OCTOBER 6, 2026
THE SPORT OF EXTREME GARDENING
Join Jim Pantano as he takes us into the exciting world of extreme gardening! Learn what it takes to grow a record breaking Giant Atlantic Pumpkin—right in your own backyard. Jim will share insider tips on soil preparation, seed selection, fertilizing, watering, and pest control. Whether your’re dreaming of entering a pumpkin weigh-off or just want to grow your biggest pumpkins yet, this entertaining presentation is sure to inspire—and amaze!
SEPTEMBER 1, 2026:
“WICKEDLY WONDERFUL: THE WORLD OF CARNIVOROUS PLANTS”
Join Brandon Everett for a fascinating journey into the world of carivorous plants found in Pennsylvania and across North America. Learn how these extraordinary plants evolved to capture their prey, discover the life stories of several native species, and pick up tips on how to grow them successfully at home. These are truly some of our most amazing native plants – and Brandon’s enthusiasm makes learning about them as fun as it is fascinating!

AUGUST 4, 2026:
“KNOCK-OUT NATIVES: NATURALLY STUNNING”
Get ready to be inspired! Laura Reilly, Trail Garden Assistant at Mt. Cuba Center, will spotlight the best of the best natives plants from their acclaimed trials. Discover top-performing Monarda, Phlox, Helenium, Echinacea, wild hydrangea, Carex, and Amsonia. All standout plants that bring both beauty and ecological value to any Mid-Mid-Atlantic garden

JULY 7, 2026:
“HANDS IN THE DIRT, PEACE IN THE MIND”
Join Jenna Ott for an inspiring and uplifting program that connects the art of gardening with the practice of mindfullness. Through heartfelt stories, a live demonstration, and simple techniques, Jenna will show that tending to plants can also nurture calm, joy, and presence in our daily lives. Discover how even small moments in the garden — planting a seed, pulling a weed, of pausing to breathe — can bring blance and peace to both hands and heart.

JUNE 2, 2026
“EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE: GROWING LOW-MAINTENANCE ROSES”

Join us for an inspiring presentation by Don Atkiss, former President and current Treasurer of the Philadelphia Rose Society and Consulting Rosarian for the American Rose Society. Don cultivates more than 75 roses at his home in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, and brings years of experience and passion to the art of growing roses.
Don will share expert guidance on selecting, planting, maintaining, and pruning roses that combine beauty and resilience–so you can enjoy exquisite blooms with ease and confidence.