HOURS
Gardens and trails are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am-6 pm. Plan your visit today!
Program Guide
Classes offered year-round. Learn to garden in harmony with nature, take an art or wellness class, and more!
Trial Garden
Mt. Cuba Center evaluates native plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value.
Ecological Land Management
Mt. Cuba conserves and stewards more than 1,000 acres including meadows, forests, streams and riparian corridors.
MEMBERSHIP
Enjoy unlimited general admission, member discounts, guest passes, and more!
HOURS
Gardens and trails are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am-6 pm. Plan your visit today!
Program Guide
Classes offered year-round. Learn to garden in harmony with nature, take an art or wellness class, and more!
Trial Garden
Mt. Cuba Center evaluates native plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value.
Ecological Land Management
Mt. Cuba conserves and stewards more than 1,000 acres including meadows, forests, streams and riparian corridors.
MEMBERSHIP
Enjoy unlimited general admission, member discounts, guest passes, and more!
Upcoming
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Calendar of Events
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Insects of Early Spring (Online)
Insects of Early Spring (Online)
Spring is an essential time for insects. After the harshness of winter, insects and other wildlife need plentiful food and resources to help them prepare for the new season ahead. Learn about some of the earliest-emerging insects and how you can plan, prep, and primp your garden to make it a haven for these harbingers […]
$19
2 events,
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Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers
Learning to Draw Spring Wildflowers
Discover the fascinating details of spring wildflowers from Mt. Cuba’s gardens in this relaxed, beginner-level class. Develop basic drawing skills through observing and sketching a variety of flowers, leaves, and branches. Explore line, shape, and form, and follow up with instructor demonstrations. Plenty of exercises will build confidence in drawing native spring flowers. No previous […]
$155
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Spring Botanical Art Series
Spring Botanical Art Series
Mt. Cuba Center’s unique collections of native plants are a natural fit for the art of botanical drawing. Using specimens from Mt. Cuba’s gardens, learn how to draw flowers, foliage, and stems realistically in this entry-level program. Start with the elements of line, shape, and form, and progress to developing your own personal drawing style. […]
$155
1 event,
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Enhancing Life in the Soil
Enhancing Life in the Soil
Native plant communities are supported by healthy, balanced soils that contain a vast array of living organisms including microbes, insects, and other fauna. Learn the basics of soil science, the value of organic matter and its role in soil structure and nutrition, and the importance of soil organisms. Learn how to make and use compost […]
$229
5 events,
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Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens
Keystone Species for Pollinator Gardens
Do you want to bring more butterflies, birds, and bees into your garden? Join Mt. Cuba Center’s public programs assistant, Leah Brooks, to find out which plants will give you the most bang for your buck. Bring a list of your favorites to the nursery this spring and create the ultimate pollinator-friendly garden. This program […]
$19
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Spring Gardening Saturday
Spring Gardening Saturday
Get ready to dig, plant, and cultivate this spring by learning eco-friendly ideas and gardening tips from the pros. Discover how to garden in harmony with nature and select the best native plants for your yard. Establish a plan to tackle springtime garden tasks and discover new ideas. Enjoy an entire daylong lineup or register […]
$69
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Doing Your Best in the Garden
Doing Your Best in the Garden
Spring is coming, and with it, our desire to get going in the garden. This class is a crash course in best garden practices to be a good steward of the land. Learn when to prune and cut back plants with the least disturbance to hibernating pollinators. Understand how to start tackling invasive species. Learn […]
$19
1 event,
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Nature as Therapy
Nature as Therapy
Taking a deep breath of fresh air. Using the senses and power of observation to engage with nature. These are just a few therapeutic horticulture strategies that can be used to enhance one’s health and well-being. Participants in this workshop will learn about the history and the numerous benefits that result from engaging with nature. […]
$29
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
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Getting Started with Native Plants
Getting Started with Native Plants
