GREEN SPRING GARDENS
Summer 2021
GARDEN PROGRAM
Saturday, June 5
Garden Tools and Perennial Maintenance
10-11am. (16-Adults) Join horticulturalist Karen Rexrode outdoors for an educational walk through the gardens focused on perennial maintenance and useful gardening tools to get the job done. Learn what the garden professionals see and do to ensure a happy, healthy, and beautiful garden. $18 per person.
Saturday, June 5
Plants & Design: Herbs—A Baker's Dozen
1-2:30pm. (16-Adults) Green Spring staff teach you how to grow common culinary herbs and creative ways to use them in the kitchen. Learn about cultural requirements, harvesting, preservation, propagation methods, resources, and recipes. Herbs will be available in the plant shop to get you started. $22 per person.
Saturday, June 5
Edible Garden Tour
10-11:30am. (Adults) Explore the bounty of Green Spring’s Edible Garden with an Extension Master Gardener docent who showcases many food plants—from vegetables to fruit trees— suitable for home landscapes. See how edibles can grow in containers and small spaces and discover their ornamental value in the garden. $15 per person.
Saturday, June 12
Attractive and Lasting Plant Combinations: Virtual Program
11am-12pm. (16-Adult) Explore how to play with color, form, and texture in a perennial/shrub border with Washington Gardener Magazine publisher, Kathy Jentz. This virtual, image-heavy talk includes the tried-and-true proven combinations as well as some daring new mixes to experiment with in your own home garden. Take notes and get inspired with the formulas for beautiful plant combinations. This Green Spring Gardens program is being offered virtually on Zoom. A link for the program will be sent out via email on the day of the program , up to an hour before the program start time. $18 per person.
Saturday, June 12
Edible Garden Tour
10-11:30am. (Adults) Explore the bounty of Green Spring’s Edible Garden with an Extension Master Gardener docent who showcases many food plants—from vegetables to fruit trees— suitable for home landscapes. See how edibles can grow in containers and small spaces and discover their ornamental value in the garden. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 96U.LRA9) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, July 10
Eco-Gardening Ideas: Evening Stroll at Green Spring
5:30-7pm. (16-Adult) Take an evening stroll through the gardens at Green Spring with curatorial horticulturist Brenda Skarphol to see eco-friendly and sustainable garden ideas. Learn how to incorporate native plants that will attract more pollinators and wildlife to your garden, and ways to improve your soil to enhance water retention and manage runoff. $18 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code NQN.P4JZ) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, July 17
Backyard Composting Basics
10-11:30am. (Adults) Mother Nature can help you compost plant material into luscious amendment for your lawn and garden. Visit Green Spring's composting station to learn different composting methods, what materials to use and not use, proportions, aeration, screening, critter control, and compost use. $18 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 0B1.2TF3) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, August 14
Garden Tour: Green Spring Up and Down
10-11:30am. (Adults) Extension Master Gardener docents lead a special “Grand Tour” of Green Spring! View some upper demonstration gardens, then take the garden path less travelled to explore the naturalistic lower garden areas: the Virginia Native Plant Garden, woodland stream valley, and ponds. Tour involves a steep slope with loose gravel. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 8A0.I0PR) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Virtual Programs
Saturday, June 12
Attractive and Lasting Plant Combinations
11am-12pm. (16-Adult) Explore playing with color, form, and texture in the perennial/shrub border with Washington Gardener Magazine publisher, Kathy Jentz. This virtual, image-heavy talk includes tried-and-true combinations, as well as some daring new mixes to experiment with in your own home garden. Take notes and get inspired with the formulas for beautiful plant combinations. A link for the program will be sent via email up to an hour before the program start time. $18 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code CDV.0K4P) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, June 19
Gardening with Ferns: Virtual Program
10-11am. (Adults). Ferns can add such beauty to a garden! Learn how to grow and propagate these peaceful, shade-loving plants. An Extension Master Gardener presents this virtual program on fern properties, identification, and diversity. Get ideas on how to use ferns in your landscape to make a shady retreat. A link to the virtual program will be emailed up to an hour before the start of the program. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code XJK.G5ZN) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Fine Arts
Saturday, June 12
Floral Design Workshop: Late Spring Arrangement
