Dahlias: Selection & Cultivation
Join dahlia lover and horticulturist Courtney Locke to learn the best methods for growing these stunning gems. We’ll cover all aspects of locating, planting, and growing dahlia tubers, including purchasing, site planning, soil preparation, staking, feeding, pest protection, and (finally!) cutting and enjoying these sumptuous flowers. Class Level: all.
Garden Design: It’s in the Layers
A well-designed year-round garden is made up of layers, from groundcovers to the highest canopies. A garden design planview helps to show detailed arrangement of the materials, including any paths, fences, walls, buildings, and plants. This class explores the drawing process of how to clearly select, separate, and illustrate layers of information onto layered drafts of trace paper. The most important layer of the design includes the Base Plan, created in Class 3 of this Series. Students will leave the interactive workshop with a new or refreshed perspective of their garden and overall landscape and know how to articulate the layers that make for clear and comprehensive garden design. Class Level: Intermediate
Learn MoreDrawing and Painting Spring Bulbs
Spring into a new artistic skill! What better way to learn to draw and paint than by observing the spring bulbs popping up in your garden? In this online class, you'll learn how to study and dissect flowers, practice drawing delicate petals, and capture the essence of their unique structures. Discover key identifying characteristics such as petal count, stamen arrangement, flower shape, and color mixing. Receive positive, helpful feedback on your work in a supportive live zoom environment, and immerse yourself in the beauty of spring flowers. All levels are welcome. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn MoreFundamentals of Botany
A core understanding of plant biology will open up the world of plants for any gardener. Through discussion, lecture, and hands-on lab work, this hybrid class begins with basic plant anatomy, exploring how every aspect of the organism works together to sustain photosynthesis, respiration, and water and mineral uptake. Class Level: Intermediate.
Learn MoreGarden Design: Final Plan to Fruition
A comprehensive drawn plan enables designers to understand the scope and requirements of implementing a new garden. In this final session of the Garden Design: 8-Part Series, we focus on the final steps of the design process from paper to building and enjoyment. After a brief recap of the design process, we'll address how to merge layers of information that are essential to communicating the design. Through lecture and group collaboration, students will present their design projects and exchange constructive feedback. We'll explore sustainable means for making the design come to fruition, including developing a budget, material selection and procurement, identifying the manual and mechanical installation processes, and creating a garden management plan. Students should come with a design project they've been working on, no matter the stage. Class Level: Intermediate
Learn MoreForest Therapy Walk & Tea: Spring
Deepening your connection to nature through moving meditation offers enormous benefits for personal well-being. In this gentle and sensory-oriented class, students will experience the practice of walking mindfully through a forest to gain deep serenity and new awareness. Follow Susan Bickford, certified guide in the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest therapy/forest bathing, as she gives you the tools to begin your own meditation practice. The walk ends with a tea ceremony that honors the experience. Class Level: all.
Learn MoreOrientation Certificate in Botanical Arts
Join Arts and Exhibits Coordinator Caroline Clare Davis for this online Orientation for our Certificate in Botanical Arts program.
Learn about the requirements to achieve your goal of earning your Certificate and find out about the exciting new classes offered in 2025.
Member Photography Club
Every other Thursday. Last day Oct 9
Join fellow members for two glorious hours of morning light before the gates open to the general public. Held every other Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., we meet in the Cafe and venture out to capture flora and fauna. Every year, we exhibit the fruits of the group's artistic labor with a display on campus. This opportunity is exclusively available to Coastal Maine Botanical members.
Signs of the Season Training
Co-hosted with Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Maine Sea Grant will offer in-person volunteer training for the Signs of the Seasons citizen science program. Participants will learn about the goals of the program, learn how to make scientific observations of phenology (the study of cyclic and seasonal changes of plants and animals), practice making phenology observations on the grounds of the Gardens, and leave with the tools and knowledge needed to set up their own site to observe and record changes in phenology in their own yard or community. Questions about this opportunity may be directed to Beth Bisson at beth.bisson@maine.edu or Keri Kaczor at keri.kaczor@maine.edu. The training is free, but registration is required. Click here for the link to register.
