Grey headed coneflower Ratibida pinnata
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Schweinitz's Sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii
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Continuing Education Classes
Through its education department, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden offers a wide variety of continuing education programs. Topics include horticulture, wildlife, conservation, photography, fine art and floral design and more. Program formats include classes, tours, lectures, workshops, symposiums and events. Continuing education classes are presented on weekends and select weekdays throughout the year.
First Tuesday programs are presented monthly and are free with Garden Admission.
For more information on continuing education programs at the Garden, please contact the Garden’s Reservations Coordinator at (704) 829 - 1252.
First Tuesday Presentation: Container Gardening with a Tropical Touch Date & Time:
Tuesday Jan 05, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Join us for First Tuesday presentations on the first Tuesday of each month. Feel free to bring a bag lunch and enjoy learning about a variety of topics. All First Tuesday presentations are free with regular Garden admission and are held in the Visitor Pavilion. No registration is required.
Don’t let the cold weather be a deterrent to sprucing up your home décor with plants! Learn how to use tropicals and simple houseplants to create beautiful container gardens. Learn how to arrange your plants so they not only brighten corners and dimly lit areas, but create an inviting atmosphere in your home!
Photography for Beginners Date & Time:
Saturday Jan 09, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This course is for those who have little or no experience and is an excellent introduction to Basic Digital SLR Photography. Lisa Car, owner of Lisa Car’s Photography and Youth 12-16 winner of the Garden’s Shutterbug Contest, will guide participants through basic camera functions for SLR cameras as well as point and shoot cameras. Gain a better understanding of camera settings, troubleshooting and more.
Instructor: Lisa Car, Owner Lisa Car’s Photography
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Jan 20, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Back to the Garden Green Series: Organic Vegetable Gardening for Your Spring Planting Date & Time:
Saturday Jan 23, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: Free with Admission: • $12 for adults
• $11 for seniors 60+
• $6 for children 4-12
• Free to Garden Members and children under age 4 Registration: Call to Register
This monthly series of classes and events is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment. Topics include establishing gardens and growing your own produce, green sustainability, conservation, getting back to the basics of good gardening practices and much more. Join us each month and learn how to “green up” your life!
Don Rosenberg, owner of Instant Organic Garden and author of the book, No Green Thumb Required! Organic Family Gardening Made Easy will explain a new way of growing organic vegetables in your back yard that's so easy anyone can do it - even busy families with limited space. This class is perfect for families who want their children to learn about nature and establish healthy eating habits that will last the rest of their lives!
Instructor: Don Rosenberg
Owner, Instant Organic Garden
Orchids: Love and all the other necessary care Date & Time:
Saturday Jan 23, 10
1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $20 (members), $24 (non-members), $25 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to spend time with a nationally recognized orchid expert! Linda Wilhelm is an accredited Judge as well as a Trustee for the American Orchid Society, and travels widely conducting workshops, lecturing, and judging for orchid shows. In this workshop, Linda will address the basics of orchid care and culture. Treat yourself to a day of orchids by combining this workshop with Milton Carpenter’s guest lecture in the morning! Class fee includes an orchid for participants to take home.
Instructor: Linda Wilhelm
AOS Judge and Trustee, and Co-owner, Woodland Orchids
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Jan 27, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register Notes: Please call 704-829-1252 for pricing information and to register. Phone line is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mon-Fri, and 9 a.m. - Noon, Sat.
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
First Tuesday Presentation: Bluebird Monitoring at the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Feb 02, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Join us for First Tuesday presentations on the first Tuesday of each month. Feel free to bring a bag lunch and enjoy learning about a variety of topics. All First Tuesday presentations are free with regular Garden admission and are held in the Visitor Pavilion. No registration is required.
Join us for an update on the bluebird monitoring project taking place at the Garden. This presentation will provide valuable insight into these beautiful bird’s habits, social structure, trends in their population and more.
Instructors: Susan Holland and Peggy Dunagan, DSBG Volunteers and Bird Enthusiasts
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Feb 03, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register Notes: Please call 704-829-1252 for pricing information and to register. Phone line is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mon-Fri and 9 a.m. - Noon, Sat.
