Plant Care

If you have a general interest in plants and love getting your hands dirty, then come join in the fun! You can help care for plants at the Conservatory or in Oak Park’s parks.

  • Horticultural Operations Volunteer
    • Volunteer behind the scenes in operations and the growing houses. Help grow and transplant plants for the Conservatory. Duties may also include pruning, plant propagation, pot washing and watering.
    • Time commitment: 2-3 hours weekly, Tuesday-Friday, year round

  • Plant Help Desk
    • Assist community members who come in with plant related issues & questions. Repotting services offered upon request. 
    • Time commitment: 2  hours weekly, Wednesdays, year round.

  • Plant Sale Grower
    • Assist in potting, transplanting flowers, vegetables and herbs sold at the annual Plant Sale held every May, as well as with plants for the parks.
    • Time commitment: 2 hours weekly, Tuesday-Friday, February-May

  • Outdoor Conservatory Maintenance Volunteer
    • Join the team in helping with our outdoor areas. These areas include the Garfield Street landscape, the Herbert M. Rubinstein Garden, the Discovery Garden and Bioswale on East Avenue.
    • Time Commitment: 2-3 hours weekly, Tuesday-Friday, seasonally

  • Showroom Maintenance Volunteer
    • Keep our showroom collections in tip-top shape! This volunteer opportunity includes pruning, sweeping and occasionally planting.
    • Time commitment: 2 hours weekly, 8am-10am, Tuesday-Friday, year round