So You Want to Grow an Orchid? October 28, 2021

Online

Join the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory along with Kay Perry from the Illinois Orchid Society for a FREE virtual lecture to learn about the care and growing of orchids. Questions answered in this talk: What is an orchid? How much light does it need? How much should I water? Should I really be […]

Free

Grow Your Own Mushrooms! November 11, 2021

Online

Growing mushrooms is simple, unique, and rewarding! Join us for a FREE virtual lecture to learn how you can get started growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in your kitchen, basement, or backyard.  We will discuss the many ways to grow some of our favorite mushrooms like Shiitake, Oyster, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Wine Cap, and more. […]

Free

Take Home TET (Toddler Exploration Time): November 19, 2021

Young learners (18 months - 5 years) will be delighted with stories, lessons, and crafts led virtually by our education docents. Participants will pick up a craft bag from the Conservatory with all the pieces needed to complete the craft. On Friday, we’ll join together virtually to make the project during the Take-Home TET Lesson. […]

Annual Appeal Matching Grant

The Friends Board secured a challenge grant that will match – dollar for dollar – any new gifts received before December 31, 2021, up to $7,500. That means your gift made in support of our Annual Appeal will go twice as far, making a significant impact on the programs and events we can offer. Donate […]

Seed Starting for Beginners — January 27, 2022

Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield, Oak Park, IL, United States

Learn the basics about seed starting and growing your own plants and vegetables in this lecture and demonstration at the Oak Park Conservatory. Our growing expert, Lissa Dysart (aka The Tomato Lady), will guide you through when to start seeds, materials needed, and how to care for the plants as they grow.  Presented by the […]

Free

The Friends in Bloom membership drive is happening now!

Be a Friend: Join the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory by April 15 to access early online ordering for our 2022 Plant Sale, new reciprocal privileges at over 300 gardens nationwide, discounted tickets to the Oak Park River Forest Garden Walk, and more! https://fopcon.org/join-fopcon/ Online shopping for the Plant Sale begins April 5, and […]

The Art of Landscape Design — February 24, 2022

Online

**Now VIRTUAL.**  A zoom link will be sent to all registrants. Are you curious about the principles of landscape design? How do you approach your garden space with an artistic eye? Join us as the Director of Horticulture for the Oak Park Conservatory shares her deep knowledge of designing gardens large and small. Learn how […]

Free

KidsFest

Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield, Oak Park, IL, United States

Join us at KidsFest for our popular annual family event presented by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory! Our theme this year is Animal Mysteries! Children will have an opportunity to meet a pigeon, interact with a possum puppet, and engage in several STEM activities, all while solving the mysteries of our native Illinois […]

Free

Get the Dirt — Your Garden Questions Answered

Online

Get the Dirt--Your Garden Questions Answered Join us for this Q&A session to get gardening advice and tips from our plant experts. Plus, you’ll learn what to be doing now in your garden. Come with your Spring gardening questions. Presented by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. Register HERE. A zoom link will be […]

Free

Save the Date for the 2022 Plant Sale!

The countdown to the 2022 Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory Plant Sale has begun! We are pleased to be able to host this popular fundraiser for the 33rd straight year. FOPCON Members receive 12 days of priority shopping plus a Members Only pick up day on May 10! Join now to take advantage of […]

Learn and Grow Lectures are back this April!

Online

The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory Master Gardeners will highlight plants that will be available at our Annual Plant Sale. Come learn with us -- programs are for all gardening levels. Registration is required for these free virtual programs. A Zoom link will be sent to participants in advance.  FREE April 6, 7-8pm - […]

Free

Spring Open House

Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield, Oak Park, IL, United States

Join us as we celebrate the springtime at Oak Park Conservatory. We’ll have activities and fun for the whole family. Enjoy hands-on programs in the Discovery Garden and music featuring ProMusica singers.  Plus Master Gardeners will provide repotting services–bring your plant and new pot and our volunteers will repot your plant for you. Kids can […]

Free