Forming a land-based relationship with place is an ongoing process, whether you live and garden on your own land, in an apartment or another setting. Together you’ll explore what it means to arrive in an ecosystem, become a part of it and take responsibility for your shared future.
This North Carolina State Natural Area is a gem, with a diversity of natural plant and animal communities not found anywhere else in the Triangle region. Join Paul Manos and Alec Motten on a 2- to 3-mile mountain hike of moderate difficulty. Both Alec and Paul bring a deep expertise in plants and ecology; they will “read” the landscape and give you a unique view of Occoneechee Mountain.
Plan your visit to include a stop in the Discovery Garden for this special opportunity to meet the keepers of the bees, chickens and incredible edible plants. Stop by to meet and learn from staff members who specialize in caring for this engaging garden area beloved by learners of all ages. Drop-in activity for all ages. Adult chaperone required for minors.
Join Chizuko Sueyoshi and members of the Japanese Tea Practitioners of Durham for a moment of respite in the Duke Gardens teahouse, where you will experience the centering calm of a traditional Japanese tea gathering.
Horticulturists Michelle Rawlins and Megan Brown will demonstrate how to construct a holiday wreath for your front door using fresh cut greenery from the Gardens. Each participant will learn how to build a wreath using provided greenery and other interesting botanical material. Please bring a pair of hand pruners and any additional adornments you would like to include. All other material will be provided.
Join Chizuko Sueyoshi and members of the Japanese Tea Practitioners of Durham for a moment of respite in the Duke Gardens teahouse, where you will experience the centering calm of a traditional Japanese tea gathering.
Join Chizuko Sueyoshi and members of the Japanese Tea Practitioners of Durham for a moment of respite in the Duke Gardens teahouse, where you will experience the centering calm of a traditional Japanese tea gathering.
Join Katie Rose Levin on a winter walk where we’ll learn how to identify trees while they are fast asleep! You’ll learn about a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees by closely observing buds, bark and other clues that reveal tree identity. We will talk about how trees influence our gardens, the birds, butterflies and bees, even while they are deep in their winters repose.
Winter is the time for pruning. Pruning can help minimize disease, direct a tree’s growth and reduce future problems. Bobby Mottern, Duke Gardens horticulture director, will discuss goals, methods and timing while demonstrating proper pruning techniques on a small tree under 15 feet tall. We will begin by evaluating a tree for its health and architecture and then demonstrate several pruning strategies.
Join us for a conversational stroll in the garden that deepens your relationship with plants. Swap plant stories, dig into horticultural history, question what you know and practice multisensory observation on a playful amble through the Gardens that delights and disrupts your understanding of what a garden can be. Expect to learn from each other, share what you know and leave with more questions than you started with.
