As Part of our mission to educate, we offer informational programs for everyone from beginning “green thumbs” to master gardeners, including children and adults.
ADULT PROGRAMS
BONSAI STUDY GROUP
Led by Bonsai Curator Rodney Clemons
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (lunch 12 noon – 1 p.m.) Open to all visitors; included with garden admission
Rodney Clemons visits Smith-Gilbert Gardens on the 2nd Saturday of each month (some exceptions as noted on the events calendar) to oversee, evaluate, care for, and prune the Gardens’ bonsai collection. Along with a small group of well-trained and very experienced volunteers, Rodney provides expert care in all aspects of maintaining the collection.
Visitors are welcome to ask questions and talk with Rodney and the volunteers to learn more about this ancient art.
If you’re interested in learning more about bonsai, please plan a visit on the 2nd Saturday.
(Please note: We request you do not bring your personal bonsai trees to the Gardens.)
BECOME A GARDEN DOCENT
We need enthusiastic guides to tour garden clubs, adult groups, pre-K groups,and K-12 students on an exciting exploration of the gardens. A garden docent truly enriches a tour for visitors in many ways. All who are interested should contact us at info@smithgilbertgardens.com. Docent courses are available at the beginning of the year. If joining us later in the year, opportunities are available to learn from experienced docents and volunteer in various other programs throughout the Gardens.
Docents are provided the necessary information on horticulture, the history of the property, and the outdoor sculpture collection. These skills will equip you to confidently tour groups and provide information to visitors during special events such as our Butterfly and Art Blooms exhibits.
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
We are always planning new ways to offer memorable learning experiences while following the current and evolving state and CDC guidelines. Information on our new summer programming “Terrific Tuesdays,” virtual field trips, SGG Kids and Nature & Art workshops are available throughout the school year. Visit our family programs page to register!
Please contact Education Coordinator, Riki Welch, for all youth programming inquiries at rwelch@kennesaw-ga.gov as each field trip will have different needs.