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Depth of Field Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 06, 10
1:30p.m.-4p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes: 704-829-1252
An excellent follow-up to the Basic Digital SLR Photography course, this class provides photographers an understanding of depth of field and how it can improve images. Learn how to achieve this with a digital SLR camera and learn the benefits of varying depths of field.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer & Adobe Certified Expert, Owner of DEK Photgraphy
Photographic Metering: How to Get the Perfect Exposure for Your Images Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 06, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This course will provide an understanding of the tools (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) and how they relate to each other to achieve perfect images in less than perfect lighting conditions. Both reflective (in camera) and incident (hand-held) metering methods will be discussed as well as compensation and when and how to apply it. This course includes both classroom and field instruction.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer
Owner, DEK Photography
Sweetheart Living Wreath Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 06, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $25 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Create a beautiful heart-shaped living garden filled with colorful succulents! Bring your creativity with you and enjoy making this charming wreath that can decorate your home or that of your sweetheart!
Instructor: DSBG Staff
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Feb 10, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register Notes: Please call 704-829-1252 for pricing information and to register. Phone line is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mon-Fri and 9 a.m. - Noon, Sat.
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Basic Digital SLR Photography Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 13, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Having trouble getting the pictures you really want? Learn how to set up your digital SLR camera, discover how to get perfect pictures in less than perfect lighting, and learn how to utilize all those shooting modes, buttons and dials to help you get the images you want.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer
Owner, DEK Photography
Macro Photography Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 13, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the perfect place to learn close up or macro photography. This class will explore macro photography with and without using a flash. Bring your digital SLR camera for practice.
Producing Award-Winning Orchids Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 13, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Gain a whole new perspective on orchids! This class will introduce you to the fine details orchid judges look for during orchid shows. The course will also cover the basics of good orchid care, including re-potting, fertilizing, watering, providing ideal growing conditions and more, helping you grow orchids sure to impress the judges!
Instructor: Jay Sifford
President of the North Carolina Piedmont Orchid Society
Success with Seeds Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 13, 10
10 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $5 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Start your own plants from seed, and you have many more options for your garden! Best of all, growing plants from seed is inexpensive and relatively simple—once you know a few tricks. Ann Jones has started her own seeds for many years, and will share her tips for success. Participants will plant their own trays of seeds to take home, including a variety of flowers, herbs, and veggies.
Instructor: Ann Jones, DSBG Staff
Totally Tomatoes! Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 13, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $5 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Love growing tomatoes, but can’t find the specialty varieties you’re looking for? No one needs an entire seed packet of one type of tomato, so join us and share in a ‘tomato cooperative’! Participants will leave with planted seed trays containing a variety of tomatoes, along with tips for growing a great tomato crop!
Instructor: Barbara Albritton-Grant, Ed.D., DSBG Instructor
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Feb 17, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register Notes: Please call 704-829-1252 for pricing information and to register. Phone line is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mon-Fri and 9 a.m. - Noon, Sat.
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Orchid Clinic Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 20, 10
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $20 (members), $24 (non-members), $25 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Join us for a fun exchange for and by orchid lovers! The Orchid Clinic is a come & go workshop—come when you want, and stay for as long as you want. Talk with and learn from fellow orchid enthusiasts. Bring your own orchids and containers (or purchase new ones at the Garden Store) for repotting or troubleshooting—we’ll provide the potting media. The class fee includes one orchid for participants; additional plants and containers will be on hand to purchase separately.
Instructors: DSBG Staff and members of the North Carolina Piedmont Orchid Society
Orchids in Macro Photography Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 20, 10
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the true essence and beauty of orchids with macro photography, a spectacular close up view that reveals the finest details of nature in ways you never thought! Bring your digital SLR camera and learn how to create these amazing shots. Then tour the Orchid Conservatory and put your skills to the test!
Winter Pruning: Learning to Prune from the Inside Out Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 20, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Late winter is a great time to prune because trees and shrubs are still dormant and you can clearly see the structure of the branches. Proper pruning not only promotes good health, but in time will enhance the beauty of your landscape. This demonstration will show you how to properly prune shrubs that have died-out in the center, which will encourage new growth and revitalize your plants.
