Explore the garden from new perspectives through six engaging, practical sessions designed for gardeners of all experience levels. From understanding winter’s unpredictable conditions and discovering the nighttime garden, to choosing plants wisely, responding to pests and pathogens, and creating habitat for native bees, these programs combine practical advice with a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 

Session 1: When Winter Is Not Really Winter (in the Garden)

What happens in the garden when winter doesn't quite behave like winter? Explore the effects of warm spells, interrupted dormancy, snow cover and freeze–thaw cycles, with an emphasis on observation and sensible responses when the calendar and the weather disagree.

Session 2: The Garden After Dark

Discover the hidden life of the garden at night, from nocturnal visitors and nighttime-blooming flowers to the ecological relationships that emerge after sunset. The session also considers practical approaches to garden lighting and creating welcoming nighttime habitat.

Session 3: Native Plants Without the Dogma

Take a practical look at selecting native plants for real-world gardens. Consider site conditions, seasonal interest, mature size and maintenance needs while exploring ways native plants can be both beautiful and ecologically valuable.

Session 4: Rooted in New London: Gardening with the Land We Have

Successful gardening begins with understanding the land. Explore how New London’s soils, slopes, elevation, drainage, shade and deer pressure influence what grows well, with practical plant suggestions organized around local growing conditions and realistic care. 

Session 5: Pests and Pathogens in the Garden and How to Handle Them

Learn how to investigate plant problems before reaching for a treatment. This practical session explores how to distinguish among common causes of plant damage, strengthen prevention, and use integrated pest management in vegetable and flower gardens, with selected examples from houseplants.

Session 6: Native Bees of New Hampshire

Meet some of New Hampshire’s remarkable native bees and learn about their diversity, nesting habits, seasonal activity and relationships with plants. Discover practical ways gardeners can provide food, nesting opportunities and habitat while making thoughtful choices about garden maintenance.