From the time of early exploration, collecting and sharing newly discovered species has impacted our gardens and, in many cases, our ecosystems as “New and Unusual” plants spread beyond the garden gate to invade our natural areas. Today, few know of the struggles gardeners endured for centuries as they strived to move viable seeds and […]

Learn to transfer and apply the botanical illustration knowledge you have already gained to the amazingly versatile medium of colored pencil with botanical artist, Gail Goodrich Harwood. In session one, we will explore the properties of Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils and effects using different substrates. Students will practice techniques of layering, blending, burnishing, and edge clean-up […]

Join University of Richmond biology professor, John Hayden, for an exploration of all things herbaria. An herbarium is a collection of preserved plant specimens used for scientific study, among other things. Dive into the history of herbarium collections and the roles that herbarium collections play in the service of botanical science. Learn the art and […]

Discover simple techniques to observe fireflies in nature and develop a nature journaling practice with Stephey Baker, local artist and avid urban gardener. Nature journaling helps you slow down, let go of the never-ending tasks on your to-do list, focus on the natural beauty of the world, and find a peaceful place within (even for […]

Learn how to make your own natural, plant-based sugar scrubs and bath salts with Mary Murphy and Courtney Owens, a mother-daughter team from Wandering Cow Farm. Explore combinations of ingredients and learn why they are beneficial to your skin. Use essential and base oils, herbs, plants and minerals to create your own jar of sugar […]

The world of succulent plants includes far more than cacti. Botanist John Hayden will introduce students to the morphological categories of succulent plants, i.e., stem succulents, leaf succulents, and caduciforms. Prominent families of plants that include succulents will be surveyed: Cactus family, Euphorbia/Spurge family, Crassula family, Dogbane/Milkweed family, Yucca family, and Agave family.  Students will […]