Back to the Garden Green Series: Planning Your Spring Vegetable Garden Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 27, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $5 (members), $7 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This monthly series of classes and events is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment. Topics include establishing gardens and growing your own produce, green sustainability, conservation, getting back to the basics of good gardening practices and much more. Join us each month and learn how to “green up” your life!
Late winter is the perfect time to begin planning your vegetable garden. Learn the basics of vegetable gardening, how to increase the size and yield of your crop, how to deal with pests and more. Also learn which of the latest garden varieties will really work for you. Leave with a vegetable plant and seeds to plant in your garden!
Instructor: Kevin Starr
County Extension Director with N.C. Cooperative Extension in Lincoln County
Bluebird Lecture Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 27, 10
11 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $10 (members), $12 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Want to learn more about bluebirds? Join Wildlife Ecologist Susan Campbell and hear insights about bluebirds and other birds common to the Carolina landscape, and learn how you can help support them by providing key habitat needs.
Instructor: Susan Campbell, Wildlife Ecologist
Bluebird Walk Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 27, 10
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: Free with Admission: • $12 for adults
• $11 for seniors 60+
• $6 for children 4-12
• Free to Garden Members and children under age 4 Registration: Call to Register
Join birding enthusiast Susan Holland on a bird walk—you may even see some early bluebird scouts checking out the nesting sites at the Garden! Bring your own binoculars, and prepare for outdoor weather.
Instructor: Susan Holland, DSBG Volunteer and Bird Enthusiast
This Is For the Birds! A Suet Cake Workshop Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 27, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $10 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Provide a high energy food for your birds and watch them flock to your yard in search of the special ‘treat!’ Join us for this fun cooking class as we make suet cakes - a snack many birds find irresistible! Learn about the many different ingredients that can be used, decide on a recipe, then mix your own special ‘brew’ and watch your yard become a haven for our feathered friends! This class is designed for adults and children eight and older.
Please note that seed used for this class contains nuts and nut products.
Instructor: Cynthia D. Klemmer, Ph.D., Director of Education, DSBG
Tour of Carolina Orchids Date & Time:
Saturday Feb 27, 10
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $35 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Join us for a tour of Carolina Orchids, a local company specializing in orchid species for 29 years. Tom and Shan Nasser, co-owners of Carolina Orchids, will guide you through 3 greenhouses of orchid species such as paphiopedilums, bulbophyllums and angraecoids and will provide a wealth of valuable information. There will be ample time to shop and purchase plants, and lunch is included with the tour.
Instructors: Thomas R. Nasser III, Ph.D. and Shan Nasser; Co-Owners, Carolina Orchids
Tour Guide: DSBG Education Staff
Botanical Illustration: The Beauty of Orchids Date & Time:
Wednesday Mar 03, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register Notes: Please call 704-829-1252 for pricing information and to register. Phone line is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Mon-Fri and 9 a.m. - Noon, Sat.
The natural beauty of orchids will be used as inspiration for this six-session class, where you will learn how to draw and paint orchids using traditional watercolor techniques. The course covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper. Instructor Janis Schneider is an experienced botanical illustrator and currently teaches at CPCC in Charlotte.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Living the "Green" Life
Composting with Worms: Nature's Recyclers Date & Time:
Saturday Mar 13, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Learn how to turn your food scraps and paper into a nutrient-rich plant food using worms! It’s fun, easy and odorless! Find out how to house, feed, harvest and care for a worm bin, why worm castings are so good for your plants and more!
Instructor: Stephen Price, Owner Carolina Organic Depot
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Mar 24, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
March 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28 Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Mar 31, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Apr 07, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Apr 14, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Photoshop® for Beginners and Photographers Date & Time:
Sunday Apr 18, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This class will cover both Adobe Photoshop CS4® and Adobe Photoshop Elements 7®. It will serve as an introduction to Photoshop with emphasis on editing images for photographers. Participants may bring their own laptops and work along with the instructor (images will be provided).
