Garden Classes in Chicago, IL

This course is designed as a comprehensive review of basic pruning practices for landscape professionals. The afternoon session consists of demonstrations in the field that illustrate the techniques discussed during the morning session. There will also be a review of pruning tools and equipment care.  Please dress for the weather. Lunch is on...

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...

Learn the basics of front yard landscape design by demonstrating how proper planting design can change the way you use and view your property. Your design should respond to your home’s architecture and be aesthetically pleasing. Topics include proper plant types and spacing, focusing and screening views, and creating curb appeal. This class will...

Explore the winter containers at the Garden and learn ways to extend your own containers into the winter season. Then prepare a container with fresh-cut evergreen boughs and berried or brightly colored branches. Please bring gloves and pruners.

Discover the world of maples. From the sweetness of sugar to the sturdiness of furniture to the myriad species of moths that dwell in their branches, explore where these trees are typically found and how they have been used over the centuries.  Hear folklore and stories and learn about faunal partnerships. We’ll also look at species and cultivars...

Learn to create an enjoyable backyard space that is functional and fun. Explore the design and development of dining and entertaining areas (such as decks and patios), children’s play spaces, and outdoor storage and utility areas. Learn how to screen and focus views to create a sense of enclosure for private areas with comfort and security. This...

If you would like to try yourself in floral design, take our European Bouquet class which is a part of the complete training in floral design session of courses. You will get acquainted with our school, teaching methods and also get familiar with commercial kinds of flowers and greens at the wholesale floral market and learn how to prolong life and...

Make a family of snowmen bundled up for a cold winters’ day. This 4- x 6-inch figurine is complete with four little snowmen wearing adorable winter accessories. Learn needle felting techniques and how to sculpt wool into fun and imaginative shapes.

Staghorn fern mounts are easy to care for and make beautiful and creative additions to your home, especially for the holidays! Mount your own staghorn fern, mimicking reindeer antlers, onto a rustic wooden board with moss and soil. Leave class with a completed mount and knowledge of basic care to keep them happy for years to come.  Please bring...

In this workshop, you will create your own festive holiday wreath. Fresh evergreens will be used as the base and a variety of seasonal berried branches will be added for color and texture. This wreath will be great for your own home or for holiday gift giving.  Please bring gloves, pruners, and a box for your finished wreath. The fee includes...

Identify some of the common trees and shrubs in the Chicago area after the leaves have fallen. You will learn the different features of twigs, buds, leaf scars, bark, and growth habit.  After the indoor presentation, we will take a walk in the McDonald Woods to solve the mystery of identifying trees and shrubs in the winter. Dress for the weather....

After completing certified 48-hour Complete Training in Floral Design session of classes students have a fundamental knowledge in floral design and capable to work as professionals. During 48 hours of workshops, you will learn secrets of the unique universal techniques allowing to create all kinds of floral design – from a corsage to large-scaled...

Exercising in “green space” stimulates your mind and body, providing benefits a gym could never surpass. Build endurance, work on postural alignment, gain core strength, increase cardiovascular capacity, and improve balance. Suitable for all fitness levels. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Dress for the weather. This class may be taken...