We have educational lecture programs throughout the year. Most of them are held at the monthly general meeting. These lectures are covered wide range of subjects and interests. All the members are encouraged to attend and have been very well received. Below are the scheduled programs for the season of 2025-2026 year.
SEPTEMBER, 2025
Owls of Illinois
These birds of prey are the most unique creatures in the world. Alyse Berman will discuss the eight different species that reside in Illinois.
OCTOBER, 2025
Don't Squash the Bug, by James Rowan
There are over a million species of insects and spiders on the planet, with about 25,000 of them being in Illinois. In this program we will meet some of them, learn how to distinguish them and separate the "good guys" from the "bad guys".
NOVEMBER, 2025
Tabletops and Tablescapes, by Kathi Rose
How to create a tablescape that reflects your event and personality. Learn how to use a combination of components: china, glassware, and floral accents.
DECEMBER, 2025
Cocoa & PJs
Join us for a holiday celebration dressed in your finest PJs!
FEBRUARY, 2026
Animal Resistant Gardening, by Mel Zaloudek
Successful strategies on how to minimize your landscape losses through a combination of tactical plant selection, physical barriers and effective repellents.
MARCH, 2026
Rainscaping, by U of I Extension of Lake County Master Gardeners
How to direct and manage water flow in a yard
APRIL, 2026
What is all the Buzz About Bees, by Karen Thomson
Bee friendly plants, interesting facts about honey bees. How a beehive works, products from the hive. Cooking with honey and honey harvesting.
May, 2026
Improving Your Soil The Natural Way, by Ken Benson
Basic soil structure, texture and compaction and amendments. Soil pH, macro and micro elements along with mycorrhiza, green sand and compost for amendments.
JUNE, 2026
Landscaping With Native Plants, by David Brooks
The benefits of using natives and introduce you to a wide range of plants suitable for home gardens as well as how to incorporate them into your landscape.
JULY, 2026
Summer Outing. Whether viewing members’ gardens or having a picnic at one of our members’ homes, that’s the fun we have had in the past! Over the several years, members have graciously offered to host a summer outing at their homes. We again look forward to another fun gathering in 2026 The detailed information will be determined by spring 2026.