Upcoming Events
You’ll find a listing of all our current classes and events below. (Prefer a calendar view? Here you go.) If something catches your eye, click on it for more information and to register. We also include a run-down of upcoming events in The Civic Gardener each month, which is a great way to stay in the loop!
Goat Yoga: Holiday Edition!
Come de-stress, laugh, smile, and enjoy the pure silliness and fun of Goat Yoga! For this special edition, the goats will be dressed up in their best holiday sweaters.
The cutest and friendliest farm babies in town are ready to play and snuggle with you. In this gentle, beginner-friendly session, you'll learn the basics of stress reduction through yogic breathing and postures while small baby or Nigerian Dwarf goats run about, climb on you, snuggle and bring laughter spontaneously in the moment as only goats can do! We'll spend 45 minutes doing Goat Yoga, then you'll spend 15 minutes petting the goats and taking photos with them.
This event is suitable for ages 10 and up. A standard Liability Waiver is required to participate and must be signed by a parent for minors.
Farmer Rob has been teaching yoga for over 20 years. The goats are from Good Green Earth Farm, an educational farm that brings farm animals to schools and daycare centers all around the Cincinnati and Dayton regions.
Cost: $25
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Mediterranean Charcuterie Boards
This holiday season, transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean with our Mediterranean Charcuterie Board Cooking Class. In this hands-on class, you'll be guided by Kate Zaidan, owner of Dean's Mediterranean Imports, who will share her knowledge of and passion for Mediterranean Mezze (small bites)!
You'll be introduced to the essential components of a charcuterie board, from cheeses, cured meats, spreads and olives to fresh fruits, nuts and bread, and Kate will share insights into their origin and significance. We'll run through a couple simple recipes and share some pantry staples to have on hand to craft the perfect board.
You'll leave with a board of your own to take home and share with family!
Instructor: Kate Zaidan, owner of Dean’s Mediterranean Imports
Cost: $50
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Greens Gathering
Join us for a beloved CGC annual event! You can choose to create a centerpiece or a wreath, garland or swag. We'll supply a bundle of fresh cut greens, ribbon and wreath forms or centerpiece trays you can slip into your own container at home. Plan to bring your own pruners, wire-cutters or scissors. Gloves are recommended.
Warm refreshments and holiday spirit will be on tap! A limited quantity of extra greens, and a selection of arrangement accents will be available for purchase.
Instructors: Sue Sturgeon (Master Gardener and CGC Board President) and Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist)
Cost: $50
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Make Your Own Botanical Window Ornament
Come learn how to preserve a little slice of nature as a window ornament during this family-friendly workshop! We’ll learn about epoxy resin art, then take a walk through the garden to gather natural materials to use in our own piece of art. Once we have our materials, we’ll get hands on to mix and pour our cookie-sized window ornaments, incorporating the natural treasures we found. Once your ornament has set, it will be yours to take home and display or gift as you like!
This family-friendly workshop is designed for children ages 3 and up and their caregivers. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the workshop. Please reserve one place for each child; adults need not register.
Cost: $5
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Roots & Remedies: Custom Salve-Making Workshop
Join us for an engaging hands-on workshop to explore the medicinal benefits of herbs readily available in your garden! Through this collaborative learning experience, you'll create personalized healing salves to take home and enjoy or share with loved ones.
Instructor: Indigo Ikemba of EGoWellness
Cost: $35
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Native Plants for Four Seasons
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.
Make Your Own Fire Cider
Come learn about the benefits of fire cider! This traditional infusion of immune-supporting herbs in apple cider vinegar is an important part in a winter wellness pantry. You'll get to taste a variety of different recipes, then make your own potent formulation to take home from a variety of herbal ingredients.
Your instructor will be local herbalist Meghan Henshaw. She has spent many years studying the plethora of ways in which medicinal plants are woven into the fabric of everyday life. This has led her all over the United States and abroad to Morocco, England, Mexico, and Italy where she has worn many hats as a field researcher, wildcrafter, herbalist, and educator.
