Conservatory
As our dependency on technology increases, we are losing nature’s place in our daily lives. The FPC staff is committed to the environment and offers programs that encourage the enjoyment of, engagement in and ability to learn more about nature!
Environmental education integrates academic disciplines, stimulates the academic and social growth of young people and promotes conservation of the natural environment. Join us at FPC for fun, nature-inspired programming!
| . |
February 6 – March 6 – April 3 – May 1 10:30-11:00 AM All are welcome for story time at the Friendship Park Conservatory! What happens to the fish, turtles, and other pond creatures in winter? In this class, we will investigate what happens under the frozen pond. Dress for the weather. Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 PM | February 26 What does a seed need to sprout? This hands-on class will show the best way to get a seed to sprout and teach the techniques to care for seedlings until they are ready to go in the garden. We will tour the greenhouse and take a look at how the plants grown around the district get their start as seeds and plugs. Participants will take home a few planted seeds to watch their experiment grow. Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 PM | March 19 Orchids belong to the largest and most evolved plant family on earth! In this hands-on class, participant will practice repotting an orchid into the proper medium and learn all about the basics of keeping orchids healthy so they rebloom time and time again. Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | February 26 Not sure what to plant, when to start the seeds, or how to keep your garden producing harvests all season? Greenhouse staff is here to help answer your questions and set you up for a successful growing season. Participants will be offered a selection of over a dozen seed varieties that we will start together and will also take home a reusable seed starting tray. Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | March 19 Create a completely unique planter with the opportunity to customize each plant and even the planter to your liking. We will have assorted plants remaining from our sale that will look fabulous in any of our available planter options! This is our most free-form and creative planter design class giving you your choice of thriller, filler and spiller with advice from greenhouse experts. Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | May 14 Ring in spring with a beautiful planter on your stoop or patio. Assemble a dazzling planter with plants designed to bloom early that have been grown in MPPD’s own greenhouse. All planters, plants, and soil supplied but please bring gloves if you have them. Dress for the weather, class may take place outside. Instructor Kaitlyn Saturday, 10:00-11:15 AM | April 19 Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | April 23Youth Programs
Conservatory Kids Story Time
Under the Frozen Pond (Ages 5-9)
R $10 NR $12
New! Seed Starting and Greenhouse Tour (Ages 5-9)
R $13 NR $15Adult Programs
New! Introduction to Orchids (Ages 18+)
R $25 NR $28
Seed Starting and Garden Planning (Ages 18+)
R $23 NR $26
Misc. Plant Sale Planter (Ages 18+)
R $28 NR $31
Spring Planter (Ages 16+)
R $35 NR $38
R $35NR $38
Summer Maker’s Market
The Summer Maker’s Market takes place Saturday, May 31 from 9 AM-1 PM at the Friendship Park Conservatory. This free event allows one to shop an array of local small businesses. Discover unique handmade items for yourself, your home and/or the people in your life!
Vendor Application is now OPEN! Vendor details include:
-8×8 space – select preference of indoor/outdoor
-Fee: $50 indoors (table included) | $40 outdoors (no table included)
-Electricity is available for $15 (limited availability)
-Application closes March 31. Vendors will hear back early April.
Artist-In-Residence Program
This program involves selecting an artist who will have their work showcased for a set period time in the Friendship Park Conservatory. For the purpose of this program, the selected artist should have a connection to the Conservatory, Park District, Mount Prospect Community, or create art that stimulates interest and appreciation for horticulture and the environment.
Friendship Park Conservatory Plant Help Line
847-298-3500 ext. 407
Got plant questions? We’ve got the answers! From native plantings to rare seeds to soil, our team of greenhouse staff are ready to help!
Utilize extension 407 to leave a message for any plant and/or gardening related questions. Provide contact info along with your question(s) and a greenhouse staff member will get back to you as soon as possible.
OUR E-NEWSLETTER
Signup for our newsletter to learn about the latest park district news and events.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact