Classes & Events
We are passionate about education and enjoy giving opportunities for all to develop their growing skills. Our mission is to support the interests of gardeners and beekeepers at every level by providing meaningful knowledge and inspiring ideas. How we do this is by offering classes, most of which are free.
Classes are hosted in our on-site classroom at the Garden Center, and led by an expert staff member or field expert. Class fees may apply for guest speakers or for hands-on experiences, others are free.
We add new classes throughout the season, so be sure to check back for new learning opportunities.
Upcoming Classes & Events
Package Bees Pick-Up Day at Shonnard’s
Saturday, April 11th
You must have placed a pre-order in order to get bees; there will not be extra packages to purchase on pick-up day.
Package bee orders will be available for pickup on Saturday, April 11th at Shonnard’s Nursery between the hours of 7:30 am and 10:30 am. Questions? Call us at (541) 929-3524 or email bees@shonnards.com
Spring into Bloom – 42nd Anniversary Event Weekend
Fri, April 17th – Sun, April 19th
We’re always rooting for you! Our Spring into Bloom event is our chance to welcome you into our garden center when the joy of spring is in the air and the beauty of plants is all around.
Making an Herb Spiral for Your Kitchen Garden Class
Saturday, April 18th at 10:00am
FREE CLASS
An herb spiral is a classic permaculture design that packs beauty, function, and efficiency into a small space. By using height, sun exposure, and drainage to create multiple microclimates, an herb spiral allows you to grow a wide range of kitchen herbs in one compact, easy-to-care-for garden.
We’ll cover design basics, material options, and herb selection for Corvallis’s climate, along with practical tips for building and maintaining a spiral that fits your space and cooking habits.
Ask a Master Gardener – Plant Clinic
Saturday, April 25th | 11am – 2pm
Visit us between 11am to 2pm on Saturday, April 25th when Benton County Master Gardeners will be here to answer your gardening questions. They’ll be happy to answer any plant questions you have!
Honeybee Health and Queens Class
Sunday, April 26th at 10:30am
FREE CLASS
In this class, you will learn how to gauge the health of your queen and what to do if she is struggling. You will also get a closer look at disease identification, prevention, and treatment.
Annual Planting Days
Fri, May 1st – Sun, May 3rd | 11am to 3pm
We’re here to help you grow a beautiful container garden!
Bring in your pots and containers, 14″ and smaller, and we’ll plant your purchased flowers, vegetables, and herbs using our new Espoma Organic Potting Soil, at no extra charge.
Plant Your Own Combination Drop Pot
Friday, May 15th to Sunday, May 17th
Do-It-Yourself Planting Experience
This is a fun and easy going, hands-on experience for those who want to choose their own combinations and enjoy the creative process. Though the real joy comes after planting day, as you get to watch your container grow, fill in, and lush out over time – bringing fresh flavors, color and life to your space through summer and into fall.
Native Garden – Q&A Walkaround
Saturday, May 30th at 10:00am
FREE CLASS
Come learn about our native plant display garden alongside a short instructional talk with our department lead Triston Nelson, and hear about the native plants we have growing on-site. This will be a great opportunity to ask questions, and see native plants in bloom.
Ask a Master Gardener – Plant Clinic
Saturday, May 30th | 11am – 2pm
Visit us between 11am to 2pm on Saturday, May 30th when Benton County Master Gardeners will be here to answer your gardening questions. They’ll be happy to answer any plant questions you have!
Intro to Objective-Based Pruning Class
Thursday, June 18th at 10:00am
FREE CLASS
Presented by Lyle Feilmeier with Bartlett Tree Experts, this is a repeat session covering the principles of pruning with clear objectives. We will discuss pruning cuts, plant responses, and practical applications such as safety, fruit production, structural improvement, and size control.
Top 10 Insects and the Plants They Affect Class
Thursday, June 18th at 1:00pm
FREE CLASS
Presented by Lyle Feilmeier with Bartlett Tree Experts, get an introduction to the most impactful insects and the plants or trees they target. We will review signs and symptoms, as well as treatment options to proactively protect or manage infestations. Approaches will include synthetic, natural, and biological control methods.