Horticultural Programming
2026 Calendar of Events Brochure
Join us for hands-on programs, events, and celebrations. There’s something for everyone! Fees, locations, and necessary materials are listed in the descriptions. Some programs require pre-registration. Click on the “Online Registration” bar on the left, or call if you have any questions.
Registration for All Horticultural Events
Haiku in the Garden – Leonard J. Buck Garden
Sunday, August 9th 12pm - 1:30pm
Join art facilitator and seasoned haiku poet Spencer Soletto for a poetry walk in the garden. We will explore haiku, a Japanese short form of poetry, and learn how it fosters an appreciation for our natural environment. This event is accessible to those without any experience of writing, and still explorative for established writers. Participants will be guided with a short lesson, a walk around the garden, and a community writing session. Register in advance. This event is free, but space is limited.
Watercolors in the Garden – Leonard J. Buck Garden
Friday, September 18th 10am - 3pm
Artist Donna Souren will lead a one-day class at Leonard J. Buck Garden to capture the garden’s beauty in watercolor. Students will be guided in choosing a location when painting outdoors, paint application, mixing colors, composition, and how to create a finished watercolor painting. Basic drawing skills are recommended. Pre-registration required. Fee: $40
Make a Hypertufa Mini-Trough – Leonard J. Buck Garden
Friday, October 9th 10am - 11:30am
Hypertufa is a handmade material which resembles “tufa,” a rugged volcanic rock used to make planting troughs. These containers are especially suited for small rock garden plants. You will learn how to make your own hypertufa mini-trough and receive instructions for curing it at home. Wear work clothes as the process can be messy. Workshop fee includes the cost of supplies. Fee: $50
Japanese Maple Collection Tour - Colonial Park Gardens (Lot A)
Saturday, October 10th 1:00pm
Sunday October 18th 1:00am
Explore our stunning collection of Japanese maples with local plantsman David Scudder. Learn about the diversity of forms and foliage, proper site selection, and why they are a tree for all seasons. Dress for the weather and be prepared for about a mile walk. Register in advance. Free
Painting in the Garden – Leonard J. Buck Garden
Saturday, October 24th 11am - 2pm
Join artist Wes Sherman for Plein Air workshop where all mediums are welcomed—watercolor, oils, acrylic, pastels. Refine your craft, connect with fellow art enthusiasts, and create unforgettable works surrounded by Buck Garden’s blooming landscape. Plan to be at the garden for about three hours. Pre-registration required. Fee: $40
Thankful Lights – Leonard J. Buck Garden
Friday, November 6th 5:30pm - 7pm
Floating a candle on water is thought to awaken the spirit of nature within us all. You will create your own lantern and decorate it with a personalized message, attach it to your illuminated float, and release it on Buck Garden’s Lower Pond. Come see and experience how magical the floating lights are as they drift on the water into the night. Materials will be supplied. Pre-registration is required. Fee: $20 per person
If you have individualized needs due to a disability, please call 908 526-5650 after you register for the program and we will be happy to arrange reasonable modifications. Three weeks notice is required to ensure that appropriate modifications can be provided