This event has been rescheduled from January 11 due to weather concerns.

Be part of democracy in action and help us make native plant landscapes the new standard in Cincinnati!

Did you know that, according to Cincinnati Municipal Code, natural landscaping must be set back at least 3 feet from all property lines. Not only that, but plants growing in the right-of-way between road and sidewalk are not permitted to be taller than 10 inches. That doesn’t leave much room for natives! What’s a city gardener to do? Native plants risk being cited as weeds and closely cropped turf grass is still the gold standard for Cincinnati yards.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Cities like Minneapolis, Minnesota have established a right to install and maintain natural landscapes, provided they don’t interfere with sidewalks or roads. In fact, their Municipal Code states that native plants are “beneficial to the city's environment and its residents and… require fewer potentially harmful and costly inputs, improve stormwater retention, increase water quality and biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide habitat for wildlife such as birds, butterflies and other beneficial insects and species.” (Duh! We knew all that!)

Minneapolis’s actions are part of a nation-wide trend, and we don’t want Cincinnati to be left behind. Last year, Ohio declared April as Native Plant Month, but we can’t stop there. Let’s spend a morning together writing letters to city councilmembers encouraging them to revise city code and let native plants grow! We’ll have stamps and envelopes ready to go, as well as coffee and pastries to enjoy. All that's missing is you!

Cost: Free!

This event is full, but you can join the waitlist!

This event has been rescheduled to January 25 at 1pm because of weather concerns.

The 2024 gardening season is over and we know you’re already planning next year’s garden. But you may still have plant questions that have gone unanswered. If you’re wondering what to plant when and how, bring your questions to our Native Plants for Homeowners Q&A and let our panel of industry experts share their knowledge with you!

Panel will include Brian Heinz (Director of Horticulture at Spring Grove Arboretum), Jennifer Smith (Horticulturist and Garden Designer at Wimberg Landscaping), Sarah Geiger-Behm (Garden Designer at Wimberg Landscaping), Scott Beuerlein (Horticulturist at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden) and John Hemmerle (Founder of Our Land Organics). These local professionals will share their experiences working with native plants in the landscape and dive deep into any gardening topic you want to discuss! No question is too basic or too complicated, so come prepared for a lively discussion and be ready to leave with new knowledge and ideas for 2025.

Note: If you're signed up for Native Plants for Four Seasons, your ticket to that class includes admission to the Q&A. No need to purchase a separate ticket!

Cost: $10

Achieving a beautiful garden in July is pretty simple. Flowers are blooming and everything looks green and lush. But keeping that same garden beautiful in December takes a little more thought.

In this class, we’ll look at which native plants provide “winter interest” such as elegant bark, bright berries or unique seedheads. Then we’ll talk about how you can use these plants in the landscape to create a garden that looks great and supports wildlife all year long.

This class is for both beginner gardeners and those looking to take their native plant knowledge to the next level. We’ll start with an informative presentation then take a tour of Hauck Botanic Garden to see some examples of winter interest (weather permitting). You’ll leave with a list of recommended plants and plenty of inspiration for your own four-season garden. Your ticket includes admittance to our Native Plants for Homeowners Q&A on Saturday, December 14 as well.

Instructor: Julie Dennewitz, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $25 / $20 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist! You can also join us for Native Plants for Homeowners Q&A on Saturday, December 14.

Growing your own native plants is cost effective and incredibly satisfying! Come learn how to grow native plants from seed to seedling. We'll discuss seed collection, stratification, germination and transplanting as well as different seed starting methods using common household items. You'll even get to sow your own seeds to take home!

Instructor: Sam Settlemyre, CGC Conservation Program Manager
Cost: $35

​“Planting for pollinators” is an often-repeated mantra in the gardening community. But what, exactly, does that mean?

Supporting pollinators goes beyond growing pretty flowers. It means providing host plants to support larvae, habitat to shelter through winter and ecological gardening practices that encourage biodiversity.

