Spring-Summer 2023 Program Guide

PROGRAMS

SPRING / SUMMER 2023

“I want this to be a place where people will learn to appreciate our native plants and to see how these plants can enrich their lives so that they, in turn, will become conservators of our natural habitats.”

PAMELA COPELAND

HOURS

Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm

April 1 through November 19, 2023

*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 consultation and garden tour will inspire and guide your home landscaping choices. A Mt. Cuba 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.

MEMBERSHIP

Grow with us! 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 garden 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

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 AREAS

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’s commitment to conservation.

ACCESSIBILITY

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. Reservations are not required. Please call 302.239.4244 or visit mtcubacenter.org/accessibility for more information.

VISITING WITH CHILDREN

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.

Look for this icon to find family-friendly programs. FAM

REGISTRATION

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.

PAYMENT & REFUNDS

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.

CLASS CANCELLATIONS & GARDEN CLOSURES

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 2) or visit mtcubacenter.org

STUDENT 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.

CONTINUING EDUCATION 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 .

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GROUP VISITS & TOURS

BRING YOUR GROUP TO MT. CUBA

Wow your group with a visit to Mt. Cuba’s formal and naturalistic gardens, a tour, talk, or even a hayride and a hike. Top it off with a scrumptious meal and send your guests home with their very own native plant.

Visit mtcubacenter.org/groups for more information. Call 302.239.5083 or email groupsales@mtcubacenter.org to make a reservation.

GROUP ADMISSION

$14 per person for groups of 10 or more when scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Groups traveling by bus must make prior arrangements.

GROUP DINING

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

GOT PLANTS?

Ask about the option for your group to take home a native plant. Order in advance to receive a group discount. Plants subject to availability.

GROUP TOURS

Welcome Walks

One hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission

Garden Enthusiast Tour

Two hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission

Guided Trails Hike

Two hours, $3 per person in addition to garden admission

Hayride Highlights Tour

One hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission

Hayride & Hike

Two hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission

...OR BRING MT. CUBA TO YOUR GROUP!

Learn about what Mt. Cuba does best — native plants — from our gardening experts. Our selection of online or in-person lectures includes time for audience questions and answers. For more information or to view our lecture offerings, visit mtcubacenter.org/groups

New arrival experience and expanded bus parking for 2023!

WELCOME WALKS

Guided walks are offered at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm, Wednesday through Sunday when the gardens are open. Each walk 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 to apply at home. One hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission. Free for members.

STORY TIME SPROUTS

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

Get lost in a book in Mt. Cuba’s gardens. Listen to stories from nature-themed children’s books ideal for kids ages five and under. Meet on the Upper Lawn in Bluey’s Woods. We recommend bringing a blanket to sit on. No reservations required.

GUIDED TRAILS HIKE

May – June | September – November Saturdays & Sundays, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Learn about Mt. Cuba’s approach to land management and the events that shape our past, current, and future landscapes. Become empowered to take ecologically beneficial actions to support native wildlife and habitats with the effects of climate change in mind. Bring water and be prepared to hike steep paths and uneven terrain throughout our natural lands. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged. Two hours, $3 per person in addition to garden admission, free for members.

GARDEN ENTHUSIAST TOUR

Saturdays: 4/8, 5/13, 6/10, 7/8, 8/12, 9/9 10 am – 12 pm

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. Tours 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. Two hours, $19 per non-member, $4 for members.

FAMILY YOGA

Saturdays: 6/10, 6/24, 7/8, 7/22, 8/12, 8/26 10:30 – 11:15 am

Included with garden admission. (Weather permitting)

Join local family-friendly yoga practice Petite Yogi for an outdoor yoga session in our South Garden. From beginners to experienced yogis, children ages four and up with an adult are invited to take this exciting yoga class designed to strengthen family bonds. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mats.

TWILIGHT ON THE TERRACE

Fridays: 5/19, 6/16, 7/14, 8/18, 9/1, 5 – 8 pm

Included with garden admission. (Rain Dates: Following Thursdays)

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

BARK BEFORE DARK

Tuesdays, 5 – 8 pm

4/25, 5/2 , 5/9, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29

Calling all dog and nature lovers for this exclusive opportunity to enjoy Mt. Cuba’s trails with your pup! Take in the scenery and enjoy the “golden hours” before sunset while beating the daytime heat. Parking for this event is at 1001 Old Wilmington Road. Guests must remain on trails and dogs must be leashed at all times.

$5 per person, Members and children under 5 are free. Advance registration is not required.

WILDFLOWER WEEKEND

4/28, 4/29, 4/30 (Rain or Shine), 10 am – 6 pm. Included with garden admission.

Experience a magnificent display of native spring blooms at the peak of their glory; enjoy three days of live music, gardening activities, outdoor family programming, and more. A variety of food selections and native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. View the full schedule of activities at mtcubacenter.org/wildflower

SPRING ART-IN

Free for participating artists!

Friday 6/2, 10 am – 8 pm. Included with garden admission. (Rain Date: Saturday 6/3)

Let creativity blossom while you draw, paint, or photograph Mt. Cuba Center’s beautiful, everchanging gardens and natural areas. Meet other artists and enjoy a lovely day of art and inspiration.

Advance registration required for participating artists. Call Mt. Cuba at 302.239.4244 or visit mtcubacenter.org/artin to register and review guidelines.

THE LADYBUG MUSIC FESTIVAL ® GARDEN CRAWL

Friday 6/9, 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Included with garden admission. (Rain Date: Thursday 6/15)

The Ladybug Music Festival® Garden Crawl brings performers from The Ladybug Festival, Delaware’s celebration of regional female musicians, to Mt. Cuba for a music-filled evening. Enjoy food, drinks, and a variety of live performances as you “crawl” through the gardens! For more information on the event and lineup, visit mtcubacenter.org/ladybug

CHRISTINA IN THE GARDEN

Friday 6/23, 6 – 7:30 pm

Included with garden admission. (Rain Date: Thursday 6/29)

Dance to the beat of your own drum while students and staff from Christina Cultural Arts Center showcase their talents in our gardens. Create and express yourself with family-friendly activities as you unwind from the week and enjoy a variety of live dance, voice, and musical performances. Food and beverages available for purchase.

