Join us for an informative and practical seminar exploring the vital role of beneficial chemicals and insects in maintaining a healthy landscape, while learning effective strategies to identify and manage non-beneficial pests. Designed for landscapers, gardeners, horticulturists, and environmental enthusiasts, this session will cover:

• The role of integrated pest management (IPM) in sustainable landscaping
• How to recognize and encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps
• Common non-beneficial insects and the damage they cause to plants and ecosystems
• Safe and effective use of landscape chemicals, including organic and environmentally friendly options
• Balancing chemical use with ecological health to support pollinators and other helpful organisms

Through engaging presentations and expert insights, attendees will gain actionable knowledge to enhance the resilience, beauty, and sustainability of their landscapes. Whether you're managing a backyard garden or a large-scale property, this seminar offers tools to promote ecological balance and long-term plant health.

Who Should Attend:
Landscape professionals, master gardeners, groundskeepers, nursery staff, and homeowners with an interest in sustainable gardening.

Format: 
This program is taught in person.

• Lectures: Wednesdays, 9/10, 9/17 & 9/24; 5 - 7pm at the CCCC Hyannis Center
• Nature Walk: Saturday, 10/4; 9 - 11am, location TBD

Questions?
Contact Elaine Brown at ebrown@capecod.edu or 508-375-5017. 

Ever wonder what’s really going on inside a plant? Or why are some sweet fruits delights while others can be deadly traps? Join us for a lively and eye-opening seminar that digs into the fascinating world of basic plant and fruit anatomy—and uncovers the surprising truths about the heroes, villains, and misfits of the plant kingdom.

We'll start with the essentials: from roots to leaves, flowers to fruits, you'll get a clear understanding of how plants grow, reproduce, and survive. Then we go deeper exploring the ingenious structures that help plants adapt, the biochemical tricks they use, and what makes a fruit a fruit (and not just a snack).

But it's not all pretty petals and ripe produce. In the second half, we reveal "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly":

• The Good: Miracle plants that feed, heal, and sustain us.
• The Bad: Invasive species, toxic imposters, and botanical bullies.
• The Ugly: Bizarre, grotesque, and downright disturbing plant adaptations you won’t believe are real.

Perfect for beginners, plant lovers, gardeners, or anyone curious about the green life all around us. Expect engaging visuals, weird facts, and maybe a few laughs—because in the plant world, it’s not all sunshine and daisies.

Who Should Attend:
Landscape professionals, master gardeners, groundskeepers, nursery staff, and homeowners with an interest in sustainable gardening.

Format: 
This program is taught in person.

• Lectures: Wednesdays, 10/8, 10/15 & 10/22; 5 - 7pm at the CCCC Hyannis Center
• Nature Walk: Saturday, 11/1; 9 - 11am, location TBD

Questions?
Contact Elaine Brown at ebrown@capecod.edu or 508-375-5017. 

Join us for an informative and hands-on seminar designed for gardeners, landscapers, and plant enthusiasts of all levels. This session will explore the vital role soil plays in plant health and garden success. You'll gain practical knowledge about different soil types, how to assess and improve soil quality, and the importance of soil amendments in creating optimal growing conditions.

We'll also cover the best practices for planting and transplanting – from preparing the site and choosing the right time, to techniques that minimize transplant shock and encourage healthy root development.

Whether you're starting a garden from scratch or improving an existing landscape, this seminar will equip you with the tools and confidence to grow thriving plants.

Topics Covered:

• Soil composition and structure
• Testing and interpreting soil quality
• Organic and inorganic soil amendments
• Proper planting techniques for annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees
• Transplanting strategies for success

Who Should Attend:
Home gardeners, landscape professionals, urban farmers, and anyone interested in building healthier soil and stronger plants.

Format:
This program is taught in person.

• Lectures: Wednesdays, 11/5, 11/12 & 11/19; 5 - 7pm, at the CCCC Hyannis Center
• Nature Walk: Saturday, 11/22; 9 - 11am, location TBD

Questions?
Contact Elaine Brown at ebrown@capecod.edu or 508-375-5017.