Nature Nook Fall Session
2025-09-19 10:00 - 10:45, 2025-09-26 10:00 - 10:45, 2025-10-03 10:00 - 10:45, 2025-10-10 10:00 - 10:45, 2025-10-24 10:00 - 10:45, 2025-10-31 10:00 - 10:45 (America/Detroit) | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Calling all little nature explorers! Join us at Scott Arboretum & Gardens for mornings full of singing, stories, crafts, and dancing. Each session is seasonally themed around nature and the garden. This program is designed for children ages 2 to 4 years old.
Registration Cost:
Members: Free
Non-Members: $40
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Did you know a Family level membership to the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens is only $55 and includes benefits for two adults and up to four children? Become a member of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum here.
SOLD OUT
Program Details

Registration is required and includes all 8 sessions.
Class size is limited.
Registration for members includes participation for up to 4 children and up to 2 caregivers.
Registration for non-members includes one child and their caregiver.
Sessions will start in the Wister Center with a story and craft, followed by a short walk to explore a garden.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Harvest Hues Floral Arranging Workshop
2025-10-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
This program is part of the Delco ARTS Week celebration.
Immerse yourself in the rich tones of autumn during this inspiring flower arranging class led by the award-winning florist, Tissa from Tissarose Florist. Using seasonal blooms and foliage, including a selection from Scott Arboretum & Gardens, Tissa will lead a demonstration on how to create elegant arrangements that echo the warmth and beauty of fall’s changing colors. Participants will then create their own arrangement to take home. Registration includes all materials and supplies.
Registration Cost: (registration closes Oct. 3)
Members: $85
Non-Members: $95
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.

Become a member of the Scott Associates here.
Call 610-328-8024 to register.

Program Details

Registration is required.
Registration closes October 3.
Class is limited to 18 participants.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
After turning a habit into a profitable career, Tissarose has partnered with colleges and universities including Widener, Haverford, Drexel, and Saint Joseph’s, to provide fun and creative workshops and private parties to their students while giving them tips on how to express their personalities through floral design on their own. Along with her university partnerships, Tissarose extends her services to the Philadelphia School District and charter schools in the Philadelphia area. Her collaboration with the school district is personally significant as a native of West Philadelphia and an alumnus of Lamberton High School. Being able to give inner-city students access to different activities is an important part of Tissarose’s mission and values.
Tissarose is a multi-year participant in the Philadelphia Flower Show, where she was featured in the floral design exhibit category and has received multiple medals for her design and participation. She was named Best Florist by Metro Philly in 2024. Tissarose also designed the rose arbor at the 2025 Scott Arboretum & Gardens Rose Celebration.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Introduction to Garden Sustainability Class
2025-10-23 09:30 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
For the past several years, Scott Arboretum & Gardens’ horticulturists have been exploring low-input gardening techniques and evaluating their long-term success in support of Swarthmore College’s ambitious goal to be carbon neutral by 2035. Maintaining roses sustainably, installing water-wise gravel gardens, employing organic turf care, and planting lawn alternatives are a few of the many concepts being implemented. Join Adam Glas, Garden Supervisor, to learn about practical, real-world solutions for making a garden of any size more sustainable. Following the presentation, Adam will lead a walk through the gardens to show these techniques in action.
This course is eligible for the following CEUs:

2 PCH
2 SLC
1.5 APLD

Registration Cost:
Members: $35
Non-Members: $45
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.

Become a member of the Scott Associates here.
Registration Closed

Program Details

Class size limited to 20.
Registration is required.
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
The garden walk portion of this workshop will take approximately 1 hour and may cross uneven, unpaved surfaces.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
Adam Glas, Gardener Supervisor, joined the Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff in 2012. Before that, he worked as Nursery Manager at Terrain (at Styer’s) Nursery in Glen Mills. He was accepted into the Longwood Gardens Professional Gardener (PG) Training Program, completing that program in 2006. He currently serves as president for the PG Alumni Association and vice president of the board of managers at Chenoa Manor. He studied Horticulture and Landscape Design at University of Wisconsin River Falls.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Wreath Workshops
2025-12-03 18:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-04 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-04 18:30 - 20:30, 2025-12-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Create a unique and festive wreath with a variety of freshly-cut greens and natural materials from Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Our pre-wrapped, moss-filled frames allow for long-lasting decorations for your home and also make wonderful holiday gifts. Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff will provide a demonstration and be on hand to guide your creativity.
Registration Cost:
Members: $50
Non-Members: $60
ACCESS [https://www.art-reach.org/access/] Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.

