Native annuals are rewarding yet often-misunderstood groups of plants in ecological horticulture. In this engaging class, uncover the beauty, versatility, and ecological value of these short-lived garden gems. Explore how native annuals contribute vibrant seasonal color, support specialist pollinators, and fill unique design niches that perennials can’t always reach. Perfect for gardeners, designers, and native
MoreNaturalistic garden design supports wildlife and the environment by creating diverse, integrating plant communities, but it can be complicated to manage these gardens over time, an approach that lies at the heart of Mt. Cuba Center’s horticultural practice. Within these landscape designs, plants are allowed to interact, compete, and evolve, revealing both the beauty and
MoreMt. Cuba’s Propagation team produces plants for our gardens, nursery industry research, and regional conservation partners. Join Lindsey Laban, Mt. Cuba’s Conservation Propagator, in the classroom as she shares her experience purchasing and growing on plants from seed. Learn the basics of seed biology, germination, and storage. In this immersive workshop, learn techniques like scarification,
MoreThese little flying mammals are great hunters of insects, eating more than 600 mosquitoes per hour! Learn about the eight species of bats native to Delaware, where they live, and how to include suitable shelters and landscape elements for bats in your yard. Explore the key role these diminutive and often overlooked species play in
MoreChange in the garden is inevitable. A maturing tree may cast more shade than expected, or a sudden storm, or even a neighbor can remove a tree overnight, leaving your once-shaded garden in full, blazing sun. These shifts can feel abrupt and overwhelming, but they also create opportunities for renewal, creativity, and even unexpected joy.
MoreJoin Kathleen Elliot and other Mt. Cuba experts as they share design ideas and techniques behind our signature native plant displays. Discover how stunning and sustainable a container garden can be when it’s designed with native plants. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own one-of-a-kind, vibrant container that supports local ecosystems while adding season-long beauty
MoreCurious about gardening but not sure where to start? Whether you have a backyard, a small terrace, or just a few containers, this beginner-friendly class will help you begin with clarity and confidence. In this approachable introduction to gardening, you’ll learn the essential foundations of how plants grow and how to work with nature—not against
MoreCurious about gardening but not sure where to start? Whether you have a backyard, a small terrace, or just a few containers, this beginner-friendly class will help you begin with clarity and confidence. In this approachable introduction to gardening, you’ll learn the essential foundations of how plants grow and how to work with nature—not against
MoreLearn about the important identifying features of our local fungi and discover some of the crucial roles they play in our ecosystems. Discuss what you can do to preserve fungal diversity in your area through community science and land stewardship. After an informative session on ecology of fungi, instructor Sam Bucciarelli will guide students on exploration
MoreNote: This class takes place off-site. What if your garden could be a thriving habitat for wildlife while also becoming healthier and more vibrant? This class is designed for homeowners who want to create a beautiful landscape that grows in harmony with nature. Learn how to garden using ecological principles that provide the essential elements of habitat: food, water, and shelter. Then discover how to design these principles into a thought garden design that reflects your
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