long-term development strategies, helping you elevate your pines from well-maintained bonsai to exhibition-quality specimens.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 5 – 8 p.m.
Elle Nieto-Brodnick, bonsai assistant, Chicago Botanic Garden
Bonsai Studio, Grainger Center
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11/4/2026 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
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Paperwhite Centerpiece Workshop
New! Bring back the lovely scent of spring into your home with a living centerpiece created in this hands-on workshop. Learn the proper techniques for forcing paperwhite bulbs indoors for magnificent holiday décor. All supplies are provided, including a decorative vessel and river rock, which can be reused to force other bulbs. Class registration will close on October 28. Cancellations after October 28 are not eligible for a refund.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 6 – 7 p.m.
Emily Woodworth, assistant grower, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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11/4/2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Pruning for Professionals
Gain a comprehensive understanding of basic pruning practices and techniques for landscape professionals through lecture and demonstrations in the field. Discussion includes a review of pruning tools and equipment care. Dress for the weather. Lunch is on your own. The School’s CEUs=4.5 hours OPC elective
Thursday, November 5, 2026, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tom Tiddens, Thomas Fritz, and Elizabeth Cullison, certified arborists, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 1, Learning Center
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11/5/2026 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
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Growing Microgreens Workshop
New! Microgreens are the seedlings of common edible vegetables and herbs. Easy to grow in your own home, they are abundant in concentrated nutrients and flavor. In this hands-on class, learn about the health benefits of microgreens, the best varieties to grow, and simple, delicious ways to use them at home. Plant two containers of microgreens to take with you and receive easy step-by-step instructions to continue growing fresh greens long after class ends. All supplies are included.
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10 – 11:15 a.m.
Elaine Madansky, Edible Gardens specialist, Elawa Farm Foundation
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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11/7/2026 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
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Woody Plants for Four Seasons
New! Many trees and shrubs have a differing visual appeal in each season. Learn how to make your landscape attractive and interesting in every season. Take a closer look at a variety of specimens with outstanding form, colorful fruits, interesting bark, and showy flowers. A Garden walk is included. Dress for the weather. The School’s CEUs= 3 hours OPC elective
Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9 a.m. – noon
Mark Zampardo, Ph.D., horticulture educator
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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11/14/2026 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Growing Salad Greens Indoors | Online
Explore the foundational tools needed to grow greens indoors. Learn about required and alternative materials, ideal crop varieties, the benefits and drawbacks of direct sowing versus transplanting, and the optimal conditions for successfully growing greens indoors. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance.
Monday, November 16, 2026, 6 – 7 p.m.
Julia Zoltowsky, horticulture educator
Online Course
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Not Available
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Enjoy a morning walk exploring the trees at the Garden. Each month, we will visit a different section of the Garden and learn about the trees unique to that area. Dress for the weather.
Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Mark Zampardo, Ph.D., horticulture educator
Meet at Visitor Center
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11/18/2026 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
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Build A Terrarium Workshop
Build a miniature ecosystem in a jar. Create a terrarium containing an assortment of small indoor plants, rocks, and decorative elements. Learn the fundamentals of designing, layering, planting, and caring for your creation. Enjoy your terrarium at home for years to come. Perfect for beginners and experienced plant growers alike. All supplies are included.
Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.
Alicia Green, horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 5, Learning Center
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11/18/2026 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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Winter Container Design Tips
Discover the best plant selection for winter containers, focusing on hardy perennials, evergreens, and seasonal accents that add color and texture throughout the colder months. Through demonstration and discussion, understand the principles of container design, including balance, contrast, and the use of height, filler, and trailing elements to create visually appealing arrangements for your own winter container. Also gain troubleshooting advice to refine your container designs and care strategies.
Thursday, November 19, 2026, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Chester Jankowski, senior horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 8, Learning Center
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11/19/2026 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
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Winter Container Workshop
Create a winter seasonal container with fresh-cut evergreen boughs and berries or brightly colored branches to take home and enjoy. Your design will be made in a 14-inch, sturdy, biodegradable container you can display as is or place in an existing decorative pot or urn. Bring pruners and gloves if desired.
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10 – 11 a.m.
Lindsey Muscavitch, horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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12/3/2026 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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Winter Container Workshop
Create a winter seasonal container with fresh-cut evergreen boughs and berries or brightly colored branches to take home and enjoy. Your design will be made in a 14-inch, sturdy, biodegradable container you can display as is or place in an existing decorative pot or urn. Bring pruners and gloves if desired.
