Fall 2022/ Winter 2023 Program Guide

PROGRAMS

FA L L 2 0 2 2 / W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

contents Visit the Gardens................................................ 1 Events....................................................................7 Featured Programs..........................................11 Ecological Gardening Certificate................. 21 Gardening Classes........................................... 29 Conservation Classes......................................37 Art Classes........................................................ 43 Wellness Classes............................................... 51 Instructor Profiles.......................................... 56 Student Information.......................................60 Program Calendar............................................61

Cover: Benthamidia florida in Mt. Cuba’s gardens.

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visit the gardens

HOURS Wednesday–Sunday, 10 am–6 pm April 1 through November 20 *Gardens close at 4 pm in November ADMISSION Members.....................................................................................Free Adults................................................................................................. $15 Children ages 6–17................................................................ $8 Children 5 and under ...................................................Free Classes and events are subject to change.

Please check mtcubacenter.org for the most up-to-date information.

ECO-GARDENING CONSULTATIONS Two-hour private consultation at Mt. Cuba Center $99, 2-person limit This unique two-hour private garden tour will inspire and guide your home landscaping choices. A Mt. Cuba Center consultant will provide a customized experience to meet your gardening needs. Leave with curated resources and a new landscaping perspective. Schedule at least two weeks in advance.

MT. CUBA CENTER MEMBERSHIP Grow with us!

Escape, explore, and engage with a membership. Be part of Mt. Cuba’s mission to inspire an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants and to protect the habitats that sustain them.

All packages include: • Unlimited general admission for one year • Complimentary guest passes • Discount on Garden Enthusiast Tours • Member pricing on select programs • Free snack and drink per visit Select packages offer additional benefits.

Discover more at mtcubacenter.org/membership

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RECURRING P L A N Y O UPROGRAMS R VISIT

LOCATION 3120 Barley Mill Road Hockessin, DE 19707 Safety is our top priority. We ask all guests to please visit mtcubacenter.org/visitsafely to review our updated guidelines before arriving to help keep everyone safe.

OUTDOOR DINING ARE A S Light refreshments are available for purchase onsite, and guests may bring food and drinks into the gardens.

Use the picnic area under the shade of mature native trees, find a seat in the garden or Upper Allee, or borrow one of our picnic blankets. Guests are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to help minimize waste and support Mt. Cuba Center’s commitment to conservation.

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ACCE SSIBILIT Y Due to our rolling terrain and mulched paths, access to level, even terrain is limited. Golf cart transportation to select locations throughout the gardens is available upon request. For your convenience, a wheelchair, rolling walker, and walking sticks are also available at the front desk. Reservations are not required. Please call 302.239.4244 or visit mtcubacenter.org/accessibility for more information.

VISITING WITH CHILDRE N We welcome guests of all ages. Baby carriers and backpacks may be helpful while exploring our hillside gardens.

All-terrain strollers are recommended.

Venture into Bluey’s Woods and discover a little library, nature play activities, and more.

GROUP VISITS & TOURS

BRING YOUR GROUP TO MT. CUBA With paths that guide visitors from formal gardens through lush woodlands and picturesque meadows, Mt. Cuba puts the beauty of native landscapes on display to inspire conservation.

We offer seasonal lectures and unique tour options to enhance your group’s garden experience. Please visit mtcubacenter.org/groups for more information.

Call 302.239.8807 or email groupsales@mtcubacenter.org to make a reservation.

GROUP ADM ISSION A group admission rate of $14 per person is available for groups of 10 or more when scheduled at least two weeks in advance.

All groups traveling by bus must make arrangements in advance.

HAYRIDE HIGHLIGHTS TOUR Sit back and relax on this one-hour guided hayride through our natural lands. Perfect for groups who like to take in the seasonal scenery in a beautiful outdoor setting. One Hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission.

WE LCOM E TO MT. CUBA TOUR Just want the highlights? Join us for an hourlong introduction to our gardens that were once part of the private home and estate of the Copeland family. One Hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission.

BE HIND -THE-SCE NE S HAYRIDE Hitch a hayride deep into our natural lands before adventuring on foot for an experience of Mt. Cuba’s wilder side. Be prepared to hike steep paths and uneven terrain. Two Hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission.

GRE E N THUMB TOU R Immerse yourself in the beauty and benefits of native plants on this two-hour, in-depth tour of Mt. Cuba’s formal and naturalistic gardens. Two Hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission.

GROUP DINING Complete your Mt. Cuba experience with a delicious meal, including breakfast, lunch, tea, or a wine and cheese reception.

GOT PL ANTS? Mt. Cuba has an exclusive selection of native plants available for sale. Ask about the option for everyone to take home a native plant.

Order in advance to receive a group discount.

Plants are subject to availability.

. . .OR BRING MT. CUBA TO YOUR GROUP! Can’t come to Mt. Cuba? Let us come to you! Learn about what Mt. Cuba Center does best — native plants — from our gardening experts, and get great suggestions for your home landscape. Each lecture includes time for audience questions and answers. For more information or to view seasonal topics, visit mtcubacenter.org/grouplectures.

One Hour, $99 for up to 45 participants, $169 for 46–90 participants

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RECURRING PROGRAMS

D A I LY

W E E K LY

Welcome Walks

Story Time Sprouts

Guided walks are offered at 11 am and 3 pm, Wednesday through Sunday when the gardens are open. Each walk lasts about one hour and brings Mt. Cuba Center’s mission of inspiring an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants to life. This introductory tour is perfect for those who wish to learn more about the history of our gardens, native plants, and conservation tips that can be applied at home.

Get lost in a book in Mt. Cuba Center’s gardens. Listen to stories from naturethemed children’s books on Thursday mornings, intended for children ages five and under. Meet on the Upper Lawn in Bluey’s Woods. We recommend bringing a blanket to sit on. No reservations required.

This tour can be added on to your general admission ticket for $3. Free for members.

Advance reservation strongly encouraged.

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Thursdays, Memorial Day to Labor Day 10:30 – 11 am Included with general admission

R E C U R R I N G P R O GEVENTS RAMS

M O N T H LY

Garden Enthusiast Tour

Twilight on the Terrace

Take an in-depth look at the gardens and discover how to apply sustainable gardening practices. Learn about environmental topics such as climate change, systems-thinking, and consciously sourcing native plants for your region. This tour expands on concepts covered in the introductory Welcome Walk.

Unwind from the week with a bite to eat while enjoying live music on the terrace and evening access to the gardens. Local food trucks will be onsite, and beer and wine will be available for purchase. Lineup, details, and more at mtcubacenter.org/twilight.

Tours are two hours in length and include walking over rolling terrain and mulched paths. Tickets include admission for the day, so stay for a picnic or enjoy the gardens after the tour has ended. Purchase tickets online at mtcubacenter.org/tickets or by phone at 302.239.4244. Walk-ins are accepted as space allows.

Saturdays: September 10, October 8, November 12 10 am – 12 pm $19 per person $4 Members

Fridays: August 19 & September 2 5 – 8 pm Included with general admission August 19 Music: The Bickel Brothers (R&B/Rock) Food Trucks: Bucky’s BBQ & The Box Lunch September 2 Music: Soul Chalice (Rock/Funk) Food Trucks: Zaikka & Wildwich

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events

Fiesta en el Jardín Spend an autumn afternoon in the gardens celebrating Mexican culture, dance, and mariachi as Mt. Cuba partners with the Hispanic American Association of Delaware to bring you Fiesta en el Jardín!

Bring a picnic and blanket to spread out on the lawn while enjoying performances from the Ballet Folklórico México Lindo and live music. Celebrate Día de los Muertos early; come wearing your best sugar skull makeup and learn about the significance of mariposas monarca (monarch butterflies).

Saturday, October 22 3 – 4:30 pm Included with general admission (Rain Date: Sunday, October 23)

Hayride and Hike Hitch a hayride deep into our natural lands before adventuring on foot for a behind-thescenes experience of Mt. Cuba’s wilder side.

Hike to the far corners of the property and discover how Mt. Cuba applies “gardening on a higher level” in natural areas. Learn about ever-evolving land management strategies, conservation efforts and research, and the state of our restoration projects. Be prepared to hike steep paths and uneven terrain. Advance registration required.

Space is limited.

Saturdays: September 17, October 1, October 8 1 – 3 pm $19 per person $4 Members

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PROGRAMS

Sunset and S’mores

Hay Bales and Brews

Bring the family out for a scenic hayride through Mt. Cuba’s stunning natural lands.

Arrive at a bonfire where you can kick back and relax or explore your surroundings.

Enjoy fireside snacks, s’mores, and adult and family-friendly beverages while the sun sets. Advance registration required. Space is limited.

This unique hayride experience travels through rolling hills and grassland fields in Mt. Cuba’s picturesque natural areas.

Learn about Mt. Cuba’s land management, conservation efforts, and restoration projects. Arrive at a bonfire for stunning vistas, tasty brews, and fireside snacks.

Advance registration required. Space is limited.

Saturdays: September 17, September 24, October 1, October 8 5 – 7 pm Adults: $15 Children (2 – 17): $8 Children under 2: Free

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Saturdays: September 17, September 24, October 1, October 8 5:30 – 7:30 pm $25 per person Participants must be ages 21 and older.

PROGRAMS

Tree Festival

Nature Play Day

See trees in their autumn glory and learn how they add beauty and value to our landscapes. Enjoy unique family-friendly programs, live music, hayrides, and more.

Food and drinks available for purchase.

Native plants available for purchase while supplies last. Learn more at mtcubacenter. org/treefestival.

Saturday, November 5 (Rain Date: Sunday, November 6) 10 am – 4 pm Entry included with admission

Saturday, September 24 (Rain Date: Sunday, September 25) 10 am – 6 pm Included with admission

Night Hikes See Mt. Cuba Center in a new light – no light, that is! Embark on a guided Night Hike to experience the stars and sounds of our natural lands after dark. Listen as the night comes alive with the chatter of owls, frogs, crickets, and maybe even a fox or two. Learn about the nocturnal animals that call our natural areas home and how to spot and listen for them once the sun goes down.

Discover the wild side of Mt. Cuba Center with a day of outdoor fun in our natural lands. Take to the open skies with kite-flying; touch a truck and tractor; navigate a nature obstacle course; and more! Embrace your inner explorer on a guided hike through rolling terrain. A variety of food and beverage selections available for purchase. Visit mtcubacenter.org/natureplayday for more information.

Free parking for this event is at 1003 Old Wilmington Road, just east of Brackenville Road.

Guests should be prepared to hike steep paths and uneven terrain. Purchase tickets online at mtcubacenter.org/nighthikes.

Fridays, September 9 & 16, 7:30 – 9 pm Fridays, October 14 & 21, 6:30 – 8 pm Adults: $15 Children (6-17): $8

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featured programs

A Taste of First State Ciders With Jeffery “Doc” Cheskin Join award-winning cidermaker “Doc” Cheskin in a discussion of the rich history of apples, cider, and hard cider in this region and the art and science of cider-making. Native North American apples were joined by those brought over from Europe early in the development of the original 13 colonies. Delaware produced one of the first apple drinks of Colonial America – cider, which, when fermented, becomes hard cider. Founding Fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin were huge hard cider fans (and makers). Sample a variety of ciders including one made exclusively for Mt. Cuba Center using local ingredients. (Ages 21 and over) Saturday, November 19 Section A: 12 – 2 pm Section B: 2:30 – 4:30 pm $45

Shrubs Aren’t Just for the Garden With Diane Keesee Popular during the American colonial era, shrubs are a soft drink or cocktail made by mixing a vinegar-based syrup with spirits, water, or seltzer. In this class we will explore using vinegar with fresh fruit and herbs from the garden to make thirst-quenching beverages, perk up a salad dressing, or enhance your favorite cocktail.

