Classes & Trips
Enjoy a full range of educational classes and programs for learners of all ages! Desert Botanical Garden offers a wide range of classes, with registrations taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Please register early to ensure your space in the program. Advance registration is required for all classes. Confirmation of your enrollment will be sent to you via email after you have completed registration. View Adult Education Cancellation and Refund Policies.
Natural science classes sponsored by Maricopa Audubon Society. 
Search for a class to meet your interests now, or keep reading for more details on our programs:
General $15.00
Member $12.00
Member $12.00
What better way to unwind from daily stress than coming to the Garden for a sundown yoga session? In this unique opportunity, you will be guided as you deepen your consciousness and listen to the sounds of the Garden in the warmth of the last sun-lit hours of the afternoon.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
The beauty of moon-lit nights combined with the splendor of the Garden make for a fantastic evening of learning and fun. Moonscape photography explores the idea of photographing the world in the absence of sunlight.
Class has been CANCELLED.
General $20.00
Member $16.00
Member $16.00
Bend wire and stretch fabric to make a hanging work of art. Start with a walking tour of Whispers of a New World by Carolina Escobar to inspire you and your family to make art of your own.
General $25.00
Member $20.00
Member $20.00
Learn about the age and formation of the Grand Canyon and other significant features of the Colorado Plateau, such as the red rocks of Sedona.
General $68.00
Member $55.00
Member $55.00
Join us for an outdoor and indoor experience, seeing our different species of mesquite trees, harvesting the pods and preparing them using traditional ways, and learning about their incredibly important nutritional value and the potential hazards of improper harvesting practices.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Chef Rachel Albert will teach you how to make luscious, low-sugar, naturally sweetened, dairy-free frozen desserts using coconut milk, fresh and dried fruits, herbs, spices, nuts and local honey.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Explore the basics of container gardening for patio and yard accents. Learn how to select plant size, shape and color to create intriguing containerized arrangements that will impress your neighbors and friends.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
With a surface area similar in size to the African continent, the moon has only recently been mapped in high resolution. Learn about Arizona's deep connection to the exploration and understanding of the moon in the past, present and future.
Class is FULL. Please e-mail AdultEduc@dbg.org to be placed on a wait list.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
Whether you want a small container water garden, a sculptural fountain or a dramatic series of waterfalls and streams, this class will explain the key techniques to adding a water feature to your garden.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Have you ever wondered if it is possible to make your photos look more realistic, with more visible details? Learn how to master High Dynamic Range (HDR), a technology that captures the full range of highlights and shadows.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
High temperatures, low rainfall and windstorms can cause serious damage to trees. This class will help you prepare your trees for our challenging summer season.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
This class will take you through the step-by-step process of removing turf and designing and installing a water conserving, low maintenance landscape.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
Learn correct watering techniques and how to properly control your home irrigation system through hands-on exercises with controller models in the classroom.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Learn about the brutal and brief lives of dragonflies, megafauna members of the insect world. Their exceptional flight and jewel-like colors have captivated humans throughout time.
Trip is FULL. Please e-mail AdultEduc@dbg.org to be placed on a wait list.
General $88.00
Member $70.00
Member $70.00
Night-blooming flowers are a special attraction at the Garden. In this studio-style class, students will choose watercolor, colored pencil or scratchboard to learn how to portray these majestic flowers in white and colored background.
June 18, 2013 - June 20, 2013
Landscape and Gardening
Environmental Challenges of Desert Gardening (Core) Summer
General $75.00
Member $60.00
Member $60.00
Discuss the basic characteristics of desert soils, sun exposure, frost damage and pest problems. This introductory class will show you how to work with these influences to make you a successful desert gardener.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
How about adding some Mexican traditions to your vegan diet? Learn how to save money and improve health by crafting your own artisan tacos and tamales, which just happen to be vegan.
June 21, 2013 - June 23, 2013
Education through Travel and Adventure
Antelope Canyon and Glen Canyon Tour
Trip is FULL. Call Affinity Group Tours at 480 544.0144 to be placed on a wait list.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
Moonscape photography explores the idea of photographing the world in the absence of sunlight. Learn how DSLR cameras have an amazing ability to capture light during a full moon.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
Participants in this class will be guided as they photograph beautiful sunset photos in the Garden and learn how to silhouette subjects in their photography.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Learn about different types of volcanism and how they can affect the natural world.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
We will discuss the many herbs that are easily grown in the low desert and give essential tips for beginners and advanced gardeners. Learn how herbs can be the right plant in the right place in your garden.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Unique for its invisible flowers, figs produce edible fruit that is not only delicious but also has one of the highest amounts of dietary fiber available in any fruit. In this class, you will learn about this extraordinary plant...
