PROGRAMS

SPRING / SUMMER 2020

“ 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.” Mrs. LaMMot du Pont CoPeLand

Visit Our Gardens ....................................................4

Membership ..............................................................6

Plan Your Visit ...........................................................7

Events ........................................................................ 10

Featured Programs .............................................. 14

Ecological Gardening Certificate .................... 20

Certificate Classes ................................................ 22

Gardening Classes ................................................ 26

Conservation Classes .......................................... 36

Art Classes ............................................................... 42

Wellness Classes ................................................... 50

Instructor Profiles ................................................. 54

Student Information ............................................ 59

Program Calendar ................................................ 60

contents

visit our gardens

Hours Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm April 3 through November 24

Friday NightsGardens open until 8 pm every Friday, Memorial Day through Labor Day

Admission Members Free Adults $15Children ages 6 – 17 $8 Children 5 and under Free

Eco-Gardening Consultations Private consultation at Mt. Cuba Center$99, 2-person limit

Take your garden to the next level with our Eco-Gardening Consultation service. Whether you have an established native plant garden or you are just getting started, this unique two-hour private garden tour will inspire and guide your own home landscaping choices. From novel plant combinations and seasonal maintenance tips, to attracting your favorite wildlife visitors, a Mt. Cuba Center consultant will provide a customized experience to meet your gardening needs. Walk away with a folder of curated resources and a new perspective on how to approach your landscape. Please schedule at least two weeks in advance.

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MEMBERSHIP

Escape PackageThis membership is your ticket to regular doses of fresh air, natural beauty, and fun excursions with the people you love.

Escape benefits include:

• Unlimited Admission• Guest Passes (two or four

one-time passes)• Discounts on Lyft for select

programs at Mt. Cuba• Discounts on regularly

priced plants at nearby Gateway Garden Center

• A free drink and treat on every visit

Explore PackageWander a little farther into the beauty of Mt. Cuba. Enjoy all the great events and seasonal opportunities at the gardens and take special ecological gardening classes at a discount.

Explore benefits include:

• Escape Package benefits• 10% off on Ecological

Gardening Certificate courses (year-round)

Engage PackageThis rich membership package gives you a full spectrum of opportunities for learning, growing, and enjoying Mt. Cuba throughout the year.

Engage benefits include:

• Escape and Explore Package benefits

• Invitations to behind-the-scenes events

• Members-only ticketed events

• A free native plant• Member pricing on select

programs

MT. CUBA CENTER MEMBERSHIP Experience the serenity of the gardens. Grow and learn through nature.

There’s always something amazing blooming at Mt. Cuba. Our membership packages give you plenty of ways to Escape, Explore, and Engage with our lush native gardens, special events, and educational programs while helping to further our mission to inspire an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants and a commitment to support the habitats that sustain them.

With a Mt. Cuba membership you can visit as much as you like during our April to November season, bring along friends and family with a free guest on every visit, and receive passes to share with even more.

Become a Member! Join today at mtcubacenter.org/membership.

For Two (one member, one guest)Escape $84 ($54 tax deductible)

Explore $122 ($92 tax deductible)

Engage $132 ($96 tax deductible)

For Four (two members, two guests)Escape $134 ($74 tax deductible)

Explore $172 ($112 tax deductible)

Engage $182 ($116 tax deductible)

Membership Pricing

EVENTSPLAN YOUR VISIT

Location 3120 Barley Mill RoadHockessin, DE 19707

Picnicking Refreshments are available for purchase on-site, and guests may bring food and drinks into the garden. Take advantage of our picnic area, shaded by mature native trees; find a seat in the garden; or borrow one of our picnic blankets to use on the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to help minimize waste and support Mt. Cuba Center’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 garden is available upon request. For your convenience, a wheelchair, rolling walker, and walking sticks are also available at the front desk. Reservations are not required. Please call 302.239.4244 or visit mtcubacenter.org/accessibility for more information.

Visiting with ChildrenWe welcome gardeners of all ages! Baby carriers and backpacks may be helpful while exploring our hillside gardens. All-terrain strollers are recommended.

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RECURRING PROGRAMSGROUP VISITS & TOURS

Group AdmissionA group admission rate of $14 per person is available for groups of 10 or more when scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Due to limited parking, all groups traveling by bus must make arrangements in advance.

Welcome to Mt. Cuba TourJust want the highlights? Join us for an hour-long introduction to our gardens that were once part of the private home and estate of the Copeland family. See spectacular displays of native plants in bloom, and learn how Mt. Cuba Center applies ecological gardening practices to work with nature, not against it. One Hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission

Green Thumb TourImmerse yourself in the beauty and benefits of native plants on this two-hour, in-depth tour of Mt. Cuba Center’s formal and naturalistic gardens. Topics covered will include information on our extensive native plant collections and useful tips on sustainable gardening practices. Two Hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission

Hayride Highlights TourSit back and relax on this one-hour guided hayride through our Natural Lands. As the hay wagon travels through rolling hills and grassland fields, you’ll experience stunning vistas while learning about Mt. Cuba’s approach to natural land management and conservation. One Hour, $3 per person in addition to garden admission

Hayride and HikeHitch a hayride deep into our Natural Lands before adventuring on foot for a behind-the-scenes experience of Mt. Cuba’s wilder side. Hike with a friendly and knowledgeable guide to discover how Mt. Cuba applies “gardening on a higher level” in our natural areas. Learn about our ever-evolving land management strategies, conservation efforts, and the state of our restoration projects. Be prepared to hike gently sloping paths and navigate some uneven terrain. Two Hours, $4 per person in addition to garden admission

LecturesLearn about what Mt. Cuba Center does best—native plants! Get some great suggestions for your home landscape from our gardening experts. Lectures last one hour and can be added to group visits for $99. Inquire about topics upon scheduling to select from a variety of seasonal options. One Hour, $99

Group Dining and Facility RentalsComplete your Mt. Cuba Center experience with a delicious meal. Room rentals are available for meetings, receptions, breakfasts, or luncheons, subject to availability. Email groupsales@mtcubacenter.org or call 302.239.8807 for pricing.

Got Plants?Mt. Cuba Center has an exclusive selection of native plants available for sale on-site. Order in advance to receive a group discount! Email groupsales@mtcubacenter.org or call 302.239.8807 for pricing.

With paths that take visitors from formal gardens through intimate woodlands, Mt. Cuba Center puts the beauty of our native landscapes on display to inspire conservation. We offer seasonal lectures and four unique tour options as possible add-ons to enhance your group’s experience of the garden. For information or to make a reservation, call 302.239.8807 or email groupsales@mtcubacenter.org.

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DAILYGarden Highlights WalksGuided walks are offered at 11 am and 2 pm. Each walk lasts about 45 minutes. Tickets are $3 per person in addition to garden admission. Free for Members.

WEEKLYStory Time SproutsThursdays, Memorial Day to Labor Day10:30 amFree with admission

Get lost in a book in Mt. Cuba’s gardens! Families are invited on Thursday mornings for a story from nature-themed children’s books. Intended for children ages five and under; meet in the Main House. Rain or shine. No reservations required.

Summer NightsEvery Friday from May through August the gardens are open until 8 pm, so bring a picnic to enjoy the evening twilight. Wine and beer will be available for purchase on-site. Join us for the best happy hour around!

MONTHLYTwilight on the TerraceFridays: May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, September 45 – 8 pmFree with Admission

This popular program is back for its fourth season! Unwind from the week with a bite to eat while enjoying casual lawn games and listening to live music on the terrace. Local breweries and food trucks will be on-site with food, beer, and wine available for purchase. For more details, including musical performers and food and drink vendors, visit mtcubacenter.org/twilight.

Garden Enthusiast TourSaturdays: April 11, May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, November 14 10 am – 12 pm$19 per person$4 Members

Take an in-depth tour of our gardens with an expert guide; learn about notable native plants; and receive tips on sustainable gardening practices. Tour content will vary as the gardens are dynamic and ever-changing. Come back for a new experience each time.

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

EVENTSRECURRING PROGRAMS

events

Wildflower CelebrationSunday, April 26 (Rain or Shine) 10 am – 4 pm

Enjoy a magnificent display of spring blooms at our annual signature event. Stroll through our native plant gardens at the peak of their glory; enjoy live music, gardening activities, family programming, and more. A variety of food selections are available for purchase. Native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. For a full schedule, visit mtcubacenter.org/wildflower.

Please note: Free parking for this event is at 1003 Old Wilmington Road, just east of Brackenville Road. From the parking area, shuttle buses and a walking path provide access to the garden.

Delaware Nature Society: Native Plant SaleFriday, May 1, 3 – 7 pmSaturday, May 2, 9 am – 3 pm

Location: Coverdale Farm, 543 Way Road, Greenville, DE 19807Information: Call 302.239.2334 or visit DelNature.org

The 2020 Delaware Nature Society Native Plant Sale features over 300 rare, unusual, and desirable native species of woody, herbaceous, and aquatic plants for all growing conditions. This year’s theme is Nature Needs Natives, featuring beautiful plants that feed birds, butterflies, and pollinators. Plants from Mt. Cuba Center will be available for purchase.

FREE!

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EVENTS

National Public Gardens WeekFriday, May 8 to Sunday, May 1710 am – 6 pm Free Admission on Saturday, May 16

Celebrate America’s public gardens all week long at Mt. Cuba Center! Don’t miss our first Twilight on the Terrace event on Friday, May 15, with live music, food trucks, and lawn games from 5 to 8 pm. Join us on Saturday, May 16, and enjoy free admission. Ticketed Garden Highlight Walks will be offered hourly. Native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last.

Spring Art-In All artists welcomedFriday, May 29 (Rain Date: Friday, June 5)10 am – 8 pm Free for artists!

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

Although this is a free event for participating artists, registration is required. Call Mt. Cuba Center at 302.239.4244 or visit our website mtcubacenter.org/artin to register and review the Artist Guidelines. Please note that Mt. Cuba Center is a carry-in, carry-out facility.

