Friendship Park ConservatoryAs 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!

 

 

 

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Conservatory Kids Story Time

First Thursday of Each Month: September 5, October 3, November 7

10:30-11:00 AM

All are welcome for story time at the Friendship Park Conservatory!

Youth Programs

Spiders: Up Close (Ages 6-9)

No need to fear these eight legged friends. We’ll learn about the spiders we may see on a daily basis in this area and seek them out in their natural environment. Please dress appropriately for the outdoors.

Instructor Kaitlyn

Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 PM | September 4
R $10 NR $12

Click here to register!

Herbarium Decor (Ages 9-13)

In this class, science meets art (as it so often does). We will collect and identify specimens from the grounds of the conservatory for labeling taxonomy and pressing for keepsake and reference. Participants will take home their herbarium pressed inside their own reusable plant press. Note: Herbarium may take 3-4 weeks to dry. Participants may return to FPC between 3:00-4:00 PM the week of November 12-15 to mount their final specimen or may do so at home.

Instructor Natalie

Wednesday, 4:00-5:00 PM | October 9
R $18 NR $20

Click here to register!

Thanksgiving Break Camp (Ages 5-11)

Join us for fun filled days spent crafting, exploring the outdoors and playing games. Campers should be prepared for both indoor and outdoor activities and bring a water bottle and snack.

Monday, 9:30 AM-12:00 PM | November 25
R $36 NR $46

Click here to register!

Tuesday, 9:30 AM-12:00 PM | November 26
R $36 NR $46

Click here to register!

Adult Programs

Bulb Forcing (Adults 18+)

Learn how to get spring bulbs blooming for a colorful indoor display in a process known as “forcing”. Participants will pot up bulbs to take home for a dormant chilling period before their plants begin sprouting in February. We will supply the bulbs, soil and pots. Note: Participants will need a location at home where the temperatures stay around 35-40 degrees (refrigerator, unheated garage, etc.)

Instructors Kaitlyn and Natalie

Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | October 16
R $30 NR $34

Click here to register!

Dividing and Transplanting Perennials (Adults 18+)

Fall is a great time to dig up and divide spring and summer blooming perennials. Participants will walk the Conservatory grounds with staff for demonstration and hands-on practice of dividing and transplanting perennials such as baptisia, irises and more. Participants may take home some of the divisions for planting in their own yards. Please be prepared to work outdoors and bring your own gloves and crates/tubs for transporting plants home.

Instructors Kaitlyn and Natalie

Wednesday, 5:45-7:15 PM | September 25
R $20 NR $24

Click here to register!

Fall Planter (Adults 18+)

Get ready to create another beautiful homegrown planter at the Friendship Park Conservatory Greenhouse. We’ll use an array of fall favorites to add some charm to your porch or patio with a planter designed to thrive in our zone’s autumn temperatures. Bring your gloves, we will supply the pots, soil, plants and tools.

Instructors Kaitlyn and Natalie

Wednesday, 5:45-7:00 PM | October 2
R $38 NR $42

Click here to register!

Saturday, 10:00-11:15 AM | October 5
R $38 NR $42

Click here to register!

Maker’s Market

Sunday, December 8 | 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

The Friendship Park Conservatory is bringing back the popular Winter Artisan Market! Stop by to shop an array of local small businesses, just in time for the holidays! One can also purchase a poinsettias, grown in our very own greenhouse. Sip on some hot coffee or hot chocolate as you enjoy seasonal atrium displays. The event is free to attend. First attendees receive a free succulent, while supplies last.

Vendor Application Form is now OPEN!

Vendor Details:

  • Vendors will be selected on a first come first served basis and with the interest of product variation
  • Each vendor will be designated an 8×8 space along with 1 – 8ft folding table supplied by Friendship Park Conservatory
  • Vendor fee is $40 for a standard spot, and $60 for a spot with electricity (limited availability)

Vendor Application Form

Reach out to Kaitlyn at kscheid@mppd.org with any questions.

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.