Event Registration

Nature Explorers III: Session 6, October 24-November 28

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Renovating the Mature Landscape

Renovating the Mature Landscape: Resources and Inspiration for a Beautiful Sustainable Garden

Get a fresh perspective that will inspire your landscape work with clients or at home in your personal garden. Join us for a full-day seminar as three industry experts share their knowledge and provide tips for restoring and rejuvenating mature garden landscapes. See how an out-dated and aging area of The Gardens property is transformed into an updated, sustainable space using the techniques discussed. Part 1: Site Analysis Laura Forlin, Department Co-Chair, Landscape Horticulture Department at Merritt College Part 2: 21st Century Infrastructure Cheryl Buckwater, president, EcoLandscape California Board Part 3: New Plants, Multiple Benefits Rebecca Sweet, APLD landscape designer The seminar concludes with a self-guided tour of the newly-renovated landscape at The Gardens. Registration includes a catered lunch, coffee/cold drinks throughout the day, and a post-seminar wine reception in the garden. Free parking is available on-site and adjacent to The Gardens. Sponsored by the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, The Gardens at Heather Farm, and Pacific Horticulture Society. Discount on registration fees offered to members of these organizations.

Event Fees:

Registration - Members of Participating Organizations $ 100.00
Registration - General Public $ 120.00

The Fine Art of Paper Flowers with Tiffanie Turner

Event Fees:

Event Admission Only - Public $ 15.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Public $ 35.00
Event Admission Only - Members $ 10.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Members $ 30.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 5, September 12-October 17

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 4, August 1-September 5

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 3, June 13-July 25 (No class 7/4)

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 2, May 2-June 6

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Garden Docent Training Program

Become a Docent at The Gardens at Heather Farm!

Have a love for sharing local history and educating the community about plants? Sign up for our garden docent training program that covers basic botany, horticulture and everything you need to know about our six-acre public garden. Become a knowledgeable, go-to guide for group visitors! With over 1,000 rose bushes in the celebrated Cowden Rose Garden, a shade garden, waterfall garden, sensory garden, water conservation garden and more, our facility is a diverse and thriving resource for the local community. Six-class course held on Saturdays: March 25, April 1, 8, 15, 29 and May 6 (no class April 22). Graduation from the program requires completion of the six-class course, plus eight volunteer hours and and three docent tours. Limit 15 participants.

Event Fees:

Registration - Full Six-Class Course $ 50.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 1, March 21-April 25

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process via PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Harvest: Unexpected Uses for Extraordinary Plants with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

HARVEST: UNEXPECTED USES FOR EXTRAORDINARY PLANTS with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

San Francisco-based authors and landscape designers unveil their new book, HARVEST, on March 10th About the authors/presenters Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American STEFANI BITTNER and ALETHEA HARAMPOLIS are the owners of Homestead Design Collective, a San Francisco Bay Area landscape design firm. Bittner is co-author of The Beautiful Edible Garden and Harampolis is co-author of the bestselling The Flower Recipe Book and The Wreath Recipe Book, and a co-founder/owner of the floral design company Studio Choo. About the book Every garden—not just vegetable plots—can produce a bountiful harvest. In this beautifully photographed guide to growing, harvesting, and utilizing 47 unexpected plants, gardeners discover the surprising usefulness of petals and leaves, roots, seeds, and fruit. Turn tumeric root into a natural dye and calamintha into lip balm. Make anise hyssop into a refreshing iced tea and turn apricots into a facial mask. Crabapple branches can be used to create stunning floral arrangements, oregano flowers to infuse vinegar, and edible chrysanthemum to liven up a salad. Harvest: Unexpected Projects Using 47 Extraordinary Garden Plants By Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis $22.00 hardcover (Can $29.00), 224 pages, 150 full-color photographs, 7-1/4 x 10 inches ISBN: 978-0-399-57833-5; eBook ISBN: 978-1-60774-861-8 Gardening – Herbs; Published by Ten Speed Press; On-Sale Date: February 7, 2017 �

Event Fees:

Registration - General Public $ 15.00
Registration - GHF Members $ 5.00

Winter Blooming Plants with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

WINTER BLOOMING PLANTS with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

One of the most common requests landscape gardeners hear from their clients is for year round color.  We are lucky that our climate allows us to grow plants and flowers for color as well as cutting in winter, spring, summer and fall. Even though we live in an area with winter frost and extreme summer heat, it is possible to fill our gardens and vases with foliage and flowers from the garden year round. We are also lucky we have experts like Kristin to show us many varieties of plants and flowers she has personally grown which are suitable for our chilly winter temperatures and rain.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Enjoying Chrysanthemums with Steve Dawkins

ENJOYING CHRYSANTHEMUMS with Steve Dawkins

Looking for a great fall bloomer – think mums!  Join us and learn the finer points of chrysanthemum care.  Steve will carefully guide you through the intriguing and aesthetically pleasing world of chrysanthemum gardening.  Your fall-blooming mums will make you the envy of your neighborhood!

Event Fees:

CANCELLED: Gourds: From Propagation to Decoration with Steve Dawkins

GOURDS: FROM PROPAGATION TO DECORATION with Steve Dawkins

This class will tell you everything you wanted to know about hard shelled gourds but were afraid to ask. Class will follow a gourd from propagation to decorative container. Great introduction on how this versatile plant can be enjoyed by the home gardener.

Event Fees:

Nature Explorers: Session 6, October 18 - November 22

 NATURE EXPLORERS!

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration $ 100.00
Member Registration $ 80.00

CANCELLED: Flower Arranging for the Season with Mitra Misaghi

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Chair Yoga: Wednesdays, 4-Sessions Oct 5-26

CHAIR YOGA with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. CHAIR YOGA: Wednesdays, October 5, 12, 19, & 26 from 1-2 p.m. indoors in the Rotary Room classroom, chairs provided Perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility, our indoor chair yoga class is a low-impact class to help stretch, breathe and find your center. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 28.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 32.00

CANCELLED: Sunset Yoga in the Garden: Mondays, 4-Sessions Oct 3-24

SUNSET YOGA IN THE GARDEN with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. SUNSET YOGA: Mondays, October 3, 10, 17 & 24 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. outdoors on the Meadow Lawn, bring your own yoga mat Our serene, garden setting is the perfect location to practice yoga outdoors. From beginners to more experienced folks, you'll be inspired by an evening of calm, relaxing poses on lush grass and beneath the trees. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 36.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 40.00

CANCELLED: Photography in the Garden with Jenn and Shannon Mormon *TWO-PART CLASS*

PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE GARDEN with Jenn and Shannon Mormon

In this two-part series, learn to make striking botanical photos through instruction and guidance from two local professional photographers.  You will learn and practice the technical and artistic approach to capturing photos of flowers that you’ll find worthy of hanging on your walls.  First session will cover photography basics in the classroom; Second session will consist of shooting in the garden and review. Open to beginner or intermediate photographers.  Students will benefit the most with a DSLR camera but point and shoot cameras will be fine. REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDES TWO CLASS SESSIONS:  Sunday, October 2 from 9am to 11am (Classroom Session) Sunday, October 30 from 9am to 11am (Fieldwork Session)

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 40.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 50.00

Planting Combinations with Suzanne Arca

PLANTING COMBINATIONS with Suzanne Arca

It's that time of year again, and The Gardens is ready to present our fall series of adult classes, "From the Ground Up." The program begins in October with a presentation by landscape designer, Suzanne Arca. One major component of landscape design is combining plants that are aesthetically pleasing but compatible in terms of cultural requirements such as, their need for water, sun, and exposure. We will also discuss great combinations for textural impact and color contrast. You will see slides of these combinations and some actual plant specimens.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 25.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 30.00