This class will explore these topics, plus dive deeper into the relationships between our native plants and the pollinators they depend on. All skill levels are welcome! We'll start with a lecture, then take a brief tour of the garden. You'll leave with a list of recommended species as well as an understanding of what it takes to support pollinators through their entire lifecycles.

Instructor: Julie Dennewitz, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers

Learn the basics of why and how to embrace native plants in our local landscape! Through this basic overview class, you'll discover the simplicity of local plants and thriving, sustainable habitats. We'll focus on healthy ecosystems and highlight some of our favorite native plants.

We'll start by introducing some specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape. Our goal is that you'll leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Instructor: Sam Settlemyre, CGC Conservation Program Manager
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers

Pollinators are an essential piece of any successful vegetable garden. Whether you're growing a few veggies in the backyard or managing a community garden, you need a way to attract them.

Native Plants for Urban Agriculture has two parts:

• The class on August 14 (6-7:30pm) will discuss the role native plants play in successfully growing vegetables at any scale. From increased crop production to pest management, the benefits native plants can offer may surprise you. We'll also provide a list of species we recommend specifically for vegetable gardens to attract a diverse array of pollinators.

• The field trip on August 17 (10-11am) will explore class topics in the real world. We’ll join Gary Dangel to explore two of his urban Walnut Hills gardens to see how they benefit from native plants. Gary, who has been avidly incorporating native plants into his community gardens for several years, will share his own experiences establishing these gardens and the kinds of changes he’s seen as a result.

You can purchase a ticket for the class only or the class and tour together.

Class Instructors: Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education) and Sam Settlemyre (CGC Conservation Program Manager)
Field Trip Hosts: Gary Dangel

Cost: $25 for the class + tour / $15 for the class only / active CGC volunteers save $5!

Gardening in the shade can be tricky but rewarding. While we’re lucky to have lots of trees here in SW Ohio, it can be difficult to find plants that will thrive in the space below them. When we go to the local nursery to find shade plants, our options are often limited to plants loved by deer or invasive ivy.

Native Plants for Dry Shade has two parts:

• The class on July 17 (5:30-7pm) will cover shade gardening in and around trees including woodland gardens. We'll highlight native plants for dry shade that will look great in home gardens throughout the growing season. You'll learn different methods for establishing plants in areas with existing tree roots and where to source native shade plants. The class will conclude with a walk around our grounds.

• The field trip on July 20 (10-11am) will explore class topics in the real world. We’ll join Bob and Beth Staggenborg for a tour of the work they’ve been doing to transition two acres of lawn and woods surrounding their home in Anderson Township to native garden spaces, including a recent installation of more than a dozen species of shade loving natives around some of their more mature trees.

You can purchase a ticket for the class only or the class and tour together.

Class Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Sam Settlemyre (CGC Conservation Program Manager)
Field Trip Hosts: Bob & Beth Staggenborg

Cost: $25 for the class + tour / $15 for the class only / active CGC volunteers save $5!

This event is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!

Gardening in the shade can be tricky but rewarding. While we’re lucky to have lots of trees here in SW Ohio, it can be difficult to find plants that will thrive in the space below them. When we go to the local nursery to find shade plants, our options are often limited to plants loved by deer or invasive ivy.

Native Plants for Dry Shade has two parts:

• The class on July 17 (5:30-7pm) will cover shade gardening in and around trees including woodland gardens. We'll highlight native plants for dry shade that will look great in home gardens throughout the growing season. You'll learn different methods for establishing plants in areas with existing tree roots and where to source native shade plants. The class will conclude with a walk around our grounds.

• The field trip on July 20 (10-11am) will explore class topics in the real world. We’ll join Bob and Beth Staggenborg for a tour of the work they’ve been doing to transition two acres of lawn and woods surrounding their home in Anderson Township to native garden spaces, including a recent installation of more than a dozen species of shade loving natives around some of their more mature trees.