Proper Planting: Plants & Practices
Strengthen your gardening skills with a focus on best planting practices in this in-person workshop and demonstration. We'll demonstrate how and when to sow seed, plant bare-root plants, and how to transplant both young potted seedlings and much larger, more mature specimens. You'll leave feeling informed about effective planting, including seasonal timing, rootbound plants, planting materials, and proper tools. Class level: all.
Creating a Traditional Botanical Dissection Plate
Combining botany, design, and illustration, students will have the opportunity to create an artful botanical dissection plate during this two-day workshop. Botanical dissection plates have been around since the invention of the microscope and are realistic educational illustrations of plant anatomy. Participants will learn valuable techniques used by science illustrators, such as field sketching, plant dissection, and drawing from magnified plant specimens. Students will also learn how to use color and design to create eye-catching compositions. The workshop will take place both in the gardens and the classroom, where students will learn how to translate their knowledge into creative and visually appealing illustrations. This workshop will take a loose and artful approach to this typically technical and time-consuming process. All levels are welcome. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MoreTrees of Maine: ID, Ecology & Management
Start summer early with this field-study class investigating our northeastern forests and learning more about their fragile ecosystems. Maine consists of a variety of climate conditions that host an assortment of deciduous and coniferous species valuable to thousands of living organisms. We'll discuss individual tree species, their ecological roles, and management practices that support the health of the living matrix. Class Level: all.
Learn MoreSelecting Native Herbaceous Plants
Native plant expert Dan Jaffe-Wilder will present a three-part series that introduces students to various native perennials for garden settings. The course will include two online presentations in May and August and an in-person fieldwork day in July. Through the series, we will discuss plant selection, considering location, application, cultivation variables, ecological role, aesthetics, propagation, and proper plant procurement. Class Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Learn MoreNatural Communities of Maine
Guided by ecologist Ted Elliman, this comprehensive, two-day hybrid course will introduce students to natural plant communities, their defining physical environments, the plants living in them, and the natural processes affecting them. Online discussion and hands-on field work will evaluate the variety of plant communities throughout Maine and how this information influences your gardening choices. Class Level: Intermediate.
Learn MoreIntegrated Pest and Disease Management
State Horticulturalist Gary Fish leads this one-day class, which covers extensive ground on the insects, diseases, and deficiencies found on plants in the landscape. Applying principles of integrated pest management (IPM), the course will help students identify, monitor, and prevent poor plant health and, when necessary, deal with treatments. Mr. Fish will emphasize preventative measures and help students determine methods to mitigate further plant pest problems. Class Level: Intermediate.
Learn MoreFood & Medicine of the Wabanaki
Before there were vitamin supplements, protein shakes, and Western lifestyles focused on speed and convenience, there was an understanding of how plants and wildlife contribute to human health and nutrition. In this intergenerational class, Barry Dana (Penobscot) and Lori Dana will introduce the species and practices that vary throughout the ecologies of the Dawnland (Maine) and how the "People of the Dawn" have been sourcing food and medicine for centuries, whether through fishing, foraging, or cultivating. You'll learn about heritage flora and fauna under threat and the need for awareness to preserve their existence. After class, you'll be armed with the tools to incorporate native plants into your landscape setting, whether it's a community garden, a forest edge, or a wide-open field. Together, we honor Dawnland's natural resources and highlight nutritional sovereignty across Maine. Class level: all.
Illustrating Mushrooms With Watercolor and Ink
Combining traditional pen and ink with watercolor to create scientific illustrations, we'll explore the beauty and biodiversity of mushrooms in this two-day workshop. Starting with the basics of botanical drawing, we'll develop our observational skills, paying attention to proportion and perspective. Then, we'll learn techniques for mastering dip pens. On day two, we'll add watercolor to our compositions and explore skills such as glazing and charging. By the end of the workshop, you'll have a unique composition of mushrooms and have mastered a new approach to pen and ink and watercolor. All levels welcome. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MorePlein Air Days
Thursday - Sunday, June 12 - 15 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Our four day annual FREE Plein Air Days is back! Artists, pack your easels, paints, brushes and pencils and make art in a beautiful garden setting. Pre-registration is requested, and we ask that on your visit you do not block our walkways or enter flower beds. We can't wait to see your beautiful creations!