1-2:30pm. (16-Adult) Make a late-spring floral arrangement with the help of certified floral designer Betty Ann Galway. Betty Ann will teach you about the different flowers in the arrangement and how to incorporate them into a beautiful design. Tables will be separated for social distancing and masks are required. $39 per person (plus $30 supply fee). This workshop is also available as a virtual demo. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 2EF.U4ZU) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, June 12
Virtual Floral Design Demo: Late Spring Arrangement
1-2:30pm. (16-Adult) Make a late-spring floral arrangement with the help of certified floral designer Betty Ann Galway. Betty Ann will teach you about the different flowers in the arrangement and how to incorporate them into a beautiful design. $22 per person. Virtual participants will receive a link to connect via Zoom and a supply list prior to the program. This workshop is also available in person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 6FX.O2MX) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, July 24
Watercolor Workshop: Botanicals
9:30am-3:30pm. (16-Adult) For the beginner or advanced student, this in-person workshop teaches watercolor techniques through exercises that help you understand color and composition, and improve brush control. Artist Dawn Flores teaches you about paper, paint, drawing and transfer techniques used in botanical art. Basic drawing skills are helpful for drawing the plant specimen from which to paint an elegant botanical portrait. Supply list will emailed before class. Tables will be separated for social distancing and masks are required. Bring a lunch. $94 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 8GJ.3EBX) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturdays, June 19 and 26
Virtual Watercolor Workshop: Painting a Series
9:30am-1:30pm on 6/19 and 9:30-11:30am on 6/26. (16-Adult) In this virtual class you will choose a subject to draw and paint in a variety of ways in a sketchbook. By focusing on a specific subject, artist Marni Maree will help you discover new ways of seeing, painting and designing a page using various drawing and watercolor techniques. During the first session you will learn how to make each page unique and how to push creative boundaries to come up with even more ideas! During the second session, share your sketchbook drawings and paintings, get creative ideas from other students, and get your questions answered. A supply list and a link to connect to the class via Zoom will be e-mailed one hour before the first class. $104 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code KBK.9J6C) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, August 7
Floral Design Workshop: Summer Edition
1-2:30pm. (16-Adult) Create a beautiful summer flower arrangement with the help of certified floral designer Betty Ann Galway. Learn how to properly care for and handle flowers along with creative design ideas. $39 per person (plus $30 supply fee). Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 0D2.NDJ4) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Fitness
Mondays, starting July 12
Virtual Yoga for Gardeners I
9:30-10:30am. (Adults) This class features a gentle introduction to the Vinyasa method which helps participants increase the strength, flexibility and endurance necessary for gardening. Class held virtually. $94 per person for 8 lessons. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 6E6.TBVM) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Historic Green Spring Virtual Tea Programs 
This summer, Historic Green Spring invites you to enjoy five virtual afternoon tea programs at home. All registrants will be sent a link by e-mail to attend the lectures on Zoom. Make an occasion of it. Treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea just like the ones served at the Historic House. Optional afternoon tea boxes prepared by our caterer will be available for pick up at Green Spring Gardens between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the day of the program. Tea boxes include savory finger sandwiches, pastries, scone with cream and jam, and tea bag. Just put the kettle on, relax, and enjoy.
Sunday, June 13
The Victorian Seaside
2-3pm. (Adults) Victorians flocked to the seaside for day trips and holidays, but how did the proper Victorian lady preserve respectability at the beach? Hear about the many Victorian seaside attractions and entertainments, and the bizarre inventions, regulations and fashions that preserved 19th century notions of modesty. Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 0E7.JPPK) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Sunday, June 27
Moon Magic
2-3pm. (Adults) The Moon holds us in its thrall, an object of enduring fascination. Explore its many incarnations throughout history, from deity, to feminine symbol…to green cheese! Discover contrasting portrayals of the moon in art, literature, and music, and hear about a future moon-inspired garden feature at Green Spring. Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 751.KPOP) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Sunday, July 11
The Crown: Fact or Fiction?