Saturday, August 27 4 – 5:30 pm $29

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FA L L G A R D E N I N G S AT U R D AY

FA L L G A R D E N I N G S AT U R D AY Spend an autumn day at Mt. Cuba and leave with the tricks you need to build a successful garden from the ground up. From soil to wildlife, Mt. Cuba’s experts share sustainable ideas for outdoor areas.

Saturday, October 22 9 am – 4:30 pm $19 per session or $89 for all five

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CFEERATTI U FR I CEADT P E RCOLGARSASM ES

Perennials for Late-Season Interest

Must-Have Native Shrubs for Autumn Color

With Leah Brooks 9 – 10 am

With Vic Piatt 2 – 3 pm

Discover a variety of native perennials that offer late-season color, texture, and visual interest. From asters to ferns to sedges, leave inspired to create a beautiful and ecologically vibrant fall garden.

Vic Piatt, Mt. Cuba’s senior garden advisor, presents his favorite native shrubs that display colorful foliage, fruit, and bark. Learn how to care for these beauties, where best to plant them, and the ecological services they provide. This class is a must for new homeowners, and anyone interested in adding alluring fall colors to their yard.

Get the “Dirt” on Soil With Duncan Himmelman 10:30 – 11:30 am Soil is alive with microorganisms that help provide garden plants with the all-important nutrients and water they need. Unearth a more holistic view of soil while learning how to improve soil quality using compost, interpret a soil test report, and create a living soil that you’ll reap the benefits of for years to come.

Helping Wildlife Through the Winter With Leah Brooks 12:30 – 1:30 pm

Native Trees for Autumn Color With Vic Piatt 3:30 – 4:30 pm Enhance your garden design with stunning displays of fall color in native trees. Learn how to appropriately site trees for planting, which attributes will set trees apart, and proper tree care for optimal health. Add one of these beauties to your home landscape and enjoy the autumnal feels and observe the wildlife it supports.

From fruiting shrubs to seed-bearing wildflowers, native plants provide essential shelter and food that sustains wildlife through the winter. Explore how to easily create an overwintering habitat and learn about the animals that utilize it.

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F E AT U R E D P R O G R A M S

M T. C U B A C E N T E R L E C T U R E S E R I E S * Our 2023 Lecture Series presents topics from local, regional, and global perspectives. Cross oceans with migratory birds and discover the research behind their astounding navigational and physiological feats. Take notes from a professional ecological landscape designer helping homeowners create functional and resilient gardens in the Philadelphia region. Learn about Mt. Cuba’s conservation work and how you can take part in local ecological efforts. $25 per lecture or $88 for the series.

Pollinators and Native Plant Cultivars* With Annie White, PhD Wednesday, January 11 6:30 – 8 pm Are native cultivars as valuable in pollinator habitat gardens as straight native species?

Native plants are generally recommended for supporting pollinators, but the growing demand for native plants, coupled with the horticulture industry’s desire for plants with unique characteristics, has led to the increased breeding and availability of native cultivars or “nativars.” Annie White was one of the first researchers in the country to evaluate native cultivars based on their ecological value instead of just their garden performance. Informed by both years of rigorous field research and realworld landscape design experience, Annie’s talk discusses the benefits as well as the challenges of using native species and their cultivars in landscapes.

Annie White is the founder of Nectar Landscape Design Studio and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Vermont. She earned her MS in Landscape Architecture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Her PhD research on native plant cultivars, done at the University of Vermont, broke new ground on this very important and timely subject.

Putting Plants to Work* With Jeff Lorenz Saturday, January 21 11 am – 12:30 pm Join ecological landscape designer Jeff Lorenz of Bala Cynwyd-based Refugia Design/Build for expert tips and insight on creating a native habitat that is immersive, functional, and resilient. In an effort to reimagine their landscapes, homeowners often seek plants that manage stormwater runoff. How can we get creative with design and materials to create a beautiful and multi-tasking outdoor space? Reducing lawn, establishing deep-rooted plantings and integrating permeable hardscaping is key to reducing neighborhood erosion, filtering pollutants, and absorbing dirty water before it enters our precious waterways.

Jeff Lorenz is the founder of Refugia Design, an ecological landscape design/build and stewardship firm, based out of Bala Cynwyd, PA. Since 2015, Refugia has offered distinctive native landscape design for both residential and commercial green spaces throughout the Greater Philadelphia area and Jersey Shore.

Refugia is known for an immersive, naturalistic design aesthetic and meadow expertise at projects ranging in size from city yards to suburban estates.

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F E AT U R E D P R O G R A M S

The Global Odyssey of Migratory Birds*

Mt. Cuba Conservation: Behind the Scenes*

With Scott Weidensaul Saturday, February 4 11 am – 12:30 pm

With Ellen Lake, PhD Saturday, March 4 11 am – 12:30 pm

Even as scientists make discoveries about navigational and physiological feats that enable migratory birds to cross immense oceans or fly above the highest mountains, go weeks without sleep or remain in unbroken flight for months, humans have brought many migratory birds to the brink. Based on his bestselling new book, A World on the Wing, author and researcher Scott Weidensaul takes attendees around the globe — with researchers in the lab probing the limits of what migrating birds can do, to the shores of the Yellow Sea in China, the remote mountains of northeastern India where tribal villages saved the greatest gathering of falcons on the planet, and the Mediterranean, where activists and police are battling bird poachers — to learn how people are fighting to understand and save the world’s great bird migrations.

While Mt. Cuba Center’s gardens showcase how native plants can enhance formal and naturalistic gardens, behind the scenes, Mt. Cuba conducts conservation programs at many scales, ranging from individual species to whole ecosystems. We monitor and propagate rare plants, cultivate breeding habitat for bird species of conservation concern, and conduct a 100-year reforestation experiment. We collaborate with independent, university, and community scientists to learn more about the flora and fauna at Mt. Cuba, share the results with broader audiences, and contribute data to national community science projects. Dr. Ellen Lake, Mt. Cuba’s director of conservation and research, discusses the range of conservation efforts at Mt. Cuba, ongoing ecological research, and the purpose of Mt. Cuba’s newly constructed greenhouse and plant nursery.

Scott Weidensaul is the author of more than two dozen books on natural history, including the Pulitzer Prize finalist Living on the Wind and his latest, the New York bestseller A World on the Wing. Weidensaul is a contributing editor for Audubon and writes for a variety of other publications, including Living Bird. He is a fellow of the American Ornithological Society and an active field researcher, studying saw-whet owl migration for more than two decades, as well as winter hummingbirds, bird migration in Alaska, and the winter movements of snowy owls through Project SNOWstorm, which he co-founded.

* Online-only class

Ellen Lake, PhD is the director of conservation and research at Mt. Cuba Center. She taught environmental education and was the education director at the Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Associations. Ellen has a master’s degree in entomology and PhD in entomology and wildlife ecology from the University of Delaware, where she researched biological control of mile-a-minute weed and how to integrate weed management techniques to restore plant communities. Ellen has extensive experience researching insect-plant interactions, including work for the USDA in the Greater Everglades ecosystem.

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F E AT U R E D P R O G R A M S

With grace and humor, Toni Gattone speaks to audiences at garden clubs, national flower and garden shows, master gardener symposiums, as well as to women and senior groups. Her clients agree: Toni’s enthusiasm and her deep love of gardening is contagious and inspirational. She is the author of The Lifelong Gardener, Garden with Ease & Joy at Any Age. Published in August 2019

by Timber Press, it has resonated with many gardeners. In August 2021, Toni was honored with the prestigious Gold Medal of Achievement for Public Speaking by Garden Communicators International.

Re-think your garden to include containers, raised beds and vertical gardens for no-bend gardening in a class with Toni Gattone. Adapt your favorite garden tools for little or no cost.

Discover new ergonomic tools that are easier on your hands, back, hips and entire body.

You CAN Garden for Life! *

Adapting for Your Spring Garden*

Looking for ways you can garden for life in comfort and safety, with ease and joy? Toni Gattone, author of The Lifelong Gardener, Garden with Ease & Joy at Any Age, will inform and inspire with dozens of tips, tools and techniques, cultivating new ways to garden to save time, money, and above all, energy. Re-envision your garden’s size and accessibility for greater comfort.

No matter your age, experience, or ability level, getting your garden ready for spring can be demanding and strenuous on the body.

Toni Gattone will help you think through what needs to be done, and prioritize, plan, and plant without injury. Early spring is the perfect time to re-think your garden, ensuring it will be comfortable and safe for the year.

With Toni Gattone

Tuesday, October 18 6:30 – 8 pm $25

* Online-only class 16

With Toni Gattone

Tuesday, March 7 6:30 – 8 pm $25

F E A TFEATURED U R E D P RPROGRAMS OGRAMS

S P R I N G G A R D E N I N G S AT U R D AY Get ready to dig, plant, and cultivate this spring by learning eco-friendly ideas and gardening tips from the pros. Discover how to garden in harmony with nature and select the best native plants for your yard. Establish a plan to tackle springtime garden tasks and discover new ideas. Enjoy an entire daylong lineup or register for individual sessions.

Saturday, April 1 10 am – 4 pm $19 per session or $69 for all four

Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens With Leah Brooks 10 – 11 am Do you want to bring more butterflies, birds, and bees into your garden? Join Mt. Cuba Center’s public programs assistant, Leah Brooks, to find out which plants will give you the most bang for your buck. Bring a list of your favorites to the nursery this spring and create the ultimate pollinator-friendly garden.

Doing Your Best in the Garden With Lucy Dinsmore 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Spring is coming, and with it, our desire to get going in the garden. This class is a crash course in best garden practices to be a good steward of the land. Learn when to prune and cut back plants with the least disturbance to hibernating pollinators.

Understand how to start tackling invasive species. Learn what to weed now, and what might be worth keeping. Well-timed gardening saves your time and your back.

Right Plant, Right Place With Nancy Bell 1:30 – 2:30 pm Choose the right plant for the right place based on the environmental conditions, available space, and desired look for your yard to avoid costly oversights. Learn how to select site-appropriate native trees, shrubs, and perennials and create ways to organize them into combinations that reduce maintenance, look great year-round, and mimic natural landscapes.

Tidy Gardens for All to Enjoy With Kathy Elliot 3 – 4 pm Address neighborhood expectations about tidiness, property values, and aesthetics without giving up the goal of gardening ecologically with nature in mind. Devise a plan for planting and maintaining the most visible or prominent areas of your yard. Kathy Elliot will discuss “cues for care” that just may convince the whole neighborhood you are on to something.

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F E AT U R E D P R O G R A M S

POETRY WORKSHOP SERIES With Ares Headley

Push and pull the boundaries of language to artfully examine and express the beauty, oddity, complexity, serenity, and terrifying magnificence of the natural world. This series includes immersive experiences in the gardens, interactive lectures on poetic form and devices, readings featuring a variety of skilled poets, and – of course – guided workshops where students will have the opportunity to share their work and receive feedback. Join instructor, Ares Headley, to learn techniques to improve your writing and revel in the joy and inspiration you can glean from exploring our ecosystems with fellow artists. Poets of any background or skill level welcome. Bring your own lunch.

Because workshops are most effective when the group has an established relationship, students are strongly encouraged to take all (or most) of the classes in this series. $29 per course or $105 for the series.

A Showcase Event will be held November 5 from 2 – 4:00 pm to celebrate your accomplishments as a naturalist writer. Poets will perform or display work alongside peers and enjoy snacks and drinks amongst good company as the sun sets over the gardens.

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F E AT U R E D P R O G R A M S

Take inspiration from the natural beauty of the ecologically thriving landscapes at Mt. Cuba and discover the potential for growing your writing skills through the workshop format as you analyze and appreciate nature-themed poems with your peers in this series of classes.

