Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County to Host
42 Happy & Healthy Horticultural Events in March
+ Qi Gong Classes – March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
+ Members Only Morning Walks – March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
+ Beginner Watercolor with Carl Stoveland – March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
+ Tai Chi at Mounts – March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
+ Introduction to Bonsai and Saikei – March 4
+ The Splendor of Painting Foliage Workshops – March 4, 1, 18, 25
+ Full Moon Release Ceremony – March 5
+ Gentle Chair Yoga & Meditation Series – March 7, 14, 21
+ Watercolor at the Garden – March 7, 14, 21, 28
+ Why I Grow Orchids with Thanh Nguyen – March 11
+ Patrick Dougherty Presentation, Tour & Book-Signing – March 11
+ Explore the Beautiful Orchid Species – March 17
+ Botanical Photography Workshops – March 19, 26
+ How to Create an Aromatherapy Garden – March 24
+ Gentle Yoga with Heather Berg – March 25
+ Heart Opening Cacao Ceremony – March 26
+ Honey, I Shrunk the Flowers! – March 28
(West Palm Beach, FL – February 14, 2023) Bursting into Spring with another horticultural flourish, Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be hosting 42 happy and healthy, fun-in-the-sun workshops, classes and special events in March.
“This is the perfect time for people of all ages to come out and enjoy some of the healthy, artsy and horticultural events at our beautiful and blooming 20-acre oasis, located just minutes from downtown West Palm Beach,” invites Mounts Curator-Director Rochelle Wolberg.
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Qi Gong
with Roxanne Cumberland
Wednesdays, 10 am to 11 am
$10 for members; $15 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; size of “inside” classes is limited to 20 adults.
Relieve stress and increase metabolism, flexibility, and strength. Qi Gong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique. The exercises include simple, slow movements (which mimic nature), meditation, and focused breathing—similar to Tai Chi but less structured.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Wednesday Member’s Only Morning Walks
with April Krebs
Wednesdays, 8:30 am to 9:30 am
$5 for members.
Registration is required; all classes are non-refundable; tour size is limited to 15 adults.
Join us on these early morning Garden walks to reconnect and recharge with nature. Walk for fitness and for fun, stopping along the way to enjoy the early morning quiet. Experience the beauty of the Garden before the crowds arrive. Mounts Special Projects Manager and garden lover April Krebs will have a different subject to focus on each week noting the various horticultural changes.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Beginner Watercolor
with Carl Stoveland
Thursdays, 10 am to 12:30 pm
$15 for members; $20 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
If you have always wanted to try watercolor but been overwhelmed by it then this is the class for you. Start with the basics, focusing on a new technique and a simple painting each week. Join artist Carl Stoveland and share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. Begin each class with a Nature Walk through the Garden led by the artist. The purpose of the walk is to inspire and give participants an opportunity to capture photos with their phone or tablet along the way. The group will then move indoors, where the instructor will start with a quick demo topic then assist people in choosing a subject and getting started on his/her watercolors. This class is for adults only. Bring pencils, pens, paints sketchpad or watercolor pad, (or journal) and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet).
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Tai Chi at Mounts
with Josefina McMahon
Fridays, 10 am to 11 am
$10 for members; $15 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 25 adults.
Tai Chi features flowing and gentle, but profoundly powerful movements. The main objective of the practice of Tai Chi is to magnify, strengthen and encourage the flow of the internal energy, the “chi”. When the “chi” flows throughout the body, one experiences over-all health, rejuvenation, and internal joy. This Tai Chi class is based on Sun Style Tai Chi which combines Qi Gong and Tai Chi.
Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 4
Introduction to Bonsai and Saikei
with Michael Spencer
Saturday, 10 am to Noon
$20 for members; $30 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 35 adults; all classes are non-refundable.