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

A successful garden is rewarding, stimulating, and environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, traditional gardening practices don’t often deliver on that promise. Not only are these outdated methods resource- and time-consuming, they result in gardens that are weedy, labor-intensive, and at odds with wildlife and local ecosystems. For decades, Larry Weaner has been at the forefront of ecological landscape design. By understanding the ecological processes of change in our native landscapes and incorporating them into our designs, we can create beautiful, dynamic landscapes that require less labor and are more aesthetically rewarding and environmentally sound. Larry Weaner’s ideas apply in any climate and will change the way you think about what a garden should do and be. Forget about nonstop weeding, fertilizing, and watering. It’s time for a garden revolution. About the speaker Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American landscape design. He is the founder of the educational program series New Directions in the American Landscape, and his firm Larry Weaner Landscape Associates is known for combining ecological restoration with traditions of fine garden design. He has received the top three design awards from the Association of Professional Landscape Designers. Garden Revolution: How our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change, co-authored by Weaner and Thomas Christopher, is published by Timber Press.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Admission $ 25.00

Nature Explorers: Session 5, September 6 - October 11

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Nature Explorers: Session 4, July 26 - Aug 30

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesday mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 2 "Glorious Grasslands" Jun 20-24

Glorious Grasslands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. How dull would our world be without the lush green grasses swaying in the breezes? We’re not talking your front lawn here. We’ll take a virtual trip to the plains and see what those wild grasses really do to make our world vibrant! Register below for Session 2: Glorious Grasslands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Nature Explorers: Session 3, June 14 - July 19

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 1 "Wonderful Woodlands" Jun 13-17

Wonderful Woodlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What would the world be like without a shady spot to pass an afternoon under a tree? Or a forest fairy land to let our imaginations run wild?! In our Wonderful Woodlands week, we’ll discover the magic that lives in woodlands and hug a few trees along the way! Register below for Session 1: Wonderful Woodlands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

POSTPONED: Edible Landscaping

Edible Landscaping with Bob Hornback 

THIS CLASS HAS BEEN POSTPONED. We hope to reschedule for the fall.

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 3 "Radical Rainforests" Jun 27-Jul 1

Radical Rainforests

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What goes on underneath the canopy? From the comfort of The Gardens, we’ll get to know the importance of the rain forests to all life on Earth. Register below for Session 3: Radical Rainforests. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 4 "Wild Wetlands" Jul 11-15

Wild Wetlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. We’ll get wet and wild getting to know creeks, ponds, and beyond! From dragonflies to frogs to river otters - our creeks and ponds are full of fascinating creatures. �

Event Fees:

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 5 "Desert Oasis" Jul 18-22

Desert Oasis

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. There are fascinating things happening in the desert! Let’s find out what’s going on in this extreme ecosystem.  Amazing plants and animals can survive here, and we’ll find out how they depend upon each other to do this! Register below for Session 5: Desert Oasis. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 6 "Crazy for Coral Reefs" Jul 25-29

Crazy for Coral Reefs

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. Let’s take a dive into the ocean’s most popular party spot - coral reefs! From corals to crabs to clownfish, and more, we’ll explore why coral reefs are so important, not just to the oceans, but to the Earth itself. Register below for Session 6: Crazy for Coral Reefs. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden / Amazing World of Insects

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden with Marian Woodard This workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting, worm composting, mulching and grasscycling, with time for problem solving and Q&A. Also, learn why we want to compost and how to do it effectively. About Marian Woodard, Recyclesmart: Marian is an avid composter and vermicomposter at her townhome and community garden. She received her Master Gardener certificate in 2011 and started a 3000 sq-ft community garden that features both worms and multiple compost bins. Navlet’s “Gardener of the Year” in 2014, Marian is a frequent speaker on the gardening circuit, and loves getting people of all ages excited about how easy it is to help the Earth by increasing the health and yield of soil and plants. Peek into the Amazing World of Insects.with GHF Education Staff Kids will peek into the amazing world of insects, the most successful life form on the planet. Young entomologists will observe and handle (if they want to) live creatures to experience a bug’s life. They’ll learn about creature features, and how many of those creatures can be great allies in the garden. Young ones will also make family and garden friendly pest control potions that they can use to control other unwanted pests in their gardens.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Discover Walnut Creek's Watershed Field Trip

Discover Walnut Creek’s Watershed with Carol Lane, Save Mt. Diablo Join us for a guided hike showcasing Lime Ridge. A century ago, Lime Ridge supplied some of the lime and sand needed for California’s industrial expansion. Today, it is a nature preserve for rare plants and animals with plenty of hiking and bike trails, but you can still see the scars of quarries and the remains of railroad equipment used by the Henry Cowell Lime and Cement company to carry limestone to its plant in Cowell, which is now the Crossings neighborhood in Concord. For this four-mile hike with 700 feet of elevation gain, and be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Bring plenty of water and a snack.e future. Location: For this activity, we'll meet at Montecito Staging Area, at the southwest corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and Cowell Road. Directions: From I-680, head east on Ygnacio Valley Rd, then turn right on Montecito Drive. The staging area is immediately on the right.

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Managing Pests / Native Plants, Native People

Managing Pests: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly with Tanya Drlik & Beth Baldwin Learn the impacts of traditional pest management methods and how to deal effectively with home and garden pests in a less-toxic way. Learn how to attract “good” bugs to your gardens to eliminate unwanted pests.  We’ll also discuss how pesticides affect our streams and creeks and how specific pest management techniques can help prevent harm to these surface waters. About Tanya Drlik, Integrated Pest Management Contra Costa County & Beth Baldwin, Contra Costa Clean Water Program. Tanya Drlik has an M.S. in Ecosystem Management and has over 40 years of experience in the field of urban IPM. This experience includes working with municipal park and recreation departments in the Bay Area to implement IPM programs; providing IPM training for a wide variety of audiences from undergraduates and homeowners to professionals; and raising beneficial insects for release in urban biological control programs in the Bay Area. Tanya helped develop the Our Water, Our World Program that works with hardware stores and nurseries to promote IPM. As part of this project she has written 15 fact sheets on less toxic pest management for common pests. Beth Baldwin is a Watershed Management Planning Specialist with the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP), a position she has held since August 2013. She provides assistance to municipalities subject to the Municipal Regional  and East Contra Costa Municipal Stormwater Permits. She holds a BA in Biology and a MS in Environmental Science. Prior to joining CCCWP, she was an assistant project manager with Civil & Environmental Consultants in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, providing support in the area of environmental compliance and permitting. She also has worked as an environmental specialist with the State of Virginia’s Department of Health and Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department. Native Plants/Native People with GHF Education Staff With artifacts, games, stories, and crafts, our Education team will bring the past alive for kids to discover how the first Californians used native plants in their everyday lives. Young attendees will also learn various methods to conserve water in their homes and environment. 