KIDS CREATE

Saturday 7/8, 12:30 – 2 pm. Included with garden admission, advance registration required. (Rain Date: Saturday 7/15)

Saturday 8/12, 12:30 – 2 pm. Included with garden admission, advance registration required. (Rain Date: Saturday 8/19)

Join us for an afternoon of nature, artmaking, and fun! Mt. Cuba partners with award-winning folk artist, Eunice LaFate, to lead a unique children’s art program in the gardens. Kids will create a mural from natural materials and go home with their own painting. This program is intended for ages 6 to 14. Art supplies provided.

FAM FAM FAM

FAM FAM

SPRING GARDENING SATURDAY

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 (and bring your lunch) or register for individual sessions.

Saturday 4/1, 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 Leah Brooks

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.

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 combine them to reduce maintenance, provide year-round beauty, and mimic natural landscapes.

Tidy Gardens for All to Enjoy

With Kathleen Elliot

3 – 4 pm

Address neighborhood expectations about tidiness, property values, and aesthetics without giving up the goal of gardening 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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Trillium and Wine: Complementary Pairings

With Robert Raguso, PhD

Great wine and food pairings either emphasize the similarities or highlight the differences between the two. Dr. Raguso studies the floral scents of native plant species, including trilliums, a core collection at Mt. Cuba. Trilliums are noteworthy for not smelling like conventional flowers, with fragrances that evoke wine, cheese, fruit, and spices. He has assembled a “flight” of Mt. Cuba trilliums and several wines that complement their woodsy aroma. Explore the chemistry and ecological value of various trillium scents and take note of the pairings you like. (Ages 21 and over)

Saturday 4/22, 3 – 5 pm | $45

Sip and Stroll: A Discussion of Design

With Duncan Himmelman, PhD and Diane Keesee

With a signature cocktail in hand, join professional horticulturist Duncan Himmelman for an evening garden tour highlighting design ideas and plant combinations that participants will be inspired to imitate at home. Learn how to seamlessly integrate plant layers, from ground cover to canopy, in both formal and naturalistic landscape settings. Leave with a keen sense of how design informs the experience of strolling a garden. Signature cocktails prepared by mixologist Diane Keesee, who uses foraged ingredients from common local plants for a new twist in mixology. (Ages 21 and over)

Friday 5/5, 5 – 7 pm | $45

Gin & Junipers

With Diane Keesee

From garden to glass, this well-loved spirit has evolved from an herbal medicine to a staple behind the bar. Originating in the Middle Ages and popularized during the reign of King William III, gin derived its predominant flavor from juniper berries. Today, gin is produced in subtly different styles and brands. Learn the history of gin, the role of junipers production, and taste a variety of gins distilled with herbs, spices, and fruit. (Ages 21 and over)

Saturday 6/17, 3:30 – 5:30 pm | $45

With Diane Keesee

Mixologist and purveyor of fine spirits, Diane Keesee, demonstrates how easy it is to create uniquely flavored vodkas using native plants. Learn how to select the best vodkas, use flavoring, and elevate the quality of the infusion. Sample a variety of infused vodkas and leave inspired to customize your own signature cocktail. (Ages 21 and over)

Saturday 7/22, 3:30 – 5:30 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. (Ages 21 and over)

Saturday 8/26, 3:30 – 5:30 pm | $45

Banana

With Rodney Dever

Pawpaw trees bear the largest edible fruit native to the United States, a fruit that’s creamy texture and banana-meets-mango flavor is gaining popularity with people interested in growing their own food. Join plant breeder Rodney Dever of Peterson Pawpaws as he recounts the fascinating lore and natural history of pawpaws, discusses how to grow them in your yard, and reviews various products made from the fruit. Sample this uniquely flavored delicacy and leave with a new appreciation of the “Susquehanna Banana.”

Sunday 9/17, 1 – 4 pm | $55

CERTIFICATE CLASSES

ECOLOGICAL GARDENING CERTIFICATE

Whether you are 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. 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 plant communities and their associated ecosystems. 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 our natural habitats

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. 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 at 302.239.4244.

Managing Invasive Plants With Ellen Lake, PhD, and Nate Shampine, CERP

Are overly aggressive plants invading your landscape? Examine the problems caused by invasive plants and discover management strategies for controlling them. Learn how to identify common invasive weeds and how to distinguish them from similar-looking native species. See invasive-plant management techniques and restoration strategies in practice in Mt. Cuba’s natural lands. Dress for the weather and wear reliable shoes as walking paths may be uneven. These classes are rain or shine.

Two Wednesdays: 5/31 and 6/7 10 am – 2:30 pm | $169 (Lunch included)

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CERTIFICATE CLASSES

NATIVE PLANTS SERIES

Native plants of the Eastern Temperate Forest 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 to satisfy your gardening needs throughout the seasons. Using Mt. Cuba’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 Summer 2023

With Leah Brooks and Michael Strengari

Six Thursdays: 6/1 through 7/6, 10 am – 12 pm | $205

Optional exam: Thursday 7/13, 10 am – 12 pm

Native Plants of Fall 2023

With Serah Pesce and Liz Allen

Six Thursdays: 9/7 through 10/12, 10 am – 12 pm | $205

Optional exam: Thursday 10/19, 10 am – 12 pm

Native Plants of Spring 2024

With George Coombs and Amy Highland

Six Thursdays: 4/4 through 5/9, 10 am – 12 pm | $205

Optional exam: Thursday 5/16, 10 am – 12 pm

NEW FOR 2023

Our highly popular Native Plants Series is available in a new course format. View the prerecorded lectures at your own pace prior to joining Mt. Cuba Center staff for scheduled onsite garden tours.

Native Plants of Summer Hybrid option

With Kathleen Elliot and Melissa Starkey, PhD

Six prerecorded online lectures available Monday 5/22

Three garden tours Saturdays: 6/10, 6/24, 7/8, 10 am – 12 pm | $205

Optional exam: Saturday 7/15, 10 am – 12 pm

Native Plants of Fall Hybrid option

With Liz Allen and Kevin Allen

Six prerecorded online lectures available Monday 8/28

Three garden tours Saturdays: 9/16, 9/30, 10/14, 10 am – 12 pm | $205

Optional exam: Saturday 10/21, 10 am – 12 pm

COMING SOON! A Native Plants of Spring Hybrid option will be available in 2024.

Plant Disease Management

With Nancy Gregory

Gardening with nature requires knowledge of the various pathogenic fungi, bacteria, and viruses that affect native plants and the environmental conditions that lead to infection. Become your own plant health detective and learn the signs and symptoms of the most common plant diseases. Study disease life cycles and discuss management strategies for prevention and control, then implement them in your garden.

Two Wednesdays: 7/12 and 7/19

10 am – 2:30 pm | $169 (Lunch included)

Integrated Pest Management

With Timothy Waller, PhD

Every garden is home to a host of life. Unfortunately, some of the six- and eightlegged inhabitants are detrimental to the health and survival of plants. Learn how to manage insect pests in your garden using a “sustainable toolbox” approach. Focus on integrated pest management techniques as well as the identification of both harmful and beneficial organisms. Go home knowing how to control pests in your garden using safe, wildlife-friendly practices.

Wednesday 7/26 through Friday 7/28

10 am – 2:30 pm | $229 (Lunch included)

Ecosystems and Plant Communities

With Lynn Mahaffy, PhD and William McAvoy

Explore the dynamic and diverse plant communities present in our area. Learn how ecology, geology, hydrology, plants, and animals all interact to create healthy ecosystems through classroom study and field trips. Understand the complexities of these communities and how this information influences your home landscaping decisions. Enrich your learning with resources including the Flora of Delaware Online Database and a guide to Delaware Vegetation Communities.

Note: The third class consists of a field trip from 8 am – 6 pm. Please bring lunch.

Three Wednesdays: 8/9 through 8/23

10 am – 4 pm | $289

(Lunch included on Day 1 and Day 2)

(Rain Date: Wednesday 8/30)

Inviting Wildlife into the Garden

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

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 pollinators, 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 and the value of creating environments that sustain wildlife year-round.

Three Fridays: 9/15 through 9/29

10 am – 2:30 pm | $229 (Lunch included)

(Rain Date: Friday 10/6)

Ecological Arboriculture

With Mt. Cuba Certified Arborists and Visiting Lecturers

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, 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 Wednesdays: 10/11 through 10/25

10 am – 2:30 pm | $229 (Lunch included)

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Getting Started with Native Plants

With Nancy Bell

Spend the day with Nancy Bell, garden consultant and professional horticulturist. Begin with a selection of tried-and-true species that can blend in with your existing plantings. Learn how simple it is to garden with the best locally available native trees, shrubs, and perennials. Lunch and a garden tour are included. Ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Wednesday 4/5, 10 am – 3 pm | $99 (Lunch included)

Weeds 101 With Lucy Dinsmore

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.

Spring Section: Friday 4/14, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Fall Section: Friday 10/6, 10 am – 12 pm | $29 Enroll in both sections for | $54

Terrific Trillium

With Amy Highland

Mt. Cuba’s premier collection of native trilliums provides a spectacular floral display each spring. Amy Highland, director of collections, presents an informative overview of our efforts to protect and conserve this iconic genus and discusses their culture and care as garden plants. A tour of our woodland gardens to see these jewels of the forest floor completes the day.

Wednesday 4/19, 1 –3 pm | $29

The Beginner’s Native Perennial Garden

With Nancy Bell

Well-planned perennial gardens provide a variety of textures and colors from spring through fall. Learn how to create a garden plan, select hardy native plants for shade, sun, wet, or dry areas, and properly prepare, install, and maintain the garden to ensure a healthy, beautiful composition of plants. Leave with a basic layout of a perennial garden that suits your site and helps benefit the local ecosystem. Please bring a snack and scale drawing of your yard.

Wednesday 4/26, 10 am – 1 pm | $39

Native Vines

With

Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Whether scrambling over a split rail fence or cascading from a rustic arbor, vines give height, structure, and visual interest to the landscape while enhancing the ecological value of a garden. Learn how to use and grow native vines that have colorful flowers and provide shelter, food, and nectar to resident and visiting wildlife.

Friday 5/5, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Spring Groundcovers

With Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Kick mulch to the curb and plant a tapestry of hardy native plants for a more visually appealing and ecologically valuable landscape. Discover ten attractive, tough, and versatile species to use as groundcovers for spring and early summer appeal.

Friday 5/5, 1 pm – 3 pm | $29

NATIVE CONTAINER CREATIONS

With Susan Dixon

Create a different native container throughout the seasons with a colorful selection of native plants in these make-and-take classes. Bring gardening gloves.

Spring Window Box

Punctuate the beginning of gardening season with a colorful selection of sun-loving native plants planted in a window box handcrafted with lumber from Mt. Cuba’s property

Section A: Friday 5/5, 10 am – 12 pm | $84 (Plants and container included)

Section B: Friday 5/5, 1 – 3 pm | $84 (Plants and container included)

Summer Container

Use bold foliage as the focal point for a summer container that steals the show. Interweave softer, finer-textured plants and add some brightly colored flowers partial to shade conditions to create an imaginative and eye-catching addition to your deck or patio.

Friday 6/2, 10 am – 12 pm | $84

(Plants and container included)

Bog Container

Construct your own colorful and captivating bog garden in a container. Learn how to create the conditions necessary for growing these exceptional sun-loving plants and proper long-term maintenance techniques.

Friday 6/16, 10 am – 12 pm | $89 (Plants and container included)

Fall Fresh Container

Usher in the cool days and vibrant colors of fall with an informal, natural-looking arrangement this season. Combine autumnflowering, sun-loving perennials with richly textured foliage plants to create a warm and welcoming mood to your porch, walkway, or front door.

Friday 9/8, 10 am – 12 pm | $84 (Plants and container included)

Shade-Loving Perennials

With Nancy Bell

Nearly every gardener has experienced the problem of too much shade, leaving them wondering, “What can I grow here?” This class addresses those challenges, from identifying the degrees of shade that exist in your yard, to selecting the very best plants for those conditions. Discover how to turn a shaded garden into a lovely sanctuary that will only increase in beauty year after year.

Saturday 5/6, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Woodland Glade Walk & Talk

With Susan Boss and Serah Pesce

Come walk and talk through the recently unveiled Woodland Glade from none other than the horticulturists who take pride in the design, planning, and installation of Mt. Cuba’s new entrance garden. From the soloists that wow to the chorus of groundcovering 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.