Her medicinal plant studies began with an internship with a large herb company twenty years ago and was followed by formal botanical study at numerous universities, resulting in degrees in herbal science and ethnobotany, the academic study of how people use plants. She currently works as an editor for the American Botanical Council, makes small batch herbal products, provides herbal support to her clients, and teaches locally about medicinal plants.
Meghan is passionate about herbalism being accessible to all and is inspired by the plethora of radical projects and people actively working to decolonize herbalism (and the world) in boldly creative and joyful ways. She is especially interested in social equity and sustainability in the herbal supply chain and endangered medicinal plants found in the Midwest region.
For more information, please check out https://www.ocotilloherbals.com/
Native Plants for Homeowners Q&A
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
Homegrown Cannabis
With the passage of Issue 2 in November of 2023, home gardeners can now try their hand at growing Cannabis sp. Since this crop can require a significant investment on the part of the grower, it's important to learn best practices before starting out.
This course will cover the botany of Cannabis sp., the process of how to successfully grow it either indoors or outside and tips from our expert instructors. You'll walk away with a list of supplies, an understanding of next steps to take should you choose to embark on a new adventure and grow Cannabis sp. at home, and the tools to tackle the final tasks of production as your crop reaches maturity. The class will include time for questions.
Please note:
Some of the legalities of growing this crop have not been finalized and it is the responsibility of each participant to research and follow all regulations according to the law.
The Civic Garden Center and its staff does not provide any legal advice, and all inquiries will be directed to local and state legislatures.
Participants in this class must be at least 21 years old. We will check IDs during class check-in as needed.
Instructors: Stephanie Fransen & Mary Dudley
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Hauck Arboretum Tour
The Hauck Arboretum may just be Cincinnati’s best kept botanical secret! A stroll along the pathways of this historic public garden reveals new surprises on each visit. Which native plants are blooming this week? What wildlife visitors will you meet? How will you be inspired with ideas for your own landscape?
Join CGC Horticulturist Julie for an informal walk around Hauck Botanic Garden and learn all about the history of the park and the plants growing within it.
This half-mile tour will involve several steps and some uneven paths. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for rain or shine.
These free tours are held once a month, no registration required. You can also make a morning of it and come to our GLS tour from 10-11am! See our calendar for additional dates.
CGC Compost Tour
Did you know that the Civic Garden Center is host to seven different types of composting systems? Take a walk with us as we learn about the different methods of composting we have and how you can incorporate composting into your life! On this tour, you’ll see Earth Cubes, vermicompost, bokashi, Johnson-Su bioreactors, a three-bin system, a tumbler and a top-loading composter.
This tour is held entirely outdoors and may be cancelled in the case of extreme weather.
Cost: Free! No registration required.
Questions? Reach out to Mary Dudley: mdudley@civicgardencenter.org.
Writing for Plant Rights
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!
Houseplant How-To: Houseplants for Beginners
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them. In Houseplants for Beginners, we'll demystify the challenge of growing houseplants as we explore the basics. You'll learn what houseplants need to thrive and how to grow more to add to your collection. We'll specifically focus on the following species: air plants, aloe, spider plants, snake plants, zz plants, maidenhair fern and asparagus fern.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Houseplant How-To: Indoor Trees and Large Houseplants
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them.
Maintaining a large, mature houseplant can be a bit overwhelming. Join us for Indoor Trees and Large Houseplants as we share helpful hints on growing bigger indoor plants such as traveler’s palm, parlor palm, dracaena, fiddle leaf fig, money plant, rubber plants and fruiting trees.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Other classes in the series:
Houseplant How-To: Succulent Houseplants
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them.
In Succulent Houseplants, we'll do a deep dive into the fleshy, typically drought-tolerant plants that are ubiquitous in houseplant culture. Some growers have no issues with them, but they can be tricky for others. This class will cover the basics of growing succulents such as lithops, haworthia, cactus, euphorbia, echeveria and jade plants.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Houseplant How-To: Vining Houseplants
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them.