Spend the day with Nancy Bell, garden consultant and professional horticulturist. Begin with a selection of tried-and-true species that can blend in with your existing plantings. Learn how simple it is to garden with the best locally available native trees, shrubs, and perennials. Lunch and a garden tour are included. Ideal for both novice and […]
$99
1 event,
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Native Plants of Spring
Native Plants of Spring
Native plants of the Eastern Temperate Forest are beautiful, inspiring, and critically important for healthy landscapes. From the subdued colors and fragrances of spring wildflowers to the exuberance of summer perennials and the captivating hues of fall foliage, discover a wealth of plants that satisfy your gardening needs throughout the seasons. Using Mt. Cuba Center’s […]
$205
0 events,
2 events,
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Garden Enthusiast Tour
Garden Enthusiast Tour
Take an in-depth look at the gardens and discover how to apply sustainable gardening practices. Learn about environmental topics such as climate change, systems-thinking, and consciously sourcing native plants for your region. This tour expands on concepts covered in the introductory Welcome Walk. Tours include walking over rolling terrain and mulched paths. Tickets include admission […]
$4 – $19
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Sustainable Landscape Techniques
Sustainable Landscape Techniques
Create more ecologically sound landscapes by implementing a variety of sustainable gardening and landscaping techniques. Learn how to manage and conserve water using rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. Reduce the demands of lawn care by adding meadow areas and increase your energy savings with strategically placed layered plantings. Develop your garden to support a […]
$169
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
3 events,
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Rare Plant Conservation Primer Section A: Canceled
Rare Plant Conservation Primer Section A: Canceled
Rare plant conservation is a science that requires a high degree of expertise and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, such as botanical identification and species permits. Gain a deeper understanding of rare plants and the systems to classify and protect them with Élan Alford, Mt. Cuba Center’s conservation fellow. Explore the gardens with Élan as she […]
$39
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Achieve Pain-Free Gardening
Achieve Pain-Free Gardening
Gardening, like any outdoor activity, involves a wide variety of movements that are hard on your joints, from lifting, pushing, and pulling to getting up and down from the ground repeatedly – all in just one day! When done incorrectly, you increase your risk of gardening-related injuries, no matter what age you are. Dr. McConnell […]
$29
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Yoga: Section A
Yoga: Section A
Increase range of motion, core body strength, and flexibility through the practice of yoga in a lovely garden setting. Focus on stretching techniques that safely promote proper spinal position, balance, and joint health. No experience is necessary. Bring a yoga mat, towel, and wear comfortable clothing. (Ages 18 and over) This program takes place in […]
$99
0 events,
2 events,
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Weeds 101: Package
Weeds 101: Package
Think of what gardening would be like without the world of weeds. Learn how to identify the most common annual and perennial lawn and garden weeds using leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds. The fall section covers species that should be removed before winter, making next year’s garden more maintenance-free. Ecologically friendly methods of managing weed […]
$54
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Weeds 101: Spring Section
Weeds 101: Spring Section
Think of what gardening would be like without the world of weeds. Learn how to identify the most common annual and perennial lawn and garden weeds using leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds. The fall section covers species that should be removed before winter, making next year’s garden more maintenance free. Ecologically friendly methods of managing […]
$29
1 event,
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Rare Plant Conservation Primer: Section B: Canceled
Rare Plant Conservation Primer: Section B: Canceled
Rare plant conservation is a science that requires a high degree of expertise and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, such as botanical identification and species permits. Gain a deeper understanding of rare plants and the systems to classify and protect them with Élan Alford, Mt. Cuba Center’s conservation fellow. Explore the gardens with Élan as she […]
$39
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
2 events,
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The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals
The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals
Skunk cabbage, bloodroot, and trout lilies are among the first signs of spring and warmer weather ahead. Spring ephemeral wildflowers must complete part of their life cycles before the tree canopy leafs out, reducing light levels at the forest floor. These plants face many challenges including unpredictable weather and pollinator availability. Spring ephemerals have special […]
$29
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Terrific Trillium
Terrific Trillium
Mt. Cuba’s premier collection of native trilliums provides a spectacular floral display each spring. Amy Highland, director of collections, presents an informative overview of our efforts to protect and conserve this iconic genus and discusses their culture and care as garden plants. A tour of our woodland gardens to see these jewels of the forest […]
$29
0 events,
2 events,
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Learning the Language of Birds
Learning the Language of Birds
Calling all bird lovers! When a bird sings, it’s telling you what it is and where it is. Increase your chances of successfully sighting and identifying songbirds “by ear” this spring using Holly Merker’s intriguing strategies. Learn how, why, and when birds sing, and come away with foundational skills for understanding and learning the language […]
$39
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Ornitherapy for your Mind, Body, Soul
Ornitherapy for your Mind, Body, Soul
Making connections to the birds in your own yard is not only fun, it boosts overall good health and well-being. Finding balance in our busy and pressured lives can be challenging, but if we allow birds and nature to slow us down, we improve our overall well-being. Research shows that exposure to nature actively reduces […]
$29
6 events,
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Every Bird Counts: Community Science
Every Bird Counts: Community Science
Millions of observations made by community scientists in the past few years have greatly expanded our understanding of bird migration. This class provides a more detailed picture than ever before about where and when birds migrate and the geographic and atmospheric conditions that influence their flights. Join the community science brigade and learn how to […]
$29
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The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals
The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals
Skunk cabbage, bloodroot, and trout lilies are among the first signs of spring and warmer weather ahead. Spring ephemeral wildflowers must complete part of their life cycles before the tree canopy leafs out, reducing light levels at the forest floor. These plants face many challenges including unpredictable weather and pollinator availability. Spring ephemerals have special […]
$29
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The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals: Section B
The Secret Lives of Spring Ephemerals: Section B
Skunk cabbage, bloodroot, and trout lilies are among the first signs of spring and warmer weather ahead. Spring ephemeral wildflowers must complete part of their life cycles before the tree canopy leafs out, reducing light levels at the forest floor. These plants face many challenges, including unpredictable weather and pollinator availability. Spring ephemerals have special […]
$29
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
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Bark Before Dark
Bark Before Dark
Calling all dog and nature lovers for this exclusive opportunity to enjoy Mt. Cuba’s trails with your pup! Take in the scenery and enjoy the “golden hours” before sunset while beating the daytime heat. Parking for this event is at 1001 Old Wilmington Road. Guests must remain on trails and dogs must be leashed at […]
$5
1 event,
-
The Beginner’s Native Perennial Garden
The Beginner’s Native Perennial Garden
Well-planned perennial gardens provide a variety of textures and colors from spring through fall. Learn how to create a garden plan, select hardy native plants for shade, sun, wet, or dry areas, and properly prepare, install, and maintain the garden to ensure a healthy, beautiful composition of plants. Leave with a basic layout of a […]
$39
2 events,
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Wildflowers in Color
Wildflowers in Color
Bring yourself to the next level with drawing native wildflowers from Mt. Cuba’s unique collections. Continue to learn basic botanical drawing skills, such as composition, scale, and perspective, while introducing simple color techniques that add another dimension to your work. A series of step-by-step exercises, instructor demonstrations, and one-on-one feedback sessions provide a strong foundation […]
$155
Tick Talk (Online)
Tick Talk (Online)
Join Delaware’s tick biologist to learn all about tick biology, ecology, behavior, and associated health risks. Learn how to identify the most common species in Delaware, why they’re a bigger problem than ever before, and practical tips for keeping your family, pets, and yard tick safe. This program takes place online Thursday, April 27. About […]
$19
1 event,
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Wildflower Weekend
Wildflower Weekend