Wednesday 5/10, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Native Ferns to Know and Grow

With Chris Hoess

Ferns add refinement and depth to your garden, and they are deer-resistant! Chris Hoess, who recently verified the identity of Mt. Cuba’s native ferns, leads this informative tour and discussion. Learn the natural history of ferns, how they reproduce, their amazing diversity of form, and where to grow them in your garden. Receive a list of common and lesser-known species to add to your landscape this year.

Friday 6/9, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Instant Rain Garden

With Jay Kratz

Learn the basic elements of rain garden installation and maintenance, a list of native perennials for wet and dry conditions, and designs that are aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Take home five hardy, resilient native plants to start your own rain garden.

Saturday 6/10, 10 am – 12 pm | $59

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Workshop: Tree ID from the Trail

With Mt. Cuba Certified Arborists

Take a hike through the woods with the Mt. Cuba Arboriculture Team 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 dress for the weather and hiking on steep paths and uneven terrain.

Spring Section: Saturday 6/17

10 am – 12 pm | $35

(Rain Date: Saturday 6/24)

Fall Section: Saturday 10/21

10 am – 12 pm | $35

(Rain Date: Saturday, 10/28)

Workshop: Pruning Trees Correctly

With Mt. Cuba Certified Arborists

Although trees often perform quite well without intervention, pruning is performed by arborists to address safety issues and to improve structure, health, and appearance. Join the Mt. Cuba Arboriculture Team for a discussion of pruning equipment and a demonstration of professional pruning techniques. Students are encouraged to share their own questions about pruning in advance. Class will be held outside; please dress for the weather.

Saturday 6/17, 1 – 3 pm | $35

(Rain Date: Saturday 6/24)

Gardening with Bees in Mind

With Leah Brooks

Native bees need our help! We cannot afford to lose our native bees, as they are integral to ecosystems and pollinate a significant portion of our crops. Join Leah Brooks as she discusses how we can extend a lifeline to our struggling pollinators by planting certain shrubs and wildflowers and managing our home habitats with bees in mind. A garden walk to view the plants is included.

Saturday 6/24, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Instant Pollinator Garden

With Melissa Starkey, PhD

Transform your garden into an ecologically diverse paradise for beetles, butterflies, and other pollinators. Discover plants that provide pollen and nectar to our native insects, how to site the garden, and the basic steps for creating suitable habitats for these all-important community workers. Take home five floriferous native plants and easy-to-use instructions for making a pollinator garden of your own.

Saturday 6/24, 1 – 3 pm | $59

CEU

CEU

Plants that Like “Wet Feet”

With Nancy Bell

Finding plants that will grow in wet conditions around ponds, along streams, or in rain gardens, can be a challenge. Learn which native plants thrive in moisture-laden soil, tolerate sun or shade, provide seasonal interest, and attract water-loving birds and amphibians. See the plants associated with Mt. Cuba’s ponds and learn how to transform a water-filled spot in your yard into a functional new garden.

Saturday 7/8, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Water Quality Improvement without Chemicals

With Kelly Billing

Plants have been keeping water bodies clean and healthy for millions of years. Learn ways to address concerns before they become a problem and how to correct them if they already have. There are very creative ways to curb excess nutrients in all types of ponds and water bodies. Join Kelly Billing as she shares her expertise with water quality improvement plans and non-chemical nutrient uptake solutions.

Saturday 7/15, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Pond Container Gardening

With Kelly Billing

Pond pots, sometimes referred to as “still pots,” nestle nicely into small spaces, such as balconies or decks, but they can also be tucked into nooks and crannies in spacious gardens. Kelly Billing, coauthor of The Water Gardener’s Bible and The Lotus: Know It and Grow It, demonstrates how you can turn just about anything that holds water into a low-maintenance water garden. From lotus to waterlilies to pitcher plants and more, learn how to select plants, choose pots, conduct annual maintenance, and control mosquitoes and other pests.

Saturday 7/15, 1 – 3 pm | $29

Vernonia for Every Garden

With Sam Hoadley

The genus Vernonia, commonly known as ironweed, is an often-overlooked aster relative that has tremendous horticultural potential. Vernonia ranges from compact and tidy plants to towering behemoths topping out at over 13 feet in height. Sam Hoadley, Mt. Cuba’s Trial Garden manager, will be your guide through the trials, sharing how Vernonia is evaluated to determine horticultural value and performance, disease resistance, and pollinator preference.

Section A: Thursday 8/31, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Section B: Saturday 9/16, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Workshop: Propagating

Native Ferns

With Steve Pyne

Discover how simple it is to grow ferns from spores. Steve Pyne, Mt. Cuba’s greenhouse assistant and skilled fern propagator, reviews the life cycle of these ancient plants, how to properly collect and dry fertile fronds, and the basic steps for successfully propagating ferns. In this hands-on workshop, you will clean and sow spores into a simple growing system to take home.

Saturday 9/23, 1 – 3 pm | $49

(Materials included)

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 earliestemerging insects and how you can plan, prep, and primp your garden to make it a haven for these harbingers of spring.

Wednesday 3/29, 6 – 7:30 pm | $19

Rare Plant Conservation Primer

With Élan Alford, PhD

Rare plant conservation is a science that requires a high degree of expertise and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, such as botanical identification and species permits. Gain a deeper understanding of rare plants and the systems to classify and protect them with Élan Alford, Mt. Cuba Center’s conservation fellow. Explore the gardens with Élan as she highlights a selection of Delaware’s rare plants.

Section A: Wednesday 4/12 10 am – 1:30 pm $39

Section B: Saturday 4/15 10 am – 1:30 pm $39

The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals

With Ellen Lake, PhD

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 leaves out, reducing light levels at the forest floor. These plants face many challenges including unpredictable weather and pollinator availability. Spring ephemerals have special adaptations 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.

Section A: Wednesday 4/19, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Wednesday 4/26)

Section B: Saturday 4/22, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Sunday 4/23)

Learning the Language of Birds

With Holly Merker

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’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 your binoculars, and wear practical shoes for walking over uneven paths. Pace will be slow to accommodate most mobility levels.

Section A: Friday 4/21, 9 am – 12 pm | $39

Section B: Saturday 4/22, 1 – 4 pm | $39

Every Bird Counts: Community Science and Conservation

With Holly Merker

Millions of observations made by community scientists in the past few years have greatly expanded our understanding of bird migration. This class provides a detailed picture of where and when birds migrate and the geographic and atmospheric conditions that influence their flights. Join a brigade of community scientists and learn how you can contribute to this research and support global conservation efforts for birds that live in and travel along the eastern seaboard.