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 2, May 3 - June 7

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Vegetable Gardening / Where Does Food Come From? *NEW DATE*

Vetable Gardening in a Changing Climate: Water-wise Tips for Backyard Vegetable Gardening in Very Warm Weather with Lara Hermanson With the current drought in California, is growing your own vegetable garden a good idea? Absolutely! Spend two hours with Lara Hermanson, co-owner and Principal at Farmscape, LLC, California’s largest urban farming company as she takes you through soil prep, crop selection and garden planning for successful summer crops. About Instructor Lara Hermanson, Farmscape, LLC: Lara’s lifelong love of farming began working on landscaping projects in Chicago with her mother. As a college student, she maintained the Russell T. Kirt Tallgrass Prairie Restoration in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where she specialized in propagating endangered plants. From there, she managed the 7 acre Vital Zuman farm in Malibu, CA. Since joining Farmscape in 2010, she has overseen the design and installation of over 300 urban farming projects. She has a B.A. from Columbia College and has recently completed a certificate in Project Management from UCLA extension. Lara has completed additional studies in Permaculture Design. Where Does Our Food Come From? with GHF Education Staff Kids will discover parts of plants they’d find on their dinner table. And they’ll learn about which plants grow well during different times of the year while planning a seasonal veggie garden.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Water & Wildlife Field Trip

Water & Wildlife with GHF Education Staff Our Education Team will be your guides as you learn about the life and health of the ecosystems. Participants will dip into our local creek and pond to investigate the hidden lives of some amazing plants and animals. Discover how these creatures adapt to underwater life, and learn how  to protect the health of aquatic habitats. For this field trip, meet at the pond at Heather Farm Community Park. Park your car in the large parking lot along N. San Carlos Drive, just past the Heather Farm Community Center. We’ll gather in the grassy area next to the pond and begin our exploration. �  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Spring Plant Sale

Fill your garden with a plethora of plants, including California natives, shrubs, ground cover, perennials, grasses, ferns, annuals and drought-tolerant plants at The Gardens at Heather Farm’s annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 9 from 8 a.m. to noon. More than 300 unique plant species and varieties will be available for purchase in 4" pots and gallon containers. Garden Manager Brian Larsen will be on hand to answer your gardening questions. The sale takes place, rain or shine, in the parking lot at The Gardens at Heather Farm, located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. Admission is free.  Members of The Gardens at Heather Farm receive 10% off plant purchases. Guests may become a member the day of the sale for $35. All proceeds from the plant sale benefit the ongoing maintenance of the free public garden and The Gardens at Heather Farm's educational programs for children and adults.

Event Fees:

Admission $ 0.00

Intro to Our Local Waterways / Where Does Water Go?

Enjoying Our Local Creeks with Mike Carlson, Asst. Public Works Director, Contra Costa Flood Control & Water Conservation District Learn about the largest watershed in Contra Costa County, Walnut Creek and all its tributaries. We’ll take you back to the 19th century and move forward into modern day, discussing the water around us and how we have changed this creek system. We will discuss past and current challenges related to maintaining our local watershed, flood control, the impacts of El Nino and long range plans for the future. About Mike Carlson: Born and raised in the Bay Area, Mike earned his Civil Engineering Degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. He is actively involved in statewide and regional flood/drainage/clean water issues. He enjoys his work for the County, but values his free time even more. He is married with three children. Where Does Water Go After It Rains? with GHF Education Staff Kids will take part in a “mapping our watershed” activity, as well as engaging in making a model of an aquifer to help them better understand what happens to water as it soaks into the ground.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 1 Mar 22-Apr 26

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays, Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Propagation Workshop

Propagation Workshop with Brian Larsen 

Join us to gain an understanding of how plants can be reproduced under your direction. Learn how to start your plants from seeds and cuttings. This class will cover, budding, grafting, both sexual and asexual propagation techniques including seed germination, the rooting of cuttings, tips for success and a number of other related topics. Brian Larsen, Garden Manager at GHF comes to us from Portland, OR where he worked with the Portland Nursery and Friends of the Trees. Previously, Brian lived and studied in Nebraska where he attended the University of Nebraska, earning his degree in horticulture. He worked at the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum responsible for plant propagation, greenhouse management, collecting and grafting plants, integrated pest management, maintenance of display beds, long term plant research, retail and wholesale plant sales, installation of exhibits, online sales and customer service, supervision of volunteers (many were master gardeners), and public education. .

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Food and the Environment

Come on over and join us for an exploration of food and the journey it takes to get to your table. You'll learn about the different parts of plants we eat and how nutrition affects the human body. We'll be setting the table for an educational feast of the senses! Two of The Gardens’ teaching staff will lead hands-on, multidisciplinary activities for a variety of grade-levels. The Gardens’ Education Manager, Jenn Mormon, has over 15 years of teaching experience with students from preschool through college. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education and is a certificated Reading Specialist. Heather Waring has a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Science and is currently working on a Master’s degree in Geology. She has almost a decade of teaching experience with children from kindergarten through high school. Both Heather and Jenn are passionate about nature and the environment. We look forward to providing engaging and meaningful learning experiences for the local homeschool community. The cost is $15 per child (includes attendance of parent/homeschool teacher).

Event Fees:

Food and the Environment $ 15.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 6, October 24-November 28

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Renovating the Mature Landscape

Renovating the Mature Landscape: Resources and Inspiration for a Beautiful Sustainable Garden

Get a fresh perspective that will inspire your landscape work with clients or at home in your personal garden. Join us for a full-day seminar as three industry experts share their knowledge and provide tips for restoring and rejuvenating mature garden landscapes. See how an out-dated and aging area of The Gardens property is transformed into an updated, sustainable space using the techniques discussed. Part 1: Site Analysis Laura Forlin, Department Co-Chair, Landscape Horticulture Department at Merritt College Part 2: 21st Century Infrastructure Cheryl Buckwater, president, EcoLandscape California Board Part 3: New Plants, Multiple Benefits Rebecca Sweet, APLD landscape designer The seminar concludes with a self-guided tour of the newly-renovated landscape at The Gardens. Registration includes a catered lunch, coffee/cold drinks throughout the day, and a post-seminar wine reception in the garden. Free parking is available on-site and adjacent to The Gardens. Sponsored by the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, The Gardens at Heather Farm, and Pacific Horticulture Society. Discount on registration fees offered to members of these organizations.

Event Fees:

Registration - Members of Participating Organizations $ 100.00
Registration - General Public $ 120.00

The Fine Art of Paper Flowers with Tiffanie Turner

Event Fees:

Event Admission Only - Public $ 15.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Public $ 35.00
Event Admission Only - Members $ 10.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Members $ 30.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 5, September 12-October 17

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 4, August 1-September 5

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 3, June 13-July 25 (No class 7/4)

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 2, May 2-June 6

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Garden Docent Training Program

Become a Docent at The Gardens at Heather Farm!

Have a love for sharing local history and educating the community about plants? Sign up for our garden docent training program that covers basic botany, horticulture and everything you need to know about our six-acre public garden. Become a knowledgeable, go-to guide for group visitors! With over 1,000 rose bushes in the celebrated Cowden Rose Garden, a shade garden, waterfall garden, sensory garden, water conservation garden and more, our facility is a diverse and thriving resource for the local community. Six-class course held on Saturdays: March 25, April 1, 8, 15, 29 and May 6 (no class April 22). Graduation from the program requires completion of the six-class course, plus eight volunteer hours and and three docent tours. Limit 15 participants.

Event Fees:

Registration - Full Six-Class Course $ 50.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 1, March 21-April 25

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process via PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Harvest: Unexpected Uses for Extraordinary Plants with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

HARVEST: UNEXPECTED USES FOR EXTRAORDINARY PLANTS with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

San Francisco-based authors and landscape designers unveil their new book, HARVEST, on March 10th About the authors/presenters Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American STEFANI BITTNER and ALETHEA HARAMPOLIS are the owners of Homestead Design Collective, a San Francisco Bay Area landscape design firm. Bittner is co-author of The Beautiful Edible Garden and Harampolis is co-author of the bestselling The Flower Recipe Book and The Wreath Recipe Book, and a co-founder/owner of the floral design company Studio Choo. About the book Every garden—not just vegetable plots—can produce a bountiful harvest. In this beautifully photographed guide to growing, harvesting, and utilizing 47 unexpected plants, gardeners discover the surprising usefulness of petals and leaves, roots, seeds, and fruit. Turn tumeric root into a natural dye and calamintha into lip balm. Make anise hyssop into a refreshing iced tea and turn apricots into a facial mask. Crabapple branches can be used to create stunning floral arrangements, oregano flowers to infuse vinegar, and edible chrysanthemum to liven up a salad. Harvest: Unexpected Projects Using 47 Extraordinary Garden Plants By Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis $22.00 hardcover (Can $29.00), 224 pages, 150 full-color photographs, 7-1/4 x 10 inches ISBN: 978-0-399-57833-5; eBook ISBN: 978-1-60774-861-8 Gardening – Herbs; Published by Ten Speed Press; On-Sale Date: February 7, 2017 �

Event Fees:

Registration - General Public $ 15.00
Registration - GHF Members $ 5.00

Winter Blooming Plants with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

WINTER BLOOMING PLANTS with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

One of the most common requests landscape gardeners hear from their clients is for year round color.  We are lucky that our climate allows us to grow plants and flowers for color as well as cutting in winter, spring, summer and fall. Even though we live in an area with winter frost and extreme summer heat, it is possible to fill our gardens and vases with foliage and flowers from the garden year round. We are also lucky we have experts like Kristin to show us many varieties of plants and flowers she has personally grown which are suitable for our chilly winter temperatures and rain.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Enjoying Chrysanthemums with Steve Dawkins

ENJOYING CHRYSANTHEMUMS with Steve Dawkins

Looking for a great fall bloomer – think mums!  Join us and learn the finer points of chrysanthemum care.  Steve will carefully guide you through the intriguing and aesthetically pleasing world of chrysanthemum gardening.  Your fall-blooming mums will make you the envy of your neighborhood!

Event Fees:

CANCELLED: Gourds: From Propagation to Decoration with Steve Dawkins

GOURDS: FROM PROPAGATION TO DECORATION with Steve Dawkins

This class will tell you everything you wanted to know about hard shelled gourds but were afraid to ask. Class will follow a gourd from propagation to decorative container. Great introduction on how this versatile plant can be enjoyed by the home gardener.

Event Fees:

Nature Explorers: Session 6, October 18 - November 22

 NATURE EXPLORERS!

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration $ 100.00
Member Registration $ 80.00

CANCELLED: Flower Arranging for the Season with Mitra Misaghi

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Chair Yoga: Wednesdays, 4-Sessions Oct 5-26

CHAIR YOGA with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. CHAIR YOGA: Wednesdays, October 5, 12, 19, & 26 from 1-2 p.m. indoors in the Rotary Room classroom, chairs provided Perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility, our indoor chair yoga class is a low-impact class to help stretch, breathe and find your center. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 28.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 32.00

CANCELLED: Sunset Yoga in the Garden: Mondays, 4-Sessions Oct 3-24

SUNSET YOGA IN THE GARDEN with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. SUNSET YOGA: Mondays, October 3, 10, 17 & 24 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. outdoors on the Meadow Lawn, bring your own yoga mat Our serene, garden setting is the perfect location to practice yoga outdoors. From beginners to more experienced folks, you'll be inspired by an evening of calm, relaxing poses on lush grass and beneath the trees. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 36.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 40.00

CANCELLED: Photography in the Garden with Jenn and Shannon Mormon *TWO-PART CLASS*

PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE GARDEN with Jenn and Shannon Mormon

In this two-part series, learn to make striking botanical photos through instruction and guidance from two local professional photographers.  You will learn and practice the technical and artistic approach to capturing photos of flowers that you’ll find worthy of hanging on your walls.  First session will cover photography basics in the classroom; Second session will consist of shooting in the garden and review. Open to beginner or intermediate photographers.  Students will benefit the most with a DSLR camera but point and shoot cameras will be fine. REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDES TWO CLASS SESSIONS:  Sunday, October 2 from 9am to 11am (Classroom Session) Sunday, October 30 from 9am to 11am (Fieldwork Session)

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 40.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 50.00

Planting Combinations with Suzanne Arca

PLANTING COMBINATIONS with Suzanne Arca

It's that time of year again, and The Gardens is ready to present our fall series of adult classes, "From the Ground Up." The program begins in October with a presentation by landscape designer, Suzanne Arca. One major component of landscape design is combining plants that are aesthetically pleasing but compatible in terms of cultural requirements such as, their need for water, sun, and exposure. We will also discuss great combinations for textural impact and color contrast. You will see slides of these combinations and some actual plant specimens.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 25.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 30.00

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

A successful garden is rewarding, stimulating, and environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, traditional gardening practices don’t often deliver on that promise. Not only are these outdated methods resource- and time-consuming, they result in gardens that are weedy, labor-intensive, and at odds with wildlife and local ecosystems. For decades, Larry Weaner has been at the forefront of ecological landscape design. By understanding the ecological processes of change in our native landscapes and incorporating them into our designs, we can create beautiful, dynamic landscapes that require less labor and are more aesthetically rewarding and environmentally sound. Larry Weaner’s ideas apply in any climate and will change the way you think about what a garden should do and be. Forget about nonstop weeding, fertilizing, and watering. It’s time for a garden revolution. About the speaker Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American landscape design. He is the founder of the educational program series New Directions in the American Landscape, and his firm Larry Weaner Landscape Associates is known for combining ecological restoration with traditions of fine garden design. He has received the top three design awards from the Association of Professional Landscape Designers. Garden Revolution: How our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change, co-authored by Weaner and Thomas Christopher, is published by Timber Press.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Admission $ 25.00

Nature Explorers: Session 5, September 6 - October 11

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Nature Explorers: Session 4, July 26 - Aug 30

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesday mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 2 "Glorious Grasslands" Jun 20-24

Glorious Grasslands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. How dull would our world be without the lush green grasses swaying in the breezes? We’re not talking your front lawn here. We’ll take a virtual trip to the plains and see what those wild grasses really do to make our world vibrant! Register below for Session 2: Glorious Grasslands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Nature Explorers: Session 3, June 14 - July 19

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 1 "Wonderful Woodlands" Jun 13-17

Wonderful Woodlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What would the world be like without a shady spot to pass an afternoon under a tree? Or a forest fairy land to let our imaginations run wild?! In our Wonderful Woodlands week, we’ll discover the magic that lives in woodlands and hug a few trees along the way! Register below for Session 1: Wonderful Woodlands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

POSTPONED: Edible Landscaping

Edible Landscaping with Bob Hornback 

THIS CLASS HAS BEEN POSTPONED. We hope to reschedule for the fall.

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 3 "Radical Rainforests" Jun 27-Jul 1

Radical Rainforests

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What goes on underneath the canopy? From the comfort of The Gardens, we’ll get to know the importance of the rain forests to all life on Earth. Register below for Session 3: Radical Rainforests. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 4 "Wild Wetlands" Jul 11-15

Wild Wetlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. We’ll get wet and wild getting to know creeks, ponds, and beyond! From dragonflies to frogs to river otters - our creeks and ponds are full of fascinating creatures. �

Event Fees:

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 5 "Desert Oasis" Jul 18-22

Desert Oasis

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. There are fascinating things happening in the desert! Let’s find out what’s going on in this extreme ecosystem.  Amazing plants and animals can survive here, and we’ll find out how they depend upon each other to do this! Register below for Session 5: Desert Oasis. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 6 "Crazy for Coral Reefs" Jul 25-29

Crazy for Coral Reefs

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. Let’s take a dive into the ocean’s most popular party spot - coral reefs! From corals to crabs to clownfish, and more, we’ll explore why coral reefs are so important, not just to the oceans, but to the Earth itself. Register below for Session 6: Crazy for Coral Reefs. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden / Amazing World of Insects

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden with Marian Woodard This workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting, worm composting, mulching and grasscycling, with time for problem solving and Q&A. Also, learn why we want to compost and how to do it effectively. About Marian Woodard, Recyclesmart: Marian is an avid composter and vermicomposter at her townhome and community garden. She received her Master Gardener certificate in 2011 and started a 3000 sq-ft community garden that features both worms and multiple compost bins. Navlet’s “Gardener of the Year” in 2014, Marian is a frequent speaker on the gardening circuit, and loves getting people of all ages excited about how easy it is to help the Earth by increasing the health and yield of soil and plants. Peek into the Amazing World of Insects.with GHF Education Staff Kids will peek into the amazing world of insects, the most successful life form on the planet. Young entomologists will observe and handle (if they want to) live creatures to experience a bug’s life. They’ll learn about creature features, and how many of those creatures can be great allies in the garden. Young ones will also make family and garden friendly pest control potions that they can use to control other unwanted pests in their gardens.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Discover Walnut Creek's Watershed Field Trip

Discover Walnut Creek’s Watershed with Carol Lane, Save Mt. Diablo Join us for a guided hike showcasing Lime Ridge. A century ago, Lime Ridge supplied some of the lime and sand needed for California’s industrial expansion. Today, it is a nature preserve for rare plants and animals with plenty of hiking and bike trails, but you can still see the scars of quarries and the remains of railroad equipment used by the Henry Cowell Lime and Cement company to carry limestone to its plant in Cowell, which is now the Crossings neighborhood in Concord. For this four-mile hike with 700 feet of elevation gain, and be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Bring plenty of water and a snack.e future. Location: For this activity, we'll meet at Montecito Staging Area, at the southwest corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and Cowell Road. Directions: From I-680, head east on Ygnacio Valley Rd, then turn right on Montecito Drive. The staging area is immediately on the right.

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Managing Pests / Native Plants, Native People

Managing Pests: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly with Tanya Drlik & Beth Baldwin Learn the impacts of traditional pest management methods and how to deal effectively with home and garden pests in a less-toxic way. Learn how to attract “good” bugs to your gardens to eliminate unwanted pests.  We’ll also discuss how pesticides affect our streams and creeks and how specific pest management techniques can help prevent harm to these surface waters. About Tanya Drlik, Integrated Pest Management Contra Costa County & Beth Baldwin, Contra Costa Clean Water Program. Tanya Drlik has an M.S. in Ecosystem Management and has over 40 years of experience in the field of urban IPM. This experience includes working with municipal park and recreation departments in the Bay Area to implement IPM programs; providing IPM training for a wide variety of audiences from undergraduates and homeowners to professionals; and raising beneficial insects for release in urban biological control programs in the Bay Area. Tanya helped develop the Our Water, Our World Program that works with hardware stores and nurseries to promote IPM. As part of this project she has written 15 fact sheets on less toxic pest management for common pests. Beth Baldwin is a Watershed Management Planning Specialist with the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP), a position she has held since August 2013. She provides assistance to municipalities subject to the Municipal Regional  and East Contra Costa Municipal Stormwater Permits. She holds a BA in Biology and a MS in Environmental Science. Prior to joining CCCWP, she was an assistant project manager with Civil & Environmental Consultants in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, providing support in the area of environmental compliance and permitting. She also has worked as an environmental specialist with the State of Virginia’s Department of Health and Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department. Native Plants/Native People with GHF Education Staff With artifacts, games, stories, and crafts, our Education team will bring the past alive for kids to discover how the first Californians used native plants in their everyday lives. Young attendees will also learn various methods to conserve water in their homes and environment. 

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 2, May 3 - June 7

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Vegetable Gardening / Where Does Food Come From? *NEW DATE*

Vetable Gardening in a Changing Climate: Water-wise Tips for Backyard Vegetable Gardening in Very Warm Weather with Lara Hermanson With the current drought in California, is growing your own vegetable garden a good idea? Absolutely! Spend two hours with Lara Hermanson, co-owner and Principal at Farmscape, LLC, California’s largest urban farming company as she takes you through soil prep, crop selection and garden planning for successful summer crops. About Instructor Lara Hermanson, Farmscape, LLC: Lara’s lifelong love of farming began working on landscaping projects in Chicago with her mother. As a college student, she maintained the Russell T. Kirt Tallgrass Prairie Restoration in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where she specialized in propagating endangered plants. From there, she managed the 7 acre Vital Zuman farm in Malibu, CA. Since joining Farmscape in 2010, she has overseen the design and installation of over 300 urban farming projects. She has a B.A. from Columbia College and has recently completed a certificate in Project Management from UCLA extension. Lara has completed additional studies in Permaculture Design. Where Does Our Food Come From? with GHF Education Staff Kids will discover parts of plants they’d find on their dinner table. And they’ll learn about which plants grow well during different times of the year while planning a seasonal veggie garden.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Water & Wildlife Field Trip

Water & Wildlife with GHF Education Staff Our Education Team will be your guides as you learn about the life and health of the ecosystems. Participants will dip into our local creek and pond to investigate the hidden lives of some amazing plants and animals. Discover how these creatures adapt to underwater life, and learn how  to protect the health of aquatic habitats. For this field trip, meet at the pond at Heather Farm Community Park. Park your car in the large parking lot along N. San Carlos Drive, just past the Heather Farm Community Center. We’ll gather in the grassy area next to the pond and begin our exploration. �  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Spring Plant Sale

Fill your garden with a plethora of plants, including California natives, shrubs, ground cover, perennials, grasses, ferns, annuals and drought-tolerant plants at The Gardens at Heather Farm’s annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 9 from 8 a.m. to noon. More than 300 unique plant species and varieties will be available for purchase in 4" pots and gallon containers. Garden Manager Brian Larsen will be on hand to answer your gardening questions. The sale takes place, rain or shine, in the parking lot at The Gardens at Heather Farm, located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. Admission is free.  Members of The Gardens at Heather Farm receive 10% off plant purchases. Guests may become a member the day of the sale for $35. All proceeds from the plant sale benefit the ongoing maintenance of the free public garden and The Gardens at Heather Farm's educational programs for children and adults.

Event Fees:

Admission $ 0.00

Intro to Our Local Waterways / Where Does Water Go?

Enjoying Our Local Creeks with Mike Carlson, Asst. Public Works Director, Contra Costa Flood Control & Water Conservation District Learn about the largest watershed in Contra Costa County, Walnut Creek and all its tributaries. We’ll take you back to the 19th century and move forward into modern day, discussing the water around us and how we have changed this creek system. We will discuss past and current challenges related to maintaining our local watershed, flood control, the impacts of El Nino and long range plans for the future. About Mike Carlson: Born and raised in the Bay Area, Mike earned his Civil Engineering Degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. He is actively involved in statewide and regional flood/drainage/clean water issues. He enjoys his work for the County, but values his free time even more. He is married with three children. Where Does Water Go After It Rains? with GHF Education Staff Kids will take part in a “mapping our watershed” activity, as well as engaging in making a model of an aquifer to help them better understand what happens to water as it soaks into the ground.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 1 Mar 22-Apr 26

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays, Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Propagation Workshop

Propagation Workshop with Brian Larsen 

Join us to gain an understanding of how plants can be reproduced under your direction. Learn how to start your plants from seeds and cuttings. This class will cover, budding, grafting, both sexual and asexual propagation techniques including seed germination, the rooting of cuttings, tips for success and a number of other related topics. Brian Larsen, Garden Manager at GHF comes to us from Portland, OR where he worked with the Portland Nursery and Friends of the Trees. Previously, Brian lived and studied in Nebraska where he attended the University of Nebraska, earning his degree in horticulture. He worked at the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum responsible for plant propagation, greenhouse management, collecting and grafting plants, integrated pest management, maintenance of display beds, long term plant research, retail and wholesale plant sales, installation of exhibits, online sales and customer service, supervision of volunteers (many were master gardeners), and public education. .

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Food and the Environment

Come on over and join us for an exploration of food and the journey it takes to get to your table. You'll learn about the different parts of plants we eat and how nutrition affects the human body. We'll be setting the table for an educational feast of the senses! Two of The Gardens’ teaching staff will lead hands-on, multidisciplinary activities for a variety of grade-levels. The Gardens’ Education Manager, Jenn Mormon, has over 15 years of teaching experience with students from preschool through college. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education and is a certificated Reading Specialist. Heather Waring has a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Science and is currently working on a Master’s degree in Geology. She has almost a decade of teaching experience with children from kindergarten through high school. Both Heather and Jenn are passionate about nature and the environment. We look forward to providing engaging and meaningful learning experiences for the local homeschool community. The cost is $15 per child (includes attendance of parent/homeschool teacher).

Event Fees:

Food and the Environment $ 15.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 6, October 24-November 28

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Renovating the Mature Landscape

Renovating the Mature Landscape: Resources and Inspiration for a Beautiful Sustainable Garden

Get a fresh perspective that will inspire your landscape work with clients or at home in your personal garden. Join us for a full-day seminar as three industry experts share their knowledge and provide tips for restoring and rejuvenating mature garden landscapes. See how an out-dated and aging area of The Gardens property is transformed into an updated, sustainable space using the techniques discussed. Part 1: Site Analysis Laura Forlin, Department Co-Chair, Landscape Horticulture Department at Merritt College Part 2: 21st Century Infrastructure Cheryl Buckwater, president, EcoLandscape California Board Part 3: New Plants, Multiple Benefits Rebecca Sweet, APLD landscape designer The seminar concludes with a self-guided tour of the newly-renovated landscape at The Gardens. Registration includes a catered lunch, coffee/cold drinks throughout the day, and a post-seminar wine reception in the garden. Free parking is available on-site and adjacent to The Gardens. Sponsored by the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, The Gardens at Heather Farm, and Pacific Horticulture Society. Discount on registration fees offered to members of these organizations.

Event Fees:

Registration - Members of Participating Organizations $ 100.00
Registration - General Public $ 120.00

The Fine Art of Paper Flowers with Tiffanie Turner

Event Fees:

Event Admission Only - Public $ 15.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Public $ 35.00
Event Admission Only - Members $ 10.00
Event Admission & Book Package - Members $ 30.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 5, September 12-October 17

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 4, August 1-September 5

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 3, June 13-July 25 (No class 7/4)

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 2, May 2-June 6

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process through PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Garden Docent Training Program

Become a Docent at The Gardens at Heather Farm!

Have a love for sharing local history and educating the community about plants? Sign up for our garden docent training program that covers basic botany, horticulture and everything you need to know about our six-acre public garden. Become a knowledgeable, go-to guide for group visitors! With over 1,000 rose bushes in the celebrated Cowden Rose Garden, a shade garden, waterfall garden, sensory garden, water conservation garden and more, our facility is a diverse and thriving resource for the local community. Six-class course held on Saturdays: March 25, April 1, 8, 15, 29 and May 6 (no class April 22). Graduation from the program requires completion of the six-class course, plus eight volunteer hours and and three docent tours. Limit 15 participants.

Event Fees:

Registration - Full Six-Class Course $ 50.00

Nature Explorers III: Session 1, March 21-April 25

NATURE EXPLORERS CLASS

Are you the parent or caregiver of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover and looking for a unique and educational morning activity? Join us at The Gardens for a fun enrichment experience called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program features crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks provided.

SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO. Be sure to enroll all children attending and to complete the payment process via PayPal.

Who: Children ages 2-5; caregiver participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please register a space for each child attending.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration, First/One Child $ 100.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 90.00
Non-Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00
Member Registration, First/One Child $ 80.00
Member Registration, Sibling Ages Two and Up $ 72.00
Member Registration, Sibling UNDER Age Two $ 0.00

Harvest: Unexpected Uses for Extraordinary Plants with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

HARVEST: UNEXPECTED USES FOR EXTRAORDINARY PLANTS with Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis

San Francisco-based authors and landscape designers unveil their new book, HARVEST, on March 10th About the authors/presenters Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American STEFANI BITTNER and ALETHEA HARAMPOLIS are the owners of Homestead Design Collective, a San Francisco Bay Area landscape design firm. Bittner is co-author of The Beautiful Edible Garden and Harampolis is co-author of the bestselling The Flower Recipe Book and The Wreath Recipe Book, and a co-founder/owner of the floral design company Studio Choo. About the book Every garden—not just vegetable plots—can produce a bountiful harvest. In this beautifully photographed guide to growing, harvesting, and utilizing 47 unexpected plants, gardeners discover the surprising usefulness of petals and leaves, roots, seeds, and fruit. Turn tumeric root into a natural dye and calamintha into lip balm. Make anise hyssop into a refreshing iced tea and turn apricots into a facial mask. Crabapple branches can be used to create stunning floral arrangements, oregano flowers to infuse vinegar, and edible chrysanthemum to liven up a salad. Harvest: Unexpected Projects Using 47 Extraordinary Garden Plants By Stefani Bittner and Alethea Harampolis $22.00 hardcover (Can $29.00), 224 pages, 150 full-color photographs, 7-1/4 x 10 inches ISBN: 978-0-399-57833-5; eBook ISBN: 978-1-60774-861-8 Gardening – Herbs; Published by Ten Speed Press; On-Sale Date: February 7, 2017 �

Event Fees:

Registration - General Public $ 15.00
Registration - GHF Members $ 5.00

Winter Blooming Plants with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

WINTER BLOOMING PLANTS with Kristin Yanker-Hansen

One of the most common requests landscape gardeners hear from their clients is for year round color.  We are lucky that our climate allows us to grow plants and flowers for color as well as cutting in winter, spring, summer and fall. Even though we live in an area with winter frost and extreme summer heat, it is possible to fill our gardens and vases with foliage and flowers from the garden year round. We are also lucky we have experts like Kristin to show us many varieties of plants and flowers she has personally grown which are suitable for our chilly winter temperatures and rain.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Enjoying Chrysanthemums with Steve Dawkins

ENJOYING CHRYSANTHEMUMS with Steve Dawkins

Looking for a great fall bloomer – think mums!  Join us and learn the finer points of chrysanthemum care.  Steve will carefully guide you through the intriguing and aesthetically pleasing world of chrysanthemum gardening.  Your fall-blooming mums will make you the envy of your neighborhood!

Event Fees:

CANCELLED: Gourds: From Propagation to Decoration with Steve Dawkins

GOURDS: FROM PROPAGATION TO DECORATION with Steve Dawkins

This class will tell you everything you wanted to know about hard shelled gourds but were afraid to ask. Class will follow a gourd from propagation to decorative container. Great introduction on how this versatile plant can be enjoyed by the home gardener.

Event Fees:

Nature Explorers: Session 6, October 18 - November 22

 NATURE EXPLORERS!

