As the garden comes alive in May, so do the opportunities to learn, create and connect with nature. Inland Bays Garden Center has gathered a mix of workshops designed to inspire gardeners of all kinds — from hands-in-the-dirt enthusiasts to those who love adding a creative touch to their outdoor spaces.
“Whether you’re looking to deepen your gardening knowledge, support pollinators, explore sustainable practices, or simply enjoy a few hours surrounded by plants and like-minded people, there’s something here for you,” representatives said. “Take a look at what’s blooming this month.”
• Little Trees, Big Joy — Bonsai Club, Wednesday, May 6, 10 a.m. to noon. “Under the guidance of our bonsai experts, we meet on the first Wednesday of every month for hands-on learning, seasonal care tips, demonstrations, and plenty of time to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate each other’s progress. Bring your tree — or simply your curiosity — and grow your skills alongside a friendly community of fellow plant lovers. Whether you’re just curious about getting started or you’ve been wiring and pruning for years, our Bonsai Club welcomes growers of all skill levels.”
• “When Life Gives You Lemons… Paint a Pot!” an acrylic painting class with Kathy Dennin-Meagher, owner Raye of Light Studio, Thursday, May 7, 1:30-3:30 p.m. “Add a splash of fresh, citrusy charm to your garden with this cheerful and relaxing workshop led by Kathy Dennin-Meagher, owner of Raye of Light Studio. In this guided paint-along experience, Kathy will lead you step-by-step as you transform a simple clay pot into a bright and beautiful lemon-themed masterpiece — bursting with sunny color and Mediterranean garden style. Using acrylic paints, you’ll learn easy techniques that are perfect for beginners, while also picking up creative tips and artistic touches that more experienced painters will enjoy. By the end of class, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind garden accent ready to brighten your patio, porch, kitchen window or planting space.”
• Sunflowers on Terra Cotta, an acrylic painting class, with Kathy Dennin-Meagher, owner Raye of Light Studio, Thursday, May 14, 1:30-3:30 p.m. “Add a burst of cheerful color to your garden with this creative and relaxing workshop led by Kathy Dennin-Meagher, owner of Raye of Light Studio. In this guided paint-along experience, Kathy will walk you step-by-step through the process of transforming a simple clay pot into a bright and beautiful sunflower masterpiece. Using acrylic paints, you’ll learn easy techniques that are perfect for beginners while also picking up fresh ideas and artistic tips that more experienced painters will enjoy. By the end of class, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind garden accent ready to brighten your patio, porch, or planting space.”
• Sustainability: A Garden for Today & Tomorrow, with Robin Jenks Vanderlip, Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to noon. “Join Robin Jenks Vanderlip, a certified Master Gardener and Master Naturalist, for an engaging and informative workshop focused on the power of native plants and sustainable gardening practices. In this workshop, you’ll explore how incorporating native plants into your landscape can: reduce water runoff and improve soil stability; help mitigate erosion in vulnerable coastal areas; support pollinators, birds, and beneficial wildlife; strengthen the overall health and resilience of your garden. Whether you’re gardening at home or contributing to a shared space, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with ideas you can put into action right away.”
• Celebrate World Bee Day with an Unforgettable Journey into the Hive — Patrick Carey, owner of Carey Apiary, Frankford, Wednesday, May 20, 10 a.m. to noon. “Celebrate World Bee Day with a fascinating journey into the wonderful world of honeybees at Inland Bays Garden Center. Join local beekeeper Patrick Carey of Carey Apiary for an engaging and informative presentation exploring the vital role bees play in our gardens, our food supply, and the health of our environment. From the beekeeper’s perspective, Patrick will share what really happens inside the hive, how pollinators support thriving landscapes, and simple, practical steps you can take at home to create a bee-friendly garden. Whether you’re a gardener, nature lover or simply curious about these remarkable insects, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the tiny workers that make such a big difference.”
• Pots of Possibilities, Pollinator Power Pots, with Alison Webb Schweiger — Friday, May 22, 10 a.m. to noon. “Turn even the tiniest patio, porch or balcony into a lively pollinator paradise! In this fun and inspiring hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to create beautiful container gardens designed to attract bees, butterflies, and birds — all while adding color, fragrance, and life to your outdoor space. Using a thoughtful mix of perennials, annuals, and pollinator-friendly herbs, we’ll show you how to combine plants for continuous blooms, rich nectar sources, and irresistible habitat throughout the growing season. You’ll discover how to layer color, texture, and height to create containers that are not only stunning—but also hardworking for wildlife. Whether you garden on a deck, doorstep, or sunny windowsill, this class will give you the tools and confidence to make a meaningful difference. Every pot you plant becomes a small but powerful way to support our environment and provide essential food for pollinators.”
• Hydrangeas: Growing, Pruning & Loving Delaware’s Favorite Blooms, with Michele Walfred, Gerri Jackson, Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m. to noon. “Get ready to fall head over heels for hydrangeas! Master Gardeners Gerri Jackson and Michele Walfred return by popular demand for their always standing-room-only presentation, ready to help you grow these garden favorites with confidence and joy. During this blooming good session, you’ll explore the five most popular hydrangea species for Delaware gardens and discover which varieties thrive in sun or shade, which shine in containers or in the landscape, and how to choose the perfect match for your space, whether you garden on a sprawling property or a cozy patio.
“Pruning got you puzzled? Don’t worry! Gerri and Michele will take the mystery out of when and how to prune, explaining the differences between cultivars so your plants can flourish year after year. Whether you’re planting your first shrub or dreaming of a hydrangea-filled haven, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and ready to grow your own hydrangea happiness! Perfect for gardeners of all levels—come ready to learn, be inspired, and maybe make room for just one more hydrangea!”
Workshops fill quickly, and early registration is encouraged. Visit inlandbaysgardencenter.com/events for more information, class schedules and registration.
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