Origins and Change

Self-Discovery and Memories

Saturday, October 8 11 am – 1:30 pm $29

Saturday, October 22 11 am – 1:30 pm $29

Explore growth, decay, change, and seasons through a poetic lens.This class serves as an introduction to the series and will prepare you to craft and share your own works of writing.

Use a poetic lens to explore how the natural world shapes identity, from youthful comingof-age experiences to the musings of the reminiscent autumn years. You are encouraged to bring your own material (finished or unfinished) to the workshop.

Nature and Culture Saturday, October 15 11 am – 1:30 pm $29 Consider the commonalities, contradictions, and coexistence of nature and culture through a poetic lens by challenging the boundaries between “wild” and “civilized.” You are encouraged to bring your own material (finished or unfinished) to the workshop.

Resilience, Community, Ecology Saturday, October 29 11 am – 1:30 pm $29 Explore biodiversity and community interdependence as methods of resilience in the face of environmental destruction. You are encouraged to bring your own material (finished or unfinished) to the workshop.

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ecological gardening certificate

Whether you’re a backyard gardener, landscape professional, or just interested in native plants and their wildlife connections, Mt. Cuba Center’s Ecological Gardening Certificate offers a comprehensive approach to gardening in harmony with nature using ecologically sound practices.

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C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

ECOLOGICAL GARDENING CERTIFICATE CL ASSES Course Name

Hours

Botany for Gardeners†

8

Ecological Landscape Design

18

Enhancing Life in the Soil†

12

Native Plants of Spring†

12

Sustainable Landscape Techniques 8 Plant Propagation Native Plants of Summer† Integrated Pest Management

8 12 8

Plant Disease Management

12

Ecosystems & Plant Communities

16

Native Plants of Fall†

12

Inviting Wildlife into the Garden

12

Managing Invasive Plants

8

Ecological Arboriculture

12

Total Hours for Certificate Completion

158

† These courses are ideal starting points for the Certificate program.

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ECOLOGICAL GARDENING C E R T I F I C AT E Broaden your understanding of life in the soil, the fundamentals of eco-friendly gardening techniques, and how to identify and grow native plants. Learn how to attract and nurture beneficial wildlife such as birds, bees, and butterflies by creating inviting, biologically diverse landscapes. Use these skills to transform your garden or neighborhood greenspace, commercial property, or clients’ landscape into a habitat that enhances and preserves the ecological integrity of our plant communities and their associated ecosystems.

Complete all classes to earn the Certificate or take only the classes that interest you.

Certificate classes are open to everyone; however, students enrolled in the Certificate program have priority in registration. Complete all classes to earn a certificate. Students seeking the Certificate must pass an evaluation (project, quiz, exam, etc.) for each course.

Sign up for the Certificate Program and learn more at mtcubacenter.org/certificate or contact the Education Department, 302.239.4244. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: • Identify and use native plants in the landscape • Apply organic gardening practices to create resilient environments • Design and create ecologically sound gardens by imitating nature’s patterns and systems • Manage plant health issues using sustainable techniques • Become conservators of natural habitats Visit mtcubacenter.org/certificate for more information. Class dates and times updated on a rolling basis.

C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

Inviting Wildlife into the Garden

Ecological Arboriculture

With Faith B. Kuehn, Ian Stewart, PhD, and Derek Stoner

With William Trescott, Scott Kelley, and Guest Lecturer

Transform your landscape into a garden that attracts a wealth of beneficial wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and a wide variety of insects. Unlock the important connections between the roles of pollinators and the plants and habitats they require. Explore Mt. Cuba’s naturalistic gardens to observe the best native plants for migrating and resident birds. Learn the importance of having water in the garden to support turtles, damselflies, and bats, as well as the value of creating environments that sustain wildlife year-round.

Three Thursdays: September 15 through 29 (Rain Date: Thursday, October 6) 10 am – 2:30 pm $229 (Lunch included)

NEW!

Develop a deeper connection to trees by understanding their outsized role in our natural ecosystems. Trees provide habitat and food; they support nutrient-cycling in forest systems through leaf-drop and decomposition; they mediate temperatures, mitigate stormwater and soil erosion, and are culturally significant to the mid-Atlantic region. Examine the ecological features of trees while learning about their anatomy and care. Find out how trees contribute, in both life and death, to forest ecology. Learn why large, mature trees need to be conserved and how climate change could impact forests in the future. These classes are rain or shine. Dress for the weather.

Three Thursdays: October 13 through 27 10 am – 2:30 pm $229 (Lunch included)

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C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

Managing Invasive Plants With Ellen Lake, PhD and Nate Shampine, CERP Is your landscape being invaded by overly aggressive plants? Examine the problems caused by non-native invasive plants and discover management strategies for controlling them. Learn how to identify common non-native plants and how to distinguish them from similar-looking native species. Help stem the tide and give native plants more room to grow. These classes are rain or shine. Dress for the weather and wear reliable shoes as walking paths may be uneven.

Two Fridays: October 28 & November 4 10 am – 2:30 pm $169 (Lunch included)

Botany for Gardeners With Eileen Hazard Understanding how plants grow and develop, how water and nutrients are taken up and distributed, and how leaves, flowers, stems, and roots function are key to becoming a successful gardener. Discover intriguing relationships between plants and pollinators, how seeds and fruits form, and why plants grow toward the sun. Develop basic plant identification skills and learn the reasons for using scientific names. Dress for the weather.

Two Saturdays: January 21 & 28 (Snow Date: Saturday, February 4) 10 am – 2:30 pm $169 (Lunch included)

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Ecological Landscape Design With Jenna Webster Ecologically sound landscapes are adapted to local environmental conditions and require fewer inputs to achieve success. Learn how to measure, inventory, and analyze a site; then make a conceptual design and planting plan using the “right plant, right place” approach.

Broaden your design perspective, increase biodiversity in the landscape with native plants, decrease space dedicated to lawn, and create habitats that benefit insects, birds, and other fauna. Dress for the weather.

A detailed materials list is available on our website: mtcubacenter.org/education.

It is recommended that students complete the Native Plants of Spring, Summer, and Fall, and Sustainable Landscape Techniques before enrolling in this course.

Six Thursdays: February 9 through March 16 Optional project evaluation: March 23 (Snow Date: Thursday, March 30) 1 – 4 pm $289

C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

Enhancing Life in the Soil

Plant Propagation

With Mark Highland

With James Rockwell and Guest Lecturer

Native plant communities are supported by healthy, balanced soils that contain a vast array of living organisms including microbes, insects, and other fauna. Learn the basics of soil science, the value of organic matter and its role in soil structure and nutrition, and the importance of soil organisms. Learn how to make and use compost and compost tea, and how sustainable gardening practices contribute to creating high-quality garden soil.

Go home with a greater understanding of the life in your soil and why you won’t need to buy fertilizer ever again. Dress for the weather.

Save money and increase your garden plants through simple propagation techniques using seeds and cuttings. Review the ethics of wild-collected seed and learn the basics of seed biology, germination, and storage. Study the principles of asexual plant reproduction; learn when and how to take cuttings; and practice proper techniques for preparing and rooting them. Take samples home. Dress for this hands-on workshop by wearing closedtoe shoes. Please bring hand pruners.

Three Wednesdays: March 8 through 22 (Snow Date: Wednesday, March 29) 10 am – 2:30 pm $229 (Lunch included)

Section A: Two Fridays: May 12 & 19 10 am – 2:30 pm $189 (Lunch included) Section B: Two Saturdays: May 13 & 20 10 am – 2:30 pm $189 (Lunch included)

Sustainable Landscape Techniques With Sue Barton, PhD and Carrie Murphy Create more ecologically sound landscapes by implementing a variety of sustainable gardening and landscaping techniques. Learn how to manage and conserve water using rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. Reduce the demands of lawn care by adding meadow areas and increase your energy savings with strategically placed layered plantings.

Develop your garden to support a diverse population of beneficial wildlife and create healthy, natural habitats.

Two Saturdays: April 8 & 15 10 am – 2:30 pm $169 (Lunch included)

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C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

N AT I V E P L A N T S S E R I E S Native plants of the Eastern Temperate Forest of North America are beautiful, inspiring, and critically important for healthy landscapes. From the subdued colors and fragrances of spring wildflowers to the exuberance of summer perennials and the captivating hues of fall foliage, discover a wealth of plants that satisfy your gardening needs throughout the seasons. Using Mt. Cuba Center’s stunning gardens, learn to identify 60 trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials in each Native Plants course. Examine their key identifying characteristics, preferred growing conditions, overall size, and ecological significance.

Students seeking a Certificate in Ecological Gardening must take the onsite exam.

Native Plants of Fall 2022 Mt. Cuba Center Staff Six Wednesdays: September 14 through October 19, 2022 Optional exam: October 26.

10 am – 12 pm $205

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C E R T I F I C AT E C L A S S E S

Native Plants of Spring 2023

Native Plants of Summer 2023

Native Plants of Fall 2023

Mt. Cuba Center Staff

Mt. Cuba Center Staff

Mt. Cuba Center Staff

Six Thursdays: April 6 through May 11

Six Thursdays: June 1 through July 6

Six Thursdays: September 7 through October 12

Optional exam: May 18 10 am – 12 pm $205

Optional exam: July 13 10 am – 12 pm $205

Optional exam: October 19 10 am – 12 pm $205

Mt. Cuba has inspired me for many years. I attended my first class at there in 2015— a moss gardening class and I continue to enjoy the zen of moss gardening or “Mossin.”

Fast forward three years when I decided to take the Native Plants of Spring course.

One of my classmates said something that struck home — you learn the plants when you grow them. I loved those classes and I continued to the Summer and Fall Native Plant courses and that was it — I was hooked!

I thoroughly enjoyed learning from each course in the certificate program. My very favorite courses include Ecological Landscape Design. I love the creativity involved in the design process and the satisfaction when things work — the plants being happy and looking beautiful together while providing shelter and food for the wildlife.

Thank you to Mt. Cuba and its instructors for this wonderful knowledge and experience!

PATT PANZER

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gardening classes

BEGINNER GARDENER WORKSHOPS Fall Garden Care for Wildlife As fall approaches, different elements become important in the garden — both visually and for providing habitat. This month we will talk about how to incorporate EcoGardening principals into your management practices. Discover an array of fruiting trees and shrubs that add beauty to your space and provide wildlife forage.

Saturday, September 10 10 am – 12 pm $19

Plant Division, and Fall Trees and Shrubs Many experienced gardeners spend very little money on plants — they have mastered the techniques of seed collection, plant division, plant swaps, and other frugal methods to create a diverse and vital garden without constant trips to the nursery or garden center. Learn how to divide and propagate your most prolific perennials to grow your garden year after year. Explore a variety of easy-to-grow native trees and shrubs that will enhance your landscape.

Saturday, October 1 10 am – 12 pm $19

Putting the Garden to Bed The days are shortening, and frost is in the air. Now is the time to put the garden to bed and look towards the future. We will cover fall seed collection, winter sowing, over-wintering strategies for beds and containers, and the ever-important step of recording your successes and challenges of the last year to help inform the plans for next year.

Saturday, November 5 10 am – 12 pm $19

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GARDENING CLASSES

Create a Captivating Fall Container

Weeds 101: Fall Section With Lucy Dinsmore and Scott Freedman

With Susan Dixon Usher in the cool days of autumn with a colorful assortment of plants that provide late-season interest to your garden and much-needed food for resident and migrating pollinators. Susan Dixon, perennial plant buyer and department manager at Gateway Garden Center, discusses design principles, plant and container selection, and proper planting and maintenance tips, after which she leads you through the steps of making your own captivating autumn-themed container garden. Bring gardening gloves.