You can purchase a ticket for the class only or the class and tour together.

Class Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Sam Settlemyre (CGC Conservation Program Manager)
Field Trip Hosts: Bob & Beth Staggenborg

Cost: $25 for the class + tour / $15 for the class only / active CGC volunteers save $5!

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!

Are you a homeowner interested in designing a front yard garden or replacing existing foundation landscaping with native plants? Or do you already have a native plant garden but are looking for design tips or a place to share ideas? This class / field trip combo will help you get there!

In our current biodiversity crisis, everyone has a role to play. Native plants can transform an urban lawn into a wildlife sanctuary as well as add beauty and value to your home. They’re often hardier and require less maintenance than traditional landscape plants. Planting natives in the front yard means you'll be a loud and proud advocate for conservation, sustainability and environmental stewardship. Get ready to have the coolest yard on the block!

Native Plants for Curb Appeal has two parts:

• The class on June 5 (5:30-7pm) will consist of a discussion on native replacements for traditional ornamental species and a brief walking tour (so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather!). You'll leave with a list of suggested native plants for curb appeal and the knowledge of how to design and install a new garden. You do not have to be a gardening expert to benefit from this class, but having a yard (or plans to have one in the future) plus some experience and a commitment to regular maintenance is helpful.

• The field trip on June 8 (10-11am) will explore class topics in the real world. We'll join Randi and Brandon Reynolds for a personal tour of their native plant garden in the cozy neighborhood of Mount Washington. In February 2022, the grounds were covered with Amur Honeysuckle, Japanese Wisteria and English Ivy. Come learn how they've transitioned their property from an invasive species hangout into a native plant sanctuary, one plant at a time.

By registering here, you're signing up for both events, though you are not required to attend both. They are not available for registration separately.

CLASS INSTRUCTORS: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Ecology Education Manager)
FIELD TRIP HOSTS: Randi & Brandon Reynolds
COST: $15 / $10 for active CGC volunteers

This event is full, but you can join the waitlist!

Are you a homeowner interested in designing a front yard garden or replacing existing foundation landscaping with native plants? Or do you already have a native plant garden but are looking for design tips or a place to share ideas? This class / field trip combo will help you get there!

In our current biodiversity crisis, everyone has a role to play. Native plants can transform an urban lawn into a wildlife sanctuary as well as add beauty and value to your home. They’re often hardier and require less maintenance than traditional landscape plants. Planting natives in the front yard means you'll be a loud and proud advocate for conservation, sustainability and environmental stewardship. Get ready to have the coolest yard on the block!

Native Plants for Curb Appeal has two parts:

• The class on June 5 (5:30-7pm) will consist of a discussion on native replacements for traditional ornamental species and a brief walking tour (so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather!). You'll leave with a list of suggested native plants for curb appeal and the knowledge of how to design and install a new garden. You do not have to be a gardening expert to benefit from this class, but having a yard (or plans to have one in the future) plus some experience and a commitment to regular maintenance is helpful.

• The field trip on June 8 (10-11am) will explore class topics in the real world. We'll join Randi and Brandon Reynolds for a personal tour of their native plant garden in the cozy neighborhood of Mount Washington. In February 2022, the grounds were covered with Amur Honeysuckle, Japanese Wisteria and English Ivy. Come learn how they've transitioned their property from an invasive species hangout into a native plant sanctuary, one plant at a time.

By registering here, you're signing up for both events, though you are not required to attend both. They are not available for registration separately.

CLASS INSTRUCTORS: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Ecology Education Manager)
FIELD TRIP HOSTS: Randi & Brandon Reynolds
COST: $15 / $10 for active CGC volunteers

This class is full, but you can join the waitlist!

Rooted in form and function, edible native plants provide nutrition and substance in the garden landscape to both humans and local wildlife.

This basic overview class will start by introducing specific plants. Then we'll head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!

