Educational Programs

Cultivating connections between people and plants through transformative learning experiences.

For over 30 years, The North Carolina Arboretum has been a premier destination for environmental education in the Southern Appalachians. Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced naturalist, our programs provide inspiring ways to deepen your understanding of the natural world.

Guided Tours

Join our expert horticulturists for an in-depth exploration of seasonal highlights and hidden garden gems.

Workshops

Hands-on classes ranging from bonsai styling to botanical illustration for lifelong learners.

Youth Programs

Engaging summer camps and after-school programs that foster a lifelong love of nature.

FOR THE CURIOUS

Nature Discovery Program

Our flagship discovery program invites participants to engage directly with the Appalachian ecosystem. Led by expert naturalists, these immersive sessions cover local ecology, plant identification, and the intricate relationships within our regional environment.

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HANDS-ON LEARNING

Garden Workshops

Roll up your sleeves and learn practical skills from our master horticulturalists. From organic pest management and native landscaping to botanical illustration and bonsai cultivation, our workshops offer valuable knowledge you can apply in your own backyard.

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STEWARDSHIP

Conservation Education

Understanding is the first step toward preservation. Our conservation courses highlight the critical importance of native biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable practices essential for protecting the Southern Appalachian region.

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