Wednesday, September 7 10 am – 12 pm $69 (Plants and containers included)

Think of what gardening would be like without the world of weeds. Learn how to identify the most common annual and perennial lawn and garden weeds using leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds. The fall section covers species that should be removed before winter, making next year’s garden more maintenance free. Ecologically friendly methods of managing weed infestations are discussed.

Friday, September 16 (Rain Date: Friday, September 23) 10 am – 12 pm $40

Autumn Groundcovers With Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Woodland Glade Walk & Talk

NEW!

With Susan Boss and Serah Pesce Come walk and talk through the recently unveiled Woodland Glade entrance garden from none other than the horticulturists who take pride in the design, planning, and installation of Mt. Cuba Center’s new entrance garden. From the soloists that wow to the chorus of ground-covering plants, and architectural backbone of the trees and shrubs, Susan Boss, senior horticulturist, and Serah Pesce, education specialist will share the process and plant list behind creating the Woodland Glade.

Friday, September 9 10 am – 12 pm $29

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Kick mulch to the curb and plant a tapestry of native plants for a more visually appealing and ecologically valuable landscape. Learn a variety of attractive, tough, and versatile species that look great in the fall and help knit your landscape together. Gardeners of all levels will benefit from this addition to their gardening expertise.

Friday, October 21 10 am – 12 pm $29

GARDENING CLASSES

Native Evergreens With Duncan Himmelman, PhD Evergreens are an indispensable part of all home landscapes. They provide year-round color and textural interest, give structure to the garden, and offer shelter and food sources for birds. Learn the identifying characteristics, cultural requirements, and uses of native conifers and broadleaved evergreens that can enhance your property.

Late-Season Perennials for Wildlife With Leah Brooks Take an in-depth look at how plants that add fall and winter interest to the home garden also serve as lifelines for local wildlife.

Explore the intricate connections between native plants and the animals that have evolved alongside them. A garden walk to view the plants is included.

Friday, October 21 1 – 3 pm $29

Sunday, November 6 1 – 3 pm $29

Best Woody Plants for Wildlife

How Animals Overwinter

With Leah Brooks

With Leah Brooks

Fall is a great time to plant trees and shrubs.

From willow and viburnum, to hawthorn and more, discover beautiful woody plants that provide immense value for wildlife. A garden walk to view the plants is included.

Join Leah Brooks as she highlights the strategies and adaptations that native animals use to survive the winter. Unlock the secrets of frogs that freeze, mammals that hunker in hollows, butterflies that bunk under bark, and more. A winter walk in the gardens is included.

Sunday, November 6 10 am – 12 pm $29

Saturday, December 10 1 – 3 pm $29

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GARDENING CLASSES

Carex for Every Garden With Sam Hoadley Carex are a diverse and versatile, yet underutilized genus of native plants that are overflowing with garden merit. They can fill various niches in landscapes as groundcovers and living mulch, while some can even be used on their own as specimen plants. Traditionally thought of as shade perennials, some Carex species exhibit remarkable tolerance to full sun as well, making them a viable and worthy addition to the garden. Sam Hoadley, manager of horticultural research, shares the top-performing Carex from Mt. Cuba’s Trial Garden and discusses strategies and examples of how to successfully incorporate Carex in home gardens.

Section A*: Wednesday, February 1 6 – 7:30 pm $19 Section B: Saturday, March 18 (Snow date: March 25) 1 – 3 pm $29 (tour included)

* Online-only class 32

Workshop: Tool-Sharpening Techniques With Charlie Reidinger Sharp, well-maintained gardening tools help get more work done in less time and with less effort. Charlie Reidinger, a Mt. Cuba grounds maintenance technician, discusses and demonstrates professional-grade techniques for cleaning and safely sharpening pruning shears, loppers, shovels, spades, and trowels.

Bring a pair of hand pruners in need of sharpening and a pair of work gloves.

Section A: Wednesday, February 15 (Snow Date: Wednesday, February 22) 1 – 4 pm $49 Section B: Saturday, February 18 (Snow Date: Saturday, March 4) 9 am – 12 pm $49

GARDENING CLASSES

Workshop: Pruning for Homeowners

Workshop: Residential Landscape Design

With Lucy Dinsmore

With Lee Armillei, APLD

Keep trees and shrubs healthy, attractive, and long-lived using expert pruning techniques. In this hands-on workshop, learn basic pruning principles including how to make the correct cuts, the best times of year to prune various plants, and how to select and use the right tools. Gain the confidence to prune your plants in a more naturalistic, appealing, and professional way. Bring work gloves and hand pruners.

Good garden design isn’t easy; but success awaits anyone with a passion for plants, a little imagination, and proper guidance. Lee Armillei, a professional landscape designer, shows how to analyze a site, draw a basic plan, and use design principles for laying out paths, planting beds, and other garden features. Through lectures and drawing exercises, students explore design options, assess landscape materials, and employ a process that results in a practical planning document for their individual landscape project. Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Wednesday, February 15 (Snow Date: Wednesday, February 22) 9 am – 12 pm $49 Section B: Saturday, February 18 (Snow Date: Saturday, March 4) 1 – 4 pm $49

Workshop: Tree ID from the Trail With Scott Kelley and William Trescott Take a hike through the woods with Mt. Cuba’s ISA Certified Arborists®, Scott Kelley and William Trescott, and learn to recognize common native trees. Tree identification becomes quick and rewarding when using easy and practical identification tricks such as leaf shape, bark texture, silhouettes, and fruit and nuts found on the ground. Class will be held entirely outdoors, so please dress for weather and hiking on uneven terrain.

A detailed list of required materials is available with the online class description.

Section A: Two Fridays: February 17 & 24 (Snow Date: Saturday, March 3) 10 am – 3:30 pm $165 Section B: Two Saturdays: February 18 & 25 (Snow Date: Saturday, March 4) 10 am – 3:30 pm $165

Saturday, October 22 (Rain Date: Saturday, October 29) 10 am – 12 pm $35

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GARDENING CLASSES

Unraveling Botanical Names (Part I)

Unraveling Botanical Names (Part II)

With Amy Highland

With Amy Highland

Scientific names offer precision and accuracy when identifying plants, but they can also intimidate even the most seasoned gardener.

Amy Highland, director of collections and conservation lead at Mt. Cuba, breaks down the various components in a Latin binomial, including why plants are named in this way and what a Latin name can teach us about a plant. This introductory course leaves attendees well prepared for any magazine article, nursery catalog, or class with a strong Latin name component.

Continue your study of scientific plant names in Part II of Mt. Cuba’s botanical nomenclature series. Amy Highland, director of collections and conservation lead at Mt. Cuba, explains how to pronounce botanical names and reveals how they provide extra layers of understanding about plants: where they come from, who discovered them, and what groups they belong to. Learn ways to interpret the secret language of plants and take your aptitude for gardening to new heights.

Saturday, March 11 (Snow Date: March 18) 10 am – 12 pm $29

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Sunday, March 12 (Snow Date: March 19) 1 – 3 pm $29

GARDENING CLASSES

The Glory of Goldenrods

Gardening with Pets in Mind*

With Samantha Nestory

With Dr. Danielle Downs, DVM

With their stunning yellow flowers, goldenrods are one of the hallmark plants of autumn, but they do more than delight the eye — goldenrods support hundreds of insects from bees and wasps to caterpillars and butterflies. This keystone species deserves a place in your garden. Join to learn how goldenrod can add beauty and biodiversity to any landscape. A tour of the Trial Garden and Meadow follows the lecture.

Many backyard plants are listed as “toxic” to cats and dogs, but toxicity can range from simple stomach irritation to life-threatening illness. Learn how to identify the most common garden plant offenders and which ones are cause for real concern in this talk.

Basic at-home care will be discussed, as well as when, and how, to seek appropriate emergency veterinary care for a potential toxic plant exposure. Dr. Danielle Downs also shares her practical approach to native garden design with pets in mind.

Saturday, September 10 1 – 3 pm $29

Supporting Insects in the Winter Garden With Samantha Nestory Where do the insects go when we cozy up for winter? While some fly to warmer climates, many species wait for spring right in our own backyards. Learn about the ingenious ways bees, butterflies, and other insects weather the winter and what you can do to provide them the habitat opportunities they need.

Saturday, October 29 1 – 3 pm $29

Tuesday, October 4 6 – 7:30 pm $19

Building Drystack Walls With Charlie Reidinger This one-day workshop introduces basic mortar-free masonry techniques. Start with a classroom introduction to the fundamental steps involved in stacked-stone wall construction, then get some hands-on instruction in setting stones on site. Bring work gloves, safety glasses, a water bottle, and lunch.

Saturday, March 18 (Snow Date: March 25) 10 am – 2:30 pm $59

* Online-only class mtcubacenter.org

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conservation classes

Wild Orchids of the Mid-Atlantic States With Bob Sprague An introduction to the native orchids most often encountered in the mid-Atlantic region, this presentation will discuss how to find, identify, and help protect them. More than four dozen taxa are beautifully illustrated in situ. Seldom seen by the casual observer, the intricate beauty of these often tiny subjects is revealed through the magic of macrophotography.

Wednesday, September 10 10 am – 12 pm $29

From Field to Fork: Venison With Nate Shampine, CERP, and Shelly Silva High levels of white-tailed deer populations have detrimental effects on native ecosystems. The sound management and harvesting of these animals has been shown to be the best way to reduce large herd numbers. Join Mt. Cuba for an evening to observe and experience how Nate Shampine, natural lands manager, utilizes the different cuts of meat and prepares venison dishes.

Enjoy an educational local wine tasting while sampling various dishes and venison products. Instructors will provide interesting and practical wine-and-food guidance throughout the evening. Seating is limited to 32 guests to create a close-knit, welcoming environment for guests ages 21 and over.

Friday, September 16 (Rain Date: Friday, September 23) 6 – 9 pm $89

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C O N S E R VAT I O N C L A S S E S

Fall Bird Migration

Hike the Mt. Cuba to Ashland Loop

With Joe Sebastiani

With Joe Sebestiani and Ellen Lake, PhD

Large-scale, long-distance bird migration has fascinated people for centuries. Joe Sebastiani, an expert birder, presents research findings on the origins of and the triggers for migration, how birds navigate hazards along the way, and the importance of “migrant traps.” Learn what you can do to support birds as they migrate northwards this fall.

Reconnect with nature in this exceptional behind-the-scenes trek through the natural areas with Mt. Cuba’s Director of Conservation and Research, Ellen Lake, and Joe Sebastiani, manager at Ashland Nature Center. Along the way, scout for birds, explore old-field meadows and woodland habitats, and learn about several ongoing projects and experiments. Dress for the weather, bring binoculars, a water bottle and lunch. Be prepared for a four-mile hike through hilly terrain.

Thursday, September 21 8:30 – 11 am $29

Wild Game: Over the Flame With Nate Shampine, CERP It’s build-your-own-taco night — with ecology in mind! Mt. Cuba’s natural lands support a variety of wild game, some of which have negative impacts on our native vegetation.

Management of these species provides us with locally sourced, sustainable food.

Join Mt. Cuba for a casual evening around a campfire, grilling wild game meats and veggies, while sipping some drinks. Fresh toppings and everything needed to make Mt. Cuba-inspired tacos will be provided.

Bring your drink of choice.

Sunday, October 16 (Rain Date: Sunday October 23) 4 – 6 pm $69

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Friday, October 21 (Rain Date: October 28) 9 am – 1:30 pm $35

C O N S E R VAT I O N C L A S S E S

Owl Howl

Intro to Mycology

With Jim White

With Rowan Nygard

Many people have heard an owl, but few have ever seen one. Mt. Cuba’s varied landscapes and topography provide the ideal habitats for four of Delaware’s native owl species — the barred, barn, great horned, and Eastern screech — and winter is the best time to spot them roosting in the trees. Owls are nocturnal, so join us as we search for them just after dusk. Following a brief introductory lecture, attendees will head out into the garden and listen to their unique calls. Dress for the weather.