In Vining Houseplants, we'll look at those trailing vines and training tendrils that add texture to any indoor space. With the proper care, these plants can be divided and given away to friends or used to increase your own inventory. This class will focus on the following species: ivy, tradescantia, pothos, philodendron, monstera, hoya and string of pearls.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Houseplant How-To: Vibrant Houseplant Foliage
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them.
Indoor plants can be a much-needed pop of color any time of the year. Vibrant Houseplant Foliage will highlight the wide array of colorful leaves found in these species: croton, calathea, peperomia, oxalis, arrowhead and alocasia. Understanding the needs of these plants is crucial for vibrant leaf color.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Houseplant How-To: Flowering Houseplants
Houseplants are wonderful additions to any indoor décor, whether it be at home, the office or a favorite restaurant. Caring for these indoor gardens can be a bit tricky, but once you have the know-how, you can enjoy growing a diverse array of plants indoors through any season!
Each class in our Houseplant How-To series will include a deep dive into specific indoor plant species, their unique characteristics and growing needs, common problems associated with their long-term care and the best ways to propagate them.
Some indoor spaces have enough light to support the growth of flowering plants. Flowering Houseplants will cover the needs of orchids, peace lilies, cyclamen, poinsettia, kalanchoe, jasmine and begonia plants. We'll discuss additional inputs required for reliable blooms.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $20 / $15 for active CGC volunteers
Homegrown Cannabis
With the passage of Issue 2 in November of 2023, home gardeners can now try their hand at growing Cannabis sp. Since this crop can require a significant investment on the part of the grower, it's important to learn best practices before starting out.
This course will cover the botany of Cannabis sp., the process of how to successfully grow it either indoors or outside and tips from our expert instructors. You'll walk away with a list of supplies, an understanding of next steps to take should you choose to embark on a new adventure and grow Cannabis sp. at home, and the tools to tackle the final tasks of production as your crop reaches maturity. The class will include time for questions.
Please note:
Some of the legalities of growing this crop have not been finalized and it is the responsibility of each participant to research and follow all regulations according to the law.
The Civic Garden Center and its staff does not provide any legal advice, and all inquiries will be directed to local and state legislatures.
Participants in this class must be at least 21 years old. We will check IDs during class check-in as needed.
Instructors: Stephanie Fransen & Mary Dudley
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Acorns as Food
Humans and oak trees have had an intimate relationship for thousands of years, literally shaping each other’s development. Oaks are the keystone of our ecosystem and provide us with oxygen, wood, heat, charcoal, hunting grounds, tannins, and best of all… FOOD!
In this hands-on workshop, permaculturist Howard Zuefle connects us with the ways of our ancestors and the sacred oak. We'll learn how to gather acorns, then process them and prepare bread or muffins.
Instructor: Howard Zuefle, nursery manager of Growing Value Nursery (Cincinnati Permaculture Institute’s edible plant nursery at the Enright EcoVillage)
Cost: $35 / $25 for active CGC volunteers
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Fall Color in the Garden Tour
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year here in Ohio. So, let’s get outside and enjoy it!
On this interpretive tour, we'll explore Hauck Botanic Garden at the peak of its autumn splendor. We will encounter a variety of ornamental trees and shrubs and learn their history as well as how they can be used to brighten the home landscape.
This class is for those looking for a leisurely and informative walk through one of Cincinnati’s heritage gardens, guided by Julie, our CGC Horticulturist. All ages and skill levels are welcome! We’ll be outside the entire time so please dress appropriately and, if you’d like, bring a water bottle or a pocket notebook.
Instructor: Julie Dennewitz, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Nurturing the Mind
Nurturing the Mind programs are comfortable, dementia-friendly gatherings that allow people living with dementia and their care partners to socialize and engage in activities in a safe, welcoming environment.