Ladybug Garden CrawlFriday, June 12 (Rain Date: Saturday, June 20)5:30 – 7:30 pmFree with Admission

The Ladybug Garden Crawl brings performers from The Ladybug Festival to Mt. Cuba Center for a music-filled evening in our gardens! Enjoy food, drinks, and live performances as you explore the gardens. For those who truly want to boogie down with the ladybugs, costume wings and antennae will be available for purchase.

Family YogaSaturdays, June 13, June 27, July 11, August 8, August 22 (Weather Permitting)11 – 11:45 amFree with Admission

Join local family-friendly yoga practice Petite Yogi for an exciting yoga session in our South Garden! From beginners to experienced yogis, children ages 4 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.

Christina in the GardensFriday, June 26 (Rain Date: Saturday, June 27, 4 – 5:30 pm)6 – 7:30 pmFree with Admission

Dance to the beat of your own drum while students from Christina Cultural Arts Center showcase their talents in our South Garden! Create and express yourself with family-friendly activities as you unwind from the week with a picnic from home. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase.

FREE!

FREE!

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EVENTS

Kids Create: Nature-Inspired CollagesFriday, July 10 (Rain or Shine)5:30 – 7:30 pm

Friday, August 14 (Rain Date: August 28)5:30 – 7:30 pmFree with Admission

Join us for a night of nature, art-making and fun! Mt. Cuba Center partners with award-winning folk artist, Eunice LaFate, to lead a unique children’s art program in our gardens. Kids working together will create a collaborative mural from natural materials and go home with their very own painting! This program is intended for ages 6 to 14. Pre-registration is required. Art supplies will be provided.

Botanical Body ArtFriday, July 24(Rain Date: Friday, July 31)5 – 7 pmFree with Admission

Come to the gardens for an evening of botanical body art and a tattoo design demonstration from Tina Marabito of Poppycock Tattoo. Enjoy face painting, temporary botanical tattoos, leaf rubbings, and more. Got a botanical tattoo of your own? Show it at registration for free garden admission.

Grandparents DaySunday, September 1310 am – 6 pmFree admission for grandparents when visiting with a grandchild.

Nature provides a wonderful venue for sharing adventures and spending quality time together. Celebrate grandparents while enjoying the beauty of the fall gardens, participate in a family-friendly activity, or embark on a stunning hayride through our Natural Lands.

Tree FestivalSaturday, September 26(Rain Date: Sunday, September 27)10 am – 6 pmFree with Admission

See trees in their autumn glory and learn how they add beauty and value to our landscapes. During this special event, enjoy unique programs, hayrides, and more. A variety of food and beverage selections will be available for purchase. Native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. Visit mtcubacenter.org/treefestival for more information.

featured programs

SPRING GARDENING SATURDAY Get ready for spring gardening with practical advice and eco-friendly ideas. Discover how to garden in harmony with nature and select the best native plants for your yard. Enjoy the whole day or register for individual sessions. Please bring your lunch.

Saturday, March 289:30 am – 1:30 pm$15 per session or $35 for all three

Eco-Gardening: Plain and SimpleWith Eileen Hazard 9:30 – 10:30 am

Eco-friendly gardening works with nature not against it. Learn how native plant gardens support pollinators and wildlife and provide beautiful, healthy spaces for people to enjoy. Get motivated with practical examples that can provide a positive eco-impact this year!

Tried-and-True Native TreesWith Duncan Himmelman, PhD10:45 – 11:45 am

Where do you begin when selecting the best tree for your yard? Join Duncan as he breaks it down for you, and leave with a list of trees adapted to our region that provide great ecological value and create the landscape look you want.

Lunch (12 – 12:30 pm)

Spring Wildflowers for Home GardensWith Nancy Bell12:30 – 1:30 pm

Early spring wildflowers are the harbingers of seasonal change, a welcome relief from winter. From wild ginger to foamflower and beyond, discover the best ones to grow in your home garden.

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HOME LANDSCAPING BASICS Do you want a beautiful yard, but don’t know where to begin? Through lectures, discussions, and site visits, this series offers professional guidance on how to develop landscapes that balance aesthetics with practicality. Start now on creating a home landscape that works best for you and the environment. Take one course or all three.

Enroll in all three and be entered to win a free consultation with Mt. Cuba Center staff!

$30 per course or $80 for the series

Getting StartedWith Nancy BellSunday, March 291 – 3 pm

Explore ways to create beautiful, ecologically diverse, and practical landscapes using basic principles of naturalistic garden design. Learn how to work with your site to solve problems and maximize its use. Assess the conditions of an existing landscape at Mt. Cuba Center, including views, microclimates, and sun, shade, and wind patterns. Leave with a checklist to get started on your own yard. Wear sturdy walking shoes.

Developing Curb AppealWith Madeline Dobbs and Duncan Himmelman, PhDSunday, April 51 – 3 pm

A welcoming entry to your home can be more than merely a lawn, a tree, and a regimented row of traditional foundation plants. Learn how to design a well-organized front yard that provides ecological benefits, has year-round interest and variety, and even increases your property value. Wear sturdy walking shoes.

Right Plant, Right PlaceWith Nancy BellSunday, April 191 – 3 pm

Avoid costly errors by choosing the right plant for the right place based on the environmental conditions, available space, and desired look for your yard. Learn how to select site-appropriate native trees, shrubs, and perennials and creative ways to organize them into combinations that reduce maintenance, look great year-round, and mimic natural landscapes.

FEATURED PROGRAMS

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GETTING STARTED WITH NATIVE PLANTS With Nancy Bell

Not sure where to start with native plants? Nancy Bell, garden consultant and professional horticulturist, recommends beginning with a few 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 in this three-part program. Ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. Please bring your lunch.

Sunday, May 39:30 am – 1:30 pm $17 per course or $39 for all three.

A selection of native plants will be available for purchase.

Trees: The Garden’s Backbone9:30 – 10:30 am

Trees form the all-important long-lasting structure of a home landscape, buffering wind, providing shade, and framing views of your property. From short to tall, sun to shade, wet to dry, there is sure to be a tree that fits your needs.

Shrubs: The Garden’s Workhorses10:45 – 11:45 am

Shrubs help knit the landscape into a cohesive whole by providing texture, color, and seasonal interest. Leave with a list of attractive and fool-proof shrubs that bring birds and pollinators to your garden.

Lunch (12 – 12:30 pm)

Perennials: The Garden’s Color Palette12:30 – 1:30 pm

There are a wealth of easy-to-grow native perennials to choose from. Discover pollinator-friendly species that will compliment your property and tackle shady, sunny, wet, or dry garden sites.

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LECTURE SERIES

CONTAINER GARDENING SATURDAY Containers are a wonderful way to bring a piece of nature to your patio, deck, or entryway. Discover the variety of options out there and learn how to create and care for eco-friendly container gardens. Get inspired and leave with lots of helpful tips to kickstart your own container gardening adventure. Enjoy the whole day or register for individual sessions. Please bring your lunch.

Saturday, May 1610 am – 1:15 pm$15 per session or $35 for all three.

Container Gardening 101With Nancy Bell10 – 10:45 am

Get the most out of your containers this year! Learn all about potting mixes, planting techniques, maintenance requirements, and plant and container selection. Leave with the confidence to keep your container gardens healthy and looking fresh all season long.

Best Native Plants for ContainersWith Julia Eppes11 – 11:45 am

The beauty of using native plants in containers is that they are adapted to our local growing conditions. From short to tall, sun to shade, spring through fall, there are plenty of plants for creating a small, wildlife-friendly oasis on a balcony, patio, or porch. Leave with a list of our favorite container-loving natives.

Lunch (12 – 12:30 pm)

Garden Couture: From Inspiration to InstallationWith Clay Stradley12:30 – 1:15 pm

Be inspired by the remarkably diverse container plantings at Mt. Cuba Center, from the styles and colors of the pots to the unique combinations of native plants in them. Then, observe a demonstration on designing, properly planting, and caring for a container garden that will be raffled off at the end of class.

NEW!

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FEATURED PROGRAMSLECTURE SERIES

Go Native with Infused Vodkas 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 vodka for the project, the amount of flavoring to use, the critical steps in the process, and tricks of the trade that 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)

Sunday, June 141 – 3pm$45

Workshop: Diagnosing & Solving Tree Health IssuesWith Mike Leventry

“What’s wrong with my tree?” is a commonly asked question. Mike Leventry, an ISA Certified Arborist®, helps answer it by presenting an overview of what causes a variety of tree disorders, including insects, diseases, environmental factors, and man-made conditions. Using key diagnostic tools and techniques, learn how to successfully identify tree health issues in the field, develop common-sense approaches to preventing them, and create programs that keep trees living longer. Morning lectures are followed by an afternoon site visit. This workshop is ideal for homeowners, landscape managers, and tree-care professionals.

Wednesday, August 5(Rain Date: Wednesday, August 12)10 am – 2:30 pm$79 (Lunch included)

Garden Design ClinicWith Annie Guilfoyle

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to work with Annie Guilfoyle, an award-winning garden designer from London, England. In this information-filled, two-day workshop, Annie introduces students to the design process and problem-solving techniques, leading to a basic conceptual layout for your garden. Through discussion, hands-on designing, and individual direction, learn how to assess your site, where to find inspiration, and how to turn your dreams into a workable garden plan. The program also includes an introduction to making wise plant selections, using the gardens at Mt. Cuba for inspiration. Leave with a plan in progress from which to continue your design concepts. This clinic is suited to homeowners who want to redesign their garden, people working in the garden industry, and landscape designers.

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

Wednesday & Thursday, August 5 & 6Wednesday: 1 – 4:30 pm (Wine and cheese reception to follow.)Thursday: 10 am – 4 pm (Lunch included)$249

Annie Guilfoyle is the principal of Creative Landscapes in West Sussex (UK) and an RHS Chelsea Flower Show Silver Medal winner. Her design style varies from contemporary to traditional and urban to rural. She teaches at Great Dixter and West Dean in the UK,

lectures throughout Europe and the USA, and is a regular contributor to Gardens Illustrated. With Noel Kingsbury, Annie established Garden Masterclass, one-day workshops taught by some of the most innovative people in the gardening world. She sits on the RHS selection panel for show gardens and judges at garden shows in Denmark, Italy, and Russia.