Plein Air Days
Thursday - Sunday, June 12 - 15 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Our four day annual FREE Plein Air Days is back! Artists, pack your easels, paints, brushes and pencils and make art in a beautiful garden setting. Pre-registration is requested, and we ask that on your visit you do not block our walkways or enter flower beds. We can't wait to see your beautiful creations!
Plein Air Days
Thursday - Sunday, June 12 - 15 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Our four day annual FREE Plein Air Days is back! Artists, pack your easels, paints, brushes and pencils and make art in a beautiful garden setting. Pre-registration is requested, and we ask that on your visit you do not block our walkways or enter flower beds. We can't wait to see your beautiful creations!
Plant a Succulent Container Garden
Succulents provide the perfect plant for both seasoned and aspiring gardeners. These powerhouse, low-maintenance plants add elegance and unique displays for small or large gardens. Join staff Horticulturist and container garden aficionado Brent McHale to show you what plants to use and how to plant a shallow container garden that you'll take home to display and admire on your patio, deck, or balcony. All materials are provided. Class level: all.
Learn MorePlein Air Days
Thursday - Sunday, June 12 - 15 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Our four day annual FREE Plein Air Days is back! Artists, pack your easels, paints, brushes and pencils and make art in a beautiful garden setting. Pre-registration is requested, and we ask that on your visit you do not block our walkways or enter flower beds. We can't wait to see your beautiful creations!
Wearable Art Using Fresh Flowers
Join floral design team, Mimi and Mum, for this fun two-day weekend workshop on wearable floral art. Learn how to make stunning wristlets, head wreaths, and body jewelry from fresh flowers and foliage. Students will utilize some preserved and dried florals to create an everlasting wearable lapel art or headpiece. All levels are welcome. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MorePainting Floral Still Life in Gouache
Using a beautiful fresh floral arrangement as inspiration, paint a still life in gouache. Students will learn various gouache methods and techniques, including applying opaque, thick brush strokes and thin glazing. With an emphasis on color experimentation, we'll explore different papers and surfaces. Arrangements are lovingly prepared by Mimi and Mum Floral Design. All levels are welcome. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn MoreField Trip to Captain Fitzgerald Recreation & Conservation
Join Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens for an educational walk at Captain Fitzgerald Recreation and Conservation Area in Brunswick. Visit one of Maine's few remaining Sandplain Pine Barren communities, and you will leave with the skills to identify endemic native plant species and how to recreate elements of this native plant community in your home landscape. If the weather permits, we will see dozens of pollinating insects and birds, so bring your hand lenses and binoculars. We'll have extra on hand if you don't have these items. Class level: all.
Landscaping for Wildlife
Habitat loss is the primary cause of declining wildlife populations, and learning how vital native plants are to wildlife and how much our landscape choices matter is one of the most critical steps we can take to divert such loss. We'll begin with a short online lecture followed by an interactive workshop and field study at the Gardens. Students will learn how and what to manage in the landscape and how to incorporate certain native plants to create welcoming habitats that attract wildlife, conserve natural resources, and encourage biodiversity. Class Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Learn MoreBeginning iPhone Photography
Hone your digital photography skills and learn to take beautiful photos of flowers, plants, and landscapes using your iPhone. In this engaging workshop, we'll explore the Gardens before opening hours and learn ways to avoid blurry images, tips for composing, how best to use your iPhone's features, and much more. Back in the classroom, we'll explore editing options to make your photos stand out and shine. Class level: beginner. Also appropriate for teens.
Learn MoreBotanical Monoprints
This two-day workshop will focus on creating monoprints on various papers. Unlike most printmaking techniques, which allow for multiple originals, monoprinting creates a single, unique image at a time. The beauty of this technique lies in its spontaneity and its allowance for combinations of printmaking, painting, and various mark-making methods that can be printed multiple times in various ways. All levels are welcome. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn MorePlant ID & Ecology: Conifers
What’s an evergreen, yet not always an evergreen? In this field-study class, Jeff O’Donal, nurseryman and conifer grower, will explore the extensive world of conifers, including native and non-native species, specimen plants, and those great for naturalizing into our native landscapes. We'll explore the diverse shapes and sizes, variations of gold and blue, soft or coarse textures, varieties of needle lengths, deciduous or evergreen, fragrant or neutral—there’s something for every style and landscape. Class level: Beginner-Intermediate.