The power of plants connects us and helps us maintain healthy, thriving lives. Join the Civic Garden Center to explore new worlds of plants while you relate to the familiarity of the sights and sounds of a beautiful historic garden. Each session will include a slideshow of plants found around the planet, followed by an interactive hands-on horticultural activity.
Free and welcoming to all. Presented in partnership with the Episcopal Retirement Services Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. See our calendar for additional dates.
Reserve your spots by contacting Shannon Braun: sbraun@erslife.org or (513) 979-2302.
Compost 101
You’ve heard that you should compost…now it’s time to learn how!
Composting is a simple task that each of us can complete responsibly as we strive to reduce the negative effects of environmental degradation and soil loss. Just as essential to our lives as recycling and waste removal, composting has the potential to build healthy soils and reduce landfill area. Whether you're eager to green your lifestyle or increase soil health, there are several options for small-scale composting that can be done at home, in an apartment or in the garden.
This beginner-friendly workshop will cover the basics of outdoor composting, vermicompost and bokashi. Participants will also learn what a healthy compost pile requires to be productive and ways to troubleshoot common issues. Weather permitting, we will walk around the CGC's compost area and discuss the pros and cons of several types of compost systems.
Instructor: Mary Dudley, CGC Director of Education
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Nurturing the Mind
Nurturing the Mind programs are comfortable, dementia-friendly gatherings that allow people living with dementia and their care partners to socialize and engage in activities in a safe, welcoming environment.
The power of plants connects us and helps us maintain healthy, thriving lives. Join the Civic Garden Center to explore new worlds of plants while you relate to the familiarity of the sights and sounds of a beautiful historic garden. Each session will include a slideshow of plants found around the planet, followed by an interactive hands-on horticultural activity.
Free and welcoming to all. Presented in partnership with the Episcopal Retirement Services Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. See our calendar for additional dates.
Reserve your spots by contacting Shannon Braun: sbraun@erslife.org or (513) 979-2302.
Tending to Goats & Sheep: A Permaculture Path Begins
This series has been canceled. Check out our other upcoming classes!
—
Did you know it's the year of the camelid?
It's true that in our part of the world, we don't have many camelid animals in our own gardens. But we can learn about those that do fit well into our region: goats and sheep! Ready to learn more about these amazing ruminants? Join us this fall and be ready for spring.
All ability levels are welcome to attend this three-part series (Wednesdays, 10/23, 10/30 and 11/6). We'll dive into the basics of establishing a healthy habitat for goats and/or sheep, paying close attention to their life cycle stages and nutritional needs. Nurturing native plants and natural cycles are inherent in this process and will also be discussed.
Meet Your Instructor: Sustainability in action lies just a few steps away from Doug Crouch’s back door. At his Kentucky farm, Treasure Lake, Doug practices permaculture, ruminant husbandry and all-around positive productivity. He's also the founder of TreeYo Permaculture and holds a degree in Fish and Wildlife Management. Learn more about Doug here.
Cost: $50 for the three-part series
Homegrown Cannabis
With the passage of Issue 2 in November of 2023, home gardeners can now try their hand at growing Cannabis sp. Since this crop can require a significant investment on the part of the grower, it's important to learn best practices before starting out.
This course will cover the botany of Cannabis sp., the process of how to successfully grow it either indoors or outside and tips from our expert instructors. You'll walk away with a list of supplies, an understanding of next steps to take should you choose to embark on a new adventure and grow Cannabis sp. at home, and the tools to tackle the final tasks of production as your crop reaches maturity. The class will include time for questions.
Please note:
Some of the legalities of growing this crop have not been finalized and it is the responsibility of each participant to research and follow all regulations according to the law.
The Civic Garden Center and its staff does not provide any legal advice, and all inquiries will be directed to local and state legislatures.
Participants in this class must be at least 21 years old. We will check IDs during class check-in as needed.