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 1 – 2 p.m.
Lindsey Muscavitch, horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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12/3/2026 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
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Native Evergreens | Online
Evergreens are an indispensable part of all home landscapes, providing year-round structure to the garden and ecological benefits for native fauna. Explore the beauty and diversity of both broad-leaf and needle-leaf evergreens and learn their identifying characteristics, cultural requirements, and uses in garden settings. This class will be taught online via Zoom. All registrations must be submitted online two days before your class starts. Registered students will receive login instructions one day in advance. The School’s CEUs=3 hours OPC elective
2 Thursdays, December 3 – December 10, 2026, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Duncan Himmelman, Ph.D., college horticulture instructor
Online Course
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12/3/2026 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
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Winter Container Workshop
Create a winter seasonal container with fresh-cut evergreen boughs and berries or brightly colored branches to take home and enjoy. Your design will be made in a 14-inch, sturdy, biodegradable container you can display as is or place in an existing decorative pot or urn. Bring pruners and gloves if desired.
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 – 7 p.m.
Chester Jankowski, senior horticulturist, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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12/3/2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Tabletop Succulent Garden Workshop
Create your own miniature desert oasis in this hands-on workshop that guides you through designing and assembling a beautiful succulent arrangement perfect for your home or office. You will learn how to select, plant, and care for a variety of succulents, as well as get tips on soil, drainage, and creative styling. All supplies are included, just bring your creativity and love for plants.
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 a.m. – Noon
Nina Koziol, horticulturist and writer
Classroom 6, Learning Center
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12/5/2026 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Unconventional Holiday Bowl
New! Think beyond poinsettias and evergreens in this creative, hands-on workshop focused on designing a living holiday centerpiece with modern flair. Designed to sit beautifully in a decorative bowl that can be reused, your creation will use multiple plants not typically seen in holiday arrangements. Gain composition tips along with the knowledge to care for these plants long after the season is over. All supplies are included. Class registration will close on November 23. Cancellations after November 23 are not eligible for a refund.
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Stephanie Williams, owner and Casey Gallagher, designer, Variegated Designs
Classroom 5, Learning Center
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12/5/2026 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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Holiday Centerpiece Garden Workshop
Enhance your holiday decorations with a festive, living centerpiece garden for a tabletop or mantel. The centerpiece will feature blooming and colorful foliage plants with accents for the holiday season. Discover how to refresh the potted garden for Valentine’s Day and beyond. Learn about culture and care, plant selection, and whimsical ways to brighten your living centerpiece. All supplies are included. Bring gloves and apron if desired.
Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m.
Tim Pollak, manager, plant production, Chicago Botanic Garden
Classroom 6, Learning Center
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12/8/2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
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Bonsai | Bring Your Own Tree
Not sure what to do with your bonsai? Bring a tree of any species for consultation with the Garden’s bonsai staff. Learn new techniques for shaping, styling, and designing your bonsai in this studio-style workshop.
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 5 – 8 p.m.
Elle Nieto-Brodnick, bonsai assistant, Chicago Botanic Garden
Bonsai Studio, Grainger Center
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12/9/2026 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
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Invasive Plants in the Chicago Region
Invasive species are among the most significant threats to biodiversity and cost the nation more than $100 billion annually. Invasive plants negatively impact our economy, environment, and human health. Learn how invasive plants thrive and spread aggressively outside their native range. A naturally aggressive plant may be especially invasive when it is introduced into a new habitat. The School’s CEUs=2 hours OPC elective
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Mark Zampardo, Ph.D., horticulture educator
Classroom 4, Learning Center
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12/12/2026 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
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Indoor Mushroom Cultivation for Beginners
New! Have a supply of fresh, high-quality mushrooms year-round by growing them indoors. Learn the techniques behind successful indoor cultivation of delicious culinary mushrooms. This includes setting up a grow space, selecting the best varieties, and understanding the fungal life cycle. This class is geared toward both beginners looking for an easy introduction, as well as people looking to begin larger-scale production. Start a new winter hobby or improve your existing skills. Take home a pre-made lion’s mane grow kit and the knowledge and confidence to produce your own mushrooms.
Saturday, January 23, 2027, 10 – 11 a.m.
Ken Davis, horticulturist and mycologist
Classroom 5, Learning Center
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1/23/2027 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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