Experience a magnificent display of native spring blooms at the peak of their glory; enjoy three days of live music, gardening activities, outdoor family programming, and more. A variety of food selections and native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. View the full schedule at mtcubacenter.org/wildflower. Free for members and included with […]
Free – $15
1 event,
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Wildflower Weekend
Wildflower Weekend
Experience a magnificent display of native spring blooms at the peak of their glory; enjoy three days of live music, gardening activities, outdoor family programming, and more. A variety of food selections and native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. View the full schedule at mtcubacenter.org/wildflower. Free for members and included with […]
Free – $15
1 event,
-
Wildflower Weekend
Wildflower Weekend
Experience a magnificent display of native spring blooms at the peak of their glory; enjoy three days of live music, gardening activities, outdoor family programming, and more. A variety of food selections and native plants will be available for purchase, while supplies last. View the full schedule at mtcubacenter.org/wildflower. Free for members and included with […]
Free – $15
1 event,
-
Bark Before Dark
Bark Before Dark
Calling all dog and nature lovers for this exclusive opportunity to enjoy Mt. Cuba’s trails with your pup! Take in the scenery and enjoy the “golden hours” before sunset while beating the daytime heat. Parking for this event is at 1001 Old Wilmington Road. Guests must remain on trails and dogs must be leashed at […]
$5
1 event,
-
Pyrography – Woodburning Art for Beginners: Section A
Pyrography – Woodburning Art for Beginners: Section A
Create your own beautiful wood-burned artwork in this one-of-a-kind workshop. Discover different woodburning techniques, compare how different types of wood burn, and explore your artistic side by creating various textures, shapes, and designs with a simple-to-use wood-burning pen. All supplies are provided; just bring your creative spirit! This program takes place in person at Mt. […]
$44
1 event,
-
Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih®: Section A
Introduction to T’ai Chi Chih®: Section A
This introductory-level, easy-to-learn set of 20 movements helps dissolve tension, reduce chronic pain, and improve balance. Based on the ancient Chinese principles of activation and circulation of energy (chi), T’ai Chi Chih® is an easily adaptive and enjoyable program that can be done by anyone, regardless of age or physical ability. Comfortable clothing is recommended. […]
$132
5 events,
-
Native Vines
Native Vines
Whether scrambling over a split rail fence or cascading from a rustic arbor, vines give height, structure, and visual interest to the landscape while enhancing the ecological value of a garden. Learn how to use and grow native vines that have colorful flowers and provide shelter, food, and nectar to resident and visiting wildlife. This […]
$29
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Spring Window Box: Section A
Spring Window Box: Section A
Punctuate the beginning of gardening season with a colorful selection of sun-loving native plants planted in a window box handcrafted with lumber from Mt. Cuba’s property. This program takes place in person at Mt. Cuba Center Friday, May 5, 2023. About the Instructor: Susan Dixon is the perennial plant buyer and department manager at Gateway […]
$84
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Spring Groundcovers
Spring Groundcovers
Kick mulch to the curb and plant a tapestry of hardy native plants for a more visually appealing and ecologically valuable landscape. Discover ten attractive, tough, and versatile species to use as groundcovers for spring and early summer appeal. This program takes place in person at Mt. Cuba Center Friday, May 5, 2023. About the […]
$29
5 events,
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Yoga: Section B
Yoga: Section B
Increase range of motion, core body strength, and flexibility through the practice of yoga in a lovely garden setting. Focus on stretching techniques that safely promote proper spinal position, balance, and joint health. No experience is necessary. Bring a yoga mat, towel, and wear comfortable clothing. (Ages 18 and over) This program takes place in […]
$50
-
Pyrography – Woodburning Art for Beginners: Section B
Pyrography – Woodburning Art for Beginners: Section B
Create your own beautiful wood-burned artwork in this one-of-a-kind workshop. Discover different woodburning techniques, compare how different types of wood burn, and explore your artistic side by creating various textures, shapes, and designs with a simple-to-use wood-burning pen. All supplies are provided; just bring your creative spirit! This program takes place in-person at Mt. Cuba […]
$44
-
Shade-Loving Perennials
Shade-Loving Perennials
Nearly every gardener has experienced the problem of too much shade, leaving them wondering, “What can I grow here?” This class addresses those challenges, from identifying the degrees of shade that exist in your yard, to selecting the very best plants for those conditions. Discover how to turn a shaded garden into a lovely sanctuary […]
$29