Instructors: Stephanie Fransen & Mary Dudley
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Growing Native Plants from Seed
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
Nurturing the Mind
Nurturing the Mind programs are comfortable, dementia-friendly gatherings that allow people living with dementia and their care partners to socialize and engage in activities in a safe, welcoming environment.
The power of plants connects us and helps us maintain healthy, thriving lives. Join the Civic Garden Center to explore new worlds of plants while you relate to the familiarity of the sights and sounds of a beautiful historic garden. Each session will include a slideshow of plants found around the planet, followed by an interactive hands-on horticultural activity.
Free and welcoming to all. Presented in partnership with the Episcopal Retirement Services Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. See our calendar for additional dates.
Reserve your spots by contacting Shannon Braun: sbraun@erslife.org or (513) 979-2302.
Goat Yoga: Halloween Edition!
Come de-stress, laugh, smile, and enjoy the pure silliness and fun of Goat Yoga! In honor of Halloween, the goats will even be dressed up in their finest costumes.
The cutest and friendliest farm babies in town are ready to play and snuggle with you. In this gentle, beginner-friendly session, you'll learn the basics of stress reduction through yogic breathing and postures while small baby or Nigerian Dwarf goats run about, climb on you, snuggle and bring laughter spontaneously in the moment as only goats can do! We'll spend 45 minutes doing Goat Yoga, then you'll spend 15 minutes petting the goats and taking photos with them.
This event is suitable for ages 10 and up. A standard Liability Waiver is required to participate and must be signed by a parent for minors.
Farmer Rob has been teaching yoga for over 20 years. The goats are from Good Green Earth Farm, an educational farm that brings farm animals to schools and daycare centers all around the Cincinnati and Dayton regions.
Cost: $25
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
Fall Foraging Tour
Fall is here and the garden is bursting with edible treasures! Let’s find the roots, nuts and berries that can add local flavor and nourishment to our winter feasts. During this foraging tour, you'll learn to identify edible plants in the landscape, their uses and benefits, and the history of their relationships to humans.
Come prepared to sample! You may also bring a bag or basket to gather a few of your favorite edible plants to take home. You'll leave with a new perspective on the common plants around you as well as insight on native plants and our relationship with them.
You do not have to have your own yard to benefit from this class, as responsible urban foraging can be done anywhere . Even people with some foraging experience may learn something new in this class. To get the most out of it, you must be interested in native plants and their history. Children who are old enough to walk around for an hour are welcome.
Dress for the weather; class is rain or shine. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and if you're a note taker, bring a pocket notebook!
Instructor: Howard Zuefle, nursery manager of Growing Value Nursery (Cincinnati Permaculture Institute’s edible plant nursery at the Enright EcoVillage)
Cost: $20
Craft Your Own Botanical Gin
Botanical gin is in, and we're here to help you make your own!
Want to add your own twist on a classic? In this class, we'll cover the basics of harvesting garden treasures to use in your very own concoctions. We'll taste some of the CGC staff’s creations, then take time to enjoy our fall garden and all the delights we have at our fingertips as we walk and sip and craft together.
You'll leave with a bottle of vodka from local distillery Five Stories Spirits, your own botanical collection and instructions for infusing. Make your next dinner party pop when you serve your own unique botanical gin!
This event is 21+.
Instructors: Julie Dennewitz (CGC Horticulturist) and Mary Dudley (CGC Director of Education)
Cost: $50
CANCELED: HUB Garden Healthy Nutrition Cooking Class
Unfortunately, this event has been canceled due to weather. It’s hard to complain about the much-needed rain, but it’s not great for outdoor classes!
—
From Garden to Plate! As we harvest from the garden, we'll discuss the different vegetables and herbs, including their health benefits. A cooking demonstration will be provided.
Free & open to the public! However, please register so that we can notify you in case of weather-related schedule changes.
This class will take place at the Northgate Community Garden: 9151 Zoellner Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45251.
See additional HUB Garden classes here. For more information, contact our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org.