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer, Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Apr 21, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Botanical Illustration Date & Time:
Wednesday Apr 28, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Capture the beauty of spring in this six-week class that features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. This course also covers basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper.
A list of supplies will be sent with registration confirmation.
Instructor: Janis Schneider
Beekeeping for Beginners Date & Time:
Saturday May 01, 10
10 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Learn what it takes to be a hobbyist beekeeper! This class will show you how to get started, what supplies you need, and how to properly inspect a hive. Along the way, learn more about the life of a bee – a truly amazing insect. Whether you’re interest is as a hobby or a profession, beekeeping is a fun and rewarding experience that leaves a “sweet bonus” for you each year!
Instructor: Sally Adams, Owner, Mama Beehive Honey Farm and South Carolina certified journeyman beekeeper
To Tree or Not To Tree: Selecting the Right Tree for Your Yard Date & Time:
Saturday May 01, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This class will help take the guesswork out of deciding which trees will do well in your yard. The class covers trees ideally suited for the South and how to maintain them. A demonstration of proper pruning techniques will take place in the garden.
Instructor: Ryan Chipman, Certified Arborist and Division Director, Schneider Tree Care
Tree-Mendous Trees! Date & Time:
Saturday May 01, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Celebrate Arbor Day by taking a guided tour of the trees in the Garden led by an expert in the field. Find out who’s who, which produce beautiful flowers, which attract wildlife and more. Whether you have a casual interest in trees or you’re planning trees for your garden, this tour is for you!
Instructor: Ryan Chipman, Certified Arborist and Division Director, Schneider Tree Care
Living the "Green" Life: Make & Take Indoor Composting Workshop Date & Time:
Saturday May 08, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register
If youre interested in composting, want to make your own bin and dont mind touching worms, this is the workshop for you! Your new friends will eat your vegetable and fruit scraps, junk mail and more, leaving behind a rich fertilizer for your plants! The workshop includes instruction and supplies to construct your own bin, including the worms.
Instructor: Stephen Price, Owner Carolina Organic Depot
Photographic Depth of Field Date & Time:
Saturday May 08, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
This class provides photographers with digital SLR cameras an understanding of depth of field and how it can improve images.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
*This workshop is intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
Photographic Metering: How to Get the Perfect Exposure for Your Images Date & Time:
Saturday May 08, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Registration: Call to Register
Learn how to achieve perfect images in less than perfect lighting, including understanding aperture, shutter speed, ISO and reflective and incident metering methods.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
Living the "Green" Life: A Water-Wise Home and Garden Date & Time:
Saturday May 15, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Learn techniques, strategies and inexpensive tools you can use to help conserve water, one of our most important natural resources. Also discover how the use of modern technology and efficiency practices can lead to water savings.
Instructor: Wes Maxwell, CIC and Director of Technology GreenWave Associates
Living the "Green" Life: Rain Barrel Workshop Date & Time:
Saturday May 15, 10
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $60 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Rain water is one of our most important natural resources, and this workshop will help you make your own 55 gallon rain barrel to begin collecting this valuable resource! Tools and materials needed to make your rain barrel are provided.
Instructor: Bud Stewart, RainBarrelUSA
Basic Digital SLR Photography Date & Time:
Saturday May 22, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Learn how to set up your digital SLR camera, how to utilize shooting modes and how to get perfect pictures in less than perfect lighting.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK photography
*This workshop is intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
Herbs for the Kitchen: Creating a Culinary Herb Planter Date & Time:
Saturday May 22, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $30 (materials) Registration: Call to Register
Create an outdoor container filled with culinary herbs. Use your herbs to add flavor to your dishes, to spice up your tea and more! Recipes for great herbal dishes are included.
Instructor: Beth Carter, DSBG Garden Store Assistant Manager
Photographic Composition: How to Improve Your Vision in the Field Date & Time:
Saturday May 22, 10
1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Discover the importance of apertures, shutter speeds and lens length in creating more powerful and dynamic images that have a visual impact on the viewer.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
Willow Chair Workshop Date & Time:
Saturday May 22, 10
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
(30 minute break for lunch-lunch not included) Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $175 (members), $200 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Build a functional piece of garden art out of willow branches and wood materials. With 15 years experience, John Tomlinson and wife Trish will help guests construct a chair measuring 5’H x 2 ½’W x 2 ½’D. This rustic chair has sturdy armrests and a bent, fan-shaped back.