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Non-Member Registration $ 100.00
Member Registration $ 80.00

CANCELLED: Flower Arranging for the Season with Mitra Misaghi

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 25.00

CANCELLED: Chair Yoga: Wednesdays, 4-Sessions Oct 5-26

CHAIR YOGA with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. CHAIR YOGA: Wednesdays, October 5, 12, 19, & 26 from 1-2 p.m. indoors in the Rotary Room classroom, chairs provided Perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility, our indoor chair yoga class is a low-impact class to help stretch, breathe and find your center. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 28.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 32.00

CANCELLED: Sunset Yoga in the Garden: Mondays, 4-Sessions Oct 3-24

SUNSET YOGA IN THE GARDEN with Shannon Parcell

Come relax and move your body next month as The Gardens introduces new yoga classes for all levels, no experience necessary! Taught by an experienced instructor, our classes are perfect for weekly exercise or a drop-in refresher. SUNSET YOGA: Mondays, October 3, 10, 17 & 24 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. outdoors on the Meadow Lawn, bring your own yoga mat Our serene, garden setting is the perfect location to practice yoga outdoors. From beginners to more experienced folks, you'll be inspired by an evening of calm, relaxing poses on lush grass and beneath the trees. About the Instructor:

Event Fees:

October Session Fee - 4 Classes - GHF Members $ 36.00
October Session Fee - 4 Classes - General Non-Member $ 40.00

CANCELLED: Photography in the Garden with Jenn and Shannon Mormon *TWO-PART CLASS*

PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE GARDEN with Jenn and Shannon Mormon

In this two-part series, learn to make striking botanical photos through instruction and guidance from two local professional photographers.  You will learn and practice the technical and artistic approach to capturing photos of flowers that you’ll find worthy of hanging on your walls.  First session will cover photography basics in the classroom; Second session will consist of shooting in the garden and review. Open to beginner or intermediate photographers.  Students will benefit the most with a DSLR camera but point and shoot cameras will be fine. REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDES TWO CLASS SESSIONS:  Sunday, October 2 from 9am to 11am (Classroom Session) Sunday, October 30 from 9am to 11am (Fieldwork Session)

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 40.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 50.00

Planting Combinations with Suzanne Arca

PLANTING COMBINATIONS with Suzanne Arca

It's that time of year again, and The Gardens is ready to present our fall series of adult classes, "From the Ground Up." The program begins in October with a presentation by landscape designer, Suzanne Arca. One major component of landscape design is combining plants that are aesthetically pleasing but compatible in terms of cultural requirements such as, their need for water, sun, and exposure. We will also discuss great combinations for textural impact and color contrast. You will see slides of these combinations and some actual plant specimens.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 25.00
Registration - General Non-Member $ 30.00

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

Larry Weaner's Revolutionary Landscapes

A successful garden is rewarding, stimulating, and environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, traditional gardening practices don’t often deliver on that promise. Not only are these outdated methods resource- and time-consuming, they result in gardens that are weedy, labor-intensive, and at odds with wildlife and local ecosystems. For decades, Larry Weaner has been at the forefront of ecological landscape design. By understanding the ecological processes of change in our native landscapes and incorporating them into our designs, we can create beautiful, dynamic landscapes that require less labor and are more aesthetically rewarding and environmentally sound. Larry Weaner’s ideas apply in any climate and will change the way you think about what a garden should do and be. Forget about nonstop weeding, fertilizing, and watering. It’s time for a garden revolution. About the speaker Famous for his meadows, Larry Weaner is a leading figure in North American landscape design. He is the founder of the educational program series New Directions in the American Landscape, and his firm Larry Weaner Landscape Associates is known for combining ecological restoration with traditions of fine garden design. He has received the top three design awards from the Association of Professional Landscape Designers. Garden Revolution: How our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change, co-authored by Weaner and Thomas Christopher, is published by Timber Press.

Event Fees:

Registration - GHF Members $ 20.00
Registration - General Admission $ 25.00

Nature Explorers: Session 5, September 6 - October 11

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Nature Explorers: Session 4, July 26 - Aug 30

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesday mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 2 "Glorious Grasslands" Jun 20-24

Glorious Grasslands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. How dull would our world be without the lush green grasses swaying in the breezes? We’re not talking your front lawn here. We’ll take a virtual trip to the plains and see what those wild grasses really do to make our world vibrant! Register below for Session 2: Glorious Grasslands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Nature Explorers: Session 3, June 14 - July 19

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 1 "Wonderful Woodlands" Jun 13-17

Wonderful Woodlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What would the world be like without a shady spot to pass an afternoon under a tree? Or a forest fairy land to let our imaginations run wild?! In our Wonderful Woodlands week, we’ll discover the magic that lives in woodlands and hug a few trees along the way! Register below for Session 1: Wonderful Woodlands. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

POSTPONED: Edible Landscaping

Edible Landscaping with Bob Hornback 

THIS CLASS HAS BEEN POSTPONED. We hope to reschedule for the fall.

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 3 "Radical Rainforests" Jun 27-Jul 1

Radical Rainforests

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. What goes on underneath the canopy? From the comfort of The Gardens, we’ll get to know the importance of the rain forests to all life on Earth. Register below for Session 3: Radical Rainforests. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 4 "Wild Wetlands" Jul 11-15

Wild Wetlands

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. We’ll get wet and wild getting to know creeks, ponds, and beyond! From dragonflies to frogs to river otters - our creeks and ponds are full of fascinating creatures. �

Event Fees:

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 5 "Desert Oasis" Jul 18-22

Desert Oasis

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. There are fascinating things happening in the desert! Let’s find out what’s going on in this extreme ecosystem.  Amazing plants and animals can survive here, and we’ll find out how they depend upon each other to do this! Register below for Session 5: Desert Oasis. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Camp Mighty Acorn: Session 6 "Crazy for Coral Reefs" Jul 25-29

Crazy for Coral Reefs

This summer, kids will get into nature at Camp Mighty Acorn at The Gardens at Heather Farm! Campers will spend their days exploring the wonders of nature and investigate ecosystems that can be found around the world. Let’s take a dive into the ocean’s most popular party spot - coral reefs! From corals to crabs to clownfish, and more, we’ll explore why coral reefs are so important, not just to the oceans, but to the Earth itself. Register below for Session 6: Crazy for Coral Reefs. To register for additional sessions, please start the registration process again after completion.

Event Fees:

Full-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 275.00
Half-Day Program: GHF Members Price $ 140.00
Full-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 295.00
Half-Day Program: General Non-Members Price $ 150.00

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden / Amazing World of Insects

Healthy Soil in Your Home Garden with Marian Woodard This workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting, worm composting, mulching and grasscycling, with time for problem solving and Q&A. Also, learn why we want to compost and how to do it effectively. About Marian Woodard, Recyclesmart: Marian is an avid composter and vermicomposter at her townhome and community garden. She received her Master Gardener certificate in 2011 and started a 3000 sq-ft community garden that features both worms and multiple compost bins. Navlet’s “Gardener of the Year” in 2014, Marian is a frequent speaker on the gardening circuit, and loves getting people of all ages excited about how easy it is to help the Earth by increasing the health and yield of soil and plants. Peek into the Amazing World of Insects.with GHF Education Staff Kids will peek into the amazing world of insects, the most successful life form on the planet. Young entomologists will observe and handle (if they want to) live creatures to experience a bug’s life. They’ll learn about creature features, and how many of those creatures can be great allies in the garden. Young ones will also make family and garden friendly pest control potions that they can use to control other unwanted pests in their gardens.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Discover Walnut Creek's Watershed Field Trip

Discover Walnut Creek’s Watershed with Carol Lane, Save Mt. Diablo Join us for a guided hike showcasing Lime Ridge. A century ago, Lime Ridge supplied some of the lime and sand needed for California’s industrial expansion. Today, it is a nature preserve for rare plants and animals with plenty of hiking and bike trails, but you can still see the scars of quarries and the remains of railroad equipment used by the Henry Cowell Lime and Cement company to carry limestone to its plant in Cowell, which is now the Crossings neighborhood in Concord. For this four-mile hike with 700 feet of elevation gain, and be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Bring plenty of water and a snack.e future. Location: For this activity, we'll meet at Montecito Staging Area, at the southwest corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and Cowell Road. Directions: From I-680, head east on Ygnacio Valley Rd, then turn right on Montecito Drive. The staging area is immediately on the right.

