Bats 101
Discover how these often-misunderstood creatures provide valuable benefits, like natural insect control, while exploring fun facts about their behavior and unique adaptations. Also learn about Illinois’ native bat species and what makes each one special.

Branching Out with Trees & Shrubs (Coming Fall 2026!) 
Successfully select, plant, and care for trees and shrubs in your landscape! Discover the best plants for your site, learn proper planting techniques for strong establishment, and explore essential care practices—like watering, mulching, and early maintenance—to keep your plants healthy and thriving. 

Create a Hummingbird Café
Curious about attracting hummingbirds to your yard? In this workshop, you'll learn all about these fascinating birds and how to entice them to your garden with the perfect hummingbird feeding setup. We will explore their unique characteristics and discuss the types of plants they love. 

Create a Monarch Habitat
Monarchs, the official state insect of Illinois, are facing a serious decline. We all have a part to play in ensuring their survival. By providing milkweed and planting nectar-rich flowers, we can create a thriving environment for these majestic creatures once again. Let's work together to make a positive impact on the future of the monarchs.

Designing Pots for Pollinators
Do you want to plant a pollinator garden, but don’t have the room in your yard? Learn how to make your patio or porch a haven for butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators with pollinator-friendly pots.

Growing Hostas and Shade Garden Design
Got shade? Learn how to successfully grow hostas, explore the various types available, and discuss how to incorporate them into shade 
garden designs. After this presentation, you will be set to plan the design for your beautiful backyard shade garden. 

Growing Vegetables Isn’t Work – It’s Fun
Let's dive into the world of vegetable production and explore how to use borders, beds, mulch, and barriers to simplify gardening. Whether it's using purchased or creatively constructed raised beds, we can add a touch of whimsy to our garden or yard, making gardening a more enjoyable, productive, and fun experience.

Herb Gardening
Discover the versatility of herbs - from adding fragrance and flavor to your cooking, to enhancing the beauty of your surroundings. Learn to grow, preserve, and use a variety of culinary herbs to make them easily accessible and incredibly useful.

Kitchen Scrap Gardening
Discover how to start a garden from kitchen food scraps, including germinating seeds in potting mix and propagating plant pieces in water. Then, take that knowledge and move those plant starts into the soil using different planting options. 

Plant a Pollinator Garden
Countless insects play a vital role in pollination. This presentation aims to explore various methods to cultivate an inviting landscape for these important creatures.

Seed Starting in the Spring
This session will guide you through the essentials of beginning your garden from seed, covering everything from selecting the right seeds and preparing the soil to understanding the ideal planting times and caring for young seedlings.  Get ready to cultivate your green thumb and set the stage for a bountiful and vibrant garden season!

Tips for Growing Irises in the Summer
Dive into the vibrant world of irises with our presentation on Tips for Growing Irises in the Summer. This session is designed to help you cultivate these stunning, hardy flowers to their full potential. Learn about the various iris varieties, the best planting practices, and how to care for them through the summer months.

Using Native Plants to Support Bees
Explore the crucial connection between native plants and bees. This presentation will highlight how native plants provide essential nectar, pollen, and habitat for bees, enhancing their health and supporting biodiversity. You’ll learn practical tips for choosing and planting native plants, along with insights into creating bee-friendly spaces in your garden. 

Wildflower Treasures
Are you eager to uncover the native plants thriving in your yard? By using wildflower identification tools, you can document the diverse array of plants on your property and contribute to the flourishing of native flora in your own backyard.