Participants need to supply their own common carpenter’s hammer and a fully-charged cordless or electric drill. All other materials are included.
Instructor: John Tomlinson
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jun 08, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jun 15, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jun 22, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
Botanical Illustration and Floral Painting Date & Time:
Thursday Jun 24, 10
6 - 8:30 p.m.
June 24
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This six-week course features drawing and painting flowers, fruits and vegetables using traditional watercolor techniques. Basic botany, drawing accuracy and the use of watercolor, brushes and paper are also covered.
Photography for Beginners Date & Time:
Thursday Jun 24, 10
6 - 8:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Aspiring photographers learn basic camera functions and troubleshooting for SLR cameras and point and shoot cameras in a class for those with little or no experience. This course is an excellent introduction to Basic Digital SLR Photography.
Instructor: Haley Glatzer
Photoshop for Beginners and Photographers Date & Time:
Sunday Jun 27, 10
1:30 - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
This class will cover both Adobe Photoshop CS4 and Adobe Photoshop Elements 7. It will serve as an introduction to Photoshop with emphasis on editing images for photographers. Adobe Photoshop has been the benchmark by which other photo editing programs have been measured for years. This course will be taught using Photoshop CS4, the latest version. However, everything discussed will also be available in Photoshop Elements for people using this program. While Photoshop has powerful elements for illustrators, web designers and graphic artists in addition to photographers, this course will be oriented toward photographers. Participants can bring their own laptop and work along with the instructor (images will be provided) or just attend and take notes. A 30 day free trial of Photoshop CS4 can be downloaded to a computer from the Adobe website prior to coming to the course.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer, & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jun 29, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jul 06, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
T'ai Chi in the Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jul 13, 10
9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register Notes:Register for all and get the sixth session FREE
T'ai Chi is a form of meditative exercise which orginated in China, characterized by slow, captivating movements. It is gentle on the joints, muscles and bones, yet gradually increases strength and improves balance. Deep breathing promotes relaxation, which in turn lowers stress levels. Learning T'ai Chi is similar to learning a dance, in addition to physical exercise, the brain also gets a workout!
Six Independent Sessions
Instructor: Carol Feezell, Exercise Specalist-BS Kinesiology
*Advanced Photographic Metering: How to Get the Perfect Exposure for Your Images Date & Time:
Thursday Jul 22, 10
6 - 8:30 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Learn how to achieve perfect images in less than perfect lighting, including understanding aperture, shutter speed, ISO and reflective and incident metering methods. This course takes the basic digital SLR course one step further. While the basic course teaches participants how to get the right quantity of light to reach the camera’s sensor to create images, this course teaches participants how to get the correct quality of light to reach the camera’s sensor to obtain the correct color balance. Both incident light metering and reflective light metering, including matrix, center weighted and spot metering are discussed and explained. This course contains both lecture and photography work in the field. This course requires a digital SLR camera, it is not designed for a point and shoot camera.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer & Adobe® Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
The starred (*) workshops are intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
Spectacular Iris: Propagation and Care Date & Time:
Saturday Jul 31, 10
10 - 11:30 a.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $10 (materials) Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Mid summer into fall is the time to divide and plant irises. In this hands-on workshop, registrants will actively participate in dividing irises and each will receive a plant to take home. General care, maintenance and growing tips for this gorgeous hardy perennial are covered.
Instructor: Robin Glover, Owner Pecan Grove Farms Iris Nursery
Photography for Beginners Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 07, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Aspiring photographers learn basic camera functions and troubleshooting for SLR cameras and point and shoot cameras in a class for those with little or no experience. This course is an excellent introduction to Basic Digital SLR Photography.
Instructor: Haley Glatzer
Deck the Walls Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 14, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $30 (materials) Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Decorate the wall of your home with a seasonal container garden. Fill it with plants and decorate with natural materials and your own flair. Bring your creativity and enjoy making a wall-mounted container garden that's sure to attract attention.