NEW!

ecological gardening

certificate

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

Topics include the importance of life in the soil, identifying and growing native plants, and the fundamentals of eco-friendly horticultural techniques. 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 into habitats that enhance and preserve the ecological integrity of our plant communities.

Certificate classes are open to everyone. Complete all classes to earn a certificate or take only the ones that interest you. Students seeking certification must pass an evaluation (project, quiz, exam, etc.) for each course.

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

Visit mtcubacenter.org/certificate for more information.

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CERTIFICATE CLASSES

Sustainable Landscape TechniquesWith Susan Barton, PhD, and Carrie Murphy

Make your landscape more ecologically sound by implementing a variety of sustainable gardening and landscaping techniques. Learn how to manage and conserve water using rain gardens, bio-swales, and rain barrels; reduce the demands of lawn care by adding meadow areas; and increase your energy savings with strategically placed layered plantings. Develop your garden to support a diverse population of beneficial wildlife and create healthy, natural habitats.

Two Saturdays: May 2 & 910 am – 2:30 pm$159 (Lunch included)

Course Name Hours

Fundamentals of Ecological Gardening* 8

Sustainable Landscape Techniques* 8

Botany for Gardeners 8

Enhancing Life in the Soil 16

Ecosystems and Plant Communities 16

Plant Propagation 8

Inviting Wildlife into the Garden 12

Native Plants of Spring* 12

Native Plants of Summer* 12

Native Plants of Fall* 12

Integrated Pest Management 12

Plant Disease Management 8

Managing Invasive Plants 8

Environmental Landscape Design 18

Total Hours for Certificate Completion 158

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

CERTIFICATE CLASSES

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NATIVE PLANT SERIES Native plants of the Piedmont are beautiful, inspiring, and critically important for healthy landscapes. From the subdued colors and fragrances of spring wildflowers to the exuberance of summer perennials and the captivating hues of fall foliage, discover a wealth of plants that will satisfy your landscaping needs throughout the seasons. Using Mt. Cuba Center’s stunning gardens, learn to identify 60 trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials in each Native Plants course. Examine their key identifying characteristics, preferred growing conditions, overall size, and ecological significance.

Native Plants of SpringWith George Coombs and Margaret Shillingford

Six Wednesdays: April 8 to May 13Optional exam: May 2010 am – 12 pm$195

Native Plants of SummerWith Vic Piatt and Mt. Cuba Center Staff

Six Thursdays: June 4 to July 16 (No class July 2)Optional exam: July 2310 am – 12 pm$205

Native Plants of FallWith Renée Kemmerer and Mt. Cuba Center Staff

Six Wednesdays: September 9 to October 14 Optional exam: October 2110 am – 12 pm$205

Plant Propagation With Shelby French, Duncan Himmelman, PhD, and James Rockwell

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

Two Fridays: May 29 & June 510 am – 2:30 pm$189 (Lunch included)

It is recommended that students complete Botany for Gardeners before enrolling in this course.

Fundamentals of Ecological Gardening With Susan Boss, Julia Eppes, Scott Freedman, Vic Piatt, and Emily Tinalli

Become a better gardener – sustainably. Discover the garden as an ecosystem and look to nature for best management strategies. Learn how to prepare a site, make wise plant selections, and install, establish, and nurture native plants in your garden. Mt. Cuba Center horticulturists demonstrate basic sustainable gardening techniques, the proper use of tools, and organic approaches to plant health care. Leave with a guide to seasonal gardening tasks and make your landscape an ecologically sound one.

Two Wednesdays: June 10 & 17(Rain Date: Wednesday, June 24)10 am – 2:30 pm$159 (Lunch included)

Integrated Pest ManagementWith Mike Leventry

Every garden is home to a host of life. Unfortunately, some of the six- and eight- legged 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.

Three Wednesdays: July 15 to 2910 am – 2:30 pm$229 (Lunch included)

CERTIFICATE CLASSES

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Plant Disease ManagementWith 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 in our landscapes. Study disease life cycles and discuss management strategies for prevention and control, then implement them in your garden.

Two Fridays: July 31 & August 710 am – 2:30 pm$159 (Lunch included)

Ecosystems and Plant CommunitiesWith 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 to 6 pm. Please bring lunch.

Three Wednesdays: August 12 to 26(Rain Date: Friday, August 28)10 am – 4 pm$289 (Lunch included)

Inviting Wildlife into the GardenWith Faith B. Kuehn, Ian Stewart, PhD, and Derek Stoner

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

Three Fridays: September 11 to 25(Rain Date: Friday, October 2)10 am – 2:30 pm$229 (Lunch included)

CERTIFICATE CLASSES

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gardening classes

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Great Plants for Soggy Soils With Connie Schmotzer

Do you have low-lying areas in your garden where water collects after heavy rainfalls? Connie presents a palette of plants that are adapted to these extra-moist soil conditions, and even tolerate a few inches of standing water for a few days. Learn how to use them in the landscape based on sun and shade conditions, bloom season, and foliage colors and textures.

Wednesday, March 18 (Snow Date: Wednesday, March 25)10:30 am – 12 pm$25

Grow Your Own Mushrooms With William Needham

Fungi are fundamental to the ecology of forested habitats, and the spore-bearing mushrooms that sprout have long elicited interest. Many, such as shiitake and hen-of-the-woods, offer proteins, vitamins, and minerals that compare well with other foods, even meats. William Needham, President of the Mycological Association of Washington, explains the fascinating life cycle of mushrooms and shows you how to grow your own edible species using a “log-seeding” technique. Leave with a package of spores and a log to start your own mushroom farm at home this spring.

Saturday, April 410 am – 12 pm$45 (Materials included)

NEW!

GARDENING CLASSES

Weeds 101With Scott Freedman and Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Don’t let weeds get the upper hand this season! Learn how to identify the most common annual and perennial lawn and garden weeds using leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds. The spring section focuses on early season weeds; 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 in both sections. Participants are welcome to bring in specimens for identification.

Spring Section: Thursday, April 23(Rain Date: Thursday, April 30)10 am – 12:30 pm$45

Fall Section: Thursday, September 10(Rain Date: Thursday, September 17)10 am – 12:30 pm$45

Enroll in both sections for $80.

Terrific TrilliumsWith Amy Highland

Mt. Cuba Center’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.

Thursday, April 23 (Rain Date: Thursday, April 30)1 – 3 pm$35

Chainsaws: Use, Safety, and MaintenanceWith Eric Kelley

Whether you are a budding arborist or weekend woodcutter, this is an ideal opportunity to learn how to tune up your chainsaw under the guidance of Eric Kelley, an ISA Certified Arborist®. Eric demonstrates professional-level use of a saw as well as proper safety protocols and maintenance procedures, including protective clothing, chain sharpening, bar tensioning, and cleaning and replacing filters. Bring your own saw and get it ready for the season!

Note: no chainsaws will be operated in class.

Saturday, April 2510 am – 12 pm$25

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Get the ‘Dirt’ on Soil With Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Soil is alive with immense populations of microorganisms that help provide our garden plants with the all-important nutrients and water they need. Learn how to take a more holistic view of soil, improve soil quality using compost instead of fertilizers, interpret a soil test report, and create a living soil that you’ll reap the benefits of for years to come. Dirt vs soil: you decide!

Wednesday, April 291 – 3 pm$39

Spring Ephemerals: A Naturalist’s Perspective With Mike Weilbacher

Our native wildflowers are more than just a delight for the eye: they play important roles in the ecology and natural history of the region. Join naturalist Mike Weilbacher on a spring wildflower walk and learn the fascinating stories of our woodland ephemerals. Topics include adaptations for early blooming, reproductive strategies, defense mechanisms, coevolution, and some historical uses of these beautiful plants. Class size is limited.

Thursday, April 30(Rain Date: Thursday, May 7)10 – 11:30 am$25

Window Boxes for the Sophisticated GardenerWith Clay Stradley

From stately homes to city courtyards, windows are the eyes of our homes. Why not dress them up with a charming wooden window box that adds a punch of nature with a modern twist? Learn how to plant and maintain a colorful selection of native plants in this make-and-take class and leave with a window box handcrafted from lumber gathered on Mt. Cuba Center’s property.

Friday, May 110 – 11:30 am$75 (Plants and container included)

Shade Gardening SuccessWith Nancy Bell

Gardens steeped in shade can be profoundly beautiful blends of texture, color, and interest. Learn the differences between partial, dappled, and dense shade and explore the diversity of native perennials and shrubs that thrive under those conditions. Nancy will focus on flowering season, foliage textures, and mature size. Complete the experience with a tour of our remarkable woodland gardens.

Section A: Wednesday, May 6(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 13)5:30 – 7:30 pm$29

Section B: Friday, May 8(Rain Date: Friday, May 15)10 am – 12 pm$29

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Sun-Loving Garden PerennialsWith Nancy Bell

What are the best native perennials for a sunny garden? Nancy Bell answers that as she presents some easy-to-grow, sun-loving species and varieties that thrive in our region. Take a tour of Mt. Cuba Center’s wildflower gardens and discover plants that add beauty and bring a host of pollinators to your landscape from spring through fall.

Section A: Wednesday, May 13(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 20)10 am – 12 pm$29

Section B: Wednesday, May 20(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 27)5:30 – 7:30 pm$29

Easy Tree ID for Beginners: See the Forest and the TreesWith Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Do you ever wonder what the trees in your neighborhood are? Can you tell the difference between a native tree and an invasive thug? Maybe it’s time to take a beginner’s tree ID class! Join Duncan as he presents the primary identification features of our local native trees in class then reinforces them in outdoor garden tours. What better place to learn about native trees than Mt. Cuba Center?

Three Thursdays: May 7 – 21(Rain Date: Thursday, May 28)5:30 – 7:30 pm$99

Native Plants for Every Garden*With Nancy Bell

From full sun to dense shade, dry soils to wet sites, and front to back yards, there are many native plants that can be successfully grown in our area. Using the “right plant, right place” approach, Nancy Bell presents a variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers for your garden, emphasizing wildlife value and aesthetics. A tour of the gardens around the president’s house is included. Class is held rain or shine.