Become a member of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum here.
Session A: Wednesday, December 3 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
SOLD OUT
Session B: Thursday, December 4 from 2 to 4 pm
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Session C: Thursday, December 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
SOLD OUT
Session D: Friday, December 5 from 10 am to 12 pm
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Program Details

Registration is required.
Please bring pruners; registration includes all other materials.
Class limited to 18.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.
If you’ve kept your wreath frames from previous years, you can bring them back to donate to the Holiday Sale.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Wreath Workshops
2025-12-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Create a unique and festive wreath with a variety of freshly-cut greens and natural materials from Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Our pre-wrapped, moss-filled frames allow for long-lasting decorations for your home and also make wonderful holiday gifts. Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff will provide a demonstration and be on hand to guide your creativity.
Registration Cost:
Members: $50
Non-Members: $60
ACCESS [https://www.art-reach.org/access/] Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.

Become a member of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum here.
Session A: Wednesday, December 3 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
SOLD OUT
Session B: Thursday, December 4 from 2 to 4 pm
Session B Registration
Session C: Thursday, December 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
SOLD OUT
Session D: Friday, December 5 from 10 am to 12 pm
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Program Details

Registration is required.
Please bring pruners; registration includes all other materials.
Class limited to 18.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.
If you’ve kept your wreath frames from previous years, you can bring them back to donate to the Holiday Sale.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Specialty Pruning Workshop: Hydrangeas & Roses
2026-03-14 09:30 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn the essential techniques for pruning roses and hydrangeas in this focused, hands-on workshop. Designed for home gardeners of any experience level, this class demystifies when, why, and how to prune each plant for healthier growth and better blooms.
Horticulture Supervisor Adam Glas and Senior Horticulturist Andrew DeGothseir will cover pruning techniques specific to different types of roses and the major hydrangea groups, explaining the key differences between old-wood and new-wood bloomers. You’ll learn how to identify growth patterns, make clean and effective cuts, shape shrubs for long-term structure, and avoid the common mistakes that lead to poor flowering.
Participants leave with practical, seasonally-timed guidance and the confidence to maintain beautiful, productive plants year after year.
Registration Cost:
Members: $35
Non-Members: $45
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Limited seats remain. Call 610-328-8024 to register.
Program Details

Registration is required.
Class size limited to 18.
The inclement weather day will be March 21, 2025 from 9:30 am – 12 pm. Please reserve this on your calendar, as refunds will not be given if you cannot attend the inclement weather date.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenters
Senior Horticulturist Andrew DeGothseir joined the staff in 2019. He holds a B.S. in Ornamental Horticulture and Environmental Design from Delaware Valley University. Before joining the horticulture staff, he worked at Haverford College, Westtown School, Henry Schmieder Arboretum, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, and Germantown Friends School where he was instrumental in creating the Betty Cary Arboretum.
Horticulture Supervisor Adam Glas joined the Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff in 2012. Before that, he worked as Nursery Manager at Terrain (Styer’s) Nursery in Glen Mills. He was accepted into the Longwood Gardens Professional Gardener (PG) Training Program, completing that program in 2006. He served as president for the PG Alumni Association and vice president of the board of managers at Chenoa Manor. He studied Horticulture and Landscape Design at University of Wisconsin River Falls.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to three guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Dahlias for Days: An Introductory Workshop
2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Explore the colorful world of dahlias in this hands-on workshop, perfect for new and seasoned growers alike. Ted Patterson, long-time Scott garden volunteer and dahlia enthusiast, believes there is a dahlia form, color, or habit for everyone. He will share his knowledge of how to choose healthy tubers and even grow from cuttings or seeds. We’ll discuss soil prep, planting, staking, and the care to get your dahlias through their long bloom period. The class includes an easy, practical overview of overwintering—whether you plan to store tubers indoors or leave them in the ground—so you can enjoy your plants year after year.
No prior experience is required. You’ll leave with practical knowledge, helpful resources, and your own dahlia tuber to start your garden journey.
Registration Cost:
Members: $35
Non-Members: $45
ACCESS Cardholder : $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Program Details

Registration is required.
Class size limited to 18.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
Ted Patterson is a long-time Arboretum Assistant who volunteers in the garden and chairs events. He is also on the board of Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens and a member of the Greater Philadelphia Dahlia Society. Dahlias have been expanding their footprint in his garden for over 20 years.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to three guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Art in the Garden: Youth and Family Workshop
2026-05-02 09:00 - 10:30 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join Young Rembrandts at Scott Arboretum & Gardens for a fun morning of art and nature—a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day! Each participant will design a beautiful flower creation using watercolor pencils while being immersed in the springtime garden. The workshop’s step-by-step guided instruction allows participants of all abilities to thrive in a collaborative environment. This program is open to children ages 5 and up with their caregiver.
Registration Cost:
Member: $20
Non-Member: $30
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Register Now
Program Details