Saturday 4/22, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Tick Talk

With Ashley Kennedy, PhD, BCE

Join Delaware’s tick biologist to learn all about tick biology, ecology, behavior, and associated health risks. Learn how to identify the most common species in Delaware, why they are a bigger problem than ever before, and practical tips for keeping your family, pets, and yard tick safe. Help conduct a “tick drag” to safely collect ticks and identify common ticks found in Mt. Cuba’s natural lands.

Section A On-site: Saturday 4/22

1 – 3 pm | $29

Section B Online: Wednesday 4/26 6:30 – 8 pm | $19

Hike the Mt. Cuba Natural Lands Loop

With Mt. Cuba’s Natural Lands Team and Joe Sebastiani

Reconnect with nature in this exceptional behind-the-scenes trek through Mt. Cuba’s natural areas with our Natural Lands Team and Joe Sebastiani, director of adult engagement at Ashland Nature Center. Along the way, scout for birds, discover native spring ephemerals, explore old-field meadows, and learn about several of Mt. Cuba’s restoration projects and experiments. Be prepared for a four-mile hike through hilly, uneven, and occasionally steep terrain. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars, a water bottle, and lunch.

Friday 5/12, 9 am – 1:30 pm | $35

(Rain Date: Friday 5/19)

Mycology Hike With Rowan Nygard

Explore Mt. Cuba’s natural areas with Rowan Nygard, experienced mycophile. Scout and learn about the fungal diversity in the area. Be prepared for a lengthy hike through hilly, uneven, and occasionally steep terrain. Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.

Saturday 5/20, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Sunday 5/21)

Evolutionary Ecology of Interactions With Anahí Espíndola, PhD

What we know about the nature of plantpollinator interactions, and how this drives their evolution is the foundation of many of the management decisions and recommendations given to protect pollinators and biodiversity. Travel across the biology of pollination interactions and their conflicts with Anahí Espindola, PhD, from the University of Maryland. Learn about pollination’s importance to humans and ecosystems, the main forces of its evolution, and how scientists are able to transform the knowledge we have on them into applied ways to improve their conservation and survival.

Tuesday 6/20, 6 – 7:30 pm | $19

The Elusive Bog Turtle and Friends

With Amy Nazdrowicz, PWS

Most people have never encountered the secretive and rare bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii). As a bog turtle biologist, Amy has nearly 20 years’ experience surveying for this endangered turtle and monitoring populations. Amy will share her knowledge of the bog turtle’s life history, habitat requirements, threats, and monitoring methods. Identifying characteristics of other semi-aquatic turtles that share their wetland habitat will also be covered. The class will visit Mt. Cuba’s ponds to look for basking turtles and see a demonstration of radio telemetry.

Friday 6/23, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Milkweed and Monarchs

With Ellen Lake, PhD and Sam Hoadley

The study and preservation of the iconic monarch butterfly is a focal area for the conservation and research team at Mt. Cuba. Join Ellen Lake, director of conservation and research, and Sam Hoadley, manager of horticultural research, who will introduce the monarch’s biology and interactions with milkweed and discuss the fascinating nature of their migration. Students will take a tour of the newly planted milkweed trial and compare several milkweed species.

Section A: Saturday 7/8 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Section B: Wednesday 7/12 10 am – 12 pm | $29

Bats and Your Backyard Habitat

With Sarah Bouboulis

These little flying mammals are great hunters of insects, eating more than 600 mosquitoes per hour! Learn about the eight species of bats native to Delaware, where they live, and how to include suitable shelters and landscape elements for bats in your yard. Then walk Mt. Cuba’s property to scout locations where bats are likely to roost and use a small acoustic monitor to listen for bats as well as see them.

Section A: Friday 7/21, 7 – 9 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Friday 7/28)

Section B: Saturday 7/22, 7 – 9 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Saturday 7/29)

Native Alternatives to Invasive Ornamentals

With Leah Brooks

Non-native invasive plants, like Japanese barberry and English ivy, damage our environment by invading natural areas and outcompeting native plants. To help stop the spread, the Delaware state legislature recently passed a law banning the sale of 36 invasive plant species. Join Leah Brooks as she presents beautiful native alternatives to these invasive ornamentals and explains how making these substitutes helps protect our ecosystems. A garden walk to view recommended plants is included.

Saturday 7/22, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

SPRING BOTANICAL ART SERIES

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: 3/30 through 4/20, 10 am – 1 pm

Discover the fascinating details of spring wildflowers from Mt. Cuba’s gardens in this relaxed, beginner-level 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.

Wildflowers in Color

Four Thursdays: 4/27 through 5/18, 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 one-onone feedback sessions provide a strong foundation in botanical drawing. Students may work in watercolor or colored pencil.

Refined Botanical Drawing

Four Thursdays: 5/25 through 6/22, 10 am – 1 pm

*No class on 6/8

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.

PHOTOGRAPHY STROLLS

With David Greaves

Enjoy Mt. Cuba’s gardens in the golden hours when the sun’s rays produce an even, natural light ideal for photography. Bring your camera, lenses, tripod, and camera manual and dress for the weather.

Evening Photography Stroll

Capture the beauty of Mt. Cuba’s gardens just before sunset when the quality of light is soft, warm, and even. Capture epic sunset moments and leave with a new appreciation of nature at nightfall. All levels of experience welcome.

Friday 5/12, 6 – 8 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Friday 5/19)

Early Morning Photography Stroll

Enjoy this early morning opportunity to photograph the gardens of Mt. Cuba when light quality is less intense, shadows are soft, and colors appear richer. Photographers of all experience levels will receive professional guidance on the technical and aesthetic elements of photography.

Saturday 5/13, 7:30 – 9:30 am | $29

(Rain Date: Saturday 5/20)

Pyrography: Woodburning Art for Beginners

With Nicole DeLizzio

Create your own beautiful wood-burned artwork in this one-of-a-kind workshop. Discover different woodburning techniques, compare how different types of wood burn, and explore your artistic side by creating various textures, shapes, and designs with a simple-to-use wood-burning pen. All supplies are provided; just bring your creative spirit!