Instructor: DSBG Staff
Deck the Walls Date & Time:
Thursday Aug 19, 10
6:30 - 8 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), $30 (materials) Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Decorate the wall of your home with a seasonal container garden. Fill it with plants and decorate with natural materials and your own flair. Bring your creativity and enjoy making a wall-mounted container garden that's sure to attract attention.
Instructor: DSBG Staff
*Basic Digital SLR Photography Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 21, 10
1:30 - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Learn how to set up your digital SLR camera, how to utilize shooting modes and how to get perfect pictures in less than perfect lighting. This course is designed to help the photographer new to the digital single lens reflex (SLR) camera or photographers who want to learn how to use the camera in modes other than the auto mode. Participants will learn how to use this camera to create perfect images regardless of the lighting conditions. No previous experience with a digital SLR camera is required. A digital SLR camera is one with interchangeable lenses and different shooting modes, the most important of which is the manual shooting mode. This course is not designed for point and shoot cameras. Compact digital cameras, which do not have interchangeable lenses but have a manual shooting mode, will work for this class. This course contains both lecture and hands on photography in the field.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
The starred (*) workshops are intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
From the Garden to the Bath Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 21, 10
10 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Herbs have long been valued for their healing properties. In this fun class, participants will make three different path products, including herbal remedies for relaxing, energizing, and soothing muscle aches. From basil and citrus to rosemary and lavender, participants will learn how to mix herbs in just the right proportions to obtain their desired effect.
Instructor: Barbara Swierszcz, Serenity Acres Farm
Photographing Hummingbirds Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 21, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Learn tips and tricks on how to capture hummingbirds on film. This course will provide participants knowledge about this bird as well as teach how to photograph them, including how to freeze their rapid wing stroke. Feeders in the Garden will provide ample opportunities to photograph these winged wonders.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
Piece by Piece: Mosaic Planter Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 21, 10
1 - 3 p.m. and August 28, 1 - 3 p.m.
(2 Session Class) Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), $30 (materials) Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Back by popular demand! Designed especially for beginners, this class will teach you how to design and create your own flower pot using broken dishes and mosaic tiles. Take home a planter that is one of a kind - with your personal touch! All materials are included.
*Advanced Photographic Metering: How to Get the Perfect Exposure for Your Images Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 28, 10
9:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Learn how to achieve perfect images in less than perfect lighting, including understanding aperture, shutter speed, ISO and reflective and incident metering methods. This course takes the basic digital SLR course one step further. While the basic course teaches participants how to get the right quantity of light to reach the camera’s sensor to create images, this course teaches participants how to get the correct quality of light to reach the camera’s sensor to obtain the correct color balance. Both incident light metering and reflective light metering, including matrix, center weighted and spot metering are discussed and explained. This course contains both lecture and photography work in the field. This course requires a digital SLR camera, it is not designed for a point and shoot camera.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer & Adobe® Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
The starred (*) workshops are intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
*Photographic Depth of Field Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 28, 10
1:30 - 4 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $30 (members), $36 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
This class provides photographers with digital SLR cameras an understanding of the often difficult concept of depth of field and shows how it can improve images. Depth of field, as well as the things that affect it and how we can use it to improve our images is explained. The role of camera to subject distance, aperture opening, focal length of the lens and camera sensor size in depth of field is discussed and when and how to take advantage of each is discussed. This course includes lecture and photography work in the field. This course requires a digital SLR camera, it is not designed for a point and shoot camera.
Instructor: David Kelly, Wildlife Photographer & Adobe Certified Expert and Owner, DEK Photography
The starred (*) workshops are intended for photographers with some experience and an existing knowledge of basic camera functions is recommended.
Living the 'Green' Life: Edible Landscaping Date & Time:
Saturday Aug 28, 10
10:30 a.m. - Noon Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk Cost: $15 (members), $18 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register , Register Online
Turn your yard into a landscape full of healthy fruits, vegetables and herbs. Top edible varieties and tips on how to produce abundant crops will be covered. Participants will leave with a complementary vegetable plant for their fall garden.
