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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

September 14, 2026

Peggy Cornett

Thomas Jefferson's Gardening Legacy at Monticello

Learn More

November 9, 2026

Betty Montgomery

How to Grow, Cultivate and Enjoy Hydrangeas

Learn More

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

March 15, 2027

Kara Newport

From Filoli to the Lowcountry: The Transformative Power of Place

Learn More

April 19, 2027

Jared Barnes, Ph.D.

The Wild South: Naturalistic Planting & Ecological Design

Learn More

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.

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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.

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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​

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Where

  • MUSC Bioengineering Auditorium 

  • 68 President Street, Charleston​

  • ​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:
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