*This program takes place at Haverford College, Haverford, PA.

Saturday, May 91 – 2:30 pm$25

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Discovering Garden EcologyWith Sylvan Kaufman, PhD

Your garden is a critical piece of a larger ecosystem that supports wildlife, provides important food webs, and contributes to clean water and healthy soil. Through lectures, on-site walks, and outdoor activities, learn how to link your yard with surrounding plant and animal communities using basic ecological principles. Leave with a suite of ecofriendly tools to be a more sustainable gardener and work in harmony with nature to improve vitally important habitats. Please bring your lunch.

Thursday, May 14(Rain Date: Thursday, May 21)10 am – 2:30 pm$59

Native Groundcovers: Living MulchWith Duncan Himmelman, PhD

Although mulch is a commonly used groundcover, a beautiful tapestry of foliage and flowers is more visually dynamic and ecologically valuable. Discover a selection of tough, versatile native plants to use as groundcovers in a variety of growing conditions. Gardeners of all levels will benefit from this addition to their gardening expertise.

Wednesday, June 3(Rain Date: Wednesday, June 10)10:30 am – 12 pm$35

Instant Butterfly Garden With Sam HoadleyAttracting butterflies to your yard is a great way to increase the ecological value of your property and connect with the natural world. Sam Hoadley, Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center, discusses plants that provide food for adult butterflies and their caterpillars and how to create suitable habitats for these ephemeral beauties. Take home 5 floriferous native plants and easy-to-use instructions for making a butterfly garden of your own. Class size is limited.

Saturday, June 610:30 am – 12 pm$59 (Plants included)

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GARDENING CLASSES

Make a Pollinator-Perfect Container Garden With Clay Stradley

Container gardens can be beautiful and functional, serving as miniature habitats that support butterflies, hummingbirds, and other resident pollinators. Clay Stradley, Custom Potting Manager at Gateway Garden Center, leads you on an inspirational tour of Mt. Cuba Center’s native plant containers and discusses plant selection, design considerations, and siting. He then presents practical advice on the basics of planting and maintaining them while you create your own container garden. Bring home a seasonally themed collection of plants that will have pollinators buzzing around you all season long. Bring gardening gloves.

Friday, June 1210 – 11:30 am$59 (Plants and container included)

Introduction to Moss GardeningWith Barbara Rinehart and Emily Tinalli

This outdoor class showcases Mt. Cuba Center’s unique moss bank – a luxurious carpet of soft green miniature plants. Barb, a “moss master”, presents the life cycle of mosses and Emily, our Meadow Horticulturist, introduces you to a few common mosses you may find in your home landscape and demonstrates how she manages this distinctive ecosystem within our naturalistic gardens. Learn how to plant and maintain a moss garden and leave with a sample to start your own emerald carpet at home.

Friday June 12(Rain Date: Friday, June 19)10 am – 12 pm$45

Pruning Trees CorrectlyWith Scott Kelley and William Trescott

Trees growing naturally assume the shape that makes the best use of light in a given location and climate. Pruning should mimic that process and improve the vigor, appearance, and value of trees. Scott Kelley and Bill Trescott, Mt. Cuba Center’s ISA Certified Arborists®, demonstrate proper, professional pruning techniques followed by a tour illustrating how to make wise pruning and tree care decisions. Leave with a pruning plan for keeping your trees healthy and looking great.

Saturday, June 13(Rain Date: Saturday, June 20)10:30 am – 12 pm$29

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GARDENING CLASSES

Designing a Cut Flower Garden With Kathy Salisbury

Would you like to grow your own bouquet? Kathy presents a practical guide to planning and maintaining a cut flower garden that suits your style, space, and needs. Learn how to select the best native perennials for a cutting garden, including their growing requirements, harvesting techniques, and after-care based on data collected at Mt. Cuba Center. An inspirational tour of our South Garden complements the lecture. Class size is limited.

Wednesday, June 17(Rain Date: Wednesday, June 24)10 am – 12 pm$39

Native Ferns to Know and GrowWith Chris Hoess

Ferns add refinement and depth to your garden, and they are deer-resistant! Chris Hoess, who recently verified the accuracy of Mt. Cuba Center’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. Class size is limited.

Friday, June 19(Rain Date: Friday, June 26)10 am – 12 pm$35

Invasive Plant ID and Control With Barbara Rinehart

Having trouble getting rid of invasive plants? You are not alone! Start with learning to correctly identify the most common ones, including burning bush, bittersweet, and Japanese stiltgrass, then learn how to get rid of them. See a variety of invasives on site and leave with a list of recommended native plants to replace them with. Help stop the invasion now!

Saturday, June 20(Rain Date: Saturday, June 27)10 am – 12 pm$29

Making Friends with Backyard Bugs With Samantha Nestory

How often have you wondered, “What in the world is that bug?” Sam, a professional entomologist, leads you on an informative walk-and-talk discussing the benefits of including insects in your garden. Learn the fascinating stories of some common backyard bugs and how they make your garden healthier and more sustainable.

Wednesday, June 24(Rain Date: Wednesday, July 8)1 – 2:30 pm$25

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GARDENING CLASSES

Milkweeds for MonarchsWith Renée Kemmerer

Without native milkweed plants, monarch butterflies cannot survive and reproduce. Mt. Cuba Center Horticulturist, Renée Kemmerer, opens your window into the world of milkweeds, presenting many of our native species and related plants that help create a beneficial butterfly environment. A walk through our meadow and surrounding gardens will highlight milkweeds you can add to your landscape.

Friday, June 26(Rain Date: Wednesday, July 1)1 – 3 pm$35

Gardening at the Woodland Edge With Nancy Bell

Discover the unique possibilities for creating a diverse landscape along the woodland edge that attracts a wide variety of birds. Nancy discusses the distinctive characteristics of edge gardening and presents native plants that are adaptable to sun or shade, wet or dry conditions. The goal is to develop the best mix of plants for bringing birds to your yard in an area commonly considered a problem. A tour of the woodland gardens around our main lawn complete the experience.

Friday, July 10(Rain Date: Friday, July 17)10 am – 12 pm$29

Wild & Wicked Poisonous PlantsWith Mark Manning

What plant poison did a king use to defeat an entire army? Mark Manning answers this and other poisonous plant questions in this fascinating class about some of the most toxic plants in our area. Learn the basics of identification, natural history, and specific lethal compounds of approximately 20 species you may encounter while hiking or foraging. Leave with a solid understanding of which plants to avoid touching and consuming and which ones to keep away from pets and children!

Two Saturdays: July 11 & 18(Rain Date: Saturday, July 25)9:30 – 11:30 am$59

Gardening with Bats in MindWith 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 “hear” bats as well as see them.

Wednesday, July 15(Rain Date: Wednesday, July 22)7:30 – 9 pm$25

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GARDENING CLASSES

Workshop: Building Drystack WallsWith Charlie Reidinger

Are you interested in building stone walls in your garden? This one-day workshop introduces you to basic mortar-free masonry techniques. Start with a classroom introduction to the fundamental steps involved in stacked-stone wall construction, then get some hands-on instruction in setting stones on site. Bring work gloves, safety glasses, a water bottle, and lunch. Class size is limited.

Saturday, August 1(Rain Date: Saturday, August 8)10 am – 2:30 pm$59

Instant Hummingbird Garden With Sam Hoadley

Transform your yard into a haven for hummingbirds with a great selection of native wildflowers. Learn how to create a garden with the ideal nesting requirements and food sources that attract these flying jewels from summer through fall. Take home 5 tried-and-true native plants and simple instructions for making a successful hummingbird habitat at home. Class size is limited.

Saturday, August 810:30 am – 12 pm$59 (Plants included)

Pesticide-Free Lawns With Scott Freedman

Is your lawn safe for children, pets, and the environment? Scott Freedman, a NOFA certified organic lawn care technician, focuses on eco-friendly cultural practices to create attractive lawns that are safe for us to use. Along with proper mowing techniques, learn how to read a soil test, select the best grass seed for your site, improve growing conditions, and apply organic fertilizers. Leave with a set of tools to transform your turf into a pesticide-free lawn.

Saturday, August 15(Rain Date: Saturday, August 22)10 am – 12 pm$35

Creating Containers with Fall Flair With Clay Stradley

Celebrate fall and give your outdoor living space some seasonal pizzazz with a fresh, new container! Clay Stradley, Custom Potting Manager at Gateway Garden Center, leads you on an inspirational tour of Mt. Cuba Center’s native plant containers and discusses design principles, plant and container selection, and proper siting. He then presents practical advice on planting and maintaining them as you make your own autumn-themed garden-in-a-pot to take home. Bring gardening gloves.

Thursday, September 101 – 2:30 pm$59 (Plants and container included)

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The Secret Life of Native Bees With Matthew Sarver

Did you know that there are about 250 species of native bees known to occur in Delaware? Unlike the non-native European honeybee, most native bees are solitary ground-nesters and are critically important pollinators of our native wildflowers. Wildlife biologist Matt Sarver discusses the life cycles and specific plant associations of bees documented in research he conducted at Mt. Cuba Center. Learn how you can create habitats to ensure ground-nesting bees continue to flourish in the Piedmont.

Thursday, March 19(Snow Date: Thursday, March 26)10 – 11:30 am$25

The Language of BirdsWith Holly Merker

Calling all birders! 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 using bird language on your next birdwatching expedition. Dress for the weather, bring your binoculars, and wear practical shoes for walking over uneven paths. (Class size is limited.)

Note: While this program focuses on techniques of birding, we cannot be certain of any sightings. That is the joy and spontaneity of nature, and of these explorations.

Saturday, April 1810 am – 12 pm$29

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Counting Every Bird: Citizen Science and ConservationWith Holly Merker

Millions of observations made by citizen scientists in the past few years have greatly expanded our understanding of bird migration. These data provide a more detailed picture than ever before about where and when birds migrate and the geographic and atmospheric conditions that influence their flights. Join the citizen science brigade and learn how you can contribute to this research and support nation-wide conservation efforts for birds that live in and travel along the eastern seaboard.