Nurturing the Mind
Nurturing the Mind programs are comfortable, dementia-friendly gatherings that allow people living with dementia and their care partners to socialize and engage in activities in a safe, welcoming environment.
The power of plants connects us and helps us maintain healthy, thriving lives. Join the Civic Garden Center to explore new worlds of plants while you relate to the familiarity of the sights and sounds of a beautiful historic garden. Each session will include a slideshow of plants found around the planet, followed by an interactive hands-on horticultural activity.
Free and welcoming to all. Presented in partnership with the Episcopal Retirement Services Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. See our calendar for additional dates.
Reserve your spots by contacting Shannon Braun: sbraun@erslife.org or (513) 979-2302.
Native Plants for Pollinators
“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
Invasive Woody Shrub Removal
Invasive woody shrubs are a major problem here in southwest Ohio. Removing them is labor intensive, and if your removal methods aren't effective, they might just grow right back. In this class, we'll discuss some of the most common invasive shrubs in our region and how to identify them. We'll also discuss removal options for each and the long-term management that's required. Finally, we'll explore native shrub replacements for a variety of site conditions.
Instructor: Sam Settlemyre, CGC Conservation Program Manager
Cost: $20 ($10 for active CGC volunteers)
OTR Garden Tour
Who's growing food in urban neighborhoods in Cincinnati? Join gardeners in OTR to tour four community gardens! You'll see how OTR residents nurture nature, grow food and connect with neighbors in an urban environment. You'll get to meet longtime garden coordinators and leave feeling inspired by the possibilities to grow your own food in an urban setting.
Gardens on the tour include:
West End Community Garden: 941 Poplar St., Cincinnati, OH 45214 (our starting point)
Pleasant Street South Community Garden: Pleasant St. & 15th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Pleasant Street North Community Garden: Pleasant St. & Liberty St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
OTR People's Garden: 49 E McMicken Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45202
There is free parking beside the West End Garden. From there, we'll drive to the paid lot at Liberty and Elm, then walk from garden to garden for the rest of the tour. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring some water! Garden coordinators may also provide light refreshments or garden-fresh treats for participants along the way.
Questions? Reach out to our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org
Cost: $15 / $10 active CGC volunteers
HUB Garden Class: Season Extension
Peak growing season may be coming to an end, but a gardener is busy year round (and so is Mother Nature). There are plenty of strategies for growing into the cooler weather!
In this class, we'll discuss how to transition the garden into the cooler months. Learn what you can do to prepare for winter and how to set the garden up for a successful season next year.
Free & open to the public! However, please register so that we can notify you in case of weather-related schedule changes.
This class will take place at the Riddle Yates Community Garden: 1032 Lee St., Covington, KY 41011
See additional HUB Garden classes here. For more information, contact our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org.
Homegrown Cannabis
This class is sold out. There’s another class in October, or you can sign up for the interest list to hear about future Homegrown classes!
—
With the passage of Issue 2 in November of 2023, home gardeners can now try their hand at growing Cannabis sp. Since this crop can require a significant investment on the part of the grower, it's important to learn best practices before starting out.
This course will cover the botany of Cannabis sp., the process of how to successfully grow it either indoors or outside and tips from our expert instructors. You'll walk away with a list of supplies, an understanding of next steps to take should you choose to embark on a new adventure and grow Cannabis sp. at home, and the tools to tackle the final tasks of production as your crop reaches maturity. The class will include time for questions.
Please note:
Some of the legalities of growing this crop have not been finalized and it is the responsibility of each participant to research and follow all regulations according to the law.
The Civic Garden Center and its staff does not provide any legal advice, and all inquiries will be directed to local and state legislatures.
Participants in this class must be at least 21 years old. We will check IDs during class check-in as needed.
Instructors: Stephanie Fransen & Mary Dudley
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
HUB Garden: Healthy Nutrition Culinary Class (Pamela’s Garden)
From Garden to Plate! As we harvest from the garden, we'll discuss the different vegetables and herbs, including their health benefits. A cooking demonstration will be provided.
