Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an urban botanic garden that connects people to the world of plants, fostering delight and curiosity while inspiring an appreciation and sense of stewardship of the environment.

In the Garden, in its community, and well beyond, BBG inspires people of all ages through the conservation, display, and enjoyment of plants; with educational programs that emphasize learning by doing; and with research focused on understanding and conserving regional plants and plant communities.

In the most significant garden renewal effort since the garden’s founding 100 years ago, the school is currently engaged in a dramatic and ambitious effort for the future. With projects that affect virtually every part of the garden and extend beyond our borders, these enhancements will help the garden meet the rapidly changing needs of our audience and our world—fostering a love and understanding of plants and the natural world and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

FAQs

What are some of your most popular classes that you offer on CourseHorse?  
Some of our most popular classes are “Birding,” with Joseph Giunta, “Waking the Garden for Spring,” with Leda Meredith, “Kokedama: Hanging Garden Workshop,” with Krissie Nagy,” and “Nature in Pastel with Mixed Media,” with Enid Braun. 

How long have you been in business? Can you share a bit more about your history? 
Brooklyn Botanic Garden was founded in 1910, and from its first days was dedicated to connecting people to the world of plants. Since 1914, when the Children’s Garden program began, BBG has engaged in teaching both children and adults about gardening and horticulture, ecology and environmental stewardship, and other ways to appreciate the natural world. 

What is your average class size?  
Our average class size for small, hands-on workshops is as few as seven students, while Certificate in Horticulture courses could include as many as 25. Our average class size is 13 students. 

What is your typical student like? What are their goals? 
Because we offer a wide range of classes, no student is typical. Our Certificate in Horticulture classes are often comprised of adults who are interested in making a career switch into the field of horticulture or are hoping to advance their professional practice. Our gardening classes draw backyard gardeners and indoor hobbyists. Our art classes welcome a range from crafty 20-somethings to retired watercolor aficionados. We feature floral arranging classes at many levels, inviting both amateurs and those looking for professional development. Our classes in wellness and edibles are short, accessible workshops about plant lore, cooking, and practical applications for plant materials. 

Can you recommend activities to do in the neighborhood before or after class? 
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is located next to the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park and is near the neighborhoods of Crown Heights, Prospect Heights, and Park Slope, all rich in restaurants and bars.