Section A: Wednesday 5/3, 10 am – 12 pm | $44

Section B: Saturday 5/6, 10 am – 12 pm | $44

Nature Photography

With David Greaves

Dramatic photos of wildlife seen in the garden are a joy to behold and an inspiration to all. Through lecture and onsite practice, professional photographer David Greaves presents insights on observing nature, using natural light to its best advantage, telling stories through photos, using varying angles, and more tips to further develop your skills in the art of capturing nature photography techniques. Students should bring a smartphone or camera to practice the techniques learned. If you have a tripod and are interested in learning how to better utilize it, bring it along. Dress for the weather.

Saturday 5/13, 10 am – 12 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Saturday 5/20)

En Plein Air

With Randall Graham

Enjoy a hayride to a designated location in Mt. Cuba’s natural lands with Randall Graham as your en plein air instructor. Artists can overcome the challenges of landscape painting by creating a plan. Learn colormixing, 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.

Saturday 6/3, 10 am – 3:30 pm | $95

(Rain Date: Saturday 6/10)

Eco-Printed Silk Scarves

With Sara Setzer

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. Bring your lunch.

Section A: Friday 6/9, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $95

(Materials included)

Section B: Friday 9/15, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $95

(Materials included)

Section C: Saturday 9/16, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $95

(Materials included)

Felted Art: Moths, Bees, and Butterflies, Oh My!

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 designs of moths, butterflies, and bees using wool and other natural fibers in this relaxed crafting session. Leave with your own hoopframed piece of original art, ready to hang and admire. No experience needed. Bring your lunch.

Saturday 6/10, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $49

(Materials included)

Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Advanced

With Sara Setzer

Get ready to dive deeper into the art of eco-printing! In this advanced workshop, learn how to incorporate logwood, a natural dye that produces a variety of stunning purple tones, into your scarves. This class expands your knowledge of eco-printing on silk and teaches you new techniques for this beautiful craft. Each student will complete three scarves of various silk or silk and wool materials. Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Sunday 6/11, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $95

(Materials included)

Section B: Sunday 9/17, 10 am – 2:30 pm | $95

(Materials included)

Botanical Sun Printing

With Shelly Silva

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 sun prints, is a camera-less photographic printing process that allows the artist to explore shape, light, and an appreciation of nature. In this class, students will learn the history of this process, use the sun as a UV light source, and create cyanotypes with plant materials harvested from Mt. Cuba. No prior experience necessary; all supplies provided. This class includes walking in and out of the classroom to expose prints to sunlight. Wear dark clothes as materials may stain.

Section A: Saturday 6/24, 10 am – 1 pm | $69

(Rain Date: Saturday 7/8)

Section B: Sunday 9/10, 10 am – 1 pm | $69

(Rain Date: Sunday 9/17)

Leaf-Casting Workshop

With Louise Clarke

Encapsulate the splendor of nature in a resilient and functional piece of garden art using cement and real foliage as the mold. The cupped leaf sculpture creates a miniature water feature, attracting birds and butterflies to your garden. It is sure to add a new dimension to your backyard retreat. Wear old clothes and bring a pair of sturdy rubber gloves.

Section A: Saturday 7/22, 10 am – 12 pm | $39

Section B: Saturday 7/22, 1 – 3 pm | $39

Fun with Botanical Watercolor

With Judy Simon

Using fresh specimens from the garden as a source of inspiration, develop fundamental watercolor painting skills. Learn paintbrush usage, color mixing, subject matter selection, and color application while finding your unique painting style. Judy guides you with personalized instruction and practical painting exercises designed to nurture your creativity. Open to all levels of experience. A detailed list of required materials is available with the online class description.

Wednesday 9/6 through Friday 9/8 10 am – 1 pm | $109

Craft a Fairy House

With Nancy Bell

Children—and those young at heart—love to play in the woods, so building a fairy house is a great way to nurture an appreciation of the natural world and exercise imagination. Work with foraged twigs, bark, leaves, cones, and other botanicals to construct an enchanting garden home for fairies, elves, and trolls. Turn a walk in the woods into magical memories for you and your favorite youngster.

Section A: Saturday 9/9, 10 am – 12 pm | $8 for adults, $15 for kids (max 3 kids/adult)

Section B: Saturday 9/9, 1 – 3 pm | $8 for adults, $15 for kids (max 3 kids/adult)

Botanical Watercolor: Next Steps

With Judy Simon

Preserve the beauty of fall through watercolor paintings with fresh specimens like colorful leaves, branches with berries, seed pods and more from the garden as a source of inspiration. Take a deeper dive into the tools and techniques of botanical watercolor painting. Judy focuses on color theory and traditional dry brush methods that create form and depth, bringing your watercolors to life. Previous experience with watercolor is recommended. A detailed list of required materials is available with the online class description.

Wednesday 10/25 through Friday 10/27

10 am – 1 pm | $109

Nature as Therapy

With Kathy Andrzejewski, MEd, HT

Taking a deep breath of fresh air. Using the senses and power of observation to engage with nature. These are just a few therapeutic horticulture strategies that can be used to enhance one’s 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 will share information about horticulture therapy and will provide participants with a take-home tool kit containing a variety of interactive horticulture-based activities to use on their own. Class will include lecture and outside activities. Please dress for the weather.

Sunday 4/2, 1 – 3 pm | $29

Achieve Pain-Free Gardening

With

Aron McConnell, DPT

Gardening, like any outdoor activity, involves a wide variety of movements that are hard on your joints, from lifting, pushing, and pulling to getting up and down from the ground repeatedly – all in just one day! When done incorrectly, you increase your risk of gardening-related injuries, no matter what age you are. Dr. McConnell shows you how to properly lift, dig, rake, prune, carry materials, shovel snow, and get up and down from the ground so you can garden pain-free for years to come.

Wednesday 4/12, 1 –3 pm | $29

Yoga

With Melissa Stanley

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)

Section A: Six Wednesdays:

4/12 through 5/17, 5:15 – 6:15 pm | $99

(Rain Date: Wednesday 5/24)

Section B: Three Saturdays: 5/6 through 5/20, 9 – 10 am | $50

(Rain Date: Saturday 6/3)

Section C: Six Wednesdays:

5/31 through 7/12, 5:15 – 6:15 pm | $99

*No class on Wednesday 7/5

(Rain Date: Wednesday 7/19)

Section D: Six Wednesdays:

9/6 through 10/11, 5:15 – 6:15 pm | $99

(Rain Date: Wednesday 10/18)

Ornitherapy for Your Mind, Body, and Soul

With Holly Merker

Finding balance in our busy and pressured lives can be challenging, but if we allow an appreciation for 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. In this presentation, we will explore our connection to birds, their value to us, and how to practice ornitherapy from home for the optimal benefits to personal wellness.

