About this workshop
The Magic of a Summer Garden
Summer is when gardens come alive, lush, colorful, and full of abundance. From vibrant seasonal flowers to fragrant herbs and sun-ripened vegetables, a well-planned garden becomes a space that feeds both creativity and everyday life.
Late April is the perfect time to plan your summer garden, just before the growing season begins in earnest. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to design a garden that is both beautiful and productive, tailored to your space and ready for the season ahead.
Why Planning is the Key To Success
A thriving summer garden begins long before the first plant goes in the ground. Thoughtful planning helps you make the most of your space, extend your harvest, and create a cohesive, visually appealing garden. This session focuses on planning and design, giving you the tools and knowledge to confidently bring your garden to life at home. We’ll cover:
- How to design a garden layout that balances beauty and productivity
- “Intensive planting” strategies to grow more in less space
- Companion planting - how flowers enhance both aesthetics and plant health
- Seasonal timing for planting and succession growing
What to Grow (and Why You’ll Love It)
We’ll explore the plants that make summer gardening so rewarding: Learn how to:
- Seasonal flowers for cutting, color, designing and pollinator support
- Fresh herbs for cooking and fragrance
- Tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, and other summer vegetables
Growing Structures & Smart Solutions
Successful gardens rely on more than just plants. You’ll learn how to incorporate:
- Trellises, supports, and vertical growing techniques
- Efficient watering approaches for summer heat
- Practical solutions for managing sun, space, and airflow
Planning for Any Size Space - including City Living
Whether you have a backyard garden, a small balcony, or are gardening in an urban setting, this workshop is designed to meet you where you are. We’ll cover:
- Raised beds and in-ground garden layouts
- Container gardening for patios, decks, balconies, and city spaces
- How to adapt plans for limited space, sunlight, and urban conditions without sacrificing beauty or productivity
Managing the Challenges of Summer
This We will also prepare you for the realities of the summer season, including
- Watering techniques for hot weather
- Keeping plants healthy and thriving through peak summer conditions
- Pest management strategies that work
A Practical, Idea-Focused Learning Experience
This workshop is centered on strategy, design, and expert guidance, so you leave with a clear plan and the confidence to create a thriving summer garden.
- Create a detailed summer garden plan tailored to your space and goals
- Learn directly from experienced instructors with deep gardening knowledge
- Gain practical insights you can apply immediately at home
About Cass School
Since 1979, the Cass School of Floral Design has welcomed thousands of students—hobbyists and professionals alike into the art of growing and arranging. True to that legacy, this workshop combines hands-on instruction with a spirit of connection and creativity.