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
In the Southwest, there are monsoons and haboobs, seasonal weather features that can unleash powerful winds and torrents of rain or dust. Join us at the Garden to learn more about these natural phenomena.
General $112.00
Member $90.00
Member $90.00
Similar to pencil illustration, pen and ink allows students and artists to reveal nuances of the botanical treasures they are depicting. Learn the tools and techniques used in pen and ink illustration.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Learn how to use all features of Photoshop Elements so that editing, organizing and sharing your photos is quick and fun.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Learn about valuable plants for summer color in the Sonoran Desert, basic color theory, and landscape color design principles. Participants will be given a list of specific plants that provide good summer color for local gardens.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Learn about the mating strategies of various species of wildlife and the exploits used by animals to carry on their lineage. The diversity of reproductive strategies provides key insights into the function and evolution of the natural world.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Join Jason Isenberg to learn basic approaches for designing and planting herb gardens. We will start with the soil and learn about proper soil pH and composition for optimal herb gardens.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Many of us retreat to Arizona's high country in the summer. Among the most common birds at these higher elevations are robins, bluebirds, thrushes and solitaires. In this class, we will learn which species to expect, their relationships, and how to identify them.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and nutritional profile, rhubarb is considered a super food, and in this class, we will provide you some great ways to incorporate it in your diet.
Class is FULL. Please e-mail AdultEduc@dbg.org to be placed on a wait list.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Learn about plate tectonics and faults as they relate to Arizona. This class will explore the nature and hazards of active tectonics, earthquakes and faults.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
A diverse array of succulents can be planted in your landscape or containers. This class will provide you with easy-to-use techniques for overall care and maintenance to achieve healthy and vibrant plants.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Sauces are seen as one of the most refined aspects of cuisine, and nearly every culture has at least one iconic sauce. Traverse the globe with us as we prepare half a dozen sauces worth getting to know.
General $75.00
Member $60.00
Member $60.00
Join a group of artists doing a book of flowers from plants at the Garden. Learn the fine art of painting on vellum using watercolor and the traditional dry brush technique often used for botanical painting.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
Moonscape photography explores the idea of photographing the world in the absence of sunlight. Learn how DSLR cameras have an amazing ability to capture light during a full moon.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Rainwater and greywater can offer a vast supply of water that is usually viewed as something 'to get rid of.' With appropriate management, we can use these resources to build an incredible oasis in the desert.
General $150.00
Member $120.00
Member $120.00
Explore one of Arizona's most famous "sky islands" as we follow the Catalina highway, starting from an elevation of 2,400 feet in the Lower Sonoran Desert and climbing to the top of Mount Lemmon. We will stop at various elevations during the day, but main destination is the Meadow Trail loop.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Join author and garden designer Scott Calhoun for a journey into the world of garden cactus. Learn just how easy, hardy and rewarding cactus can be in your landsacpe.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Learn about the surprising variety of herbs that do well in containers in a desert environment and how you can successfully grow them in limited spaces.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Learn how to choose plants to match your specific shade conditions and how to create a shady oasis in your own backyard.
Escape the summer and join the Garden for an exceptional experience along the Arctic Circle in Iceland. We will cruise the coastline in the comfort of a superb mega-yacht.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
A properly designed and installed irrigation system is essential to maximize efficiency and use the least amount of water possible to keep plants healthy. Learn how to identify and correct the performance-robbing problems in your irrigation system.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
An early morning walk in the Garden during monsoon season yields many opportunities for pictures. Night-blooming cacti provide an array of flowers that are perfect subjects for artistic photography.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
Kokedama is a variation of the ancient Japanese bonsai technique. Learn this Japanese garden art of creating unique moss containers for hanging gardens or table displays.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
We will explore the diversity of legumes and the many varieties of local desert legumes that can be planted any season in your vegetable garden.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Join Tom Gaskill as we spend time in the Garden, learning the typical summer birds encountered here and how they alter their behaviors in the summer. Because these birds tend to gossip in the evening, participants will be able to learn strategies for identifying birds by their sounds.
