Soil Science for Gardeners

Soil is a living matrix of chemical and biological interactions, and a fundamental understanding of soil science is critical when selecting well-adapted native plants or choosing amendments needed by native plant communities. This two-day hybrid class for the ecologically-minded grower will discuss soil texture, chemistry, water-holding capacity, the biologically diverse life in the soil, and how these dynamic relationships can affect a plant’s health. Class Level: Intermediate

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Monique Bosch
Price: $140 / $175
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Fundamentals 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.

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Bryan Peterson
Price: $140 / $175
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Selecting 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.

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Dan Jaffe-Wilder
Price: $155 / $190
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Natural 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.

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Ted Elliman
Price: $140 / $175
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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.

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Deb Perkins
Price: $62 / $75
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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.

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Andy Brand
Price: $140 / $175
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Ecological 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

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Location: Online & Bosarge Family Education Center
Instructor: Irene Barber
Price: $160 / $190
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