As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, there's no better time to immerse yourself in the world of gardening. This fall, PHS is excited to invite you “back to school” — garden school, that is — with our brand-new educational initiative, the Know to Grow speaker series. Designed for everyone from seasoned gardeners to those just beginning to explore their green thumb, Know to Grow offers a year-long opportunity to deepen your horticultural knowledge and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts. 

What is Know to Grow? 

The Know to Grow series is PHS’s latest effort to bring engaging and educational gardening content to the community. All year long, these monthly virtual sessions will explore a wide range of gardening topics, from designing with tropical plants to creating pollinator-friendly gardens and even incorporating edible plants into your landscape. Each session is held on the second Wednesday of the month from 5 - 6 pm, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule. Best of all, these sessions are FREE for PHS members, while non-members can join for a modest fee of $20. 

Whether you're an expert gardener or just "plant curious," Know to Grow offers something for everyone. This vibrant series is more than just a lecture — it's an interactive experience where you can bring your questions and learn directly from world-renowned horticulturists. 

 

Spotlight on Upcoming Speakers and Topics 

In October, Know to Grow presents "Tropical Fusion, Designing with Tropical Plants in Temperate Gardens" with expert Marianne Wilburn. On October 9 from 5 - 6 pm (via Zoom), join PHS to learn how to plant, care for, and overwinter tropical plants, ensuring that your garden's stunning accents thrive year-round. Marianne will break down her approach into five memorable categories, offering strategic design tips and showcasing spectacular, easy-to-grow tropical plants that can be sustained through colder months with simple techniques. 

In November, the Know to Grow webinar series will feature an exciting session: "Into the Weeds, How to Garden Like a Forager" with Tama Matsuoka Wong. On November 13 from 5 - 6 pm (via Zoom), join PHS for an enlightening discussion on how to garden like a forager, inspired by Tama’s acclaimed book Into the Weeds. In this session, you'll explore why unplanted weeds are not just nuisances, but vital for our health, the environment, and even the kitchen. Tama, a renowned forager, meadow expert, and James Beard-nominated author, will share her insights on embracing weeds as part of a sustainable gardening practice. 

In December, Know to Grow presents "Biodiverse Yet Appealing Pollinator Gardens" with Claudia West, a leader in ecological planting design. On December 11 from 5 - 6 pm (via Zoom), join PHS as Claudia unveils the innovative pollinator garden at the Arboretum at Penn State. Combining science, design, and biodiversity, this garden showcases the intricate relationships between plants, pollinators, and people. Claudia will break down the methods used to create this vibrant space and share practical tools you can apply to your own garden projects. 

More Learning Opportunities This Fall 

In addition to the Know to Grow series, PHS is offering a variety of other educational events this fall. If you prefer in-person experiences, consider joining a tour of PHS Meadowbrook Farm, where you can learn about garden design and the history of this majestic public garden. Or explore the ecological functions of green roofs with a FREE tour of the PHS garden at PECO’s Green Roof in Center City Philadelphia and enjoy stunning views of the city. 

For those who enjoy hands-on learning, PHS's Pop Up Gardens in Manayunk and South Street offer workshops on topics like propagation and making pressed flowers. These gardens will also host monthly Plant Swaps, where you can trade plants and knowledge with fellow enthusiasts. 

And if you're interested in diving even deeper into the world of gardening, PHS has partnered with Chanticleer to offer immersive classes on timely gardening topics throughout the fall. From planning your fall garden to preparing for the winter months, these sessions are led by horticultural experts who can help you take your gardening skills to the next level. 

Grow Your Green Thumb with PHS 

The Know to Grow series is more than just a set of lectures — it's an opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in horticulture. These sessions provide a platform to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with a community of fellow gardeners. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal gardening journey or simply enjoy learning something new, Know to Grow is a fantastic resource. 

And with FREE access for PHS members, there’s never been a better time to join! Membership not only grants you entry to Know to Grow but also provides a host of other benefits, including discounts and deals on PHS programming and Flower Show tickets, access to exclusive content, and the satisfaction of supporting PHS’s mission to advance the health and well-being of the Greater Philadelphia region through horticulture.