General $25.00
Member $20.00
Member $20.00
This class will explore the yin and yang nature of foods and how including more "super foods" and plants in your diet can improve your meditation practice, longevity and health. Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong practices will be discussed, including exercises that enhance balance, posture...
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
Join us to learn more about Arizona's most fearsome arachnids, including the bark scorpion, black widow, blond tarantula and recluse spiders. We will talk about how to find and identify them, and also what to do when dealing with bites.
General $20.00
Member $16.00
Member $16.00
Fly to our desert oasis pond with dragonfly expert Pierre Deviche to see these ancient insects in action and become dragonfly experts.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
Learn about the best plants to attract exquisite adult butterflies and which plants allow them to complete their life cycle.
General $32.00
Member $25.00
Member $25.00
In this hands-on workshop, you will learn the art of sharing personal experiences and storytelling in both oral and written form - of course, using the Garden as your setting and inspiration.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
Learn about the best trees to grow in metropolitan Phoenix. It may seem challenging to find trees that tolerate the Sonoran Desert, but there are many, both native and introduced, that thrive in our area.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
With just a few folds of fabric, a stitch or two, and some glue you can create miniature floral designs that can be used to accessorize clothing, hair, purses, jewelry and crafts.
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Join Chef Rachel Albert as she shows you how to make eating your greens a pleasure. The recipes that will be demonstrated are wheat free, gluten free, and mostly dairy free.
General $56.00
Member $45.00
Member $45.00
Moonscape photography explores the idea of photographing the world in the absence of sunlight. Learn how DSLR cameras have an amazing ability to capture light during a full moon.
August 21, 2013 - August 25, 2013
Education through Travel and Adventure
Gardens and Glass Tour of Seattle
Join us for a quick trip to Seattle where we will visit local gardens and relish the culture of the cool northwest.
General $44.00
Member $35.00
Member $35.00
Learn how to identify plant problems, their causes and the best way to keep your plants healthy.
August 23, 2013 - August 25, 2013
Education through Travel and Adventure
Hart Prairie Preserve Weekend
Join us for an exclusive weekend program at this historic mountain property located at the base of the magnificent San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff.
General $20.00
Member $16.00
Member $16.00
You and your family will make tiny potted gardens perfect for the fairies that might visit you during our hottest months. Help these tiny friends by planting a succulent tree or a mossy lawn!
General $62.00
Member $50.00
Member $50.00
Learn how to prepare the containers and the contents, why acidity matters, how much salt to use, and whether to pressure can or use a boiling water bath. Join us as we put up fresh Hatch chiles, a staple of Southwestern cuisine.
General $38.00
Member $30.00
Member $30.00
This class will cover the importance of plants, their parts and functions. Become a better gardener by understanding how plants grow and reproduce.
General $75.00
Member $60.00
Member $60.00
Enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables every month of the year! This class will discuss month-by-month techniques and ideas for picking and planting to extend each season's harvest.
General $106.00
Member $85.00
Member $85.00
Learn the traditional and modern ways of harvesting prickly pears delicious purple fruits, removing the spines and preparing them into tasty treats from Amy Valdés Schwemm.
March 22, 2014 - March 29, 2014
Education through Travel and Adventure
Special “Kids in Nature” Excursion - Exploring the Sea of Cortez
Spend spring break on the Sea of Cortez! Get your family together for an adventure vacation that is memorable and fun with activities for all skill levels.
About our Programs
Program sizes are limited to ensure quality, and we regret that receipt of your payment does not guarantee enrollment. Your enrollment will be confirmed by email.
Should your program be unavailable, you will be contacted and your payment will be refunded. See below for more information about cancellation and refund policies.
For additional inquiries, email AdultEduc@dbg.org or call 480 481.8146.
Member Discounts
Desert Botanical Garden members receive a 20 percent discount on education programs and pay the lower member fee listed. Become a member today to get member prices.
Cancellation and Refund Policies
Refunds are available for cancellations made at least five (5) business days prior to the event (less a $20 fee). No refunds are available less than five (5) business days and fees/registrations cannot be transferred to another date or program.
- Programs may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment. A full refund will be made in the event the Desert Botanical Garden cancels a program.
- Refunds cannot be issued for missed class sessions.
- Special rules and cancellations fees may apply to off-site programs.
- A waiver of liability may be required for specific programs.
If you are unable to attend an on-site class, you may send an alternate adult participant with your confirmation.
Adult Education Age Requirements
- 13-17 years may attend with an adult. Both must pay full class fees.
- Less than 13 years may not attend.