Learn MoreIs It A Weed?
Weeds, by casual definition, are undesired plants found in a specific location. Delaney Pitman, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Horticulturist, leads a combination of field study and lecture discussing the perception of weeds, identification, cultural management, and ecology. You'll leave with a broader understanding of what and why plants are commonly known as "weeds" and whether they might be embraced or removed from a garden or landscape. Class level: all.
Learn MoreBotanical Block Printing
Using the Gardens as inspiration, explore traditional block printing methods with a modern touch. These blocks can be used anywhere, as a printing press is not required. Participants will leave the two-day workshop understanding basic printing techniques and multiple prints of their designs. All levels are welcome. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn MorePapermaking Workshop with Botanicals
Let’s learn and make together! Explore the world of paper-making with artist Ashley Page in this hands-on two day workshop. Participants will learn how to make paper at home or in a studio, leaving with their own paper creations. No previous papermaking experience is required. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn MoreMedicinal Plants: Herbal Salve Making
From harvesting to bottling, learn the steps to make a herbal salve! Salves are topical ointments created from plants used to heal a specific condition such as dry skin, burns, scars, splinters, or sore muscles. The class will begin indoors with a live demonstration followed by a walk through the gardens to identify plants that can be used to make a salve. Each participant will take home a tin of herbal salve.
Learn MorePaper Cutting: Birds and Blossoms
Learn the techniques and history of papercutting with examples of traditional and contemporary styles. Students will leave this two day workshop with several pieces of their own artwork, exploring different methods or approaches. The class theme will be birds and blossoms.
Learn MorePlant ID & Ecology: Grassland Plants
Whether called fields, meadows, or pastures, these landforms all feature a dominant grass population in a wide-open, full-sun terrain mixed with wildflower and smaller woody species. Partnering with the Boothbay Region Land Trust, this class will guide students on two walks at local land trust properties. Led by Ted Elliman, co-author of "Grasses, Sedges and Rushes: An Identification Guide," participants will learn how to identify and better understand meadow culture. This is the perfect class for those interested in starting or sustaining an open grassland. Class Level: Beginner-Intermediate
Selecting Native Woody Plants
In this two-day hybrid class, learn about native woody plants that contribute so much to our landscapes and local biodiversity. Andy Brand, Director of Horticulture at the Gardens, will discuss identification, habitat, and woody plants' role in plant reproduction and management as hosts for insects, birds, and other wildlife. You'll leave with recommendations for native species and cultivars and guidance for cultivation, landscape uses, and soil and light considerations. Class Level: Intermediate-Advanced.
Learn MoreMosses and Liverworts: Natural History & Identification
The cool, damp climate of Maine and northern New England is perfect for mosses and liverworts, plants known as bryophytes. Join Maine Master Naturalist Jeff Pengel to examine, identify, and learn the natural history of mosses and liverworts. Through presentation, photographs, specimen examination, and fieldwork, students will learn to discern the differences between common groups, know key identification techniques and vocabulary, and recognize more than a dozen common species in the field. Class level: Beginner-Intermediate.
Learn MoreCapturing the Colors of the Season
Paint the changing landscape in watercolor during this three-day workshop. Crafted for artists looking to enhance their skills, you'll learn to blend warm, earthy tones for autumn and cool, muted hues for winter, capturing these seasons' unique light and atmosphere. We'll master techniques to paint various trees, colorful foliage, and intricate shadows, adding depth and dimension to your work. For intermediate watercolorists.
Learn MoreForest Therapy Walk & Tea: Late Summer
Deepening your connection to nature through moving meditation offers enormous benefits for personal well-being. In this gentle and sensory-oriented class, students will experience the practice of walking mindfully through a forest to gain deep serenity and new awareness. Follow Susan Bickford, a certified guide in the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku also known as forest therapy/forest bathing, as she gives you the tools to begin your own meditation practice. The walk ends with a tea ceremony that honors the experience. Class Level: all.
