Introduction to Water-Wise Gardening

Discover simple, practical changes to create a more resilient garden in a changing climate—while helping to protect the health of your local watershed. This introductory class is designed for anyone curious about sustainable gardening, especially those who want to understand how water moves through their landscape and how to make the most of it. You’ll learn how to use every day gardening techniques to slow, spread, and sink rainwater, reducing runoff and easing the burden on stormwater systems. We’ll explore strategies such as improving soil health, choosing climate- adapted plants, and reshaping small areas of your yard to better manage water. A special focus will be placed on rain gardens—shallow, beautifully planted depressions that capture stormwater and allow it to soak into the ground. What you’ll learn: What makes a good rain garden site How to select appropriate plants How these features can support pollinators while filtering pollutants before they reach local streams By the end of the class, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to keep more rain on your property, reduce erosion, and create a garden that works in harmony with natural systems. This program takes place in-person at Mt. Cuba Center Saturday, August 29, 2026. 🥬 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) available 🥬 New class About the Instructor: Lucy Dinsmore is a horticulturist and certified arborist who loves learning and teaching about all things growing. She worked in public gardens for ten years and now runs Plant Lady Lucy, a garden design and consulting business in Wilmington. She earned her MS in Horticulture from the University of Minnesota. REGISTER NOW: General Public Individual+ & Dual+ Members Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Members