Spring Series of Horticulture 2026
Spring Series of Horticulture 2026| Monday, April 13, 20, and 27 | 6-8 PM | Hauberg Estate Carriage House, 1300 24th St, Rock Island, IL 61201
Register below for the Spring Series of classes led by local experts featuring a variety of topics to help you grow in your knowledge of hot topics in home horticulture and the environment.
- TWO PRESENTATIONS per evening!
- The cost is $15 per evening, or $40 for all 3 evenings.
- Dates: Monday April 13, 20 and 27.
- Sessions run from 6 to 8pm, with doors opening at 5:30. Each session is 45 min allowing for 15 min between for Q & A and the provided simple snacks.
April 13th
- Good Bugs in the Garden presented by Ken Johnson Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension
Not all insects we find in our garden are pests. In fact, most insects are not pests at all. Explore some of the most beneficial insects and ways to attract them.
- Building Healthy Soil for Your Landscape presented by Chris Enroth Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension
Healthy soils are the foundation of a thriving landscape. In this presentation, participants will explore the science and the strategies behind building and maintaining soil that supports plant health. We will discuss soil testing and the methods for soil improvement, including compost and cover crops. The session will equip you with the tools to understand your soil and improve its sustainably.
April 20th
- Pollinator Pathways: Using the Illinois Pollinator Website to Guide Action presented by Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension
Discover the world of Illinois pollinators and learn how to support them through gardening and conservation. This program will introduce the Illinois Pollinator website, a statewide resource for pollinator identification, habitat creation, and citizen engagement.
- Landscape Design with Natives: How to Avoid Growing a Jungle presented by Emily Swihart Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension
Historically, home landscapes have reflected residents' needs—from food production to status symbols—often using non-native plants. Today, native plants are gaining popularity, but not all are suitable for home settings. In this session, Emily will cover design basics, selecting well-behaved native plants, and tips for managing native landscapes.
April 27th
The Garden Within: Nourishing Your Gut for Better Health - Kristen Bogdonas Nutrition and Wellness Educator University of Illinois Extension
- Just like a thriving garden needs the right soil, sunlight, and care, your gut depends on balance, nourishment, and variety to flourish. In this session, learn how to “feed” your gut microbiome through foods rich in fiber, fermented favorites, and plant diversity. We’ll dig into practical tips that support digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. Just like your garden needs attention to grow, your gut does too—tend to your inner garden for lasting health.
- Growing, Drying and Using Fresh Herbs presented by Carol Longley Master Gardener University of Illinois Extension and Retired Dietitian
The presentation will cover growing, drying, and using fresh herbs. Some of the herbs covered will be basil, lemon verbena, rosemary, thyme, lavender, and lemon grass.