Learn about common edible fungi and their host plants in this fun-gi class that covers a brief history of mycology in the area, mycophobia vs. mycophilia, mushroom identification, and their many roles in forest ecology. Dive into more niche aspects of mycology such as florescent (glow-in-thedark) fungi, zombie ants, and other insects infected with fungi, lichens, slime molds.

Section A: Wednesday, November 9 (Snow Date: Thursday, November 10) 5 – 7:30 pm $19 Section B: Wednesday, November 16 (Snow Date: Thursday, November 17) 5 – 7:30 pm $19 Section C: Wednesday, January 18 (Snow Date: Thursday, January 19) 5 – 7:30 pm $19 Section D: Wednesday, January 25 (Snow Date: Thursday, January 26) 5 – 7:30 pm $19

Saturday, November 5 1 – 3 pm $29

Community Science at Mt. Cuba With Andrew Conboy After an introductory explanation of the iNaturalist app and its functions, Andrew Conboy, Morris Arboretum’s Martha S. Miller and Rusty Miller urban forestry fellow, will guide a tour through Mt. Cuba’s gardens and natural lands, logging observations of plants and wildlife found along the way. Leave inspired to continue to record observations in your own backyard, on your next hike, or coordinate a community science initiative.

Be sure to download the iNaturalist app before class. Dress for the weather, bring binoculars, and a water bottle.

Saturday, December 10 (Snow Date: December 17) 10 am – 12 pm $29

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C O N S E R VAT I O N C L A S S E S

Bring Bluebirds to Your Garden

Learning the Language of Birds

With Ian Stewart, PhD

With Holly Merker

Connecting your yard with surrounding landscapes creates vital flight corridors for native and migratory birds, including bluebirds. Using ArcGIS technology, ornithologist Ian Stewart demonstrates how personal gardens contribute to a larger ecosystem and support bluebird populations.

Learn the role of nest boxes in bluebird reproduction, identify where to place one in your yard, and leave with instructions on how to properly install and look after it. You will soon see that your yard has become a new home for gorgeous bluebirds.

Calling all bird lovers! When a bird sings, it’s telling you what it is and where it is. Increase your chances of successfully sighting and identifying songbirds “by ear” this spring using Holly Merker’s intriguing strategies.

Learn how, why, and when birds sing, and come away with foundational skills for understanding and learning the language of the birds right outside your own doors.

Dress for the weather, bring binoculars (a limited number are available for participant use), and wear practical shoes for walking over uneven paths. Pace will be slow, and accommodate most mobility levels.

Session A: Friday, February 24 (Snow Date: March 3) 1 – 3 pm $29 Session B: Saturday, February 25 (Snow Date: March 4) 10 am – 12 pm $29

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Section A: Friday, April 21 9 am – 12 pm $39 Section B: Saturday, April 22 1 – 4 pm $39

C O N S E R VAT I O N C L A S S E S

Every Bird Counts: Community Science

The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals

With Holly Merker

With Ellen Lake, PhD

Millions of observations made by community scientists in the past few years have greatly expanded our understanding of bird migration. This class provides a more detailed picture than ever before about where and when birds migrate and the geographic and atmospheric conditions that influence their flights. Join the community science brigade and learn how to contribute to this research that supports global conservation efforts for birds that live in and travel along the Eastern Seaboard.

Skunk cabbage, bloodroot, and trout lilies are among the first signs of spring and warmer weather ahead. Spring ephemeral wildflowers must complete part of their life cycles before the tree canopy leafs out, reducing light levels at the forest floor.

These plants face many challenges including unpredictable weather and pollinator availability. Spring ephemerals have special adaptions to overcome these challenges, and intricate relationships with pollinators and seed dispersers. Learn more about these wildflowers, their life histories, and plantinsect interactions, and look for them during a guided walk in the gardens.

Saturday, April 22 10 am – 12 pm $29

Section A: Wednesday, April 19 (Rain Date: April 23) 10 am – 12 pm Section B: Saturday, April 22 10 am – 12 pm $29

Insects of Early Spring* With Samantha Nestory Spring is an essential time for insects. After the harshness of winter, insects and other wildlife need plentiful food and resources to help them prepare for the new season ahead.

Learn about some of the earliest-emerging insects and how you can plan, prep, and primp your garden to make it a haven for these harbingers of spring.

Wednesday, March 29 6 – 7:30 pm $19

* Online-only class mtcubacenter.org

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art classes

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Botanical Art: Guided Studio Time* With Margaret Saylor Enjoy drawing and painting in the company of others in a relaxed, supportive virtual environment. Begin a new work of art, continue working on pieces already started, or simply refresh your drawing skills in this dedicated studio time. Explore a variety of techniques and mediums used in creating botanical art while the instructor provides individualized direction. All levels of experience welcome.

Select art materials you are familiar with and comfortable using: watercolor, graphite, or colored pencil.

Five Thursdays: September 15 & 29, October 13 & 27, November 3 10 am – 12 pm $195

* Online-only class mtcubacenter.org

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ART CLASSES

Botanical Sun Printing

En Plein Air

With Shelly Silva

With Randall Graham

The first book printed featuring photographic images was made in 1843 by Anna Atkins, an English botanist and photographer. Atkins pioneered the use of the cyanotype process to capture images of algae, ferns, flowers, and other plants. Cyanotype, also known as sunprints, is a camera-less photographic printing process that allows the artist to explore shape, light, and an appreciation of nature. In this class, learn the history of this process and create your own cyanotypes using plant materials harvested from Mt. Cuba. No experience needed. This class includes the use of chemicals that may stain clothes, so students are encouraged to wear dark or old clothing.

With Mt. Cuba’s gardens as the muse and Randall Graham as your en plein air instructor, artists can overcome the challenges of landscape painting by creating a plan. Learn color-mixing, drawing, composing, and basic set-up tips in a skillful and encouraging environment. Enjoy a brief lecture and quick demonstration outlining the step-by-step procedures to ensure students cultivate their landscape painting skills. Spend the remainder of the class creating your own painting in a medium of your choice. Bring your lunch.

September 24 10 am – 1pm (Rain Date: October 1) $69 (Materials included)

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NEW!

Section A: Saturday, September 17 10 am – 3:30 pm (Rain Date: September 18) $95 Section B: Saturday, October 15 10 am – 3:30 pm (Rain Date: October 16) $95

ART CLASSES

Nature Photography: Next Steps

Eco-Printed Silk Scarves

With David Greaves

With Sara Setzer

Are you ready to take the next steps in exploring the world of nature photography?

Join professional photographer David Greaves to learn advanced techniques such as using different lighting to your advantage to express emotion in your photos, telling stories through your photos using varying angles, and more tips to further develop your skills in the art of capturing nature with a lens. This class is intended for students who have some background in wildlife and outdoor photography techniques or for those who have completed the introductory class, Nature Photography for Beginners. Students should bring a smartphone or other camera they are comfortable using to practice the techniques learned. If you have a tripod and are interested in learning how to better utilize it, bring it along. Please dress for the weather.

Create stunning silk scarves using leaves and other natural materials in this one-day workshop. Learn how to bundle and wrap fabric and plant materials so that prints come out clearly and with maximum color.

Discover how color-shifting occurs in the dye bath, how mordants assist the dye process, and how different fabrics and techniques affect the resulting color. Students will complete two full-length silk scarves.

Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Friday, October 7 10 am – 2:30 pm $59 (Materials included) Section B: Sunday, October 9 10 am – 2:30 pm $59 (Materials included)

Saturday, September 24 10 am – 12 pm (Rain Date: October 1) $29

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ART CLASSES

A Sketchbook of Fungi

Autumnal Floral Creation

With Margaret Saylor

With Donna Wiley

September is a great month for foraging for fungi. Starting a sketchbook of mushrooms can be a wonderful way to document your finds, enhance your observational skills, and refine your drawing technique. We’ll discuss how to begin a fall fungi sketchbook.

Graphite, archival pens, or watercolor — or all three…it’s up to you. Basic mushroomdrawing skills will be shared along with demonstrations of how to create your very own tribute to your mycological finds.

Using fresh florals and foraged material, create an autumnal, nature-inspired centerpiece. Suit personal taste using fresh fall flowers and an array of natural materials, including greenery, cones, dried flowers, and seed pods. All supplies are provided, but please bring hand pruners and a medium-to-large box to transport finished arrangement home.

A detailed list of required materials can be found online.

Friday, September 23 10 am – 3:30 pm $75

Felted Flower Art With Sara Setzer Capture the essence of nature while learning the beginning steps of three-dimensional needle felting. Local textile artist Sara Setzer demonstrates how to create beautiful floral designs using wool and other natural fibers in this relaxed crafting session. Leave with your own hoop-framed piece of original art, ready to hang and admire. No experience needed.

Bring your lunch.

Section A: Saturday, October 8 10 am – 2:30 pm $49 (Materials included) Section B: Friday, February 24 10 am – 2:30 pm $49 (Materials included)

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Section A: Friday, October 21 10 am – 12 pm $79 (Materials included) Section B: Friday, October 21 1 – 3 pm $79 (Materials included) Section C: Saturday, October 22 10 am – 12 pm $79 (Materials included) Section D: Saturday, October 22 1 – 3 pm $79 (Materials included)

C E R T I F I CA AR TT E CLASSES

Botanical Art: Open Studio

NEW!

Craft a Colorful Tote Bag

With Margaret Saylor

With Sara Setzer

Making time to paint and draw can be challenging. Bring your botanically inspired work to class or start something new. Paint in a friendly, artistic environment. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow artists and learn tips, improve techniques, hear about new materials, and share botanical advice. Gain inspiration from the beautiful environment of Mt. Cuba and fellow botanical artists.

Create a one-of-a-kind, no-knit, durable tote bag, ideal for carrying art supplies, books, tablets, and more. Using merino wool and other fun fiber accents, Sara Setzer walks attendees through the ancient craft of wetfelting — from selecting and arranging wood fibers to the finished product. Expand your knowledge of fiber arts and go home with a truly unique hand-crafted tote. Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Thursday, December 1 10 am – 3:30 pm $129 Section B: Thursday, December 8 10 am – 3:30 pm $129

Saturday, February 25 10 am – 2:30 pm $59 (Materials included)

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ART CLASSES

S P R I N G B O TA N I C A L A R T S E R I E S With Margaret Saylor

Mt. Cuba Center’s unique collections of native plants are a natural fit for the art of botanical drawing. Using specimens from Mt. Cuba’s gardens, learn how to draw flowers, foliage, and stems realistically in this entry-level program. Start with the elements of line, shape, and form, and progress to developing your own personal drawing style.

Begin with Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers or dive into the upper-level courses if you already have the basics. $155 per course or $419 for the series.

A detailed list of required materials is available with the online class descriptions.

Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers Four Thursdays, April 6-27 10 am – 1 pm Discover the fascinating details of spring wildflowers from Mt. Cuba’s gardens in this relaxed, beginnerlevel class. Develop basic drawing skills through observing and sketching a variety of flowers, leaves, and branches. Explore line, shape, and form, and follow up with instructor demonstrations. Plenty of exercises will build confidence in drawing native spring flowers. No previous art experience needed.

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Wildflowers in Color Four Thursdays, May 4-25 10 am – 1 pm Bring yourself to the next level with drawing native wildflowers from Mt. Cuba’s unique collections. Continue to learn basic botanical drawing skills, such as composition, scale, and perspective, while introducing simple color techniques that add another dimension to your work. A series of stepby-step exercises, instructor demonstrations, and oneon-one feedback sessions provide a strong foundation in botanical drawing. Students may work in watercolor or colored pencil.

Refined Botanical Drawing Four Thursdays, June 1-22 10 am – 1 pm Continue to refine botanical drawing and composition skills using color theory and exercises that reinforce botanical accuracy. Explore painterly techniques such as dry brush or watercolor washes that enhance individual style while remaining true to the tenets of botanical drawing. Sketch, compose, and execute a finished piece, applying the skills learned in all three sections of the Spring Botanical Art Series.

ART CLASSES

Thanksgiving Table Centerpiece

Wreath-Making Workshop

With Serah Pesce

With Susan Dixon

Celebrate Thanksgiving this year with a lovely nature-inspired centerpiece. Create a festive arrangement to suit personal taste using fresh fall flowers and an array of natural materials, including greenery, cones, dried flowers, and seed pods. All supplies are provided, but please bring hand pruners and a medium-to-large box to transport finished arrangement home.

Enhance your home’s holiday spirit with a festive, long-lasting evergreen wreath.

Combine an assortment of fresh evergreen cedar, fragrant pine, and sturdy magnolia boughs, adorn it with foraged cones and berries, and add a bow for eye-catching seasonal flair. Bring hand pruners and a large box to transport your finished wreath home.

Saturday, November 19 Section A: 10 am – 12 pm Section B: 1 – 3 pm $79 (Materials included)

Section A: Friday, December 9 1 – 3 pm Section B: Saturday, December 10 10 am – 12 pm $79 (Materials Included)

Elegant Winter Container Workshop

Natural Holiday Arrangement

With Susan Dixon

With Serah Pesce

Give entryways a festive, elegant look from now until the new year with a classic outdoor urn arrangement. This hands-on class includes an introduction to design principles and all the elements needed to create a long-lasting display of native winterberry, magnolia, and evergreen branches. Bring hand pruners and a large box to transport finished container home.

Plants collected for their winter interest provide an abundant palette for creating uniquely beautiful holiday arrangements.

Combine evergreens, pinecones, berries, and other natural delights into an elegant seasonal display. Bring hand pruners and a medium-to-large box to transport finished arrangement home.

Section A: Friday, December 9 10 am – 12 pm Section B: Saturday, December 10 1 – 3 pm $79 (Materials included)

Friday, December 16 (Snow Date: Saturday, December 17) Section A: 10 am – 12 pm Section B: 1 – 3 pm $79 (Materials included)

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wellness classes 50

FIND HEALING IN THE GARDENS Seek tranquility in nature while committing to being well this season. Enjoy the beauty of autumn with a series of meditative walks throughout Mt. Cuba’s property; explore the healing aspects of the gardens; or take a T’ai Chi or yoga class and leave feeling renewed and restored.

Participants in any exercise program are encouraged to make sure exercise is approved by their physician. Wellness classes are presented for informational purposes only and are not intended for self-medication.

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WELLNESS CLASSES

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Yoga

Moving Meditation

With Melissa Stanley

With Julia Byrem

Increase range of motion, core body strength, and flexibility through the practice of yoga in a lovely garden setting. Focus on stretching techniques that safely promote proper spinal position, balance, and joint health. No experience is necessary. Bring a yoga mat, towel, and wear comfortable clothing. (Ages 18 and over)

Focus your mind and fine-tune sensory awareness while engaging in the sights and sounds of nature. Experience the impression of the land beneath your feet, absorb the warmth of the sun, and enjoy the ambient noises around you during these contemplative walks. Take the first steps towards reduced stress and a more mindful life.

Six Wednesdays, September 7 through October 12 (Rain Date: Wednesday, October 19) 5:15 – 6:15 pm $75

Four Sundays: September 11 through October 2 (Rain Date: Sunday, October 9) 9 – 10 am $49

WCONSERVATION E L L N E S S C LCLASSES ASSES

Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih®

Fitness Walks in Nature

With Jessica Lewis

With Eileen Hazard

This introductory-level, easy-to-learn set of 20 movements helps dissolve tension, reduce chronic pain, and improve balance.

Based on the ancient Chinese principles of activation and circulation of energy (chi), T’ai Chi Chih is an easily adaptive and enjoyable program that can be done by anyone, regardless of age or physical ability.

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Enjoy the natural beauty of Mt. Cuba’s gardens, forests, and meadows this fall and winter as you experience the change of seasons — from autumn’s foliage to winter’s serenity. Become familiar with our native flora as you improve your health, and explore the extensive walking trails in our natural lands.

Eight Thursdays: September 15 through November 3 (Rain Date: Thursday, November 10) 7:30 – 8:30 am $100

Medicinal Plants and Responsible Wildcrafting With Rachelan Griffin The removal of invasive plants from your garden doesn’t have to be an entirely destructive enterprise. Learn the medicinal uses of these invaders, and how they can be part of a more responsible approach to harvesting medicinal plants in the wild. Herbalist Rachelan Griffin discusses endangered and threatened native medicinal plants, responsible wildcrafting practices, and cultivation of these important but rapidly disappearing native herbal powerhouses.

The lecture will be followed by a walk in the gardens, so please dress for the weather.

Each walk will be different and will cover approximately 2.5 to 3 miles. Dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and be prepared for hilly (sometimes steep) and uneven terrain.

Section A: Fall Fridays, October 7, 21, and November 4 (Rain Date: November 11) 9 – 10:30am $29 Section B: Winter Fridays, January 20, February 3 and 17 (Snow Date: February 24) 9 – 10:30am $29

Saturday, September 24 (Rain Date: Saturday, October 1) 2 – 5 pm $39

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WELLNESS CLASSES

Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing With Anisa George Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is rooted in the traditional Japanese reverence for the natural world and dedicated to promoting health, happiness, and a sense of awe. Anisa George, a certified forest therapy guide, facilitates a series of interactions with nature that cultivate presence, calm, and profound joy. Discover how to unlock the door to new connections and intimacy with the environment through this guided meditation.

Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle and a snack, a light backpack to carry your belongings, and something comfortable to sit on in case of wet ground.

Section A: Sunday October 23 9 am – 12 pm $39 Section B: Sunday, November 6 9 am – 12 pm $39 Section C: Sunday, December 11 9 am – 12 pm $39 Section D: Sunday, February 12 9 am – 12 pm $39 Section E: Sunday, March 12 9 am – 12 pm $39

Nature as Therapy With Kathy Andrzejewski Taking a deep breath of fresh air, using the senses, and the power of observation to engage with nature are just a few therapeutic horticulture strategies to enhance health and well-being. Participants in this workshop will learn about the history and the numerous benefits that result from engaging with nature. Certified horticulture therapist Kathy Andrzejewski, MEd, HT, will share information about horticulture therapy and will provide participants with a take-home tool kit containing a variety of interactive horticulturebased activities to use on their own.

Class will include lecture and outside activities. Please dress for the weather.

Section A: Saturday, November 12 (Rain Date: Sunday, November 13; 1 – 3 pm) 10 am – 12 pm $29 Section B: Sunday, April 2 (Rain Date: Sunday, April 3; 1 – 3 pm) 1 – 3 pm $29

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WCONSERVATION E L L N E S S C LCLASSES ASSES

Ornitherapy for your Mind, Body, Soul With Holly Merker Making connections to the birds in your own yard is not only fun, it boosts overall good health and well-being. Finding balance in our busy and pressured lives can be challenging, but if we allow birds and nature to slow us down, we improve our overall well-being.

Research shows that exposure to nature actively reduces stress, depression, and anxiety, while helping build a stronger heart and immune system. Birds are gateways into deeper experiences with nature, magnifying these benefits. Through the mindful observation of birds and their habitats, we learn not only about them, but about ourselves. This rekindling of connections to nature fosters stewardship and bolsters conservation.

Nature Journaling

NEW!

With Kathy Elliot Capture a moment in time to revisit later through natural journaling. Observe and document the surroundings at Mt. Cuba Center with Kathy Elliot leading participants through the meditative process in an engaging and enjoyable way. Visit three garden areas with Kathy to complete simple drawings and journaling exercises. Select a journal that suits your tastes and bring it to class along with a #2 pencil. Please dress for the weather.

Saturday, November 12 (Rain Date: November 19) 1 – 3 pm $29

In this presentation, we’ll explore our connections to birds, their value to us, and how to practice ornitherapy from home for the optimal benefits to personal wellness.

Friday, April 21 1 – 3 pm $29

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Kathy Andrzejewski, MEd, HT, works as an educator at Mt. Cuba Center and is a certified horticulture therapist. She earned her certification through the Chicago Botanic Garden and is also a Delaware master naturalist. She enjoys using her knowledge to help people of all ages experience the health and wellness benefits that result from engaging with nature.

Lee Armillei, APLD, is the principal landscape designer with Athyrium Design and has 10+ years of design-build-maintenance experience.

She holds a BS in Ornamental Horticulture and Environmental Design from Delaware Valley University and designs carefully curated residential landscapes steeped in environmentally friendly practices.

Susan Barton, PhD, is an extension specialist and associate professor in the Plant and Soil Sciences Department at the University of Delaware. She helped develop the Plants for a Livable Delaware program and, in 2015, received the Land Ethics Award in the residential category from Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve for her work on a sustainable demonstration project in New Castle County.

Susan Boss is a senior horticulturist at Mt. Cuba Center, working in the Entrance Garden and new Woodland Glade. Previously, she was a gardener at Winterthur Museum, Garden and LIbrary for 11 years.

Leah Brooks is Mt. Cuba’s public programs assistant. She is a University of Delaware graduate with dual BS in Environmental Science and Wildlife Ecology. She is an avid and accomplished home gardener, and her passion is sharing the joy of nature and native gardening with others.

Nancy Bell is the education and garden coach coordinator at Gateway Garden Center in Hockessin. She has Certificates of Merit in Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape Design from Longwood Gardens.

Julia Byrem received her formal training in yoga and Ayurveda at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, and she completed a meditation teacher training with David Nictern in 2013. Julia has found her passion and purpose in teaching yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda, and she believes that a peaceful life is deserved by everyone.

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Dr. Danielle Downs, DVM is a veterinarian and avid native gardener. Dr. Downs is co-founder of First State Urgent Vet in Wilmington, Delaware and president of the Delaware Board of Veterinary Medicine. Her woodland gardens are co-inhabited by her dogs and chickens.

Jeffery “Doc” Cheskin has been making ciders for over a decade and has won some of the highest honors given to a cidermaker in the US, including producing one of the top 15 ciders in America in 2020. He founded Liquid Alchemy Beverages in 2012 with his partner Terri Sorantino, and their hard ciders are now available in more than 20 locations throughout Delaware.

Andrew Conboy is passionate about trees and their immense environmental benefits. He is an ISACertified arborist currently working as the urban forestry fellow at the Morris Arboretum. In 2020, he started a non-profit organization to plant native trees and restore natural lands in the greater Philadelphia area. He enjoys creating environmental video content for TikTok and YouTube and hopes to inspire people to take better care of nature.

George Coombs is the director of horticulture at Mt. Cuba Center. Previously he was manager of research at Mt. Cuba, in which position he trialed cultivars and species of native plants to determine their horticultural and ecological value.

Lucy Dinsmore is the perennial plant buyer and department manager at Gateway Garden Center in Hockessin. She has attended classes in ornamental horticulture at New York Botanical and is currently earning her certificate of merit at Longwood. She has a passion for wildlife and the native plants that support them.

Susan Dixon is a horticulturist and certified arborist who loves learning and teaching about all things growing. She worked in public gardens for ten years and now runs Plant Lady Lucy, a garden design and consulting business in Kennett Square.

She earned her MS in Horticulture from the University of Minnesota.

INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Kathy Elliot is an educator at Mt. Cuba Center.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Plant Science and English from the University of Delaware and earned a Certificate of Merit in Landscape Design from Longwood Gardens. She worked for 15 years at a family-owned plant-focused garden center in south central Pennsylvania, where she provided landscape designs and garden center management.

Scott Freedman is Mt. Cuba Center’s grounds and plant health care specialist/chemical coordinator. Prior to this he managed a commercial landscape maintenance company, where he oversaw operations, equipment maintenance, scheduling, and purchasing.

Toni Gattone is a speaker and author of The Lifelong Gardener, Garden with Ease & Joy at Any Age, with a passion to help gardeners garden for life in comfort and safety. Toni knows from experience that physical limitations are the reason we need to re-evalutate how and when we garden, and how we can re-work our gardens for lower maintenance and greater ease.

Anisa George is a permaculture designer and certified guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides. Her approach to forest therapy grows organically out of her experience with collaborative theater: marrying playful elements of ensemble-created performance with the mindful presence and gentle pace of the forest-therapy tradition.

Randall Graham has been passionate about art since childhood. His love of drawing and creating stories through works of art started at an early age. He studied at The Carlin Academy of Fine Art. Helping others create is a truly gratifying experience. Randall teaches traditional painting fundamentals at Randall Graham Studio in Malvern, Wayne Art Center, and Chester County Art Association.

David Greaves is a biologist at the EPA, wildlife photographer, and founder of the Nature Under Your Nose (NUYN) brand. His love for nature and the outdoors was discovered while growing up in the Washington, D.C. area. He uses his photography and his NUYN brand to encourage people of all ages, colors, and backgrounds to explore and enjoy the nature they can find all around them.

Rachelan Griffin is a trained herbalist and graduate student of David Winston Center for Herbal Studies. She has a special interest in “kitchen medicine” as well as herbal medicine for children and special populations, and a background as an educator.

Eileen Hazard, Mt. Cuba Center’s community outreach coordinator, shares her passion for ecosystems, plants, and the natural sciences with students of all ages and with local communities.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Lafayette College, a master’s in Water Resources at the University of Vermont, and she has supplemented her degrees with plant-focused biology classes at West Chester University. Prior to joining the Mt. Cuba Center team, Eileen worked in environmental education and consulting.

Amy Highland obtained her degree in Public Horticulture from Purdue University and is currently the director of collections and conservation lead at Mt. Cuba Center. She manages both living and non-living collections, focusing on expanding the genetic diversity of the gardens and coordinating Mt. Cuba’s conservation efforts.

Mark Highland received an MS from the Longwood Graduate Program, focusing on compost and potting soil. He is the founder and president of The Organic Mechanic Soil Company, LLC, a local supplier of organic, peat-free soils.

Mark is the author of the recently published Practical Organic Gardening: The No-Nonsense Guide to Growing Naturally.

Duncan Himmelman, PhD is the former education manager at Mt. Cuba Center. He earned his doctorate in Ornamental Horticulture at Cornell University, taught college for 24 years, and has contributed to several horticultural publications.

Duncan managed a 20-acre estate in Greenwich, Connecticut and has designed landscapes for both private and public clients in New York City, Toronto, and Chicago.

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Ares Lysander Headley is a writer, graphic designer, and applied sociologist working as a public programs assistant at Mt. Cuba Center. Their interest in the natural world began at a youthful age while exploring the forests of central Virginia via four-wheeler. They combine lived experience with ecological, sociological, and artistic theory to shed light on the inherent interconnectedness of human and non-human societies.

Sam Hoadley is the manager of horticultural research at Mt. Cuba, where he evaluates native plants to determine their horticultural and ecological values. He received his degree in Sustainable Landscape Horticulture from the University of Vermont.

Scott Kelley is the head arborist at Mt. Cuba Center. He is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® and qualified tree risk assessor.

Faith B. Kuehn has spent most of her career working on pollinator conservation, invasive species control, and pest management. Her current project is Green Cabinet, focusing on pollinator conservation and therapeutic gardening at Planting Hope Gardens.

Ellen Lake, PhD is the director of conservation and research at Mt. Cuba Center. She taught environmental education and was the education director at the Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Associations. Ellen has a master’s degree in Entomology and PhD in Entomology and Wildlife Ecology from the University of Delaware, where she researched biological control of mile-a-minute weed and how to integrate weed management techniques to restore plant communities. Ellen has extensive experience researching insect-plant interactions, including work for the USDA in the Greater Everglades ecosystem.

Jessica Lewis, CPT, CNC, is an accredited T’ai Chi Chih instructor, personal trainer, and nutritional counselor. Sculpt Your Life, her private practice, provides a unique blend of customized exercise routines, solid nutritional advice, and movementbased relaxation principles for a diverse population of clients.

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Holly Merker is an avid birder, educator, writer, and lecturer, who has a passion for bird conservation. She is an instructor for National Audubon and the American Birding Association and is the lead data reviewer for eBird in Pennsylvania.

Holly believes in the powerful benefits nature holds for our well-being and is lead author on a book on the subject, aptly called Ornitherapy: For Your Mind, Body, and Soul, guiding readers into deeper connections to the birds around them.

Carrie Murphy is an extension agent and program leader for the Lawn and Garden Program at the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. She is also the Master Gardener coordinator for New Castle County, Delaware. She has an MS in Plant and Soil Sciences from the University of Delaware and graduated from the Professional Gardener Program at Longwood Gardens.

Sam Nestory is a naturalist and horticulturist at Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden in Villanova, Pennsylvania. She holds ecology and entomology degrees from the University of Delaware and is passionate about ecological gardening, native plants, and insect conservation.

Rowan Nygard is studying Horticulture at Longwood Gardens. He has immersed himself in the study of ecology, with a focus on mycology and the ways plants, animals, and fungi interact.

Vic Piatt is the gardens manager at Mt. Cuba Center and a graduate of Longwood Gardens’ Professional Gardener Program. He has held many positions at Mt. Cuba, including plant evaluation gardener and rock outcrop/scree gardens horticulturist.

Serah Pesce is the education specialist at Mt. Cuba Center. She holds a BS in Landscape Contracting, Design/Build from Pennsylvania State University and is a Delaware Nature Society Certified habitat steward. In addition to teaching classes for the Ecological Gardening Certificate, she shares her extensive experience in floral design.

INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Charlie Reidinger is a grounds maintenance technician at Mt. Cuba Center. A native of Newark, Delaware, he worked in Arizona and California constructing and maintaining trails for the American Conservation Experience for the past ten years.

James Rockwell is the greenhouse and nursery production manager at Mt. Cuba Center, where he oversees plant production in our conservation research greenhouse. Prior to his tenure here, James earned two bachelor’s degrees from Virginia Tech and was a TRIAD fellow at Longwood Gardens.

Margaret Saylor is the editor/designer of ASBA’s The Botanical Artist journal. She earned a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration, with distinction, from the NYBG. Joe Sebastiani is the Ashland Nature Center manager for the Delaware Nature Society. He is passionate about birds and wildlife, founded the Ashland Hawk Watch, and edits Delaware eBird, an online checklist program, for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Sara Setzer is a fiber artist who specializes in the art of felt work. Inspired by nature, she creates eco-dyed and printed scarves, wraps, and collars using natural materials and leaves.

Nate Shampine, CERP, is Mt. Cuba Center’s natural lands manager, responsible for implementing land conservation practices and developing healthy and functional ecosystems. He is a graduate of SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and he is also a certified ecological restoration practitioner through the Society for Ecological Restoration.

Shelly Silva is the digital marketing assistant at Mt. Cuba Center. She has a BFA in Fine Art Photography from Corcoran College of Art & Design and is currently pursuing her MS in Management at Wilmington University. When she isn’t taking pictures or videos for Mt. Cuba’s social platforms, she continues to practice her art with botanical cyanotypes, chalkboard lettering signs, and paint through her brand, Painted Fern Designs.

Melissa Stanley has been a yoga instructor for children and adults since 2015. Melissa teaches a variety of styles, levels and ages.

Ian Stewart, PhD, was raised in Newcastle, England and received a doctorate in Ornithology from the University of Leicester. He has conducted research on tree swallows and bluebirds and how local land management activities are affecting bird numbers and diversity throughout the year. Ian is currently an ornithologist at the Delaware Nature Society.

Derek Stoner is a past president of the Delmarva Ornithological Society, enjoys being out in nature, and is involved in improving land for floral and faunal biodiversity. His photographs and articles have been published in books, regional newspapers, nature magazines, and blogs.

William Trescott is the arboriculture manager at Mt. Cuba Center, where he has worked for 25 years. He is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® and qualified tree risk assessor.

Jenna Webster is a designer with Larry Weaner Landscape Associates where she works on meadow and habitat plans for public parks and preserves as well as landscape master plans for residential properties. She holds a Master of Science in Ecological Design from the Conway School.

Jim White currently serves as the senior fellow for land and biodiversity management at the Delaware Nature Society, where he has worked for 35 years. In addition to insects, amphibians and reptiles, Jim is also keenly interested in owls. He has led many field trips in pursuit of amphibians and presents programs on them throughout our area using his own photography.

Donna Wiley is the former formal gardens horticulturist at Mt. Cuba Center. She has a keen eye for color and design with expertise in container gardening and floral arranging.

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S T U D E N T I N F O R M AT I O N

REGISTR ATION All classes are available for registration online at mtcubacenter.org/programs or by calling 302.239.4244. Many classes fill quickly, so please register early to avoid disappointment. If your confirmation states “Wait List,” you will be called or emailed if an opening occurs.

PAYM E NT & RE FUN DS Payment is required upon registration.

Refunds are issued if registration is withdrawn at least seven days in advance of the scheduled start date or if the class is canceled. When snow and rain dates are published, no refunds will be issued to those who cannot attend rescheduled classes.

CL A SS CANCE LL ATIONS & GARDE N CLOSURE S Occasionally, we may cancel classes due to inclement weather, insufficient registration, or unforeseen circumstances. For updated information regarding closures and cancellations, call 302.239.4244 (option 3) or visit mtcubacenter.org.

Programming for adults and children are identified with this icon.

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STUDE NT INFORMATION • Many classes are held outdoors. Please dress for the weather conditions and wear sturdy shoes as walking paths may be uneven.

• Sunscreen, hats, and insect repellant are recommended.

• Due to our rolling terrain and mulched paths, the use of wheelchairs is limited.

• Programs are held rain or shine unless specified otherwise.

• Be advised that certain classes may be recorded and videotaped for educational or promotional purposes.

• Please call 302.239.4244 or email education@mtcubacenter.org with questions or concerns.

CONTINU ING E DUCATION UNITS Most Mt. Cuba Center classes are approved for continuing education credits through organizations that serve arborists, certified nursery professionals, landscape architects and designers, organic growers, and other green industry professionals. Class descriptions with the CEU icon qualify for professional development hours with accrediting agencies. For full details, visit mtcubacenter.org/certificate.

Take home hand-made crafts or Mt. Cuba Center plants in classes identified with this icon.