Saturday, April 181 – 3 pm$29

The Marvels & Mystery of Migration With Joe Sebastiani

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

Friday, April 24(Rain Date: Friday, May 8)10 am – 12 pm$29

Field Identification of WildflowersWith Karen Travers

Move outside the classroom to experience wildflower ID in the field! Using a variety of regional field guides, Karen leads you through a series of steps to sort out one species from another based on key plant characteristics. Learn how to improve your observation skills and come away feeling more confident about identifying our local plants. Designed for both plant enthusiasts and amateur botanists. Bring a water bottle and wear sturdy shoes for hiking on moderate slopes.

Friday, April 24(Rain Date: Friday, May 1)1:30 – 3 pm$25

Hike the Mt. Cuba Center to Ashland LoopWith Joe Sebastiani and Natural Lands Staff

Reconnect with nature in this exceptional behind-the-scenes trek through Mt. Cuba Center’s natural areas with Joe Sebastiani, Manager at Ashland Nature Center, and Mt. Cuba Center’s Natural Lands staff. Along the way, enjoy scouting for birds, discovering native spring ephemerals, exploring old-field meadows, and learning about several Natural Lands projects and experiments. Be prepared for a four-mile hike through hilly terrain. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars, a water bottle, and lunch.

Friday, May 1(Rain Date: Friday, May 8)9 am – 1:30 pm$20

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Songful Spring: Mt. Cuba’s Bluebirds With Ashley Kennedy, PhD

Eastern Bluebirds are among the most charismatic and beloved of Delaware’s songbirds. Ashley shares her research on the role native plants play in supporting the insects that bluebirds need in their diets, illustrated with fascinating photos and videos of them bringing food to their young. She also demonstrates how she installed cameras on Mt. Cuba Center’s bluebird boxes to collect data. Learn what you can do to help conserve these beautiful birds.

Wednesday, May 6(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 13)1 – 3 pm$29

Plant Whisperers: Saving Our Native OrchidsWith Adrienne Bozic

What can we do to conserve and protect the native orchids of Delaware? Using citizen science, historic records, and satellite mapping techniques, Adrienne documented the current status of Delaware’s orchids and ways to prevent further loss of them in the wild. Learn what she discovered, go on a tour of the largest population of showy orchid (Galearis) in the state, and find out how you can communicate the importance of these endangered species to community leaders, neighbors, and, most importantly, children.

Friday, May 15(Rain Date: Friday, May 22)10 am – 1 pm$49

Native Plants for Nesting BirdsWith Derek Stoner

How do you attract colorful birds like Northern Cardinals, American Robins, or Eastern Towhees to nest and reproduce in your garden? Derek Stoner, past president of the Delmarva Ornithological Society, presents a selection of native trees, shrubs, and perennials that provide the necessary nesting sites that songbirds require. Scout for nests on site and be inspired to create a backyard habitat that birds will want to call “home”.

Wednesday, May 20(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 27)10 am – 12 pm$29

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CONSERVATION CLASSES

Field Trip: Walk the Wilds of Delmarva Peninsula With Clark DeLong

Spend a day exploring Delmarva’s Nassawango Creek Preserve, one of the last pieces of true wilderness left on the East Coast. Clark DeLong, native plant nursery owner and botanist, leads you through several rare habitat types and discusses the unique flora of the region and ongoing restoration work to protect these communities. Observe how a return to regular burning has changed the outlook for the imperiled plant species associated with inland dune habitats. Then, walk through one of the northernmost remaining examples of a bald cypress swamp to experience an ecologically diverse array of fresh-water loving plants and a centuries old stand of Taxodium distichum. Bring your lunch, a water bottle, and insect repellent, and wear long pants and water-resistant footwear. Class size is limited.

Sunday, June 7(Rain Date: Sunday, June 14)8 am – 6 pm$75

Although van transportation is available from Mt. Cuba Center on a first-come, first-served basis, carpooling is encouraged. For more information on travel arrangements, email education@mtcubacenter.org or call 302.239.8807. For those preferring to meet at the site, driving instructions are provided upon registration.

Butterflies: Jewels of the Piedmont With Stephen Mason

From the tiniest Skipper to the giant Swallowtail, butterflies are a welcome addition to our gardens for both pollination purposes and their exquisite beauty. Steve presents information on the diversity, life history, and conservation of local butterflies in order to gain a deeper understanding of the roles they play in nature and their interactions with garden plants. He also discusses recent research findings regarding the effects of fire on butterflies. A garden tour rounds out the program. Bring binoculars.

Saturday, June 27(Rain Date: Saturday, July 11)1 – 3 pm$29

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CONSERVATION CLASSES

Wild Mushroom ForagingWith Jim Barg

You never know what species of magnificent mushrooms might be growing in your own back yard. Join Jim Barg, former president of the New Jersey Mycological Association, in search of seasonally available wild mushrooms in Mt. Cuba Center’s natural areas. Learn the identifying characteristics of native fungi and the important roles they play in an ecosystem. Dress for the outdoors, bring a water bottle and snack, and wear sturdy shoes for hiking on moderate slopes.

Section A: Saturday, July 18(Rain Date: Saturday, July 25)10 am – 1 pm$49

Section B: Saturday, September 19(Rain Date: Saturday, October 3)10 am – 1 pm$49

Field Trip: Serpentine Barrens in the FallWith Chris Hoess

Explore the unique ecosystem of the Unionville Serpentine Barrens and see how this plant community is responding to recent ecological restoration efforts. Chris Hoess, Chair of the Friends of the State Line Serpentine Barrens, discusses the natural history of the site as you search for the rare and unusual plants that inhabit the barrens. Learn how you can help preserve this ecological and cultural treasure. Please bring your lunch and be prepared for hiking through undeveloped areas.

Saturday, September 19(Rain Date: Saturday, September 26)10 am – 2 pm$55

Although van transportation is available from Mt. Cuba Center on a first-come, first-served basis, carpooling is encouraged. For more information on travel arrangements, email education@mtcubacenter.org or call 302.239.8807. For those preferring to meet at the site, driving instructions are provided upon registration.

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Craft a Colorful Tote Bag With Sara Setzer

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

Sunday, March 1510 am – 2:30 pm$59 (Materials included)

Sunset Photography StrollWith Chris Starr

Capture the beauty of Mt. Cuba Center’s gardens during the “golden hours”, that period just before sunset when the quality of light is soft, warm, and even. Receive professional guidance on the technical and aesthetic elements of evening photography from Chris Starr, an extraordinary photographer and Assistant Horticulturist at Mt. Cuba Center. Leave with a new appreciation of nature at nightfall. All levels of experience welcome. Bring your camera, lenses, tripod, and camera manual.

Wednesday, April 22(Rain Date: Wednesday, April 29)5 – 8 pm$25

ART CLASSES

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SPRING BOTANICAL ART SERIESMt. Cuba Center’s unique collections of native plants are a natural fit for the art of botanical drawing. Using specimens from our 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!

$149 per course or $399 for the series.A detailed list of required materials is available with the online class descriptions.

Learning to Draw Spring WildflowersWith Margaret SaylorFour Thursdays: April 9 – 30 10 am – 1 pm

Discover the fascinating details of spring wildflowers from Mt. Cuba Center’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 your confidence in drawing native spring flowers. No previous art experience needed.

Wildflowers in ColorWith Margaret SaylorFour Thursdays: May 7 – 2810 am – 1 pm

Bring yourself to the next level with drawing native wildflowers from Mt. Cuba Center’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 step-by-step exercises, instructor demonstrations, and one-on-one feedback sessions provide a strong foundation in botanical drawing. Students may work in watercolor or colored pencil.

Putting It All TogetherWith Margaret SaylorFour Thursdays: June 4 – 2510 am – 1 pm

Continue to refine your 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 your 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.

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Spring Watercolor WorkshopWith Heidi Benson

Observe nature’s emerging beauty along our garden paths this spring and select subjects to paint that inspire you. Using simple yet effective strategies developed by Heidi over her 40 years of art instruction, gain an understanding of form, color mixing, and shading as you create a still life composition in the studio. Ideal for the beginner or intermediate painter, these techniques are sure to enrich and refine your artistic skills. Please bring your lunch.

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

Saturday, May 210 am – 2:30 pm$69

Eco-Printing on Paper With Stacie Olson

Create beautiful sheets of hand-crafted paper that can be used as stationary, framed art, or personalized gifts. This eco-friendly process starts with layering paper with dried leaves and stems, then boiling them to release colorful organic compounds, resulting in amazing, one-of-a-kind designs. You will also press fresh leaves and flowers onto watercolor paper and transform them into greeting cards. Please bring your lunch.

Saturday, May 910 am – 1:30 pm$35 (Materials Included)

Working with Natural Dyes With Nichole Gerding

Nichole Gerding discusses historic uses of dyes, identifying and responsibly harvesting local dye-producing plants, and how to kick-start your own dye garden. Preparation and dyeing techniques using natural mordants and modifiers are presented. Try your hand at these heritage skills and leave with two hand-dyed tea towels.

Saturday, May 1610 am – 1 pm$45 (Materials Included)

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Garden Photography: The Rule of Thirds With Danny Schweers

Join Danny Schweers for this garden photography workshop in the beautiful surroundings of Mt. Cuba Center. Danny begins with a brief slide show and discussion that focuses on subject matter, composition, and the “rule of thirds”, then go outdoors to practice making your own images. Return to the lab to share photos and discuss their merits and leave with improved skills at taking exceptional photographs. The class is open to photographers of all experience levels using any kind of camera, including smart phones.

Section A: Thursday, May 28(Rain Date: Thursday, June 4)5 – 8 pm$49

Section B: Saturday, June 6(Rain Date: Saturday, June 13)8 – 11 am$49

Wine & Design: Woodland-Inspired Tablescapes With Ken Norman, AIFD

Bring the cool, calm feeling of the forest indoors this season with a woodland-inspired tablescape. Combine earth-toned elements such as twigs, bark, and cones with lush foliage, ferns, and moss for a natural, layered look that can be both refined and whimsical. Complete the scene with some colorful wildflowers and the soft lighting of votive candles for a perfect summer dining experience. Bring clippers and a box to transport your arrangement home. (Ages 21 and over)

Wednesday, June 105:30 – 7:30 pm$65 (Materials included)

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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 your fabric and plant materials so that your prints come out clearly and with maximum color. Discover how color-shifting occurs in the dye bath, how mordants assist the dye process, and how different fabrics and techniques affect the resulting color. Students will complete two full-length silk scarves. Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Friday, June 2610 am – 2 pm$79 (Materials included)

Section B: Saturday, June 2710 am – 2 pm$79 (Materials included)

Section C: Saturday, September 1210 am – 2 pm$79 (Materials included)

Section D: Sunday, September 1310 am – 2 pm$79 (Materials included)

Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Advanced Techniques 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.

