Plant and Sip Night

Tour the Garden’s spring containers and collect ideas for your own. Then create a container with plants that can tolerate the varying spring temperatures and a full-sun to partial-shade location. Pansies, forced bulbs, and other spring treasures may be used. Dress for the weather, and bring gloves if desired.

Soil is an irreplaceable natural resource that affects plant selection and growth. Learn to maintain healthy soil; use compost, fertilizers, soilless and potting mixes, and other amendments.  Discover how water cycles through a garden and affects soils and plants. Course fee includes a professionally analyzed test of your garden soil. ...

Explore the fascinating history of one of our favorite garden bulbs. From the poems of Omar Kayam to the tulipomania in the Netherlands, we’ve been fascinated with this evocative flower for centuries.  Dive into the history, and then explore the gardens to examine the myriad varieties of tulips planted throughout.

If you want to become a birder, join this class to learn the basics. Learn about binoculars, how to use a field guide, and the field marks used to identify common birds of the Chicago area. Then we’ll go out for a bird walk and try out your newly acquired skills. Bring binoculars if you have them. Dress for the weather. 

Join us on an evening bird walk through the display gardens as we search for songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors.  No prior bird-watching experience is required, and binoculars are recommended but not necessary!