This class is perfect for anyone interested Bonsai or the ancient art of Saikei. Perennial Mounts Volunteer Michael Spencer will discuss the difference between the two, and how to create a Bonsai or mini-Saikei forest. Participants will be able to design a starter plant to take home, while also learning the basic tools needed for the maintenance of these miniature living treasures. Plant and Bonsai container will be provided but participants should bring garden snips or small scissors.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 4, 11, 18, 25
The Splendor of Painting Foliage: Four Workshops
with Artist Deborah Bigeleisen
Saturdays, 10 am to 12:30 pm
$250 members; $275 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Class size limited to 12 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
This series of four painting workshops is focused on capturing the splendor of foliage. Deborah Bigeleisen has a comfortable approach to teaching and will demonstrate a variety of techniques. She will explore the elements of composition, color, and technique, and some fundamentals of color theory. Students will work from a reference that inspires them. Students should bring several photographs or (other artists’) paintings of foliage that inspire them. The purpose of this is to give the student a ‘road map,’ a direction or a visual image of what they are aspiring to paint. Students might consider taking photographs at Mounts Botanical Garden prior to the first class – think about framing your composition through the camera lens. The variety of styles adds excitement and energy to the class, and everyone learns from one another. It is advisable to print out reference pictures on photo paper or on a laptop to capture a larger image in more vivid colors; cell phones are not recommended because the image is too small and does not stay visible indefinitely. This series is well suited for students of all levels working in oils or acrylics. For any questions contact Deborah Bigeleisen at info@deborahbigeleisen.com.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 5
Full Moon Release Ceremony + Yoga Nidra + Gong Healing
with Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10 am to 11:30 am
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) .
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
Upon arrival participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from day-to day life, followed by a Release Ritual to learn how to release what no longer serves you with “Intention and Grace and with power of Full Moon”. Finally, attendees will relax into Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which they will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments. Session includes Opening Sacred Space, Full Moon Release Ceremony, Guided heart opening Yoga Nidra meditation, Sound Healing energetic work, Sharing Circle, and Closing Sacred Space.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 7, 14, 21
Gentle Chair Yoga and Meditation Series
with Jennifer Willms
Tuesdays, 10 am to 11 am
$10 for members; $17 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Package of all 3 classes: $24 members; $45 for nonmembers.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
In this 3-week series, each session will begin with gentle yoga poses seated on chairs to quiet the mind and body. Each week, participants will explore different mediations: walking meditation, visualization meditation, mindfulness meditation, and the art of “forest bathing,” which is simply learning to be still and quiet in the presence of trees without any other distractions. Each session will begin under the covered Gazebo in the Garden. No meditation or yoga experience required, just an interest in learning to quiet our minds so that one can be fully present—in the garden, and in life.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 7, 14, 21, 28
Watercolor at the Garden
With Carl Stoveland
Tuesdays, 10 am to 12:30 pm
$15 for members; $20 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 25 adults.
Join artist Carl Stoveland and share the love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring your pencils, pens, paints sketchpad or watercolor pad, (or journal) and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Some experience preferred. True beginners should consider the Thursday beginners class. Begin each class with a Nature Walk through the Garden led by Stoveland. The purpose of the walk is to inspire participants and give them an opportunity to capture photos with their phone or tablet along the way. The group will then move indoors, where the instructor will start with a quick demo topic then assist students in choosing a subject and getting started on a watercolor.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2023-02/
March 11
Year of the Orchid Event:
Why I Grow Orchids
with Thanh Nguyen
Saturday, 10 am to 11:30 am
$5 members $20 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Presentation size is limited to 75 adults; all classes are non-refundable.
Orchid expert Thanh Nguyen will share stories about how he came to love growing orchids. He has collected them for more than three decades and knows well the joys and disappointments they can bring. As owner-operator of Springwater Orchids in Melbourne, FL, he grows, sells, and breeds many types of orchids, but has come to focus on the genus Paphiopedilum, resulting in numerous award-winning plants and an on-going breeding program. Nguyen will reflect on his love of all the beautiful orchids in his collection, what got him hooked, and what keeps him going.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 11
Stickwork Presentation, Tour & Book Signing
With Artist Patrick Dougherty
Saturday, 1 pm to 2:30 pm
FREE with Garden admission.
Presentation size limited to 75 adults.
