Spring divisions: A hands on workshop ($55)
Build a key garden skill! Dividing herbaceous perennials (those plants that die back to the ground every winter but regrow in the spring) is a reliable way to get a few new plants for the garden, and is generally beneficial as renewal for the plants when done every three of four years.
Small group (three participants max) means lots of time for Q and A
Learn example plants that can be divided at this time of year, including grasses, hostas, and echinaceas
Learn what tools and methods can be used
Take heart as we tackle three plants and chop into them
If you like, take home one division of each plant we work on
Enjoy a walk around the garden as it is starting to awaken with vibrant fresh growth
Rain or shine - details below
Details
In this small group workshop (limited to three participants), we will be working in the garden. In spring we are generally dividing plants that flower later in summer, though there are exceptions. Timing for when to divide plants each year is variable, so we’ll let nature decide what plants look like they’re ready to be divided. Some typical candidates in early spring include:
Rudbeckias
Echinaceas
Hakonechloa macra, Japanese forest grass
Calamagrostis, feather reed grass
Hostas
Siberian iris
We will dig up at least three different plants, and learn to evaluate how you would divide each one — some are easier than others! We’ll learn what tools are involved, using water to find the roots when necessary, and how to replant or pot up the divisions. If you are interested in any of the plants we work on for your garden, you will be welcome to take a potted up division.
I will offer a handout to recap our learnings (which will be sent digitally as well).
You are also welcome to stroll the garden after. Spring is an exciting time in the garden with signs of life developing everywhere.
Who this workshop is for
Anyone who doesn’t mind getting a little dirt on their clothes — no experience required. This is a great foundational skills workshop that will build confidence for working in your own garden.
This workshop is in the working garden at my home. There are ten concrete steps (with a solid handrail) to access the garden. Once up the steps, there is a mix of organic stone and mulch paths, but no more steps.
What you need to bring
Bring a pair of garden gloves, that’s it! Please dress for the season, including a hat and water repellent jacket if it’s drizzly. The garden is muddy in many places at this time of year, so choose footwear accordingly.
This workshop is rain or shine. In the case of predicted miserable weather, I will message you by noon the day before, and we will reschedule to a rain date of the following Saturday, March 21st at the same time. If the rain date does not work for you, I will offer a refund.
This workshop will be led by Christopher.