Gardening Classes Offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

February 25, 2025

Gardening Classes Offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 25, 2025) — Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) is offering gardening classes for new and experienced gardeners looking to explore many tropical plant varieties and learn about the care and uses of those plants. Classes are designed to include the latest information on pests and products recommended for sustainable and Florida Friendly gardening. Both classroom instruction and on-site garden observations are included.

Registration is open for the following classes.

Plant a White Garden
March 18, 1:30 p.m.
White gardens were all the rage with the arrival of the Arts & Crafts movement that redesigned homes and gardens, and Vita-Sackville West’s white

Intro to Florida Gardening

garden at Sissinghurst in England set the standard. While many northern plants will not survive in Florida, the concept can be recreated with appropriate species. This class will cover plant choices and design ideas to create a sub-tropical white sensation on a lanai, balcony or garden. Cost: EFWE members: $45; non-members: $60

Shade Gardening
March 22, 10 a.m.
This class will teach how to brighten a dark corner of a garden or shaded balcony with a striking array of foliage, form and texture. A palette of tropical and sub-tropical plants that thrive in a low-light environment will be discussed. Seasonal options, as well as perennial choices, and how to place a tree or two to create a shady spot will all be covered. A garden tour of the shady enclaves at the Estates is included. Cost: EFWE members: $45; non-members: $60

ABCs of Tropical Fruits
April 15, 1:30 p.m.
This time of year is a good time to plant fruit trees. Participants will learn about avocados, bananas, and citrus. This class will cover recommended varieties to grow in Florida soils, how to plant, how to prune, and how to develop the healthiest and most productive trees. The class will also cover how to recognize common diseases and pests and address any issues. What citrus greening is, how to recognize it, and how to choose and grow citrus will also be covered. The discussion will continue in the fruit groves, following the classroom presentation. Cost: EFWE members: $45; non-members: $60

Classes are held in the air-conditioned Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council building next to the Estates (enter across from the Estates’ parking lot on Larchmont Avenue). Wearing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended, along with bringing drinking water. All participants will receive a 20% discount coupon good toward plants in the Garden Shoppe. Printouts of the teaching materials are provided. Registration at EdisonFord.org is required for all classes.