Free & open to the public! However, please register so that we can notify you in case of weather-related schedule changes.
This class will take place at Pamela's Garden in South Cumminsville: 3900 Herron Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
See additional HUB Garden classes here. For more information, contact our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org.
Goat Yoga
Come de-stress, laugh, smile, and enjoy the pure silliness and fun of Goat Yoga!
The cutest and friendliest farm babies in town are ready to play and snuggle with you. In this gentle, beginner-friendly session, you'll learn the basics of stress reduction through yogic breathing and postures while small baby or Nigerian Dwarf goats run about, climb on you, snuggle and bring laughter spontaneously in the moment as only goats can do! We'll spend 45 minutes doing Goat Yoga, then you'll spend 15 minutes petting the goats and taking photos with them.
This event is suitable for ages 10 and up. A standard Liability Waiver is required to participate and must be signed by a parent for minors.
Farmer Rob has been teaching yoga for over 20 years. The goats are from Good Green Earth Farm, an educational farm that brings farm animals to schools and daycare centers all around the Cincinnati and Dayton regions.
Cost: $25
HUB Garden Class: Native Pollinator Plants for Urban Gardens
We’re all plant people here at CGC, but we also love our bugs and birds! Learn about the important role that our little garden friends play in the ecosystem of an urban food garden, and how the addition of food and shelter sources helps them out.
This class will include a hands-on demonstration on pollinator bed site selection, preparation and installation–prepare to get a little dirty! By the end of the class, we’ll be leaving this newly established garden with a beautiful and functional haven for all kinds of beneficial wildlife.
Free & open to the public! However, please register so that we can notify you in case of weather-related schedule changes.
This class will take place at Pamela's Garden in South Cumminsville: 3900 Herron Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
See additional HUB Garden classes here. For more information, contact our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org.
Plant Pest + Problem Scouting
It can be so frustrating to lovingly plant and tend a garden only to come outside one day and find your beloved flowers or veggie bed devoured by some mysterious insect. We grow native plants because we want to give back to native wildlife, but that doesn't mean we always let wildlife destroy our plants. There are some insects we don’t want in our garden because they’re invasive or throw our garden ecology out of balance. How do we tell the difference?
That’s where learning to scout for and identify insects and other potential plant problems becomes so important. Learning to scout for unwanted issues means you can get ahead of the problem and act before all your hard work is destroyed. Spending time scouting also brings you face to face with more helpful and beneficial garden visitors, and learning to identify and encourage these species will keep your plants healthy with less work.
Join Julie, our Horticulturist, for a walking tour of our gardens. We'll discuss pests and problems that we encounter as we go, including some that aren't specifically insects or diseases, like cold damage or transplant stress. You'll leave knowing how to find and identify common plant issues and respond to them and with a broader understanding of the way organisms interact.
This class is for beginner gardeners, experienced gardeners, nature lovers, plant nerds and anyone who wants to look at bugs and learn more about their relationship with plants! We'll be outside the whole time, so please dress appropriately and, if you'd like, bring a water bottle.
Instructor: Julie Dennewitz, CGC Horticulturist
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Creating a Backyard Bird Habitat with Native Plants
In the past 50 years, we've lost almost 30 percent of our breeding bird population. One of the main reasons for this decline is habitat loss. If you'd like to help the birds, why not create a welcoming habitat for them in your own backyard?
The best habitat to create for birds, is one filled with native plants! They provide important cover and nesting sites as well as fruits, seeds and insects that birds depend on for food. Other elements that help create a bird haven include water sources, supplemental bird feeders and landscape accents like paths, artwork and benches that both support the birds and increase the enjoyment and relaxation you experience from connecting with the natural world right outside your door.
In this class, we'll cover the relationship between native plants and birds, which native plants attract which backyard birds, and other additions that make yards more bird friendly. Beginner friendly!
