Art and Blooms at the JCRA: Summer Flower Gardens

Meditation in the Garden is a restorative outdoor workshop focused on mindfulness and stress reduction. This session teaches participants how to use the natural environment to build a consistent meditation practice and foster mental clarity. You will learn practical techniques to help ground yourself and manage daily tension in a peaceful setting. During this workshop, you will participate in guided meditation sessions and body awareness exercises. We incorporate gentle movement and journaling to help you process your experiences and deepen your connection with nature. These tools are designed to be accessible for all skill levels and can be easily integrated into your personal routine at home. This event is ideal for anyone seeking a break from a busy schedule or those looking to explore meditation in a supportive community atmosphere. We welcome both beginners and experienced practitioners to join us for this morning of calm. Please come dressed in comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor seating and bring a notebook for reflection. Secure your spot now to experience the lasting benefits of this tranquil garden retreat.

This hands-on workshop teaches you the fundamental techniques for propagating woody ornamental plants using softwood stem cuttings. Participants will gain the skills necessary to expand their home gardens inexpensively while learning proper methods for growing new plants from existing collections. The session begins with a classroom overview covering rooting hormones and essential cutting techniques. You will then move into the gardens for a practical demonstration of how to harvest healthy cuttings. Following this, you will apply these methods in a supervised practice session using a selection of plants optimized for successful rooting. Every participant will leave the workshop with a complete tray of cuttings sourced directly from the JC Raulston Arboretum collection. This event is perfect for beginners or anyone interested in the science and hobby of plant propagation. The atmosphere is collaborative, educational, and focused on building your confidence as a gardener. Join us to learn how to turn simple cuttings into thriving new plants. Please register early to secure your spot for this practical and engaging horticultural experience.

The Plant-Lover's Tour is a monthly educational garden walk held at the JC Raulston Arboretum. On the first Tuesday of each month, our resident horticulturists lead a guided exploration of the garden to showcase seasonal plants and share expert gardening insights. This recurring series provides a focused look at specific plant themes, with this session dedicated to hummingbird-friendly varieties. Participants will tour the grounds to observe unique specimens and learn about the specific horticultural needs of the featured plants. Our experts will explain why these selections perform well in our local climate and how they support hummingbirds in the garden. Attendees will receive practical advice on plant selection, maintenance, and integration techniques to help improve their home gardening projects. This event is designed for garden enthusiasts of all experience levels who are looking for professional guidance and botanical inspiration. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and ideal for those who enjoy outdoor learning in a professional landscape setting. Join us to expand your botanical knowledge and discover new plants for your own space. We invite all nature lovers to attend this engaging and educational monthly experience.

Experience the magic of literature and the beauty of the outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalks initiative. This unique program combines physical activity with early literacy, allowing families to enjoy a children book page by page as they navigate scenic nature trails. It is an excellent way to encourage a love for reading while exploring the diverse landscapes of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks will feature rotating story selections, offering fresh adventures for recurring visitors. Whether you are strolling through the walkways of Oak View or wandering the natural paths of Harris Lake, these curated experiences provide a refreshing escape for readers of all ages. We invite you and your family to visit these sites throughout May to engage with these wonderful tales in an immersive environment. Please check the official park schedules to plan your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails until sunset. Grab your walking shoes and prepare for a delightful journey where every step leads to a new page of discovery. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail soon.

Experience the botanical wonder of Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during their exclusive seasonal open house events. Spanning twenty eight acres in Raleigh, North Carolina, this world renowned destination showcases over thirty thousand unique plant varieties, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or a passionate home gardener, you will find endless inspiration wandering through these meticulously maintained display gardens and research spaces. These open weekend events provide a rare opportunity for the public to explore the grounds without prior reservations. Discover new favorites for your own landscape while shopping for unique additions in the onsite sales greenhouses. The nursery is committed to educational excellence and botanical diversity, making this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Join us for a weekend of discovery and community in a truly remarkable setting. Admission and parking are entirely free, and the event proceeds rain or shine. Visit our website today to plan your trip and browse our extensive online catalogue for your next planting project.

Experience a refreshing way to prioritize your health and well-being with Fit4Mom. We invite you to join our Stroller Strides workout at North Hills Main District, designed specifically for mothers who want to combine physical activity with fresh air and meaningful community support. This class provides an opportunity to focus on yourself for one hour, helping you recharge and connect with other local parents in a welcoming environment. Following the morning workout, we will host a casual picnic and play session along with mini-stroller exercises. These gatherings are crafted to foster friendships and provide a supportive space for both you and your children. Whether you are looking for a challenging fitness routine or simply a chance to enjoy a coffee and conversation, our program is here to uplift you. We are currently offering a free week of classes for those interested in experiencing our community firsthand. There is no pressure and no long-term commitment required to participate. Please visit our official webpage to view the full schedule of upcoming free sessions and secure your spot today. We look forward to seeing you there.