Free Online Gardening Programs

Free Online Programs

for Wisconsin Gardeners

Description

Join Wisconsin Horticulture Extension for free online gardening programs — and watch from any device! Our topics are suitable for gardeners of any skill level. When you register for a program, you can attend the live presentation or wait to watch the recorded version at your convenience.

For questions about our free online programs, contact horticulture.webinar@extension.wisc.edu

2024 Schedule and Registration

Click here to watch previously recorded programs.

Designing Native Plant Gardens for Pollinators
Wednesday, March 20, Noon–1 p.m.

You can design a native plant garden that will be a pollinator magnet. Native plants are beautiful, low-maintenance, adaptable and great sources of nutrition and habitat for butterflies, bees, moths, hummingbirds and more! Join us to learn about design principles, and some native plants that are great to grow for pollinators and can thrive in sunny or shady conditions.

Presented by Lisa Johnson and Tim Ripp, UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program
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Monarch butterfly on milkweed plant

Understanding the Emerald Ash Borer: From Identification to Action
Monday, April 1, 1–2 p.m.

Join us for an informative presentation on the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in Wisconsin. Learn how to identify ash trees, recognize the signs and symptoms of EAB, and understand the biology of this invasive insect. We’ll also discuss what to do when EAB affects your trees and the strengths and weaknesses of management options. Don’t miss this opportunity to arm yourself with knowledge against this invasive pest!

Presented by PJ Liesch, Director of the UW Insect Diagnostic Lab
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Two emerald ash borer adults mating on a leaf.

What’s the Deal with No Mow May?
Wednesday, April 3, Noon–1 p.m.

Have you heard of “No Mow May”? While it has become a catchy phrase in Wisconsin that encourages homeowners to pause lawn mowing during May, does this practice actually support pollinators? Join us for this discussion with our experts from UW-Madison to find out! We will discuss how an unmowed lawn impacts (or may impact) pollinators and how you can support pollinators all year long.

Panelists:

  • Paul Koch, Associate Professor, UW-Madison Department of Plant Pathology and Turfgrass Diagnostic Lab
  • PJ Liesch, Director, Insect Diagnostic Lab, UW-Madison Department of Entomology  
  • Hannah Gaines Day, Research Scientist, UW-Madison Department of Entomology

Register Now

A lawnmower mowing down flowering plants in a plush, green lawn.

Establishing a Bee Lawn — Current Research and Practical Techniques
Thursday, April 25, Noon–1 p.m.

Join us for an informative online program focusing on the research and practical methods behind creating a bee lawn. We will cover topics such as optimal timing for planting, whether to overseed an existing lawn or renovate to start from scratch, and other establishment practices such as the use of biodegradable seeding blankets. Learn recommended options for different sites and gain insights into purchasing pre-made bee lawn mixes or mixing your own. This webinar is a must-attend for those looking to make their outdoor spaces more pollinator friendly.
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Presented by Kristine Moncada, University of Minnesota, Department of Horticultural Science

Bee feeding on white clover in lawn

The Buzz About Wisconsin’s Periodical Cicadas
Wednesday, May 15, Noon–1 p.m.

Our big emergence of periodical cicadas is nearly here in Wisconsin.  Join in to learn about the biology and life cycle of these fascinating insects and their role in the ecosystem.  We’ll also take a look at when and where to expect cicada activity in the state and what it could mean for your own yard.

Presented by PJ Liesch, Director of the UW Insect Diagnostic Lab
Register Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these sessions recorded?

Yes! The sessions will be recorded and available after the scheduled date. Check here to view previously recorded programs.

How much do these sessions cost?

Free! There is no cost to enjoy these programs live or watch the recording.

What if I registered but cannot attend the session?

That’s okay! You can watch the recorded version later at your convenience.

Where are these sessions held?

These sessions are online using the Zoom platform.

What if I want to attend all of the sessions? Do I have to register for each one?

Yes, registration is required for each session you would like to attend.

What happens after I register?

You will receive an email confirmation with a link. You will click on that link to join the session on the scheduled date.

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