Horticulture Classes in Chicago, IL

Many perennial plants need pruning before winter hits. Learn which plants to cut back and the best methods and tools. After a brief indoor introduction, head outside for a hands-on demonstration. A portion of the class will consist of outdoor demonstration and practice.  Dress for the weather and bring gloves.

Do you wish that your outdoor holiday lights could be as spectacular as the ones at the Garden? If so, join Heather Sherwood as she demonstrates the techniques used to decorate trees and shrubs with lights for the holiday season. Learn how to estimate equipment and time, install the lights, and maintain a beautiful show.  You’ll learn the tricks...

Permaculture Plants – Canopy Layer Plants: Nuts, Nitrogen Fixers & Evergreens + Seed Saving 101 Fall is the perfect time to plant trees and shrubs and this class will provide you the information you need to start or add to your permaculture forest garden this year. Tonight, you will learn about the multipurpose functions our canopy layer trees...

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.

Winter is the best time to prune most trees and shrubs. Proper pruning is the key to maintaining plant health and shape. Learn techniques for dormant winter pruning, pruning principles for trees and shrubs, and the proper use of tools. A portion of the class will consist of outdoor demonstration and practice. Dress for the weather.

To add a breath of spring to your home this winter, discover proper techniques for forcing bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and minor bulbs. You will learn to choose varieties that are good performers and to combine them in one pot for a mini-garden effect. You will then pot up some bulbs to take home.  This class is offered in partnership...

In the colder months, the Garden’s Greenhouses brim with poinsettias and other holiday plants of many hues. Learn about propagation techniques, greenhouse environmental and computer systems, watering and fertilizing equipment, and how the growing space is managed throughout the year.

Bioregional Herbalism is a pathway to natural wellness. Discover how to engage with bioregional plants as allies and develop personal intuition and connection. Learn the basics of body systems, herbal terminology, and common herbal preparations with a focus on nourishment, wellness, prevention and support. During each Sunday class, discover several...

This highly interactive Permaculture Forest Gardener course will introduce you to permaculture and teach you the basics of forest garden design through in-class lecture and hands-on projects. Learn how to transform your own yard, school, workplace or park into an edible forest garden.  Forest gardens are modeled after woodlands – planted...