2-3pm. (Adults) Season 4 of the lavish British monarchy series, The Crown, introduces Lady Diana Spencer to the drama that portrays the life of Queen Elizabeth II and her family in astonishingly intimate detail. Discover how much is fact and how much is dramatic license. Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code B1A.XKPI) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Sunday, August 15
Brush Up Your British
2-3pm. (Adults) Celebrate Britain’s National Afternoon Tea Week by exploring linguistic and cultural differences between Britain and America. Compare customs and manners in these two nations “divided by a common language” - at the tea table and beyond! Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code FB8.E4K2) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Special Programs
Thursdays, June 17, July 15, and August 19
Summer Garden Tour and Tea To Go
1-2pm. (Adult) Tour the vibrant demonstration gardens with a master gardener docent who will inspire you with dazzling plant combinations and tales of Green Spring past and present. Tour only: $12/ Optional tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes with program code (code 03T.ZHDG for 6/17; code 03T.PYUI for 7/15; code 03T.8AQS for 8/19) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturdays, June 26 and July 24
Garden Tour and Ice Cream
10-11:30am. (Adults) Tour the vibrant summer gardens with a Green Spring Master Gardener docent. Finish at the Historic House lawn to enjoy delicious ices, served with toppings and garnishes. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code I7Q.APUT for 6/26; code I7Q.W9O0 for 7/24) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, August 28
Crystallized Flower Workshop
10-11:30am. (Adults) Discover the beautiful Victorian art of crystallizing flowers. Follow simple steps to sugar coat a variety of edible blooms and petals to use as gorgeous garnishes for desserts and other dishes. Take home your candied creations along with decorating ideas and tips. Refreshments served. $40 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 3D2.5DZA) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Tasting Program
Saturday, June 5
Tasting: Balsamic Vinegar
10-11:30am. (Adult) Savor a selection of fine balsamic vinegars with varied accompaniments. Hear about the history of Italy’s famed elixir and how to distinguish genuine balsamico from the imitations. Learn about its provenance, its myriad uses, and how to assess its complex flavors. Delizioso! $32 per person..
Saturday, July 31
Tropical Teas Tasting
10-11:30am. (Adults) Savor a selection of real and herbal iced teas that will transport you to the tropics. Flavored with tropical plants, fruits, and flowers, these teas are delicious hot or cold. Take home recipes for more exotic teas to blend yourself. Tropical accompaniments served. $25 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code JIW.B59M) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Family Programs
Saturday, June 12
Family Fun: The Buzz on Bees
10-11:30am. (7-Adult) Visit the gardens and join our beekeeper for a morning of learning about honey bees and native bees. Learn about where they live and their important job as pollinators. Program will include an activity and a walk around the garden. All attendees must be registered for this program. $10 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (PK5.PPZ8) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturdays, June 19, July 10, and August 7
Choose Your Nature Walk
10-11am. (All ages) Book a walk with one of our Children’s Education teachers and choose from a variety of topics for the themed tour of the park. Each tour will include a hands-on element and can be customized to include the science topics your students are learning in school. Choose one of the following topics: Pond Fauna & Flora, Native VA Plants & Trees, Watersheds & Geology of Green Spring, VA Ecosystems Walk, History of Green Spring as a Farm, or General Garden Tour. $45 per group of up to 9 people, including at least one adult. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code X1D.1T7F for 6/19; X1D.EMVB for 7/10; X1D.8DZJ
for 8/7) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173. To schedule your own, fill out our web form, contact Elizabeth Waugh at ewaugh@fairfaxcounty.gov, or call Green Spring Gardens at (703) 642-5173.
