Schedule View: Garden Classes Chicago

Experience the time-honored wisdom of Three Sisters Gardening, an Indigenous American tradition fostering symbiotic growth. Explore the harmonious relationship between corn, beans, and squash as they thrive together in your garden. Delve into the history and practicalities of cultivating these crops, tailored for the Midwest climate, with a hands-on garden walk for real-world insight.

Learn how to determine the height and age of trees using simple techniques in this fascinating course. Discover the terminology used by foresters to describe various tree forms and habits. Dress for the weather and get ready to explore the secrets of the forest.

Discover the secrets to cultivating and styling your very own bonsai tree with expert instruction and hands-on experience at the Color Cocktail Factory. Learn the essential principles of bonsai care and receive all the necessary materials and tools to create your masterpiece. Don't miss this unique opportunity to delve into the art of bonsai.

Discover the fascinating world of plant growth and development in this advanced botany course. Explore the intricate processes of seed germination, water movement, photosynthesis, and symbiotic relationships. Prerequisite: Botany 1.

Dive into the captivating world of cicadas with our expert-led exploration. Discover the unique traits, myths, and significance of the rare convergence of 13-year and 17-year cicada broods in 2024. Gain invaluable insights into cicada behavior, sounds, anatomy, and life cycle, guided by local expert John Thompson. Join us indoors for a fascinating journey into the Year of the Cicadas.

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! 

Transform your outdoor space into a sanctuary with our exploration of patio design essentials. Dive into the intricacies of style, size, and material selection, from classic brick to versatile concrete pavers. Learn to create a welcoming retreat that harmonizes with your home's architecture and enhances the beauty of your garden.

Enjoy a morning walk and discover the diversity of perennial plants. Each month, you will explore a sampling of the Garden’s collections of perennials and experience the foliage, flower, and seed formation that provide seasonal interest. Dress for the weather.

Learn the basics of home garden design and installation. With a mix of lectures, workshops, and walks, you will create a plan for your home garden that incorporates plant spacing, plant selection, and the importance of dynamic bed lines. Garden walks will be included. Dress for the weather.

Why buy jarred salsa when you can grow and make your own? Plant a container of miniature tomatoes, yellow and red peppers, and onions and give “made from scratch” a whole new meaning. It doesn’t take much space to grow fresh ingredients for a spicy and tasty salsa.  All materials included.

Improper mulching can do far more harm to plants than not mulching at all. Learn how much mulch is enough, where to spread it, and the best material to use, as well as how to edge your garden for a professional look.  Please dress for the weather.

Uncover the art of blending functionality with elegance in your vegetable garden design. Explore innovative techniques for integrating vegetables and herbs into ornamental landscapes. Join us for a stroll through the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden to gather further inspiration.

Unlock the secrets of plant life and discover the fascinating world of botany in this engaging course. Explore the different classifications of plants, their life cycles, and the vital role they play in our lives. Join us for an eye-opening journey through the diverse and intriguing world of plants.

When caught in an outdoor survival situation, there are many actions one can take. Explore basic options available when faced with a crisis. Learn the importance of a dependable shelter, food, water, clothing, and companionship. Participants will practice building a basic shelter. Dress for the weather, as part of the class will be held outside.

Expand your botanical knowledge with an exploration of diverse conifers in our landscape. Delve beyond the basics and discover a plethora of hardy trees and shrubs suited for your environment. From identification to landscape uses, enhance your understanding of these lesser-known conifer varieties and enrich your gardening expertise.

Discover the art of creating vibrant and thriving summer containers designed for both sunlit and shaded spaces. Immerse yourself in a guided tour of stunning garden displays before harnessing your own creativity to assemble a warm-season mixed container. Unleash your green thumb and craft a beautiful masterpiece of annuals, perennials, herbs, and decorative foliage. Don't forget to bring gloves!

Discover the art of creating vibrant and thriving summer containers designed for both sunlit and shaded spaces. Immerse yourself in a guided tour of stunning garden displays before harnessing your own creativity to assemble a warm-season mixed container. Unleash your green thumb and craft a beautiful masterpiece of annuals, perennials, herbs, and decorative foliage. Don't forget to bring gloves!

Discover the art of creating vibrant and thriving summer containers designed for both sunlit and shaded spaces. Immerse yourself in a guided tour of stunning garden displays before harnessing your own creativity to assemble a warm-season mixed container. Unleash your green thumb and craft a beautiful masterpiece of annuals, perennials, herbs, and decorative foliage. Don't forget to bring gloves!

Do you have a bonsai tree you’re just not sure what to do with? Bring your tree of any species for consultation with the Garden’s bonsai curator and learn new techniques for style and design in this studio-style workshop.

Immerse yourself in the art of crafting stunning succulent containers designed to flourish from spring to fall. Explore diverse design inspirations and create your personalized masterpiece to take home. Discover essential care techniques to ensure your creation thrives beyond the season, with hands-on guidance from expert instructors.