Internationally acclaimed environmental artist Patrick Dougherty recently completed the final large-scale Stickwork installation of his illustrious art career at Mounts Botanical Garden using 30,000 pounds of live willow branches. He is returning for one day to celebrate this historical milestone and will be leading a fascinating discussion of his design and building process, answer questions, and share what inspires his creativity. He will also be signing MBG’s limited edition Stickwork catalog which will be available for purchase. Dougherty has built over 250 of his Stickwork sculptures from Scotland to Japan to Brussels, from Miami to Cincinnati, and a very popular exhibition at the Garden in 2019, titled Cutting Corners. These projects combine his carpentry skills and love of nature.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 17
Year of the Orchid Event:
Explore the Beautiful Orchid Species
with Mike Sands
Friday, 10 am to 11:15 am
$10 members $20 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited 35 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
Mike Sands, president of the Tropical Orchid Society, will discuss common and some not so common orchid species that one is likely to encounter at a show or in a shop. His PowerPoint presentation will highlight the individual species and answer questions such as: what makes them different from each other? Which are easiest to grow? Which are the most beautiful, and why one should try adding these lovely and interesting plants to his/her collection?
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 19, 26
Botanical Photography: Still Life Flower & Foliage Workshop
with Art Silverglate
Sundays, 10 am to 11:30 am
Package of two classes: $40 for members; $60 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Individual Class: $25 for members; $35 for nonmembers
Registration is required; class size is limited to 25 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
In this 2-session workshop, participants will learn how to photograph flowers with a camera or smartphone.
+ Sunday, March 19: 10 am to 11:30 am
In the first workshop, participants will learn what tools are needed and basic concepts and tips on how to use macro photography to zoom in on subjects and create stunning photos. The rest of this session will be sent in the Garden where people can practice these techniques,
+ Sunday, March 26: 10 am to 11:30 am
Participants should bring a flash drive or photo stick with their photos. This session will focus on editing and Art Silverglate will share ways to take a flower photo from drab to fab using Photoshop and light room techniques.
Note: Participants are encouraged to bring pad, tablet or preferred note-taking material; hat for sun protection; water bottle; camera, tripod, cable release or switch, zoom lens; and Macro lens or close-up attachments.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 24
How to Create an Aromatherapy Garden
with Nada Vergili
Friday, 10 am to Noon
$10 for members; $17 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
Smell is one of the most powerful senses and in an instant is capable of evoking memories of childhood and loved ones. Aromatherapy is a way to practice mindfulness and quiet the mind, while focusing on what specific scents inspire and stimulating the imagination. Imagine stepping outside and being surrounded by beautiful aromas coming from the garden. In this presentation, participants will meet some interesting trees, shrubs, and herbs that do well in the South Florida climate and produce the most delightful fragrances to enjoy year-round.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 25
Gentle Yoga at Mounts Botanical Garden
with Heather Berg
Saturday, 11 am to Noon
$12 for members; $17 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
All levels are welcome to this class held inside or under a covered portico by certified Yoga and meditation teacher Heather Berg. This gentle class is designed to encourage students to strengthen their bodies and cultivate the quieting of the mind and senses. Traditional postures are practiced while emphasizing alignment, core strength, flexibility, balance as well as breath control. Each unique class concludes with a silent or guided meditation.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat or towel and water.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 26
Heart Opening Cacao Ceremony + Sound Healing + Yoga Nidra
with Casa Rituals
Sundays, 10 am to 11:30 am
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
Upon arrival participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from day-to day life. They will then be given a cup of the highest quality Ceremonial Cacao to take part in the sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax participants, open the heart chakra, and help them to be receptive to the healing they will experience. Finally, attendees will relax into Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which they will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments.
Notes: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, please no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
March 28
Honey, I Shrunk the Flowers! Plant Dissection for Adults
with Diane Robaina
Tuesday, 11 am to Noon
Free for members; $17 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 35 adults; all classes are nonrefundable.
Students will be provided with flowers and other interesting botanical specimens to dissect, using our state-of-the-art hand-held microscopes to get to know plants up close and personal. Learn something new and get a closer look at what the Garden has to offer.
To register, please visit https://www.mounts.org/events/
Also Available to Visit at Mounts Through 2023
Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork
Tuesdays through Sundays, 9 am to 4 pm (last entry at 3 pm)
FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $15 for nonmember adults; $12 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $7 for children 6-17. Ticket includes full Garden admission.
Internationally acclaimed environmental artist Patrick Dougherty recently returned to Mounts to construct the final large-scale Stickwork installation of his illustrious art career using 30,000 pounds of live willow branches.
Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects
Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide
Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Recently launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org].
About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:
With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.