Mondays, June 21, July 19, August 2, August 16, and August 30
Storytelling in the Garden
9-9:45am. (2-Adult) Join us every other week at Green Spring Gardens for a story. Families can bring a picnic blanket or just sit in the grass and listen to our storytellers read a story with a different theme. Afterwards, take some time to explore our gardens, ponds and Historic House. All attendees must be registered for this program $5 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code R1X.LL3R for 6/21; R1X.TB59 for 7/19; R1X.VPRR for 8/2; R1X.K2C0 for 08/16; R1X.PJR6 for 8/30) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, July 24
Family Fun: Planting Your Plate
10-11:30am. (5-Adult) Farm to table...how about backyard to table? Join us to learn how to plant, grow and harvest herbs, flowers, and vegetables to make colorful and delicious additions to every meal. Explore our park's Edible Garden and plant your own mini edible garden to take home and enjoy. All attendees must be registered for the program. $10 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 4K4.W102) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Saturday, August 21
Summer Safari
11am-12pm. (5-Adult) Salamanders, snakes, toads, turtles… summer is their favorite season and all are out and about. Come on a safari to explore the habitats and activities of these creatures and more! Binoculars and magnifying glasses will be provided to aid you in your summer safari. All attendees must be registered for this program. $8 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code AQ9.67LK) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
By-Request Programs
Choose Your Nature Walk
Book a walk with one of our Children’s Education teachers and choose from a variety of topics for the themed tour of the park. Each tour will include a hands-on element and can be customized to include the science topics your students are learning in school. C
hoose one of the following topics: Pond Fauna & Flora, Native VA Plants & Trees, Watersheds & Geology of Green Spring, VA Ecosystems Walk, History of Green Spring as a Farm, or General Garden Tour. $45 per group of up to 9 people, including at least one adult. To schedule, fill out our web form, contact Elizabeth Waugh at ewaugh@fairfaxcounty.gov, or call Green Spring Gardens at (703) 642-5173.
Private Garden Tours for Groups and Individuals
Arrange a private tour of the demonstration gardens. Green Spring Extension Master Gardener docents lead garden tours year-round. These knowledgeable, highly trained guides interpret the gardens, the plant collections, the site’s mission, and its historic legacy. Home gardeners can learn about top landscape plant choices and plant combinations. General and themed garden tours are available. $10 per person for groups of 20 or more; $12 per person for 19 or fewer (minimum of 2) Groups of more than 10 people will be divided into smaller groups to allow for social distancing. For information or to schedule a garden tour call Historic Green Spring at (703) 941-7987.
Visit with the Historian
Step into the 1784 Historic House with Green Spring’s historian, who shares the fascinating origins of the site, the intriguing people who lived here, and how Green Spring Gardens evolved into the community treasure it is today. Your 45-minute private visit will include time to view informational videos and a historic photo exhibit. $20 for 1-2 adults, $10 for each additional person, up to 7. For information or to schedule a visit call Historic Green Spring at (703) 941-7987.
Make an appointment for in-person shopping at our Gift Shop
Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Registrants will be sent a link by e-mail to join the Zoom lecture. Optional afternoon teas to go are provided in individual tea boxes available for pickup on the day of the program. Tea boxes include finger sandwiches, assorted cakes/pastries, scone, cream, jam, and tea bag. Programs are by reservation only. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.
Green Spring Gardens
(Entrance just across from Pinecrest Golf Course off Braddock Road behind the Pinecrest Shopping Center)
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring
Photographs & images, on this page are from the Chamber's photographic archive and with the courtesy of Green Spring Gardens. They are not available for use by other publications, blogs, individuals, websites, or social media sites. For this and other stories on Annandale and Annandale History see the chamber's website and read:
The ENDEAVOR News Magazine.
(Copyright © 2011 Annandale Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.)
Copyright 2012 Annandale Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy
