
Cultivating Minds
Lecture Series
The Charleston Horticultural Society's Cultivating Minds Lecture Series brings together some of today's most respected voices in horticulture, ecology, conservation, landscape design, and garden history.
From September through May, gardeners of every experience level are invited to explore new ideas, discover innovative practices, and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts through engaging presentations from nationally recognized speakers. Whether you're passionate about native plants, historic gardens, ecological design, or the art of gardening, each lecture offers fresh inspiration and practical knowledge to take home.
Every lecture begins with a welcome reception featuring light refreshments, followed by the evening's presentation and audience Q&A.
2026-2027 Lecture Schedule
Date
Speaker
Topic
January 11, 2027
Christian Sottile
The Role of Public Green Spaces in Connecting Community
February 8, 2027
Green Heart
Project Panel
Cultivating More than Gardens: Growing Food, People, & Community
May 10, 2027
TBD
TBD
Event Information
Cultivating Minds Series
Our HORT Lecture Series is a long-standing tradition that brings inspiring speakers, fresh ideas, and meaningful garden education to our community. Each program offers a chance to learn, connect, and be energized by the beauty and science of horticulture.
Join us for an inspiring lineup of garden voices as we explore plants, design, and creativity from multiple perspectives. Begin with Rick Darke, who traces the evolution of wild gardening from William Robinson to today’s regenerative landscapes, sharing striking imagery and practical insights for creating resilient, naturalistic gardens. Next, Dan Benarcik of Chanticleer Gardens offers a visually rich look at how creativity, whimsy, and artistry shape one of the country’s most beloved gardens. Next we welcome Sam Hoadley of Mt. Cuba Center, highlighting standout native plants from trial gardens that bring lasting beauty and ecological value to gardens across our region and beyond. We’ll wrap up with Stewarding Sacred Spaces, a thoughtful panel discussion and film screening exploring the cultural, historical, and ecological importance of Lowcountry cemeteries, inviting us all to rethink how we care for these meaningful landscapes.
These are lectures you won’t want to miss. Reserve your spot today.

Monday, April 13, 2026
Reception: 5:30 pm
Lecture: 6:00 pm
Join Sam Hoadley of Mt. Cuba Center for a fast-paced look at standout native plants from their trials, including favorites like wild hydrangea, Carex, Amsonia, and more. Discover top performers that bring beauty and ecological value to gardens across our region and beyond.

Monday, May 11, 2026
Reception: 5:15 pm
Panel/Screening: 6:00 pm
Discussion: 6:30 pm
Q&A: 7:00 pm
Join us for Stewarding Sacred Spaces, a panel discussion featuring Sidney Frazier, Joseph McGill, Jr. and Sara Suarez, exploring environmental, historical, and cultural importance of historic cemetaries. The evening will also feature a screening of Remnants by filmmaker Sara Suárez and insights from a recent community BioBlitz inviting us all to rethink how we care for these meaningful landscapes.
When
-
Select Monday evenings, September through May
-
Reception- 5:30 PM
-
Lecture- 6:00 PM

Where
-
MUSC Bioengineering Auditorium
-
68 President Street, Charleston
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Complimentary parking vouchers provided for Jonathan Lucas Parking Garage.
Admission
-
Free for HORT members
-
$20 for non-members at the door
-
Advance registration requested
Lecture Series is generously sponsored by:


