We are passionate about sharing our love of gardening and nature with the community. We offer a variety of classes and workshops for all ages throughout the year, utilizing our 10-acre display to strengthen the connection between people and the natural environment.
All programs require preregistration. Click on the links below to register. Contact Derrick Stowell, Education Director, at dstowell@utk.edu, (865) 974-7151 if you have any questions.
*Classes are scheduled to be in person. All attendees will be expected to follow University of Tennessee COVID-19 guidelines which include wearing face mask and completing a UTK screening for visitors form and bring it to class (click here for a copy of the form). Classes may move virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions. In the event of classes going virtual, participants will be given a garden kit with garden materials to compete the class at home. For more information on University of Tennessee’s COVID-19 event guidelines click here.*
Sowing Time
August 28, 2020
10 a.m. - 12 noon
Cost: $20 Garden member/$30 nonmembers
Sow pansy, Swiss chard, and ornamental kale and cabbage seeds with us to prepare for fall planting. You will learn how to start seeds, what to do when it is time to transplant your plants, and best care techniques to have a great fall landscape at a low cost. Each participant will receive a seed kit, sowing medium, seed trays, and more!
All About Camellias
August 31st from 6-8pm
Cost: $70 for members / $80 for nonmembers
Class limit: 15
Have you ever heard of a Camellia? They are like the winter rose of the garden with their fragrant and eye-catching blossoms, but they bloom when most other plants are not as exciting to see. In this class, you will learn the difference between Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua and about various cultivars of the two. As part of the class, you will also be given the opportunity to choose your own Camellia from a list that will be provided. This plant is a $50 value that you get just for registering for this class! Come join us for an evening talk about Camellias and how to take care of this lovely evergreen plant.
Soil Preparation and Using Cover Crops
September 17, 2020
6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Cost: $15 Garden member/$25 nonmembers
Sometimes winter can feel like a dull time in the cycle of the garden, particularly when comparing it to the lush growth of spring and summer. But if you are diligent about your soil health, it is actually a very important time in the vegetable garden. In this class we will discuss the benefits of utilizing cover crops, how they help your soil, and how they are often excellent for pollinators. You will leave feeling empowered to care for your soil health even better than you have previously. This class does not have any garden materials as part of the fee.
Pumpkin Floral Arragement Class
September 23, 2020
6 - 8 p.m.
Cost: $40 Garden member/$50 nonmembers
Don’t you just love pumpkins? So do we! These veggies in the squash family are a fall favorite to use in cooking and decorating. In this class, we will use a pumpkin to hold a fall floral arrangement. Wear something to carve a pumpkin in and join us for a fun evening making a striking conversation piece for your fall home décor.
Gardening for Caterpillars
Sunday, October 18, 2020
Cost: Garden member $35/nonmember $45
Everyone agrees that butterflies are a welcome sight in the garden but their caterpillars are often ignored and sometimes even eradicated. Join local garden author John Tullock to learn how to support this crucial stage of butterfly development. Identification of common butterflies, their caterpillars and preferred host plants will be explored. Participants will be given a butterfly host plant to add to their home garden.
Holiday Wreath Making
December 12, 2020
1-3 p.m.
Cost: Garden member $30/nonmember $40
Kick off your winter festivities by making your own gorgeous wreath using freshly harvested greenery. All levels of experience welcome. We will provide a mixture of seasonal greens and decor for your take home wreath that will last throughout the holiday season. Participants are welcome to bring personalized decorations to add if they like. This is our most popular class so don't delay in registering.