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Master garden design theory and methods. Use your skills in design process, design language, graphics, research, and analysis as well as legal and regulatory responsibilities for estimating cost for site design.  Develop critical and analytical skills through the interaction between your peers and instructor-mentors.  A supply list will...

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...

Flowering bulbs provide vivid color after the doldrums of winter. Learn to select and grow bulbs to enhance your garden. Discuss season-extending bulb design and how to interplant with perennials and shrubs for a spectacular display. Note: This class will be taught online via Zoom.  All registrations must be submitted online two days before...

There are 28 gardens and four natural areas within the 385 acres of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Join our horticulturists for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Garden areas they oversee. Explore plant varieties and combinations, design elements, garden features, and fun stories as you soak up a wealth of knowledge from years of experience working in...

Discover plants to turn your late season garden into a beautiful and sustainable oasis. Trees, shrubs, and grasses provide aesthetics like structure and movement in the winter garden, while berries, seeds, and nuts are bountiful on many species of previously flowering plants. These ornamental plants offer vital late-season nutrition and shelter for...

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.

Trees and shrubs are the backbone of any landscape. Learning to make good choices when selecting these plants is critical. You will discover several trees and shrubs that are excellent plant options for landscapes in the Midwest.  A Garden walk is included so please dress for the weather. 

Whether old or new, many homes have plantings that need to be refreshed or replaced. Learn the principles of good planting design and view a selection of plants, from shade trees to perennials, that work well, reduce maintenance, and provide multi-seasonal interest. A well-designed landscape will improve curb appeal and increase the value of your home....

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...

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...

How do you take your plans from the drawing board to creating the garden without being overwhelmed by the amount of work and money? Learn how to develop a shopping list and timeline to phase the work over several seasons. You’ll receive some useful tips on budgeting, purchasing plants, and working with landscape professionals. 

Learn how to identify our native deciduous trees while enjoying a beautiful fall hike through Reed-Turner Woodland. The diverse habitat of this Illinois State Nature Preserve contains an oak/hickory woodland, flood-plain forest, wooded ravine, and restored wetland. You will learn how to identify trees not only by their leaves, but also by...

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 fall, take a walk in the Garden and learn to identify birds in their sometimes-confusing fall plumage. Earlier bird walks will highlight warblers, vireos, and flycatchers, while later ones will feature ducks, sparrows, and hawks. Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them.

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. ...