Instructor: David Goforth, Cabarrus County Horticulture Agent, NC Cooperative Extension
First Tuesday Presentations
Join us for First Tuesday presentations on the first Tuesday of each month at noon. Feel free to bring a bag lunch to enjoy while learning about a variety of topics. All First Tuesday presentations are free with regular Garden admission and are held in the Visitor Pavilion. No registration is required.
First Tuesday Presentation: Great Plants, Great Resources, Great Gardens Date & Time:
Tuesday Mar 02, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Access to gardening resources online has exploded recently. Learn about this valuable resource, including how it allows you to share information with gardeners around the world, view enormous plant databases and more. This is one resource that is sure to help you in the garden!
Instructor: Dr. Mark Miller, Content Director, Learn2Grow.com
First Tuesday Presentation: Outdoor Lighting for the Homeowner Date & Time:
Tuesday Apr 06, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Outdoor lighting can do wonders for your home and landscape, bringing ‘to light’ its true beauty! Learn simple lighting principles that will enhance the features of your landscape while improving visibility and safety. Lighting projects will be presented to help you understand the design process.
First Tuesday Presentation: Pruning for Structure Date & Time:
Tuesday May 04, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Proper pruning can help ensure a long and healthy life for your trees and shrubs. Learn the fine points of pruning, including how and when to prune, the proper tools to use and how to prune for a structure that will last.
Instructor: Paul Thompson, York County Horticulture Agent, SC Cooperative Extension
Bonsai for the Home and Garden Date & Time:
Tuesday Jun 01, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
The art of bonsai, more than 1,000 years old, remains a living and thriving horticultural practice. In this demonstration, Brawley covers the many different types of regular garden plants that can be used for bonsai and proper care and pruning techniques for successfully growing bonsai and bringing nature closer to home.
Instructor: Mike Brawley, Bonsai Specialist, Campbell's Greenhouse & Nursery
No Space - No Problem: Creative Gardening for Those with Little Space Date & Time:
Tuesday Jul 06, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
GardenSoxx is fast becoming a popular way to garden, especially for those with limited garden space. Find out what this new portable modular planting system is and how the no till, no weeds approach to vegetable, herb and flower gardening makes it a great compliment to today's gardener. Stewart will also cover other uses of this system, including living walls and living borders in landscapes.
Instructor: J.R. Stewart, Sales and Business Development, Filtrexx Carolinas
Creating a Backyard Bird Sanctuary Date & Time:
Tuesday Aug 03, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
With a few easy steps any backyard can be filled with the color, movement and songs of birds. Learn about species found in the Carolinas, their behaviors and their preferences. Also learn about WingHaven, a garden and bird sanctuary and a jewel in the heart of Charlotte. Regardless of the size of your yard, learn how creating a favorable habitat will help attract birds to your garden!
Instructor: Dia Steiger, Executive Director, WingHaven
Square Foot Gardening Date & Time:
Tuesday Oct 05, 10
Noon - 1 p.m. Location: Please check in at Admissions Desk
Square Foot Gardening is an intensive gardening method described by Mel Bartholomew in his book by the same name. Learn how to gain more from your garden by following Mel's techniques as taught by Square Foot Gardening certified presenters Larry and Sandra Hodges.
DSBG Lecture Series
The Road Less Traveled: New Orchid Hybrids for Warm Climates Date & Time:
Saturday Jan 23, 10
Saturday, January 23, Lecture at 10 a.m.
Milton Carpenter, Owner, Everglades Orchids Cost: $15 (members), $20 (non-members), Registration: Call to Register
Enjoy a day of orchids! Owner of Everglades Orchids in Florida, Milton Carpenter is an internationally recognized speaker with 42 years of experience in growing and breeding orchids. His passion is breeding warmth tolerance into Cymbidiums and members of the Oncidium Alliance, which includes oncidiums, odontoglossums, and miltonias. His remarkable results have enabled people in warm climates (like us!) to grow these previously cold-preferrent orchids. Milton is a past President of the American Orchid Society, however, he rarely lectures now, so this is a great opportunity to learn about these beauties that will tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
