As part of our America 250 celebration, this workshop makes history and science come alive. We will explore the cool science of color-changing chemistry and become history detectives together. We’ll look closely at the story of indigo—one of South Carolina’s most important early crops—and honor the incredible knowledge, skill, and hard work of the enslaved Africans who mastered its cultivation in the Lowcountry.

Workshop Highlights

Craft Your Own Souvenir: Design and dye a custom cotton tote bag or pillow cover to take home.

The Magic of Blue: Discover the fascinating science of how a green plant turns fabric into bright blue through a chemical reaction that looks like magic.

History Detectives: Connect with the past through a family-friendly look at early American history and the people who shaped the Lowcountry.

Bonus Admission: Extend your day with a self-guided stroll through Magnolia’s Heritage Garden and our unique indigo maze.

Who is this for: Perfect for curious beginners and learners of all ages. No prior dyeing experience required—just bring your creativity and dress for a little messy fun!

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The Arboretum Expo will be held on the West Lawn, the Park and in The Arboretum Centre, with announcements and performances at the Gazebo.

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As part of our America 250 programming, this hands-on workshop dives deep into the science of natural fermentation and oxidation. We will also honor and uncover the complex history of indigo—one of colonial South Carolina’s most powerful cash crops—and the vital knowledge and labor of enslaved Africans who mastered its cultivation in the Lowcountry.

Unwind, create, and connect while enjoying a selection of light bites and refreshments.

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On Monday, September 14th at 6:30 p.m., under the guidance of Ron Zimmerman, you will explore the Gardens during the magical “golden hour” to practice composition, light management, and macro techniques.

About the instructor: Ron Zimmerman, a self-taught natural history photographer for over 40 years, has taught workshops in Alaska’s Inside Passage and many national parks including Denali, Katmai, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Zion, and Bryce Canyon, to name a few. Ron is an award-winning nature and wildlife photographer and was on the educational committee for the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). He has volunteered his time for photojournalistic projects in Brazil, South Africa, and India with many published images chosen for articles and books. Ron loves to dive into all formats of photography, everything from film and digital to smart phones. His love for nature, wildlife, landscapes, streetscapes, and people will become evident in your time spent together.

This workshop is intended for ages 14+. All minors should be accompanied by an adult also registered for the class. This workshop will take place on the Garden Trails and in our South Event Room inside the Visitors Center. Registration is required; space is limited! This class is non-refundable. If you aren’t able to make it and would like to share your registration with a friend, please contact Wellfield at (574) 266-2006 to let us know!

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The New England Fall Flower Show is a place where flowers, communities, and people flourish side by side. ‘Growing Together’ emphasizes shared experiences, collaboration, and the beauty of collective growth. Join us to experience the beauty of what we grow when we grow together!

Presented by Bartlett Tree Experts and in partnership with New England Home and Connecticut Gardener, the 3-day event will feature curated vendors, food trucks, demos and speakers, floral installations, and award-winning plant and flower exhibits.

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The day will begin with a guided hike through Wellfield Botanic Gardens’ Woodland Conservation Garden, Children’s Garden, and, if time allows, the pond shorelines. Led by botanist Scott Namestnik, participants will explore a variety of native plant communities—including woodland, prairie, and wetland habitats—and learn how differences in sunlight, soil, and moisture influence plant growth. Along the way, Scott will demonstrate how to identify native plants using their flowers, fruits, and foliage, distinguish them from similar species, and discuss ways to incorporate native plants into home landscapes.

Following the hike, Mary Wojcik will lead an interactive session on seed collection, storage, stratification, and germination techniques for a variety of plant types. Participants will learn proper collection and storage methods, when to sow seeds, and which species are best propagated vegetatively rather than from seed. Native plants, vegetables, fruits, aquatic plants, and ornamental landscape plants will all be discussed, providing practical knowledge for gardeners of all experience levels.

About the Instructors:

Scott Namestnik is the Botanist for the Indiana Natural Heritage Data Center within the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Fish, Wildlife & Nature Preserves. His work focuses on botanical inventories, habitat assessments, and documenting endangered and threatened plant species. With nearly 30 years of experience studying the flora of the Great Lakes and Midwest, Scott is co-author of Wildflowers of the Midwest and Wildflowers of the Indiana Dunes National Park and serves in leadership roles with several regional conservation organizations.

Mary Wojcik is the City Horticulturist for the City of South Bend’s Venues Parks & Arts Department. A Purdue University Horticulture graduate, she has more than 20 years of experience in native plant production, ecological restoration, fruit and vegetable gardening, and ornamental landscaping. She is passionate about helping gardeners confidently grow and propagate a wide variety of plants.

This workshop is intended for ages 16+. All minors should be accompanied by an adult also registered for the class. This workshop will take place on the Garden Trails and in our South Event Room inside the Visitors Center. Registration is required; space is limited! This class is non-refundable. If you aren’t able to make it and would like to share your registration with a friend, please contact Wellfield at (574) 266-2006 to let us know!

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