Sunday, June 2810 am – 2 pm$95 (Materials included

Fun with Botanical WatercolorWith Judy Simon

Charge up your creativity in this innovative and fun class! Use fresh specimens from the garden as a source of inspiration to 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 to Friday, July 8 to 1010 am – 1 pm$109

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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’s sure to add a new dimension to your backyard retreat. Wear old clothes and bring a pair of sturdy rubber gloves.

Sunday, July 121 – 2:30 pm$39 (Materials included)

Botanical Watercolor: Next Steps With Judy Simon

Take a deeper dive into the tools and techniques of botanical watercolor painting. Through individual instruction, step-by-step demonstrations, and plenty of practice, Judy focuses on color theory and traditional dry brush methods that create form and depth, bringing your watercolors to life! Take your painting skills to the next level in this fun, relaxing class. Previous experience with watercolor is recommended.

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

Wednesday to Friday, July 22 to 2410 am – 1 pm$109

Super Soft Felted Scarf With Sara Setzer

Create your own lightweight, super soft scarf with merino wool and mawata silk using centuries-old wet felting techniques. Sara uses silk that has been stretched on a frame and pulls it apart into very thin layers. The silk and merino wool are then combined to create products with stunning texture and drama – like a sophisticated tie-dye! Please bring your lunch.

Section A: Saturday, July 2510 am – 2:30 pm$75 (Materials included)

Section B: Sunday, July 2610 am – 2:30 pm$75 (Materials included)NEW!

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Making Handcrafted Soap With Nichole Gerding

Soap making has a fascinating history extending back to the founding of our country. Nichole Gerding, of Thankful Sage Farm School, shares her knowledge of both modern and ancient techniques, including the role of lye, saponification, and proper curing methods, and then demonstrates making cold process soap from start to finish. Everyone gets hands-on experience making a melt-and-pour soap that includes natural and local botanicals. Leave with a few bars of cold process soap and some simple recipes to try at home.

Section A: Saturday, August 110 am – 12 pm$35 (Materials included)

Section B: Saturday, August 11 – 3 pm$35 (Materials included)

Sweet Garden Treats: Homemade Ice Cream With Danni Sinisi

What would summer be without ice cream? Winter! Learn the basics of ice cream making in this hands-on workshop and leave with a recipe for Danni’s tried-and-true creamy base to continue making it for yourself at home. Work with fresh prickly pear fruit to create a special seasonal treat to take with you! All skill levels are welcome.

Thursday, August 205:30 – 7:30 pm$35 (Materials included)

NEW!

classeswellness

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our pastoral setting, reconnect with nature, and commit to being well this year. Welcome spring with a soothing yoga class; achieve harmony and balance through t’ai chi; or experience our naturalistic gardens on meditative walks and leave feeling renewed and restored.

In the event of inclement weather, yoga and t’ai chi classes will be held indoors.

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

YogaWith Michael Fahey

IIncrease your 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, April 15 to May 20(Rain Date: Wednesday, May 27)5:15 – 6:15 pm$65

Section B: Seven Wednesdays, June 3 to July 22 (No class July 1)(Rain Date: Wednesday, July 29)5:15 – 6:15 pm$75

Section C: Six Wednesdays, September 2 to October 7(Rain Date: Wednesday, October 14)5:15 – 6:15 pm$65

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WELLNESS CLASSES

Moving MeditationWith Julia Byrem

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

8:30 – 9:30 am$10 per class or $39 for the four-week series.

Section A: Four Sundays: May 3 to May 31 (No class May 24) (Rain Date: Sunday, June 7)

Section B: Four Sundays: June 14 to July 19 (No class July 5 & 12)(Rain Date: Sunday, July 26)

Section C: Four Sundays: August 2 to 23(Rain Date: Sunday, August 30)

Section D: Four Sundays: September 13 to October 4(Rain Date: Sunday, October 11)

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, May 7 to July 9 (No class May 14 & July 2)

Section B: Eight Thursdays, September 17 to November 57:30 – 8:30 am

$89 for each eight-week session

T’ai Chi Chih: Guided PracticeWith Jessica Lewis

For those who have completed the introductory level 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, July 16 to September 37:30 – 8:30 am$89

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CONSERVATION CLASSESWELLNESS CLASSES

NEW!

Meditation RetreatWith Neil Meisel

Cultivate a more profound awareness of the natural world by immersing yourself in Mt. Cuba Center’s tranquil gardens and landscapes. Through guided meditation, woodland walks, and seated contemplation, expand your mind and deepen your relationship with nature. Fine-tune your senses to focus on gentle breezes, floral fragrances, skittering dragonflies, and an abundance of new experiences in this morning-long retreat.

Sunday, May 17(Rain Date: Sunday, May 31)9:30 am – 12:30 pm$45

Local Plants as Food and Medicine With Sue Bara

Our local landscapes include native and naturalized plants that have provided food and medicine for thousands of years. Learn how to incorporate that long-standing, traditional knowledge into your life today. Sue Bara, community herbalist and naturalist, discusses the wealth of flora that can be served up in a salad, steeped as a tea, or provide wellness support for humans and wildlife alike. Go on a garden walk and leave with a new perspective on the plants you encounter every day.

Sunday, May 17(Rain Date: Sunday, May 31)1 – 3 pm$35

Yoga Retreat: Connecting with Nature With Dawna Ruello

Join us for a relaxing day of yoga and meditation in a recently restored barn on Mt. Cuba Center’s picturesque Natural Lands. Local yoga instructor Dawna Ruello leads you through slow flow and restorative yoga poses balanced by a relaxing meditative experience. Enjoy some wholesome treats, learn to connect with nature, and refocus on what really matters. Suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners.

Saturday, May 30(Rain Date: Saturday, June 6)9:30 am – 12:30 pm$49

A Garden of Sensory Delights With Faith B. Kuehn and Carrie Murphy

The power of a sensory garden is its ability to stimulate all five senses as well as provide a safe space to relax, reflect, and connect with nature. Carrie and Faith discuss how to develop a garden of native plants that appeal to a wide range of sensory experiences and encourage you to slow down and enjoy the world around you. A garden tour highlights their presentation.

Saturday, June 13(Rain Date: Saturday, June 20)1 – 3 pm$29

NEW!

NEW!

INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Sue Bara is an experienced herbalist with a special interest in native plant use and ethnobotany. She is also a teacher-naturalist and habitat steward with the Delaware Nature Society.

Jim Barg is a wild food and mushroom forager for several restaurants in the New Jersey/Pennsylvania area. He is a past President of the New Jersey Mycological Association and is a consultant to the New Jersey Poison Control Center, acting as one of several mushroom identifiers who are contacted for cases of suspected mushroom poisonings.

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

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 and is a Delaware Certified Nursery Professional.

Heidi Benson is an avid painter with a 37-year career as a public-school master teacher of Visual and Studio Arts. She directed a Summer Art Academy from 2014–2017 and believes painting provides opportunities to create rich, meaningful experiences that connect us to nature.

Susan Boss is the Mt. Cuba Center Entrance Landscape Horticulturist responsible for the gardens along the entrance drive. Previously, she was a gardener at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library for 11 years.

Sarah Bouboulis is a habitat project coordinator with the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary where she installs various restoration projects and conducts research on how best to make those projects attain their goals. She previously worked for Delaware Fish and Wildlife and USFWS monitoring bats.

Eileen Boyle is the Director of Conservation and Research at Mt. Cuba Center. She loves teaching, especially about plants and their relationships with birds and butterflies. Previously, she was a professor of horticulture at Mercer College in New Jersey and the Director of Horticulture at both the Philadelphia Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden.

Adrienne Bozic has been working as a plant ecologist for nearly twenty years. Her passion for orchid conservation inspired her to research the ecology of several rare species in Michigan, and she has recently completed documenting the status and distribution of Delaware’s native orchids.

Julia Byrem completed a Meditation Teacher Training with David Nichtern in 2013. She has found passion and purpose in teaching meditation and mindfulness and believes that all beings deserve peace.

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 plant-centric topics, leads creative workshops, and tends to a home garden of native perennials, bulbs, and unusual vines.

George Coombs is the Director of Horticulture at Mt. Cuba Center. Previously he was Manager of Research at the Center in which he trialed cultivars and species of native plants to determine their horticultural and ecological value.

Clark DeLong has an MS in Plant Science from the University of Maryland and is a co-owner of Delmarva Native Plants, a nursery specializing in producing plants for habitat restoration projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. He is deeply passionate about the conservation of native species in the ornamental horticulture and landscaping markets.

Madeline Dobbs is the founder of the More BV Homes Team at Century 21 Emerald. She is the author of How to Sell Your House in 30 Days, a course that educates sellers on how to prepare their homes to appeal to today’s buyers.

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Julia Eppes is an Assistant Horticulturist working in the Formal Gardens at Mt. Cuba Center. She has a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with a minor in Landscape Horticulture from the University of Delaware. She formerly interned at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library and worked at Gateway Garden Center.

Michael Fahey is co-founder of the Awareness Center in Newark and has practiced yoga for more than 40 years. He instructs at FIT in Wilmington and his classes emphasize the essentials of Iyengar yoga—focused attention on breathing and precise postural alignment—in a supportive and fun atmosphere.

Scott Freedman is Mt. Cuba Center’s Grounds and Plant Health Care Specialist. Prior to this, he managed a commercial maintenance company where he supervised operations, equipment maintenance, scheduling, and purchasing.