This workshop is for participants ages 5 and up; no experience needed.
All children must be accompanied by a caregiver.
Registration is required for each child and adult participating.
Please include the first name of all participants during registration.
Registration includes all supplies.
Workshop limited to 24 people.
In case of inclement weather, this workshop will be held in the Wister Center.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to three guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Garden Design Basics Workshop
2026-06-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Are you ready to turn your yard into a more thoughtful, functional, and beautiful garden? This introductory workshop is designed for gardeners and homeowners who are starting their garden design journey, either with a blank slate or an established garden in need of rejuvenation.
The workshop will begin with a brief presentation covering essential design principles, how to observe and approach a garden space, and how to develop ideas that fit your site, lifestyle, and budget. You’ll also learn what questions to ask when working with a garden designer or contractor, helping you communicate your goals and make informed decisions.
Following the presentation, participants will spend the majority of the class on an inspirational walk through Scott Arboretum & Gardens, using real landscapes to explore design concepts for their own home and spark new ideas. Participants will be encouraged to discuss, ask questions, and take notes for reference. A garden journal and pen will be provided to take home.
No prior design experience is required—just curiosity and a desire to learn how to start your garden design with confidence.
Registration is now closed.
About the Presenter
The workshop will be led by David Mattern, Horticulturist at Chanticleer, where he cares for the Teacup Courtyards and Vegetable Garden. David holds a degree in Landscape Contracting with an emphasis on design and a minor in Horticulture, and is a graduate of the Professional Horticulture Program at Longwood Gardens, where he is also an instructor. His gardening experience includes work in England and South Africa, and he frequently writes, teaches, and lectures on gardening.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Bulb Lasagna Workshop: Layering for Spring
2026-11-10 13:30 - 15:30 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join us for a hands-on fall planting workshop exploring the artful technique of “bulb lasagna”, a layered approach to planting spring-blooming bulbs for continuous color and extended seasonal interest. Participants will learn how to thoughtfully combine bulbs such as muscari, iris, crocus, tulips, alliums and daffodils, all with different bloom times and planting depths to create a succession of flowers that emerges beautifully from early to late spring.
Guided by Senior Horticulturist Sam Greenberg, this workshop will cover bulb selection, design principles, and planting techniques you can replicate at home. You’ll leave with a planted container of over 80 unique bulbs not easily found at local nurseries and a deeper understanding of how fall planting shapes the spring garden.
Registration Cost:
Members: $60
Non-Members: $70
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Become a member of the Scott Associates here.
Register Here
Program Details

Registration is required.
Registration closes November 3
Class is limited to 18 participants.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
When Sam Greenberg, senior horticulturist, joined the staff in 2025, he brought a wide range of horticultural experience to the team. Sam spent seven and a half years at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. His work there focused on the Visitor Center parking lot and the Oak and Dwarf Conifer Knoll sections, and he also oversaw the storage, maintenance, and distribution of Longwood’s annual Christmas light display. From 2015 to 2018, Sam worked at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, as the Native Plants Gardener, where he specialized in plants native to the Piedmont region. He also completed an extended internship at Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library, gaining experience in plant records and estate maintenance. Sam earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Horticulture from Virginia Tech. While in school, he worked and volunteered in the University’s Hahn Horticulture Gardens.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Wreath Workshop: Session A
2026-12-02 18:30 - 20:30 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Create a unique and festive wreath with a variety of freshly-cut greens and natural materials from Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Our pre-wrapped, moss-filled frames allow for long-lasting decorations for your home and also make wonderful holiday gifts. Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff will provide a demonstration and be on hand to guide your creativity.
Registration Cost:
Members: $60
Non-Members: $70
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Become a member of the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens here.
Register Here
Program Details

Registration is required.
Please bring pruners; registration includes all other materials.
Class limited to 18.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.
If you’ve kept your wreath frames from previous years, you can bring them back to donate to the Holiday Sale.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Wreath Workshop: Session B
2026-12-03 14:00 - 16:00 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States

Green Wreath Workshop: Session C
2026-12-03 18:30 - 20:30 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States

Green Wreath Workshop: Session D
2026-12-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States

Family Snow Globe Workshop A / B
2026-12-10 16:00 - 19:30 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Celebrate the season with a magical evening at the Arboretum! Families with children ages 3 and up are invited to create a one-of-a-kind snow globe using natural materials inspired by our gardens while enjoying a pizza dinner together.
Choose from one of two workshop sessions: (A) 4:00–5:30 pm or (B) 6:00–7:30 pm. During this guided program, participants will craft a unique holiday keepsake, connect with nature, and make lasting memories with family and friends.
Please register for only one session. Registration is required for every attendee ages 3 and up, including both children and adults. Each registration includes pizza dinner and materials to create one snow globe. All children must be accompanied by at least one registered adult.
Register – Session A
Register – Session B
Registration Cost:
Members: $20 (adults and children)
Non-Members: $30 (adults and children)
ACCESS Cardholder: $2
