Speaker Series

Learn all about succulents

I have a passion for helping others learn about nature and gardening. Often that means speaking and spreading an inspiring message about nature and creativity. I work with garden clubs, community groups, organizations, businesses and individuals on many aspects of nature, gardening, and green living.  My instructional materials are based on reserach, Master Gardener training and over 25 years of practical experience throughout gardens in the Midwest. With a passion for antiques and crafting - there can be added interactive elements to any discussion!

If you are looking for an inspirational, thought-provoking, frequently funny and skill-building guest for your group - please consider giving me a call. At your garden club, conference workshop, community group, training session or informational session  - I aim to get your group motivated and inspired.  

My presentation style is personal, honest, open, friendly and engaging. I have presented to audiences numbering from 5 people to 100's.  Let's customize something for your group. 

Here is a listing of my favorite speaking topics as a jumping off point for your consideration;

Garden Design and inspiration

- Jens Jensen impact on Chicago and design principals (in Garfield Park Conservatory)
- Greenhouses and history of the Garfield Park Conservatory (tours of the conservatory may be booked in conjunction)
- Garden design (Lends itself to hands-on, multi-session classes)

- Plant selection for a deeply shady garden

- Incorporating inspiration from great gardens into your plan

Gardening / Nature Topics - in no particular order :)

- Gardening with Native plants and wildflowers

- Woodland restoration

Landscape design options

- Identification and management of invasive species

- Vegetable gardening

- Herb gardening, maintaining, preserving, etc.
- Container garden design and planting (lends itself to hands on class!)

- Spring gardening - Steps to season success

- Methods of plant propagation 

- All about succulents - botany, care, propagation

- History, taxonomy and use of Hosta in your garden

- History of Chicago parks and landscape architecture  

- My Top 20 - indoor and outdoor plants, top 20 tips for gardening, top 20 places to buy and be inspired

Antique Topics

- History and overview of Barley Twist furniture

- Depression glass - Croesus identification and collecting

Locations

Chicago, Illinois Suburbs, Chicago Northshore, Southeastern Wisconsin, Northern Indiana

Contact me: ChicagoMasterGardener@gmail.com