Learn MoreFive Days Drawing and Painting the Autumn Harvest
The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and pumpkins and gourds abound! Take advantage of nature’s bounty within Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens' spectacular Dahlia and Iris garden. Spend one, two, three, four, or all five days surrounded by stunning dahlias in full bloom and learn how to draw and paint the fall harvest. All levels are welcome. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MoreFall Foliage in Blazing Color
Immerse yourself in fall foliage. Using the spectacular leaves found on the grounds of the Gardens', create blazing seasonal watercolor, colored pencil and/or watercolor pencil drawings. All levels welcome! This class can be taken alone or as part of a five-day series. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MorePumpkins and Gourds in Graphite
Fall is an excellent time to learn how to create the lumpy bumpy textures found in the Cucurbitaceae family, known as gourds. Learn all about different gourds, their shapes, and growth cycles. This class can be taken alone or as part of a five-day series. It is recommended to take Pumpkins and Gourds in Color as a complement to this class, but it is not required. All levels are welcome. Class appropriate for teens 14+.
Learn MoreInvasive Plants: Identification, Issues & Ecology
Invasive species are considered highly undesirable by botany, ecology, horticulture, and conservation professionals—and for good reason. In this three-part course, Amanda Devine, Regional Land Steward for Maine Coast Heritage Land Trust, will identify the basic ecological problems surrounding these aggressive, tenacious plants. We'll discuss the complicated and sometimes political issues and how a plant becomes labeled "invasive." Class level: Intermediate-Advanced
Learn MorePumpkins and Gourds in Color
Fall is an excellent time to learn how to create the lumpy bumpy textures found in the Cucurbitaceae family, known as gourds. Learn all about different gourds, their shapes, and growth cycles. This class can be taken alone or as part of a five-day series. It is recommended to take Pumpkins and Gourds in Graphite as a complement to this class, but it is not required. All levels welcome. Class appropriate to teens 14+.
Learn MoreDahlia Details in Graphite
One of the greatest joys of fall is the emergence of the stunning dahlia. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has a particularly beautiful collection with a variety of shapes and colors. This class can be taken alone or as part of a five-day series. It is recommended to take Dahlia Details in Color as a complement to this class, but it is not required. All levels welcome. Class appropriate for teens 14+.
Learn MoreDahlia Details in Color
One of the greatest joys of fall is the emergence of the stunning dahlia. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has a particularly beautiful collection with a variety of shapes and colors. This class can be taken alone or as part of a five-day series. It is recommended to take Dahlia Details in Graphite as a complement to this class, but it is not required. All levels welcome. Class appropriate for teens 14+.
Learn MoreArchitecture and Botanicals in the Fall Gardens
Explore the unique architectural elements that blend seamlessly with nature in the Gardens. Discover how to capture the beauty of garden structures, from bridges and trellises to the whimsical Children's Garden play cottage, as you learn techniques to enhance your painting skills. Guided by Maine artist Susan Bartlett Rice, you'll create your own paintings inspired by the stunning autumn surroundings. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and a love for art and nature! This is a three-day workshop suitable for adults and teens 14+.
Learn MoreEcological Landscape Design
If you want to design landscapes inspired by and inclusive of nature, studying design principles through the lens of natural systems is essential. In this three-day course led by landscape designer and horticulturist Irene Brady Barber, students will learn to identify and incorporate the components of ecological landscape design. Online and onsite, we will examine the systems influencing design decisions, practice environmental site analysis, and design conceptual plot plans for a selected site. Class Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Learn MoreDecoupaged Pumpkins
Wow your neighbors and friends with these stunning decoupaged pumpkins. Gardens' Arts Coordinator Caroline Clare Davis will demonstate how to adorn your fall centerpiece with pressed garden flowers, grasses, and berries. Each participant will go home with one small pumpkin and one medium/large pumpkin. No tricks, only treats here! All levels are welcome. Suitable for teens 14+.
Learn More
