The Extension Master Gardeners in Cherokee County have released the schedule for Speaker’s Bureau classes for 2026. Click and register for each class below to register. Registration closes 5 days before the date of the class.
Pawpaw Trees: America’s Forgotten Fruit (May 13)
Discover the unique beauty and taste of the Paw Paw, the largest edible fruit native to North America. This class covers how to successfully grow these 'custard apples' in our local climate, including soil requirements, pollination needs, and how to enjoy their tropical flavor right from your backyard.
Growing Shiitake Mushrooms (June 10)
Learn the rewarding art of forest farming by growing your own gourmet Shiitake mushrooms. We will walk through the step-by-step process of selecting logs, inoculation techniques, and the proper maintenance required to turn a shady spot in your yard into a productive mushroom garden. This is the presentation only. There will be no hands-on activity or log inoculation.
Unlock the secrets of our local landscape by learning to identify common trees of Western North Carolina. This session focuses on using bark, leaf patterns, and silhouettes to distinguish between species, helping you better understand the ecosystem of your own property and the surrounding Appalachian forests.
Flower Hammering Eco-Friendly Tote Bag (July 22; 10-12)
Come to this fun-filled flower hammering workshop where you will create beautiful designs on an eco-friendly tote bag. Flower hammering, also known as leaf pounding or tataki-zome, is a traditional art form where the colors and patterns of leaves and flowers are transferred onto fabric or paper by pounding them with a hammer or mallet. The Cherokee tribe, particularly Cherokee women, were known to use this technique to decorate fabric.
Cost $30.00
Please bring an old towel and lots of enthusiasm!
Everyone one will leave with a unique bag of their own.
Workshop will be held at pavilion next to the playground at Konehete Park.
Pollinators: Supporting Our Winged Friends (Aug 12)
Our gardens depend on the hard work of bees, butterflies, and birds. This class explores the vital role pollinators play in our environment and provides practical tips on selecting native plants and creating habitats that will keep your garden buzzing with life throughout the seasons.
Deer-Resistant Plants (Sept 9)
Gardening in a rural area often means sharing your space with local wildlife, but it doesn't have to mean losing your landscape. We will discuss a variety of beautiful, hardy plants that are less 'tasty' to deer, along with strategies to protect your favorite blooms from being browsed.
Indoor Plants: Bringing the Outdoors In (October 14)
Transform your home into a lush sanctuary with the right indoor plants. Whether you have bright sun or low-light corners, this class covers the best varieties for indoor success, including essential care tips on watering, humidity, and troubleshooting common houseplant hurdles.