Instructor: Annie Huey, Events and Outreach Coordinator, Wild Birds Unlimited
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
Earth's Pigments: Crafting with Natural Plant Dyes
Have you ever wanted to explore the fascinating world of natural dyes? Then come join us to do just that!
We'll start with a tour of our rooftop natural dye garden (please note that this space is not wheelchair accessible) and explore a brief ecology of the dye plants we'll be using in the class. These include Red Hopi Sunflower, Japanese Indigo, Cosmos, Marigold, Coreopsis, Red Hopi Amaranth and Black Knight Scabiosa. We'll discuss cellulose vs. animal fibers and using mordants as well as basic chemistry/pH dye reactions and plant care.
Then we'll spend the majority of our time harvesting and processing plant material...and dyeing fabric! (Clothes and shoes could come into contact with permanent dyes, so dress accordingly.)
You'll leave with understanding of how we designed and managed our dye garden, a first-hand account of how to harvest and process these plants for natural dyes, one piece of dyed fabric of your choice, and instructions on how to continue the process after class.
This introductory class is open to all. No previous knowledge or experience is necessary, though those with dyeing experience are welcome to attend. Children under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
Instructor: Kaela Khan, CGC Program Associate
Cost: $35 / $25 for active CGC volunteers
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!
HUB Garden Class: Gardening in Reclaimed Spaces
Humans have made plenty of changes to the natural world to suit their own needs, often leaving out the original (plant) inhabitants in the process. But could it be possible to transform a space into one that once again allows plants to thrive?
This class will take place in a garden which has been successful in reclaiming land for plants. Tour the grounds of this urban oasis and witness crops spring from soil trapped for years underneath a tennis court. You'll gain new confidence in the resilience of plants and the knowledge base to provide a home for them in the most unlikely of places.
Free & open to the public! However, please register so that we can notify you in case of weather-related schedule changes.
This class will take place at the St. Bernard Community Garden: 505 Tennis Ln., St. Bernard, OH 45217.
See additional HUB Garden classes here. For more information, contact our Urban Agriculture Coordinator, Kymisha Montgomery: kmontgomery@civicgardencenter.org.
Native Plants 101
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
Homegrown Cannabis
This class is sold out, but there’s another session on September 16! You can also sign up for the interest list to hear about future Homegrown classes.
—
With the passage of Issue 2 in November of 2023, home gardeners can now try their hand at growing Cannabis sp. Since this crop can require a significant investment on the part of the grower, it's important to learn best practices before starting out.
This course will cover the botany of Cannabis sp., the process of how to successfully grow it either indoors or outside and tips from our expert instructors. You'll walk away with a list of supplies, an understanding of next steps to take should you choose to embark on a new adventure and grow Cannabis sp. at home, and the tools to tackle the final tasks of production as your crop reaches maturity. The class will include time for questions.
Please note:
Some of the legalities of growing this crop have not been finalized and it is the responsibility of each participant to research and follow all regulations according to the law.
The Civic Garden Center and its staff does not provide any legal advice, and all inquiries will be directed to local and state legislatures.
Participants in this class must be at least 21 years old. We will check IDs during class check-in as needed.
Instructors: Stephanie Fransen, Mary Dudley & Justinian Mason
Cost: $20 / $10 for active CGC volunteers
In the Lab with Fungi
Ready to take your mushroom growing to the next level? From spore to store, learn in-depth cultivation skills and techniques that are applicable to a wide array of fungi. We'll discuss topics like agar and culture work, spawn production, and fruiting substrate.
This class is ideal for those who have some basic mushroom growing experience and are looking to take their skills to the next level. However, beginners are also welcome to attend!
COST: $40
PRESENTER: Rich Life Farm & Fungi is a self-taught family-owned farm passionately cultivating gourmet mushrooms year round using organic practices in the greater Cincinnati area. Since 2020 Rich Life Farm has been consistently producing high quality mushrooms for local restaurants, specialty grocery stores and direct to consumer at Farmers markets.
This class is sold out, but you can join the waitlist!