Learn the basics of why and how to embrace native plants in our local landscape! Through this basic overview class, you'll discover the simplicity of local plants and thriving, sustainable habitats. We'll focus on healthy ecosystems and highlight some of our favorite native plants.

We'll start by introducing some specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape. Our goal is that you'll leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!

Spring ephemerals are some of our most unique and beautiful native flowers, but because they’re often small and last for just a few weeks in the early spring, they’re easy to overlook. This class will explore our most common spring ephemeral species. You’ll learn about their seed dispersal mechanisms, the important ecological niche they occupy and where the best spots are to see these amazing flowers in the Cincinnati region.

We’ll start indoors with a lecture, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Sam Settlemyre, CGC Conservation Program Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!

Soggy soil is a challenge in our environment, but this basic overview class will explore native plants that are perfectly suited to thrive in rain gardens and marshy wetlands.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out. Check out our other native plant classes here!

Our local forests are filled with opportunistic plants that thrive in the shady understory. This basic overview class will explore how to incorporate them into residential landscapes as easily as traditional ornamentals.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

Replicating the natural rhythms needed for native plant propagation can be complex. In this basic overview class, you'll earn tips from local growers to help you successfully grow your own native plants.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Caroline Scalzo, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist if you’d like! You can also check out our other upcoming native plant classes.

This class is sold out. Check our our other native plant classes!

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Finding the right combination of native plants to replace traditional sod can be challenging. Understanding options for low-mow ground covers is a great place to start, and this basic overview class will help.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

These deep-rooted species are not to be overlooked! This basic overview class will explore some of the many types of grasses that our region is host to and that provide vital habitat and aesthetic appeal while also improving soil quality.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist if you’d like! You can also check out our other upcoming native plant classes.

This class is sold out. Check out our other upcoming native plant classes!

Ever wanted to save your own native seeds?

In this hands-on class, we'll discuss how to save seeds from native plants so you can propagate your own native plants from seed. Topics covered will include when to gather seeds, methods for gathering, and ethical harvesting practices. You’ll get to try some of the methods discussed and take home some native seeds to try.

Instructor: Caroline Scalzo, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $15 / free for active CGC volunteers

You can plant native—even if you don't have much space. This basic overview class will explore how to foster a miniature patch of helpful plants for local wildlife in a container, hell strip, front walk bed or mailbox planter.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This event is sold out, but you can join the waitlist:

This class is sold out. See our other native plant classes here!

Learn the basics of why and how to embrace native plants in our local landscape! Through this basic overview class, you'll discover the simplicity of local plants and thriving, sustainable habitats. We'll focus on healthy ecosystems and highlight some of our favorite native plants.

We'll start by introducing some specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape. Our goal is that you'll leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This event is sold out. Check out our other native plant classes here!

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Go beyond the bird feeder! This basic overview class will explore how to cultivate a sustainable habitat for bees, butterflies, birds and more through the intentional planting of locally significant flowers, shrubs and grasses.

We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape (weather permitting). Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out. Check out our other native plant classes here!

Trees are, quite simply, incredible. These towering forest giants have a rich history in the story of humanity and their ability to adapt and survive in the face of rapid change deserves recognition.

This basic overview class will highlight some of the significant trees in our region with an emphasis on the benefits they provide in our local ecosystems. We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape. Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers

This class is sold out. See our other native plant classes here!

A key niche in local ecosystems, the understory shrub layer provides essential habitat for wildlife. Native shrubs are an ideal replacement for the invasive and exotic ornamentals we often see making up this layer today.

This basic overview class will highlight some of our favorite native plants and the benefits they provide in our local ecosystems. We’ll start by introducing specific plants, then head outside for a walk around the Civic Garden Center to see some natives in the landscape. Our goal is that you leave inspired to learn more about the beauty of native plants and how to incorporate them into your own yard.

Presenter: Mary Dudley, CGC Ecology Education Manager
Cost: $10 / $5 for active CGC volunteers