There is a wide variety of educational opportunities available through National Garden Clubs, Inc. Sometimes there are schools or courses offered in North Carolina.

You can take a course in any state and it will count towards your accreditation because the schools are part of a national program. Imagine going to visit a family member in another state and being able to broaden your horizons at the same time!

Courses are usually scheduled with two days of instruction, followed by a general examination on the morning of the third day. You don’t have to worry about studying and an end of course exam. You can take a class for non-credit and there is no exam.

Design Study Units instruct the beginner in basic flower arranging skills. They come in two sets available for purchase from NGC Headquarters. The sets involve videos and written lessons that can be used by one person or by a group of people. Learn more about the Design Study Units!

Horticulture Study Units provide instruction in basic gardening practices for those members who do not have the opportunity to attend the schools that NGC offers. Whether you’re a novice or an “old hand” at gardening, you’ll enjoy the down-to-earth information and activities presented. Call 1-800-550-6007 to order.

Environmental Study Schools, “The Living Earth,” teach participants environmental literacy and appreciation of the natural world. The series of four courses places particular emphasis on land conservation, water conservation and air quality. Students completing the courses may become NGC Environmental Consultants. Learn more about “The Living Earth” Environmental Study Schools!

Flower Show Schools are not only for prospective flower show exhibitors and judges, but also for all garden club members interested in flower design and horticulture. This school can aid members when they attend flower shows in understanding the judges’ comments about the entries. Learn more about the Flower Show Schools!

Garden Study Schools are offered to members to expand their knowledge of growing plants. Courses cover all aspects of growing from understanding soil structure to pruning techniques, plant identification, etc. Although the courses are intended primarily for garden club members, they are open to the general public. Learn more about Gardening Study Schools!

Landscape Design Schools course curriculum covers the history of landscape design as well as instruction from landscape architects in a variety of design techniques used in home and municipal settings. Students completing the courses may become NGC Landscape Design Consultants. Learn more about Lanscape Design Schools!

Symposiums

There are Flower Show Symposiums held all over the country (see full listing at NGC’s Website).  A Flower Show Symposium is held most years in North Carolina by the North Carolina Council of Flower Show Judges. It is usually lasts two days and has a Horticultural Speaker and a Design Speaker. It includes the opportunity to ask questions and discuss topics. Learn more about this year’s Flower Show Symposium on October 24-25, 2011!

Horticultural Symposiums are held throughout North Carolina at different times of the year. The Davidson Horticultural Symposium, held in March of each year, is put on by the Davidson Garden Club in District 3. In autumn, A Horticultural Symposium is held at the J.C. Raulston Arboretum and they have half day symposiums during the year as well.