Workshops & Walk Abouts
From free walk abouts to hands-on workshops, here’s where you’ll find every upcoming event at Berns.
Choose Your Experience
Guided tours through the garden centers and greenhouses led by our garden experts. Free to attend; registration required so we can plan for your group.
Make-and-take classes like porch pots, terrariums, and spring dish gardens. Your purchase reserves your spot and your supplies.
January 10th | 11:00 am
Terrarium Design Workshop
This hands-on workshop includes everything you need: glass cloche, pebbles, soil, moss, charcoal and live plants. We’ll guide you step-by-step through plant selection, design, and care so you can take home a terrarium that thrives.
January 24th | 11:00 am to 3:00pm
Craft Vendor Fair
Join us in the Middletown greenhouses! We are hosting local small businesses. You can shop rows of handmade creations from our local small business. Bring a friend and enjoy an afternoon of supporting our community.
February 7th | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Pet Days of Winter
Several nonprofit partners will be onsite in Middletown with pets available for adoption, along with resources and education focused on responsible pet ownership. You’ll also find local vendors offering handmade pet treats, accessories, and goods for pets and their people.
Whether you’re hoping to adopt, support local rescues, or simply spend time with fellow animal lovers, Pet Days of Winter is a relaxed and meaningful way to give back to animals in our community.
March 28 | 11:00 am
Spring Dish Garden
2026 Class Availability Coming Soon
Celebrate the arrival of spring with a hands-on planting experience! Join us for our Spring Dish Garden workshop, where you’ll create your own stunning early-season planter with vibrant blooms.
Walk Abouts
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Fruit Trees & Bramble Plants
11:00 am on March 14th
Walk the Nursery with our team and learn the basics of growing fruit trees and bramble plants. We’ll cover care, planting tips, and what grows best in our area.
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Helleborus Showcase
11:00 am on March 21st
Join our team for a guided Walk About highlighting helleborus, including varieties, bloom timing, and where they shine in the winter garden.
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Shade Garden Hydrangeas
11:00 am on May 9th
Learn which hydrangeas thrive in shade and how to care for them during this guided Walk About in the greenhouse. We’ll cover plant selection, placement, and seasonal care for success in shaded gardens.
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All About Lavender
11:00 am on May 13th
Join our team for a guided Walk About focused on the different varieties of lavender. Learn how they differ in growth habit, fragrance, and garden use, and which types are best suited for our region.
Free Walk About Registration
Choose your location and Walk About topic, then reserve your spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Walk Abouts really free?
Yes! These sessions are our way of giving back to the community and supporting our values of sustainability, shopping local, and sharing 65 years of gardening expertise. As a locally owned and operated garden center, we are committed to educating and empowering our community to grow confidently while making environmentally conscious choices.
How long do Walk Abouts last?
Each session typically lasts 30-45 minutes, depending on the topic and engagement from attendees.
Who will be leading the Walk Abouts?
Our horticulture experts and knowledgeable staff will guide you through each Walk About, sharing insights, answering questions, and offering hands-on demonstrations. Many of our team members are Master Nursery Technicians, trained in best horticultural practices to provide expert-level guidance. You’ll get firsthand advice from certified professionals passionate about plants and sustainability.
What if it rains?
Walk Abouts will be held, rain or shine! We embrace Mother Nature, and if the weather takes a turn, we’ll move the session under shelter or into one of our greenhouses. Dress accordingly and join us for a great learning experience—rain or shine!
Why Attend a Walk About?
✔ Hands-On Learning: Gain expert insights from our seasoned horticulturists.
✔ Actionable Takeaways: Walk away with practical gardening techniques.
✔ Community Connection: Meet fellow plant lovers and share ideas.
✔ Absolutely FREE: No cost—just bring your curiosity!
What if I can’t attend?
No worries! We’ll continue offering Walk Abouts throughout the season. Keep an eye on our schedule and sign up for the next one.
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