Signature Classes
Are you new to Tucson or new to gardening here? Our monthly Signature Classes, taught by trained docents, will help unravel the mysteries of gardening in the Sonoran Desert. You will gain a basic understanding of the local climate, soil, water and plants, and you’ll take home tips to help your own garden thrive. No pre-registration is required. Price includes Gardens admission.
GARDENING FOR THE NEWCOMER
First Thu. and First Sat. of the month
9:30 a.m. to noon
This introductory class will familiarize newcomers or new homeowners with Tucson’s seasons and soils. Discussion of proper techniques for planting and watering is included. Learn to create a landscape of beauty and comfort in our desert environment. Class concludes with a walking tour of the Gardens. No preregistration required.
$16 (includes admission), $8 members
XERISCAPE DOESN’T MEAN ZEROSCAPE!
Second Sat. of the month
9:30 a.m. to noon
Come find out how to plan and design a water-conserving landscape. The basic principles of xeriscape are presented including garden design and plant selection, water harvesting, efficient irrigation methods, and appropriate maintenance. Class concludes with a walking tour of the Xeriscape Garden. No preregistration required. $16 (includes admission), $8 members
SUCCESSFUL PLANTS FOR TUCSON GARDENS
Third Sat. of the month
9:30 a.m. to noon
An excellent follow-up to the Newcomers and Xeriscape classes, this session will emphasize choosing appropriate plants for your landscape. Characteristics of highly recommended trees, shrubs, perennials and groundcovers will be discussed. Information on ultimate size, flowering season, hardiness and preferred exposure will help you make informed choices. No pre-registration required. $16 (includes admission), $8 members
RAINWATER HARVESTING
Fourth Sat. of the month
9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The focus of this class will be on developing a basic understanding of the principles of rainwater harvesting. The discussion will include techniques and products of passive and active rainwater harvesting. Emphasis will be primarily on residential properties and what individual homeowners can do on their own property. Native plantings and landscape materials will be illustrated. Slides and visual materials will present examples of passive and active rainwater harvesting sites, from the smaller scale to larger more complex operations. A list of Tucson landscapers and reputable suppliers will also be included. The program will conclude with a tour of the rainwater harvesting techniques used in the Botanical Gardens. No preregistration required. $16 (includes admission), $8 members
Discounted four-class package available : $48, $24 members. Ask for details at the Gift Shop.
No preregistration required. All classes are taught by trained docents and include Gardens admission.
Garden admission:
Oct. to Apr. $13 Adults | $12 Student/Senior/Military | $7.50 Children 4-12
May to Sept. $8 Adults | $7 Student/Senior/Military | $4 Children 4-12
Children 3 and under and Members are always free!
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