It’s one thing to tell trees and shrubs apart by the shape of their leaves. It’s another to identify them when the leaves are gone! Identifying woody plants in the winter involves careful observation of their silhouette, branching pattern, bark texture, fruit, twigs, and buds. Come sharpen your observation skills while also gaining an appreciation for the unique beauty of woodies in winter.
$7.50/member, $10/non-member
Knowing and Growing Cacti and Succulents
Adult class
Thursday, February 23 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. OR
Saturday, February 25 from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Learn about the fascinating world of cacti and succulents in this informative workshop. Participants will examine the cactus and succulent plant species on display in the “Wicked Plants” exhibit to discover their remarkable adaptations for surviving desert environments. We will also learn about the best techniques for growing these plants, both indoors and outdoors.
$14/member, $18/non-member
Fabulous Florals: March Madness Modified
Adult Workshop
Saturday, March 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Using mums (which are on the wicked plant list)! You will tame your mums wicked ways into a beautiful table arrangement also using candles, spiny foliage and other accents. All materials included!
$39/member, $46/non-member
Lil' Sprouts: Heroes and Villains of the Food World
Preschool program
Wednesday, March 7 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
OR Thursday, March 8 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Did you know that some of our common food plants like potatoes can have a dark side? Join us on a hunt through the “Wicked Plants” exhibit as we discover plants that nourish and plants that poison. Each child will get a potato to grow at home. This program is designed for children ages three to five and one accompanying adult.
$8/member, $14/non-member
Carnivorous Plant Carnival
Educational Event
Saturday, March 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Flytraps and sundews and pitcher plants, oh my! Come to the garden for a day devoted to the weird world of flesh-eating plants. Attend informative sessions on these unique plants and the amazing methods by which they capture and “eat” their prey. Members of the Iowa State University Carnivorous Plant Club will be on hand during the day to answer questions about carnivorous plants on display in the “Wicked Plants” exhibit.
Included with regular garden admission. FREE to members.
Volunteer 101!
Educational Event
Wednesday, March 14 from 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Everything you ever wanted to know about volunteering at Lauritzen Gardens! Participants will hear about the nuts-and-bolts of the garden from directors in horticulture, visitor services, development, administration, education, and marketing, plus learn about volunteer opportunities in each of these areas. A great way to get acquainted and test the waters of the volunteer program!
Registration is requested but not required. FREE information session.
Preschool Fun: Jack and the Bean Stalk Fun!
Preschool program
Wednesday, March 21 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
OR Thursday, March 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Once upon a time, Jack planted some magical beans that grew to be a very large beanstalk! Did you know that every seed has a baby plant inside it, waiting to grow? Seeds come in many different sizes, shapes and even colors! Come discover just how magical seeds are. Each student will plant his or her own magic bean seed to grow at home. This program is designed for children ages three to five and one accompanying adult.
$8/member, $14/non-member
Lil' Sprouts: Treats from Trees!
Preschool program
Wednesday, April 11 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
OR Thursday, April 12 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Have you ever wondered what amazing things come from trees? Did you know that chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon all come from trees? Learn about these and many more amazing treats that come from trees. Each child will make there own one-of-a-kind treat to take home! This program is designed for children ages three to five and one accompanying adult.
$8/member, $14/non-member
Fabulous Florals: Glassy Design
Adult Workshop
Saturday, April 14 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Using a variety of seasonal flowers, you will create a parfait delight for any spring table setting. This design will be completely encased in a glass vase. All materials included.
$39/member, $46/non-member
Preschool Fun: Rainbow Fun!
Preschool program
Wednesday, April 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
OR Thursday, April 26 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
April showers bring May flowers! Learn why springtime rains are so important for both plant life and human life. See how spring rains have transformed the garden into a beautiful rainbow of colors and then make a rainbow to take home. This program is designed for children ages three to five and one accompanying adult.
$8/member, $14/non-member
Go Deep! Study Walk: Traveling Trees
Guided walking tour
Thursday, April 26 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
OR Saturday, April 28 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Norway spruce, Himalayan white pine, London plane tree, Japanese maple….the landscape of Lauritzen Gardens displays a wonderful diversity of trees from across North America and around the world. You will discover these and other globe-trotting trees and learn about their origins, native habitats and usefulness in Midwest landscapes. In honor of Arbor Day!
$7.50/member, $10/non-member
Registration and Cancellation Information
Sign Up Early!
Programs fill quickly and classes are subject to minimum and maximum enrollment, so registration should be made at least one week in advance. Additional students are not added to sold-out courses, however, waiting lists are available. Class reservations can be made by calling Jane Diesen at (402) 346-4002 ext. 263.
After Registration
Registered participants will be contacted the week of the program to confirm enrollment. Participants should dress accordingly for all outdoor programs. No rain or snow dates are planned. Upon arrival at the garden, participants should check in at the admission desk. Classroom doors are open a half-hour before starting time. Program registration includes admission to the garden for the entire day of the class. Children or guests not registered for the program will not be allowed into the class or garden without garden admission or program registration. Children’s programs, with the exception of preschool-aged programs, do not include adult admission to the garden.
Refunds and Cancellations
If a registration for a program must be cancelled, registration fees will be refunded if notice is received at least one week before the program. Courses with insufficient registration are sometimes cancelled. If a class is cancelled, phone notification will be made as early as possible. Full refunds are given for classes cancelled due to insufficient registration. In case of severe weather, participants should call (402) 346-4002 ext. 253 to check the status of the program in which they have registered. For the status of Go Deep! study walks, participants should call (402) 346-4002 ext. 212.