Friday 4/21, 1 –3 pm | $29

Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih®

With

Jessica Lewis

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.

Section A: Eight Thursdays: 5/4 through 6/29, 7:30 – 8:30 am | $132

*No class on Thursday 5/11

Section B: Eight Thursdays: 9/14 through 11/2, 7:30 – 8:30 am | $132

Nature Journaling

With

Kathleen Elliot

Capture a moment in time to revisit later through nature 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 5/6, 1 – 3 pm | $29

(Rain Date: Saturday 5/13)

Sound Bath Meditation

With

Liana Thompson

Experiencing sound baths in a natural setting is magical. While you focus on the sounds of the Tibetan singing bowls, you may begin to notice the other sounds of nature such as birds singing in response to the soothing sounds being played. Your stress and tension will slowly melt away as you allow your senses to absorb the environment around you.

Two Sundays: 5/7 and 5/14, 9 – 10 am | $29

(Rain Date: Sunday 5/21)

T’ai Chi Chih® : Guided Practice

With

Jessica Lewis

For those who have completed the introductorylevel class, guided practice is an ideal way to gain even greater physical and mental health benefits through closer examination and refinement of T’ai Chi Chih®’s 20 simple movements. Instruction is very flexible, addressing the needs of individual students while sharing the experience of fellow practitioners. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Eight Thursdays: 7/13 through 8/31, 7:30 – 8:30 am | $132

INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Élan Alford, PhD, is the plant conservation fellow at Mt. Cuba Center. She coordinates volunteer research, including rare plant monitoring. Prior to joining Mt. Cuba, Élan worked in environmental consulting and has volunteered as Rare Plant Chair for the California Native Plant Society Santa Clara Valley Chapter.

Kevin Allen, MEd, has more than a decade of experience in science education and currently serves as an educator at Mt. Cuba. He earned a certificate in horticulture from Stonecrop Gardens in Cold Spring, NY, and is also pursuing a graduate degree in plant science with a focus on orchid ecology.

Liz Allen is an educator at Mt. Cuba and a Delaware Master Naturalist with the University of Delaware. She provides gardening consultations to local homeowners and schools who are looking to diversify and improve their landscape value with native plants. Liz is also the grounds manager for a school and has converted the entire property to native plants for children to study and enjoy. Additionally, she leads groups in invasive removal efforts, as well as creating public plantings. Liz is passionate about restoring nature’s balance by actively influencing plant communities.

Kathy Andrzejewski, MEd, HT is an educator at Longwood Gardens 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 have people of all ages experience the health and wellness benefits that result from engaging with nature.

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.

Kelly Billing is a Maryland Certified Professional Horticulturist with more than 32 years of experience in the water gardening industry. She compiled and maintains the Aquatic Plant Invasive Species List for the nursery trade and is coauthor of The Water Gardener’s Bible and The Lotus: Know It and Grow It.

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

Sarah Bouboulis is the habitat project coordinator for the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary. She has her master’s degree in biology from Bucknell University where she studied bats and disease ecology. She has worked for DNREC and USFWS on various endangered species projects including bats and reptiles. Her current focuses are on restoration of both coastal and upland habitats. She has a passion for native plants, especially in her own backyard and yours.

Leah Brooks is Mt. Cuba’s public programs assistant. She graduated from the University of Delaware with dual bachelor’s degrees in Environmental Science and Wildlife Ecology. She is an avid contributor to the Delaware Native Plant Identification and Exchange group on Facebook. Her passion is sharing the joy of nature and native gardening with others.

Louise Clarke obtained a BS in Environmental Design and Horticulture from Temple University and is the steward of The Morris Arboretum’s Bloomfield Farm. She lectures on numerous plantcentric topics, leads creative workshops, and tends to a home garden of native perennials, bulbs, and unusual vines.

George Coombs, director of horticulture at Mt. Cuba, leads a team of horticulturists, arborists, and grounds maintenance technicians who cultivate and improve formal and naturalistic gardens and play a pivotal role in the implementation of Mt. Cuba’s long-range master plan. George produced award-winning reports on native plant research as the former manager of horticultural research at Mt. Cuba and introduced four new Coreopsis cultivars. He holds a degree of Plant Science from the University of Delaware with a focus in landscape horticulture.

Nicole DeLizzio is the arborist assistant at Mt. Cuba. She graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Agriculture and Natural Resources and a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Her interest in pyrography comes from her combined passion for trees and art.

Rodney Dever, MS completed his MS in Evolutionary Biology at West Virginia University, researching wild onions (Allium). His focus is on that fine line between foraging wild edibles and incipient agriculture. These days Rodney works with Neal Peterson, creating new and improved varieties of pawpaws as well as other native plants. He regularly leads nature walks as president of the Eastern Panhandle Chapter of the West Virginia Native Plant Society.

Lucy Dinsmore, MS 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.

Susan Dixon is the perennial plant buyer and department manager at Gateway Garden Center in Hockessin, DE. She has attended classes in ornamental horticulture at New York Botanical Garden and is currently earning her Certificate of Merit at Longwood. She has a passion for wildlife and the native plants that support them.

Kathleen Elliot is a Mt. Cuba educator. She has a BS 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 fifteen years at a family-owned, plant-focused garden center in south-central Pennsylvania, where she multi-tasked between landscape design and garden center management.

Anahí Espíndola, PhD is from Argentina, and is an assistant professor at the Department of Entomology of the University of Maryland, College Park. With her research group, she studies how the environment drives the ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator interactions, using genomic, ecological, and experimental approaches. Anahí is passionate about science communication, regularly contributes to the blog of the UM Extension Home and Gardening Information Center (Maryland Grows), and is a co-creator, contributor and manager of the popular outreach blog in Spanish “Extensión en Español.” Anahí studied Biology at the National University of Córdoba (Argentina) and at the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland), where she also received her master’s and PhD. She did two post-docs at the University of Idaho, funded by the Swiss and US National Science Foundations.

Randall Graham has been passionate about art since childhood. He studied at The Carlin Academy of Fine Art. 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.

INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Nancy Gregory, MS earned an MS in Plant Pathology from Penn State and spent several years at the Tropical Research and Education Center in Florida, followed by 26 years at University of Delaware. She was director of UD’s Plant Diagnostic Clinic and led pest detection efforts for Delaware. Nancy taught courses on plant diseases and mycology, Master Gardener training, seminars, and in retirement continues to teach.

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

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

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

Chris Hoess teaches biology and biochemistry at Delaware Technical Community College and is chair of the Friends of the State Line Serpentine Barrens. His interests include ferns, trilliums, plant phylogenetics, and the management and restoration of serpentine ecosystems.

Diane Keesee has a passion for creating interesting signature cocktails, spirit infusions, shrubs, and bitters, using unique seasonal ingredients. She has been involved in hospitality management and the beverage industry for more than 20 years, including having worked for Greenville Country Club and Vicmead Hunt Club.

Scott Kelley is the head arborist at Mt. Cuba. He has more than 35 years of experience working with trees and is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® .

Ashley Kennedy, PhD is the Delaware state tick biologist. She earned her MS (2013) and PhD (2019) in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. She has previously worked at the Army Public Health Center tick lab, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, and the National Zoo.

Jay Kratz is a Mt. Cuba educator. Before coming to Mt. Cuba, he spent twenty years as a college instructor, and working with his wife at her family business, Hill House Herb Gardens in Providence, RI. In addition to being the luckiest boy in the world to spend his days with guests marveling at Mt. Cuba’s gardens, he shares his enthusiasm for native plants outside Mt. Cuba’s gates as the co-horticulturist and Rancocas chapter leader for the Native Plant Society of NJ, and as a native plant garden designer and landscaper.

Faith B. Kuehn, PhD, 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. She began her career at the Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Association where she served as an environmental educator and then the education director. Ellen has an MS 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. For close to 20 years, Jessica’s been providing a unique blend of customized exercise routines, solid nutritional advice, and movementbased relaxation principles for a diverse population of clients via Sculpt Your Life®, her private practice.

Lynn Mahaffy, PhD, earned her PhD in Natural Resources (Wildlife Conservation) at Cornell University. She currently teaches courses for the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Delaware, including Environmental Biology, General Ecology, and her favorite, Field Ecology, which exposes students to all the fascinating organisms and habitats surrounding us.

William McAvoy is Delaware’s state botanist. He extensively studied and published on the flora and habitats of the state. He is the lead author on a comprehensive native plant resource, Flora of Delaware Online Database

Aron McConnell, PT, DPT is a physical therapist at Christiana Care Health Systems. He treats a variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions in clients of all ages. His personal ideology of physical therapy is each client should be treated with a custom program based on an individualized assessment and the client’s personal goals.

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 wellbeing 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.

Amy Nazdrowicz, MS, PWS is a professional wetland scientist and qualified bog turtle surveyor with Landmark Science & Engineering. Amy holds an MS in Wildlife Ecology and is a Certified Wildlife Habitat® steward with the Delaware Nature Society.

Samantha Nestory is the engagement manager at Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden in Villanova, PA. She holds ecology and entomology degrees from the University of Delaware and is passionate about ecological gardening, native plants, and insect conservation.

Rowan Nygard grew up exploring the creeks and forests around the Eno River State Park in Durham, NC. There he found a deep appreciation of nature, and a desire to know more about the natural world around him. This search has serendipitously led him to Kennett Square, PA, where he is studying horticulture at Longwood Gardens. Along the way he has immersed himself in the study of ecology, with a focus on mycology and the many ways that plants, animals, and fungi interact. He is a passionate citizen scientist and educator, and hopes to demystify the world of fungi so that everyone can see the natural world around them from the perspective of a mushroom.

Serah Pesce is the education specialist at Mt. Cuba. 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 with Mt. Cuba students.

Steve Pyne is a greenhouse assistant at Mt. Cuba and worked for over ten years in the Victorian Fernery at Morris Arboretum. His current projects include propagating ferns, lycopods, and terrestrial orchids.

Robert Raguso, PhD, is a professor of Chemical Ecology at Cornell University. His research interests run the spectrum of insect-plant interactions mediated by chemistry, especially the role of fragrance in pollination ecology and animal behavior. He has promoted his research by organizing symposia, short courses, and workshops world-wide.

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 director of adult engagement 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’s natural lands manager responsible for implementing land conservation practices through the creation and maintenance of healthy, 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 holds a BFA in Fine Art Photography from Corcoran College of Art + Design, an MS in Management from Wilmington University, and a Level II Award in Wines from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). When Shelly is not teaching others about botanical cyanotypes or wine, she works as a digital communications specialist at the University of Delaware. She enjoys teaching people about the connections between nature, art, and the process of art making.

Judy Simon is a botanical artist and freelance illustrator who has combined her love of gardening with her drawing and painting career. She is a member of the Philadelphia Society of Botanical Illustrators and the American Society of Botanical Artists. Her work is in many private collections.

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

Melissa Starkey, PhD, earned her PhD in Biology from Northwestern University and an MS in Plant Biodiversity and Taxonomy from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and University of Edinburgh in Scotland. As part of her studies, she completed a certificate in field botany in Colombia. Melissa is an active Philadelphia County Master Gardener and PA Master Naturalist and serves on the Board of Directors at the Lehigh Gap Nature Center in PA.

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 works for the Delaware Nature Society, where he is studying the effects of non-native plants on birds.

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.

Michael Strengari is a senior horticulturist at Mt. Cuba, where he works in the Formal Garden. During his career in horticulture he has gardened at private estates, public institutions, and his home. He is a graduate of the Longwood Gardens Professional Gardener Program. With an eye for design and a passion for native plants he hopes to continue to inspire the public by creating and maintaining beautiful garden spaces.

Liana Thompson completed the Vibration Sound Therapy Certified Practitioner training with the Vibrational Sound Association in 2019. Her passion is in helping others gently address stress and emotional trauma using the healing sounds of the Tibetan singing bowls.

William Trescott is the arboriculture manager at Mt. Cuba, where he has worked for 34 years. He is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® .

Timothy Waller, PhD is a Rutgers University, Cumberland County agricultural agent. He holds a PhD in Plant Biology, focused on Plant Pathology, and is tasked with mitigating pest issues, intercepting invasive species, improving farm sustainability and production techniques, as well as developing best management practices for the growers and green industry professionals of the region.