PROGRAM CALENDAR

DATE

COURSE

TIME

PAGE

AUGUST 2022 8/19 NA 8/27

Twilight on the Terrace ................................................................................. 5 – 8 pm...........................................5 Bark Before Dark ............................................................................................ NA................................................. NA Shrubs Aren’t Just for the Garden............................................................ 4 – 5:30 pm ..................................11

SEPTEMBER 2022 9/2 9/7 9/7 – 10/12 9/7 – 10/12 9/9 9/9 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/11 – 10-2 9/14 – 10/19 9/15 – 11/3 9/15 – 11/3 9/16 9/16 9/16 9/15 – 9/29 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/17 9/21 9/23 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24 9/24

Twilight on the Terrace ................................................................................. 5 – 8 pm...........................................5 Create a Captivating Fall Container.......................................................... 10 am – 12 pm............................. 30 Native Plants of Fall 2023............................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm..............................27 Yoga...................................................................................................................... 5:15 – 6:15 pm..............................52 Night Hike........................................................................................................... 7:30 – 9 pm.....................................9 Woodland Glade Walk & Talk........................................................................ 10 am – 12 pm............................. 30 Garden Enthusiast Tour ............................................................................... 10 am -12 pm..................................5 The Glory of Goldenrods............................................................................... 1 – 3 pm......................................... 35 Fall Garden Care for Wildlife ....................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 29 Wild Orchids of the Mid-Atlantic States................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .............................37 Moving Meditation........................................................................................... 9 – 10 am ......................................52 Native Plants of Fall 2022............................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm............................. 26 Botanical Art: Guided Studio Time*........................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 43 Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih®..................................................................... 7:30 – 8:30 am............................ 53 Night Hike........................................................................................................... 7:30 – 9 pm.....................................9 Weeds 101: Fall Section.................................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm............................. 30 From Field to Fork: Venison.......................................................................... 6 – 9 pm.........................................37 Inviting Wildlife into the Garden.................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 23 Hayride and Hike.............................................................................................. 1 – 3 pm............................................ 7 Sunset and S’mores........................................................................................ 5 – 7 pm...........................................8 Hay Bales and Brews....................................................................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm...............................8 En Plein Air......................................................................................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm......................... 44 Fall Bird Migration........................................................................................... 8:30 – 11 am................................. 38 A Sketchbook of Fungi.................................................................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm ........................ 46 Sunset and S’mores........................................................................................ 5 – 7 pm...........................................8 Hay Bales and Brews....................................................................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm...............................8 Tree Festival...................................................................................................... 10 am – 6 pm..................................9 Botanical Sun Printing ................................................................................ 10 am – 1pm................................. 44 Nature Photography: Next Steps............................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 45 Medicinal Plants and Responsible Wildcrafting..................................... 2 – 5 pm........................................ 53

OCTOBER 2022 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/1 10/4 10/7 – 11/4 10/7 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/8 10/9 10/13 – 10/27 10/14 10/15 10/15 10/16

Hayride and Hike.............................................................................................. 1 – 3 pm............................................ 7 Sunset and S’mores........................................................................................ 5 – 7 pm...........................................8 Hay Bales and Brews....................................................................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm...............................8 Plant Division, and Fall Trees and Shrubs ............................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 29 Gardening with Pets in Mind*....................................................................... 6 – 7:30 pm.................................. 35 Fitness Walks in the Natural Lands........................................................... 9 – 10:30am................................. 53 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves............................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 45 Garden Enthusiast Tour ............................................................................... 10 am -12 pm..................................5 Hayride and Hike.............................................................................................. 1 – 3 pm............................................ 7 Sunset and S’mores........................................................................................ 5 – 7 pm...........................................8 Hay Bales and Brews....................................................................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm...............................8 Origins and Change ........................................................................................ 11 am – 1:30 pm........................... 19 Felted Flower Art............................................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 46 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves............................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 45 Ecological Arboriculture............................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 23 Night Hike........................................................................................................... 6:30 – 8 pm....................................9 Nature and Culture......................................................................................... 11 am – 1:30 pm........................... 19 En Plein Air......................................................................................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm......................... 44 Wild Game: Over the Flame.......................................................................... 4 – 6 pm........................................ 38

* Online-only class

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PROGRAM CALENDAR

DATE

COURSE

10/18 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/21 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/22 10/23 10/28 – 11/4 10/29 10/29

You CAN Garden for Life!*............................................................................. 6:30 – 8 pm ................................. 16 Night Hike........................................................................................................... 6:30 – 8 pm....................................9 Autumn Groundcovers................................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm............................. 30 Autumnal Floral Creation.............................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm............................. 46 Native Evergreens........................................................................................... 1 – 3 pm.......................................... 31 Hike the Mt. Cuba to Ashland Loop............................................................ 9 am – 1:30 pm........................... 38 Autumnal Floral Creation.............................................................................. 1 – 3 pm......................................... 46 Fiesta en el Jardin........................................................................................... 3 - 4:30 pm...................................... 7 Fall Gardening Saturday................................................................................ 9 am – 4:30 pm........................... 12 Perennials for Late-Season Interest......................................................... 9 – 10 am....................................... 12 Get the “Dirt” on Soil..................................................................................... 10:30 – 11:30 am ........................ 12 Helping Wildlife Through the Winter......................................................... 12:30 – 1:30 pm .......................... 12 Must-Have Native Shrubs for Autumn Color.......................................... 2 – 3 pm......................................... 12 Native Trees for Autumn Color................................................................... 3:30 – 4:30 pm............................ 12 Self-Discovery and Memories...................................................................... 11 am – 1:30 pm........................... 19 Autumnal Floral Creation.............................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm............................. 46 Autumnal Floral Creation.............................................................................. 1 – 3 pm......................................... 46 Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing....................................................................... 9 am – 12 pm............................... 54 Managing Invasive Plants.............................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 24 Resilience, Community, and Ecology.......................................................... 11 am – 1:30 pm........................... 19 Supporting Insects in the Winter Garden................................................ 1 – 3 pm......................................... 35

NOVEMBER 2022 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/5 11/6 11/6 11/6 11/9 11/12 11/12 11/12 11/16 11/19 11/19 11/19 11/19

Nature Play Day................................................................................................ 10 am – 4 pm..................................9 Showcase Event................................................................................................ 2 – 4 pm......................................... 18 Putting the Garden to Bed........................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 29 Intro to Mycology............................................................................................. 1 -3 pm.......................................... 39 Best Woody Plants for Wildlife ................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm.............................. 31 Late-Season Perennials for Wildlife ......................................................... 1 – 3 pm.......................................... 31 Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing....................................................................... 9 am – 12 pm............................... 54 Owl Howl............................................................................................................. 5 – 7:30 pm.................................. 39 Garden Enthusiast Tour................................................................................ 10 am -12 pm..................................5 Nature as Therapy.......................................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm............................. 54 Nature Journaling ........................................................................................... 1 – 3 pm......................................... 55 Owl Howl............................................................................................................. 5 – 7:30 pm.................................. 39 A Taste of First State Ciders....................................................................... 12 – 2 pm........................................11 A Taste of First State Ciders....................................................................... 2:30 – 4:30 pm.............................11 Thanksgiving Table Centerpiece................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm............................. 49 Thanksgiving Table Centerpiece................................................................. 1 – 3 pm ..................................... 49

DECEMBER 2022 12/1 12/8 12/9 12/9 12/10 12/10 12/10 12/10 12/11 12/16 12/16

Botanical Art: Open Studio........................................................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm..........................47 Botanical Art: Open Studio........................................................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm..........................47 Elegant Winter Container Workshop........................................................ 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 49 Wreath-Making Workshop............................................................................ 1 – 3 pm ........................................ 49 Elegant Winter Container Workshop........................................................ 1 – 3 pm .................................... 49 How Animals Overwinter............................................................................... 1 – 3 pm.......................................... 31 Community Science at Mt. Cuba................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 39 Wreath-Making Workshop............................................................................ 10 am – 12 pm ............................ 49 Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing....................................................................... 9 am – 12 pm............................... 54 Natural Holiday Arrangement..................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm............................. 49 Natural Holiday Arrangement..................................................................... 1 – 3 pm ..................................... 49

JANUARY 2023 1/11 1/18 1/20 – 2/17

Pollinators and Native Plant Cultivars*.................................................... 6:30 – 8 pm.................................. 14 Owl Howl............................................................................................................. 5 – 7:30 pm.................................. 39 Fitness Walks in Nature................................................................................. 9 – 10:30am................................. 53

* Online-only class

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TIME

PAGE

CONP SR ER OV GA RTAIM O NC A C LL EAN SD SA ER S

DATE

COURSE

TIME

PAGE

1/21 – 1/28 1/21 1/25

Botany for Gardeners.................................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ........................ 24 Putting Plants to Work*................................................................................. 11 am – 12:30 pm......................... 14 Owl Howl............................................................................................................. 5 – 7:30 pm.................................. 39

FEBRUARY 2023 2/1 2/4 2/9 – 3/16 2/12 2/15 2/15 2/17 – 2/24 2/18 – 2/25 2/18 2/18 2/24 2/24 2/25 2/25

Carex for Every Garden*............................................................................... 6 – 7:30 pm.................................. 32 The Global Odyssey of Migratory Birds*.................................................. 11 am – 12:30 pm......................... 15 Ecological Landscape Design....................................................................... 1 – 4 pm........................................ 24 Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing....................................................................... 9 am – 12 pm............................... 54 Workshop: Tool-Sharpening Techniques.................................................. 1 – 4 pm........................................ 32 Workshop: Pruning for Homeowners........................................................ 9 am – 12 pm............................... 33 Workshop: Residential Landscape Design............................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm......................... 33 Workshop: Residential Landscape Design............................................... 10 am – 3:30 pm......................... 33 Workshop: Tool-Sharpening Techniques.................................................. 9 am – 12 pm............................... 32 Workshop: Pruning for Homeowners........................................................ 1 – 4 pm........................................ 33 Bring Bluebirds to Your Garden.................................................................. 1 – 3 pm.........................................40 Felted Flower Art............................................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 46 Bring Bluebirds to Your Garden.................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm.............................40 Craft a Colorful Tote Bag.............................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm..........................47

MARCH 2023 3/4 3/7 3/8 – 3/22 3/11 3/12 3/12 3/18 3/18 3/29

Mt. Cuba Conservation: Behind the Scenes*........................................... 11 am – 12:30 pm......................... 15 Adapting for Your Spring Garden*............................................................. 6:30 – 8 pm.................................. 16 Enhancing Life in the Soil............................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 25 Unraveling Botanical Names (Part I).......................................................... 10 am – 12 pm............................. 34 Unraveling Botanical Names (Part II)........................................................ 1 – 3 pm......................................... 34 Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing....................................................................... 9 am – 12 pm............................... 54 Carex for Every Garden................................................................................. 1 – 3 pm......................................... 32 Building Drystack Walls................................................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 35 Insects of Early Spring*................................................................................. 6 – 7:30 pm................................... 41

APRIL 2023 4/1 4/1 4/1 4/1 4/1 4/2 4/6 – 4/27 4/6 – 5/11 4/8 – 4/15 4/19 4/21 4/21 4/22 4/22 4/22

Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens................................................ 10 – 11 am...................................... 17 Doing Your Best in the Garden.................................................................... 11:30 am – 12:30 pm................... 17 Right Plant, Right Place................................................................................. 1:30 – 2:30 pm............................. 17 Tidy Gardens for All to Enjoy....................................................................... 3 – 4 pm......................................... 17 Spring Gardening Saturday.......................................................................... 10 am – 4 pm................................ 17 Nature as Therapy.......................................................................................... 1 – 3 pm......................................... 54 Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers........................................................ 10 am – 1 pm................................ 48 Native Plants of Spring 2023....................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm..............................27 Sustainable Landscape Techniques........................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 25 The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals................................................... 10 am – 12 pm.............................. 41 Learning the Language of Birds.................................................................. 9 am – 12 pm...............................40 Ornitherapy for your Mind, Body, Soul..................................................... 1 – 3 pm......................................... 55 Learning the Language of Birds.................................................................. 1 – 4 pm .......................................40 Every Bird Counts: Community Science................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................. 41 The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ............................. 41

MAY 2023 5/12 – 5/20 5/4 – 5/25

Plant Propagation............................................................................................ 10 am – 2:30 pm......................... 25 Wildflowers in Color........................................................................................ 10 am – 1 pm................................ 48

JUNE 2023 6/1 – 6/22 6/1 – 7/6

Refined Botanical Drawing............................................................................ 10 am – 1 pm................................ 48 Native Plants of Summer 2023.................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm..............................27

* Online-only class

mtcubacenter.org

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