Few trees are as beautiful as the “autumn welcoming tree,” or Japanese maple. With thousands of varieties and cultivars, including hybrids, the iconic Japanese maple tree is among the most versatile small trees for use in the landscape. Join us to hear Ross Callaway, longtime Gardens volunteer and Japanese maple enthusiast, tell the story of…

Curious about bonsai? Experience this fascinating and living artas a part of the Gardens’ Fall Japanese Gardening Series. You will learn to start, care for and train your very own bonsai in this hands-on workshop with Victor Wilson of the Alabama Bonsai Society. Registrants will receive a dwarf Satsuki azalea to pot and begin training.…

Learn about the Japanese art of pruning and karikomi, the technique of shearing back shrubs that is a distinctive element of Japanese gardens. Horticulturist Julia Adams directs this hands-on workshop on proper pruning techniques for maples and shrubs in our Japanese Garden. Location: Japanese Garden

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your garden for spring. Improving your soil’s physical and chemical properties is a goal of every gardener as it creates a better environment for plant growth. In this class Friends’ Director of Gardens Support Jane Underwood explains how to determine the current condition of your soil and walks…

Planting bulbs is a great way to add seasonal color to garden beds and containers. Among the many factors that determine success with bulbs, getting them in the ground at the right time is key. In this class Jefferson County Regional Extension Agent Bethany O’Rear will talk about spring-blooming bulbs including variety selection, soil preparation,…