Each year, over 121 million Americans visit public gardens. From public green spaces to community gardens to private yards, gardening is a critical part of our country’s culture. “Gardening in America,” the American Horticultural Society’s first Self-Paced Online Course through its Lifelong Learning educational program, offers an introductory overview to the state of the country’s gardening culture, contexts that inform gardening and ways to apply gardening approaches, styles and practices for the greater good.
“Gardening in America” is constructed in seven modules, each with lessons that include AHS-produced text, videos, articles, activities and resource recommendations. Participants are welcome to explore the materials at their own pace throughout the semester and to connect with other learners in the forum to discuss the course topics.
“This innovative course offers a unique opportunity for individuals across the nation to deepen their understanding of the rich culture of gardening in our country,” said Courtney Allen, AHS director of national programs. “Education is a cornerstone of personal and community growth, and by making this course accessible to all participants’ locations and schedules, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for horticulture and its vital role in our lives.”
Open to the public, “Gardening in America” is approachable for all learning levels, from beginners to master gardeners. The cost is $95 for AHS members and $120 for non-members. Registration is now available at www.ahsgardening.org/lifelong-learning, and the course is accessible from March 18 through Aug. 16.
The modules and lesson topics are:
- Module 1: Gardening Factors – Climate, Soil, Light, Water, Wind
- Module 2: Gardening Where You Are and With What You Have – In-ground, Container, Raised Bed, Square Foot
- Module 3: Gardening Approaches – Design Philosophy and Principles, Beauty, Function, Materials, Senses
- Module 4: Garden Styles – Garden Design History and Influences, American Models
- Module 5: Gardening Practices – Plant Choices, Design, Site Preparation, Seasonality, Maintenance
- Module 6: Garden Movements – Ecosystems, Conservation, Climate, Beautification
- Module 7: Gardening for Community – Health, Heritage, Service, Beauty, Global Connections
In addition to the Self-Paced Online Course, the AHS Lifelong Program also offers 50 Educational Sessions annually – virtually and in-person – with select speakers, topics and formats that feature perspectives from regions and lenses as diverse as America’s gardeners. Program formats include workshops, classes, conversations, talks, tours and gatherings. Registration for individual sessions for the autumn/winter semester can be found at www.ahsgardening.org/lifelong-learning. The session schedule for the spring/summer semester will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information about the Lifelong Learning programs, contact Courtney Allen at 703.768.5700 ext. 121 or email programs@ahsgardening.org.