Shelby French oversees plant propagation, wild collections, and various research projects as the Propagation Manager at Mt. Cuba Center. She is a 2002 graduate of Longwood Gardens’ Professional Gardener Program.

Nichole Gerding owns Thankful Sage Farm School, which focuses on the importance of keeping our deeply-rooted cultural traditions alive. The School specializes in carefully crafted small batch organic soaps and candles using historical methods and, when possible, local ingredients. Nichole developed her heritage skills at Colonial Williamsburg.

Nancy Gregory earned an MS in Plant Pathology from Penn State University. She is a University of Delaware Extension Agent and manages the Plant Diagnostic Clinic. Nancy gives presentations and generates fact sheets and newsletters that provide updates on plant diseases for both professionals and homeowners.

Eileen Hazard is the Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator at Mt. Cuba Center, promoting our mission of ecological gardening and habitat conservation to surrounding communities while overseeing the volunteer program.

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

Mark Highland received an MS from the Longwood Graduate Program, focusing on compost and potting soil. He is the founder and president of The Organic Mechanic Soil Company, LLC, a local supplier of organic, peat-free soils. Mark is the author of the recently published Practical Organic Gardening: The No-Nonsense Guide to Growing Naturally.

Duncan Himmelman, PhD, is the Education Manager at Mt. Cuba Center. He earned his doctorate in Ornamental Horticulture at Cornell University, taught college for 24 years, and has contributed to several horticultural publications. Duncan managed a 20-acre estate in Greenwich, CT and has designed landscapes for both private and public clients in New York City, Toronto, and Chicago.

Sam Hoadley is the Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center, where he evaluates native plants to determine their horticultural and ecological values. 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, plant phylogenetics, and the management and restoration of serpentine ecosystems.

Sylvan Kaufman, PhD is an adjunct professor at George Washington University, a Science Adviser to Adkins Arboretum, and participates on the Maryland Invasive Species Council. She consults, writes, and teaches ecology, botany, and landscape restoration classes.

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.

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Eric Kelley is an Assistant Arborist at Mt. Cuba Center and enjoys maintaining and troubleshooting motorized equipment. He is an ISA Certified Arborist® and has an AAS degree in environmental engineering technology from Delaware Technical Community College.

Scott Kelley is the Head Arborist at Mt. Cuba Center. He has more than 20 years of experience working with trees and is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® and qualified tree risk assessor.

Renée Kemmerer is Mt. Cuba Center’s Upper Naturalistic Gardens Horticulturist who continues her lifelong dream of working with native plants and exploring their natural communities. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware.

Ashley Kennedy, PhD, is a postdoctoral research fellow at the U.S. Army Public Health Center in Aberdeen, Maryland. As a doctoral student in Doug Tallamy’s lab at the University of Delaware, she studied bird-insect food webs, using Eastern Bluebirds as a focal species.

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

Mike Leventry owns Verdant Plant Health Care, which provides environmentally responsible solutions for landscape and turf health issues. He is an ISA Certified Arborist® and has a degree in plant protection from the University of Delaware.

Jessica Lewis, CPT, CNC, is an accredited T’ai Chi Chih instructor, a Master Personal Trainer, a nutritional counselor, and Delaware’s only VA CCN/TaijiFit Network Provider. Sculpt Your Life, her private practice, provides a unique blend of customized exercise routines, solid nutritional advice, and movement-based relaxation principles for a diverse population of clients.

Lynn Mahaffy, PhD, earned her doctorate in Natural Resources 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.

Mark Manning has a bachelor’s in Environmental Science and Chemistry from Rider University. He teaches chemistry and toxicology at Hopewell Valley Central High School in New Jersey and instructs students about poisonous plants and their edible look-alikes.

Stephen Mason graduated Stockton University in 2009 with an environmental science degree and is currently a PhD Candidate in Drexel University’s Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science (BEES) program. His research focuses on how different fire characteristics predict changes in insect community structure.

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.

Neil Meisel is a co-founder of the Awareness Center in Newark, DE, where he teaches meditation and yoga. Neil has maintained an almost daily meditation practice since 1981 and believes that tuning into nature through our senses and our minds can be soothing and insightful.

Holly Merker is an avid birder, a birding instructor and guide for National Audubon and the American Birding Association, as well as lead eBird data reviewer for Pennsylvania. When not out birding or leading birding tours, Holly teaches watershed ecology to thousands of school students in Downingtown, PA.

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

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

William Needham is a mushroom expert and the current President of the Mycological Association of Washington, D.C. Trained as an engineer, he is a Master Naturalist, has led fungi forays in Maryland for the past ten years, and frequently lectures on the ecology and importance of mushrooms.

Samantha Nestory is a naturalist and horticulturist 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.

Ken Norman, AIFD, PFCI, is a third-generation florist and has been a featured designer at the Philadelphia Flower Show. He conducts hands-on workshops, lectures, and presentations for professional and public audiences. Ken recently opened Floral Inspirations in Lewes, DE.

Stacie Olson has been eco-printing for four years and creating with paper for nearly 20 years. She finds the magic of printing from leaves and flowers to be artistically addictive. She also teaches card making, rubber stamping, and three-dimensional paper crafting classes.

Vic Piatt is the Gardens Manager at Mt. Cuba Center and a graduate of Longwood Gardens’ Professional Gardener Program. He has held many positions at Mt. Cuba, including Plant Evaluation Gardener and Rock Outcrop/Scree Gardens Horticulturist.

Charlie Reidinger is a Grounds Maintenance Technician at Mt. Cuba Center. A native of Newark, DE, he worked in Arizona and California for ten years constructing and maintaining trails for the American Conservation Experience.

Barbara Rinehart has a bachelor’s degree in biology from James Madison University and an MSc from Johns Hopkins University. At Mt. Cuba Center she is a Docent and “Moss Master”. Barb has also designed award-winning public pollinator gardens and served on the Tyler Arboretum Butterfly Management team.

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

Dawna Ruello stepped onto the yoga mat nearly ten years ago, allowing her to embrace all that her body, mind, and breath have to offer. She teaches with focused encouragement, compassion, and a hint of playfulness for one’s individual journey.

Kathy Salisbury is the director of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University and owns her own horticulture education and communication consulting business, Katsura Horticultural. A self-described plant nerd, it is Kathy’s goal to connect everyone to the plant world around them.

Matthew Sarver received a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Cornell University and is an Ecological Society of America Certified Senior Ecologist. He has more than 15 years of field experience in wildlife biology, entomology, and land management.

Margaret Saylor is the editor/designer of the American Society of Botanical Artists’ The Botanical Artist journal. She earned a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration, with distinction, from the New York Botanical Garden.

Connie Schmotzer is the Consumer Horticulture Educator for Penn State Extension in York County. She coordinates the county Master Gardener Program and the statewide Pollinator Friendly Garden Certification Program.

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INSTRUCTOR PROFILES

Danny Schweers was introduced to photography in 1969 and, since then, has used his camera to see the world and to show the world what he sees. He is chair of the Brandywine Photo Collective, teaches photography at the Delaware Art Museum, and is on the board of the Chris White Gallery in Wilmington.

Joe Sebastiani is the Ashland Nature Center Manager for the Delaware Nature Society. He is passionate about birds and wildlife, founded 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.

Margaret Shillingford is the Education Program Specialist at Mt. Cuba Center and a former Docent. She earned a master’s degree in education from Wilmington University and a bachelor’s in Horticulture from Rutgers University.

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.

Danni Sinisi is the owner of Lil Mario’s Frozen Treats: Vegan & Traditional Ice Cream in South Philly. Named after her adopted tuxedo cat Mario, Lil Mario’s offers fresh sweet creams made from scratch including seasonal flavors using only natural ingredients.

Chris Starr is a talented, experienced, and knowledgeable photographer who has had many roles at Mt. Cuba Center. At present, he is an Assistant Horticulturist and Pruning Specialist.

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

Derek Stoner is a biodiversity consultant, bird expert, nature photographer, and past president of the Delmarva Ornithological Society. He 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.

Clay Stradley is the Custom Potting Manager at Gateway Garden Center in Hockessin, DE. He has an MSc in the Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Plants from the University of Edinburgh and has a strong interest in native plants and their conservation.

Emily Tinalli is the Mt. Cuba Center Horticulturist responsible for the Middle Naturalistic Gardens. She has a bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Farmingdale State College and enjoys gardening with native plants and working in public horticulture.

Karen Travers is a Mt. Cuba Center Docent with an extensive background in teaching plant ecology, leading botany-based field trips, and advising landowners on how to improve ecosystem health with the addition of native plants.

William Trescott is the Arboriculture Manager at Mt. Cuba Center where he has worked for 26 years. He is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist® and qualified tree risk assessor.

Mike Weilbacher directs the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Philadelphia’s first nature center. He appears monthly on WXPN’s “Kid’s Corner”, writes a weekly column on nature and the environment, and lectures widely on environmental issues.

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STUDENT INFORMATION

RegistrationAll classes are available for registration online at mtcubacenter.org/programs or by calling 302.239.8807. 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 & RefundsPayment 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 cancelled. When snow and rain dates are published, no refunds will be issued to those who cannot attend rescheduled classes.

Class Cancellations & Garden ClosuresOccasionally we may cancel classes due to inclement weather, insufficient registration, or unforeseen circumstances. For updated information regarding closures and cancellations, call 302.239.4244 (option 3) or visit mtcubacenter.org.

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 UnitsMost 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/programs/certificate.

PROGRAM CALENDAR

MARCH

3/15 Craft a Colorful Tote Bag ...................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 433/18 Great Plants for Soggy Soils ............................................................... 10:30 am – 12 pm ................ 273/19 The Secret Life of Native Bees............................................................ 10 – 11:30 am ........................ 373/28 Spring Gardening Saturday ................................................................. 9:30 am – 1:30 pm ............... 153/29 Home Landscaping Basics: Getting Started ................................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 16

APRIL

4/4 Grow Your Own Mushrooms .............................................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 274/5 Home Landscaping Basics: Developing Curb Appeal .............. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 164/8 – 5/13 Native Plants of Spring .......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 234/9 – 4/30 Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers ............................................. 10 am – 1 pm .........................444/11 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................94/15 – 5/20 Yoga: Section A ......................................................................................... 5:15 – 6:15 pm ....................... 514/18 The Language of Birds ........................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 374/18 Counting Every Bird: Citizen Science and Conservation ......... 1 – 3 pm ................................... 384/19 Home Landscaping Basics: Right Plant, Right Place ................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 164/22 Sunset Photography Stroll ................................................................... 5 – 8 pm ................................... 434/23 Weeds 101: Spring Section .................................................................. 10 am – 12:30 pm ................ 284/23 Terrific Trilliums ........................................................................................ 1 – 3 pm ................................... 284/24 The Marvels & Mystery of Migration .............................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 384/24 Field Identification of Wildflowers ................................................... 1:30 – 3 pm ............................. 384/25 Chainsaws: Use, Safety, and Maintenance .................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 284/26 Wildflower Celebration ......................................................................... 10 am – 4 pm ......................... 114/29 Get the ‘Dirt’ on Soil ............................................................................... 1 – 3 pm ................................... 294/30 Spring Ephemerals: A Naturalist’s Perspective ........................... 10 – 11:30 am ........................ 29

MAY

5/1 Windowboxes for the Sophisticated Gardener .......................... 10 – 11:30 am ........................ 295/1 Hike the Mt. Cuba Center to Ashland Loop ................................. 9 am – 1:30 pm ..................... 385/2 & 5/9 Sustainable Landscape Techniques ................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 225/2 Spring Watercolor Workshop ............................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 455/3 – 5/31 Moving Meditation: Section A ........................................................... 8:30 – 9:30 am ....................... 525/3 Getting Started with Native Plants .................................................. 9:30 am – 1:30 pm ............... 175/6 Songful Spring: Mt. Cuba’s Bluebirds ............................................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 395/6 Shade Gardening Success: Section A .............................................. 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 295/7 – 7/9 Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih: Section A ......................................... 7:30 – 8:30 am ....................... 52

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DATE COURSE TIME PAGE

PROGRAM CALENDAR

MAY

5/7 – 5/28 Wildflowers in Color ............................................................................... 10 am – 1 pm .........................445/7 – 5/21 Easy Tree ID for Beginners: See the Forest and the Trees ...... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 305/8 Shade Gardening Success: Section B .............................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 295/8 – 5/17 National Public Gardens Week .......................................................... 10 am – 6 pm ......................... 125/9 Eco-Printing on Paper ............................................................................ 10 am – 1:30 pm ................... 455/9 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................95/9 Native Plants for Every Garden .......................................................... 1 – 2:30 pm ............................. 305/13 Sun-Loving Garden Perennials: Section A .................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 305/14 Discovering Garden Ecology............................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 315/15 Plant Whisperers: Saving Our Native Orchids ............................. 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 395/15 Twilight on the Terrace .......................................................................... 5 – 8 pm ......................................95/16 Working with Natural Dyes ................................................................. 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 455/16 Container Gardening Saturday .......................................................... 10 am – 1:15 pm ................... 185/17 Meditation Retreat ................................................................................ 9:30 am – 12:30 pm............. 535/17 Local Plants as Food and Medicine.................................................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 535/20 Native Plants for Nesting Birds .......................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 395/20 Sun-Loving Garden Perennials: Section B ..................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 305/28 Garden Photography: The Rule of Thirds: Section A ................ 5 – 8 pm ................................... 465/29 Spring Art-In .............................................................................................. 10 am – 8 pm ......................... 125/29 & 6/5 Plant Propagation .................................................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 245/30 Yoga Retreat: Connecting with Nature .......................................... 9:30 am – 12:30 pm............. 53 JUNE

6/3 Native Groundcovers: Living Mulch ................................................ 10:30 am – 12 pm ................ 316/3 – 7/22 Yoga: Section B ......................................................................................... 5:15 – 6:15 pm ....................... 516/4 – 7/16 Native Plants of Summer ...................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 236/4 – 6/25 Putting It All Together ........................................................................... 10 am – 1 pm .........................446/6 Garden Photography: The Rule of Thirds: Section B ................ 8 – 11 am ................................. 466/6 Instant Butterfly Garden ....................................................................... 10:30 am – 12 pm ................ 316/7 Field Trip: Walk the Wilds of Delmarva Peninsula ..................... 8 am – 6 pm ........................... 406/10 & 6/17 Fundamentals of Ecological Gardening ......................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 246/10 Wine & Design: Woodland-Inspired Tablescapes ..................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 466/12 Make a Pollinator-Perfect Container Garden ............................. 10 – 11:30 am ........................ 326/12 Introduction to Moss Gardening ...................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 326/12 Ladybug Garden Crawl .......................................................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 126/13 A Garden of Sensory Delights ............................................................ 1 – 3 pm ................................... 536/13 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................96/13 Pruning Trees Correctly ........................................................................ 10:30 am – 12 pm ................ 326/13 Family Yoga ................................................................................................ 11 – 11:45 am ........................ 12

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DATE COURSE TIME PAGE

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JUNE

6/14 – 7/19 Moving Meditation: Section B ........................................................... 8:30 – 9:30 am ....................... 526/14 Go Native with Infused Vodkas ......................................................... 1 – 3 pm ................................... 196/17 Designing a Cut Flower Garden ......................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 336/19 Native Ferns to Know and Grow ....................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 336/19 Twilight on the Terrace .......................................................................... 5 – 8 pm ......................................96/20 Invasive Plant ID and Control ............................................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 336/24 Making Friends with Backyard Bugs ............................................... 1 – 2:30 pm ............................. 336/26 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Section A ................................................. 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 476/26 Milkweeds for Monarchs ...................................................................... 1 – 3 pm ................................... 346/26 Christina in the Gardens ....................................................................... 6 – 7:30 pm ............................. 126/27 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Section B .................................................. 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 476/27 Family Yoga ................................................................................................ 11 – 11:45 am ........................ 126/27 Butterflies: Jewels of the Piedmont ................................................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 406/28 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Advanced Techniques ........................ 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 47

JULY

7/8 – 7/10 Fun with Botanical Watercolor ........................................................... 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 477/10 Gardening at the Woodland Edge ................................................... 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 347/10 Kids Create: Nature-Inspired Collages ........................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 137/11 & 7/18 Wild & Wicked Poisonous Plants .................................................... 9:30 – 11:30 am ..................... 347/11 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................97/11 Family Yoga ................................................................................................ 11 – 11:45 am ........................ 127/12 Leaf Casting Workshop ......................................................................... 1 – 2:30 pm ............................. 487/15 – 7/29 Integrated Pest Management ............................................................ 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 247/15 Gardening with Bats in Mind .............................................................. 7:30 – 9 pm ............................. 347/16 – 9/3 T’ai Chi Chih: Guided Practice ............................................................. 7:30 – 8:30 am ....................... 527/17 Twilight on the Terrace .......................................................................... 5 – 8 pm ......................................97/18 Wild Mushroom Foraging: Section A .............................................. 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 417/22 – 7/24 Botanical Watercolor: Next Steps ..................................................... 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 487/24 Botanical Body Art .................................................................................. 5 – 7 pm ................................... 137/25 Super Soft Felted Scarf: Section A ................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 487/26 Super Soft Felted Scarf: Section B .................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 487/31 & 8/7 Plant Disease Management ................................................................ 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 25

PROGRAM CALENDAR

DATE COURSE TIME PAGE

mtcubacenter.org 63

CONSERVATION CLASSES

AUGUST

8/1 Making Handcrafted Soap: Section A............................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 498/1 Workshop: Building Drystack Walls ................................................. 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 358/1 Making Handcrafted Soap: Section B ............................................. 1 – 3 pm ................................... 498/2 – 8/23 Moving Meditation: Section C ........................................................... 8:30 – 9:30 am ....................... 528/5 Workshop: Diagnosing and Solving Tree Health Issues ......... 10 am – 2:30pm .................... 198/5 & 8/6 Garden Design Clinic .............................................................................. Times Vary .............................. 198/8 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................98/8 Instant Hummingbird Garden ............................................................ 10:30 am – 12 pm ................ 358/8 Family Yoga ................................................................................................ 11 – 11:45 am ........................ 128/12 – 8/26 Ecosystems and Plant Communities ................................................ 10 am – 4 pm ......................... 258/14 Kids Create: Nature-Inspired Collages ........................................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 138/15 Pesticide-Free Lawns .............................................................................. 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 358/20 Sweet Garden Treats: Homemade Ice Cream ........................... 5:30 – 7:30 pm ....................... 498/21 Twilight on the Terrace .......................................................................... 5 – 8 pm ......................................98/22 Family Yoga ................................................................................................ 11 – 11:45 am ........................ 12

SEPTEMBER

9/2 – 10/7 Yoga: Section C ......................................................................................... 5:15 – 6:15 pm ....................... 519/4 Twilight on the Terrace .......................................................................... 5 – 8pm .......................................99/9 – 10/14 Native Plants of Fall ................................................................................ 10 am – 12 pm ...................... 239/10 Weeds 101: Fall Section ........................................................................ 10 am – 12:30 pm ................ 289/10 Creating Containers with Fall Flair.................................................... 1 – 2:30 pm ............................. 359/11 – 9/25 Inviting Wildlife into the Garden ...................................................... 10 am – 2:30 pm ................... 259/12 Garden Enthusiast Tour ......................................................................... 10 am – 12 pm .........................99/12 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Section C.................................................. 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 479/13 – 10/4 Moving Meditation: Section D ........................................................... 8:30 – 9:30 am ....................... 529/13 Grandparents Day ................................................................................... 10 am – 6 pm ......................... 139/13 Eco-Printed Silk Scarves: Section D ................................................. 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 479/17 – 11/5 Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih: Section B ......................................... 7:30 – 8:30 am ....................... 529/19 Wild Mushroom Foraging: Section B .............................................. 10 am – 1 pm ......................... 419/19 Field Trip: Serpentine Barrens in the Fall ...................................... 10 am – 2 pm ......................... 419/26 Tree Festival ............................................................................................... 10 am – 6 pm ......................... 13

PROGRAM CALENDAR

DATE COURSE TIME PAGE

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