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Managing Pests / Native Plants, Native People

Managing Pests: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly with Tanya Drlik & Beth Baldwin Learn the impacts of traditional pest management methods and how to deal effectively with home and garden pests in a less-toxic way. Learn how to attract “good” bugs to your gardens to eliminate unwanted pests.  We’ll also discuss how pesticides affect our streams and creeks and how specific pest management techniques can help prevent harm to these surface waters. About Tanya Drlik, Integrated Pest Management Contra Costa County & Beth Baldwin, Contra Costa Clean Water Program. Tanya Drlik has an M.S. in Ecosystem Management and has over 40 years of experience in the field of urban IPM. This experience includes working with municipal park and recreation departments in the Bay Area to implement IPM programs; providing IPM training for a wide variety of audiences from undergraduates and homeowners to professionals; and raising beneficial insects for release in urban biological control programs in the Bay Area. Tanya helped develop the Our Water, Our World Program that works with hardware stores and nurseries to promote IPM. As part of this project she has written 15 fact sheets on less toxic pest management for common pests. Beth Baldwin is a Watershed Management Planning Specialist with the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP), a position she has held since August 2013. She provides assistance to municipalities subject to the Municipal Regional  and East Contra Costa Municipal Stormwater Permits. She holds a BA in Biology and a MS in Environmental Science. Prior to joining CCCWP, she was an assistant project manager with Civil & Environmental Consultants in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, providing support in the area of environmental compliance and permitting. She also has worked as an environmental specialist with the State of Virginia’s Department of Health and Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department. Native Plants/Native People with GHF Education Staff With artifacts, games, stories, and crafts, our Education team will bring the past alive for kids to discover how the first Californians used native plants in their everyday lives. Young attendees will also learn various methods to conserve water in their homes and environment. 

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 2, May 3 - June 7

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays mornings, 10-11:30 a.m. Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Vegetable Gardening / Where Does Food Come From? *NEW DATE*

Vetable Gardening in a Changing Climate: Water-wise Tips for Backyard Vegetable Gardening in Very Warm Weather with Lara Hermanson With the current drought in California, is growing your own vegetable garden a good idea? Absolutely! Spend two hours with Lara Hermanson, co-owner and Principal at Farmscape, LLC, California’s largest urban farming company as she takes you through soil prep, crop selection and garden planning for successful summer crops. About Instructor Lara Hermanson, Farmscape, LLC: Lara’s lifelong love of farming began working on landscaping projects in Chicago with her mother. As a college student, she maintained the Russell T. Kirt Tallgrass Prairie Restoration in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where she specialized in propagating endangered plants. From there, she managed the 7 acre Vital Zuman farm in Malibu, CA. Since joining Farmscape in 2010, she has overseen the design and installation of over 300 urban farming projects. She has a B.A. from Columbia College and has recently completed a certificate in Project Management from UCLA extension. Lara has completed additional studies in Permaculture Design. Where Does Our Food Come From? with GHF Education Staff Kids will discover parts of plants they’d find on their dinner table. And they’ll learn about which plants grow well during different times of the year while planning a seasonal veggie garden.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Water & Wildlife Field Trip

Water & Wildlife with GHF Education Staff Our Education Team will be your guides as you learn about the life and health of the ecosystems. Participants will dip into our local creek and pond to investigate the hidden lives of some amazing plants and animals. Discover how these creatures adapt to underwater life, and learn how  to protect the health of aquatic habitats. For this field trip, meet at the pond at Heather Farm Community Park. Park your car in the large parking lot along N. San Carlos Drive, just past the Heather Farm Community Center. We’ll gather in the grassy area next to the pond and begin our exploration. �  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Spring Plant Sale

Fill your garden with a plethora of plants, including California natives, shrubs, ground cover, perennials, grasses, ferns, annuals and drought-tolerant plants at The Gardens at Heather Farm’s annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 9 from 8 a.m. to noon. More than 300 unique plant species and varieties will be available for purchase in 4" pots and gallon containers. Garden Manager Brian Larsen will be on hand to answer your gardening questions. The sale takes place, rain or shine, in the parking lot at The Gardens at Heather Farm, located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. Admission is free.  Members of The Gardens at Heather Farm receive 10% off plant purchases. Guests may become a member the day of the sale for $35. All proceeds from the plant sale benefit the ongoing maintenance of the free public garden and The Gardens at Heather Farm's educational programs for children and adults.

Event Fees:

Admission $ 0.00

Intro to Our Local Waterways / Where Does Water Go?

Enjoying Our Local Creeks with Mike Carlson, Asst. Public Works Director, Contra Costa Flood Control & Water Conservation District Learn about the largest watershed in Contra Costa County, Walnut Creek and all its tributaries. We’ll take you back to the 19th century and move forward into modern day, discussing the water around us and how we have changed this creek system. We will discuss past and current challenges related to maintaining our local watershed, flood control, the impacts of El Nino and long range plans for the future. About Mike Carlson: Born and raised in the Bay Area, Mike earned his Civil Engineering Degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. He is actively involved in statewide and regional flood/drainage/clean water issues. He enjoys his work for the County, but values his free time even more. He is married with three children. Where Does Water Go After It Rains? with GHF Education Staff Kids will take part in a “mapping our watershed” activity, as well as engaging in making a model of an aquifer to help them better understand what happens to water as it soaks into the ground.  

Event Fees:

ADULT: Free Registration $ 0.00
CHILD: Free Registration $ 0.00

Nature Explorers: Session 1 Mar 22-Apr 26

Are you the parent of a fun, inquisitive nature-lover? Looking for a unique and educational morning activity to do with your kids? Then join us at The Gardens for a new enrichment experience for parents and children called "Nature Explorers." Designed and led by our savvy and creative Youth Education team, the program will feature crafts, games and educational activities in both classroom and outdoor settings. Light snacks will be provided. Who: Children ages 2-5; parent participation required What: Fun nature-inspired activities and garden exploration When: Tuesdays, Where: The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek Why: Exciting activities that will inspire a greater appreciation of nature How: Each 6-week session costs $80 for members and $100 for non-members Additional Info: Sign-in and snacks will be available starting 15 mins before start time and class will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. Max. Enrollment: 15 students per session Siblings: Children under two years old may attend free of charge with their registered older sibling. Siblings over 2 years are eligible for a 10% discount. Please call (925) 947-1678 to register any siblings.

Event Fees:

Register $ 100.00

Propagation Workshop

Propagation Workshop with Brian Larsen 

Join us to gain an understanding of how plants can be reproduced under your direction. Learn how to start your plants from seeds and cuttings. This class will cover, budding, grafting, both sexual and asexual propagation techniques including seed germination, the rooting of cuttings, tips for success and a number of other related topics. Brian Larsen, Garden Manager at GHF comes to us from Portland, OR where he worked with the Portland Nursery and Friends of the Trees. Previously, Brian lived and studied in Nebraska where he attended the University of Nebraska, earning his degree in horticulture. He worked at the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum responsible for plant propagation, greenhouse management, collecting and grafting plants, integrated pest management, maintenance of display beds, long term plant research, retail and wholesale plant sales, installation of exhibits, online sales and customer service, supervision of volunteers (many were master gardeners), and public education. .

Event Fees:

Registration Fee $ 25.00

Food and the Environment

Come on over and join us for an exploration of food and the journey it takes to get to your table. You'll learn about the different parts of plants we eat and how nutrition affects the human body. We'll be setting the table for an educational feast of the senses! Two of The Gardens’ teaching staff will lead hands-on, multidisciplinary activities for a variety of grade-levels. The Gardens’ Education Manager, Jenn Mormon, has over 15 years of teaching experience with students from preschool through college. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education and is a certificated Reading Specialist. Heather Waring has a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Science and is currently working on a Master’s degree in Geology. She has almost a decade of teaching experience with children from kindergarten through high school. Both Heather and Jenn are passionate about nature and the environment. We look forward to providing engaging and meaningful learning experiences for the local homeschool community. The cost is $15 per child (includes attendance of parent/homeschool teacher).

Event Fees:

Food and the Environment $ 15.00