[Columbia, SC] - It may be January, but it is never too early to begin thinking about how to spruce up your garden for the coming springtime months. The staff at Riverbanks Botanical Garden has developed a variety of classes to aid the aspiring gardener and continue to educate the expert on several obstacles that these passionate green thumbs may face. The Growing Garden Series is a set of seven classes with the first class beginning on February 23. Upon completion of the series, gardeners will have the skills to create a well-rounded and versatile garden space of their own. “We are very excited to offer the Growing Garden Series again this year,” said Andy Cabe, curator of horticulture at Riverbanks. “The Botanical Garden staff really enjoy being able to share their knowledge with guests eager to learn.” The Growing Garden Series is offered at a rate of $75 for the entire set or $15 for an individual class. Visitors must pay admission to the Garden in addition to the class fee. For more information or to register for the classes, call 803.779.8717 x1799. Growing Garden Series Tips for Gardening in Difficult Soil – Growing Garden Series Class #1
February 23, 2008, 10am to Noon
This class offers plenty of tips on dealing with all types of soil. From clay to sand and everything in between, these tips will help you work your way to a healthy soil perfect for planting. Gardening for Wildlife – Growing Garden Series Class #2
March 1, 2008, 10am to Noon
Learn the basic components of creating a wildlife habitat in your outdoor space. This workshop includes a look at a variety of shelters that you can put together for a number of animals you may find in your backyard. It also includes a look at what plants work well as food and shelter. Shrubs for Foundations and Screens – Growing Garden Series Class #3
March 8, 2008, 10am to Noon
Looking for some shade or decoration? Discover the best shrubs on the market that can be used for screening or to create an attractive foundation design. Knowing the basics of how these plants will grow and which ones perform better in our humid climate will help you in creating the perfect look.
Rain Gardens – Growing Garden Series Class #4
March 15, 2008, 10am to 11:30am
Learn to use plants that like their “feet wet” and flourish in hard to manage areas to help control and resolve issues created by low spots in your yard. Shade Gardening – Growing Garden Series Class #5
April 5, 2008, 10am to Noon
Explore the Garden on foot with this walking tour that will introduce you to several unusual plants that thrive in the shade. Learning which plants work best in these areas will help you when you are designing your own garden. Turf Grass – Growing Garden Series Class #6
April 19, 2008, 10am to 11:30am
Be the envy of the neighborhood with these tips on how to create and maintain a great looking lawn. Get tips on regular maintenance and the different types of turf available. What To Do Now? – Growing Garden Series Class #7
May 3, 2008, 10am to Noon
The capstone class of the series, this class provides you with knowledge on how to continue your great gardening work long into the summer. Gain information on general maintenance, mulching, deadheading, pruning, watering and pest control. Other Exciting Garden Classes Using Structures in the Garden - $10
March 29, 2008, 10am to 11:30am
Arbors, obelisks, trellises and more, these structures add height and definition to a garden as well as expand your growing space. This class will review several types of structures and provide basic building instructions. Annuals & Perennials for the Summer - $15
April 12, 2008, 10am to Noon
Put the focus on color with these standout bloomers and plants that can surely take the heat of a Columbia summer. Sketching and Drawing for Teens - $15
April 12, 2008, 11am to 1pm
Grab a pencil and a sketchpad and head on over to the Botanical Garden for an afternoon of inspiration and artistic instruction. No experience necessary. Creating a Container Garden - $25
April 26, 2008 10am to Noon
Watch a demonstration on creating full, invigorating and vibrant containers, and then make your own using our plants. Please bring your own container up to 18 inches in diameter and we will provide the rest. Achieving the Tropical Look - $15
May 10, 2008 10am to Noon
Escape to an exotic oasis in your own backyard with these tropical beauties. Learn to get the look without the fuss by choosing plants that flourish in our climate. Family Fun in the Garden Springtime at the Garden – Free with Admission
March 22, 2008, 9am to 3pm Enjoy the day in the Botanical Garden and get motivated for successful spring gardening with specialized demonstrations, vendors and a variety of experts and local businesses. Activities will be held from 9am to 3pm and participation is free with paid admission to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Plant Sale
April 26, 2008, 9am to 2pm
Annuals, perennials, bulbs and woody plants will all be there! Riverbanks horticulture staff has handpicked employee and visitor favorites to be featured at the annual spring plant sale. More than 40 varieties totaling more than 4000 individual plants will be available for purchase. The sale will run from 9am to noon and there will be no pre-sale. Make sure to come out early, these are some of the most popular plants around, so they won’t last long.
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