National Garden Club Schools
Environmental School
The mission of the Environmental Schools is to teach environmental literacy to cherish, protect and conserve the living earth. The courses teach participants environmental literacy, appreciation of the natural world, encourage action for sustainable development and appreciation for the interrelation of all natural things. Land conservation, water conservation and air quality are particularly emphasized.
A current listing of environmental schools can be found here.
Flower Show School
Flower Show School is a comprehensive program that teaches all you need to know about judging, entering, competing, and chairing an NGC flower show. There are 4 courses each generally scheduled over a 2-3 day period, and each with a specific curriculum that includes horticulture, design, and flower show procedure (FSP). If you are considering becoming a flower show judge, planning to chair a flower show, or simply want to learn more, your first step is to attend Course I. Subjects are taught by qualified instructors and outlines will be provided.
Gardening School
Gardening School consists of a series of four courses, scheduled over two days of instruction, followed by an exam for those interested in becoming a NGC accredited Gardening Consultant. Courses cover all aspects of horticulture: gardening, understanding soil structure, pruning techniques, identifying plants, etc. Topics include basic botany, soils, annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, fruits, vegetables, lawns, pests, plant diseases, plant classification and selected subjects of local interest. Additional topics may include reconciliation ecology and creating backyard habitats to help endangered species such as pollinators and amphibians as well as working with youth.
A current listing of flower show schools can be found here.
Landscape Design School
Since its founding in 1958, professional instructors have maintained the high standards originally incorporated in the landscape design study program. Students acquire the tools for making their own gardens more beautiful and easier to maintain. Students have been motivated to serve in political decision-making areas where awareness of the impact of a well-designed landscape can enhance the beauty and enjoyment of life in the public arena.
