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Instructors: Matthew SarverOften overlooked in favor of their daytime counterparts, moths and their caterpillars are the unsung champions of our local ecosystems. While North America boasts thousands more moth species than butterflies, these nocturnal pollinators are vital links in the food web, converting plant energy into life for countless other animals.
In this course, we delve into the fascinating findings of recent biodiversity surveys at Mt. Cuba Center—including the discovery of 693 species and 25 new state records for Delaware. Participants will learn why moths are the ultimate "specialists" and how their survival depends on specific host-plant requirements.
We will move beyond science and into your own backyard with actionable conservation strategies. From identifying keystone plant species to creating "soft landings" for overwintering pupae, you will discover how to transform your garden into a thriving sanctuary for these diverse and beautiful insects.
What You’ll Learn:
- The Power of Pollinators: Understand the critical ecological roles moths play as both pollinators and essential food sources.
- Local Biodiversity Insights: Explore the data from Mt. Cuba’s iNaturalist project and Sarver Ecological surveys.
- Native Gardening for Specialists: Identify host plants and keystone species that support specialized caterpillar populations.
- Moth-Friendly Lighting: Learn how to minimize light pollution using LED, downward-facing, and yellow-wavelength bulbs.
- Creating Habitats: Master the art of "leaving the leaves" to provide safe overwintering sites in the soil and leaf litter.
Take part in our flexible online learning offerings. Join live to participate in our online learning community or watch after as your schedule allows. All registrants will receive a recording of the class with access to view the class for 30 days after the live session. Regular Price: $25 Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Member Price: $22.50
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8/12/2026 6:00 PM-7:30 PM
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Instructors: Leah BrooksFall is one of the best times to plant for lasting garden impact. Join our online community of gardeners to learn more about how you can build a garden that performs beautifully in autumn and beyond. With instructor Leah Brooks facilitating this hybrid class, you’ll explore native perennials that bring color, texture, and ecological value to fall landscapes.
You’ll learn practical garden knowledge, including:
- The best native perennials for standout fall interest
- How asters, ferns, sedges, and other plants add seasonal texture and color
- Why fall planting helps roots establish before summer stress
- Simple ways to design a more dynamic, wildlife-friendly autumn garden
- Plant combinations you can use at home right away
Ready to make your garden the star of autumn, register now for your online spot.
Join live to participate in our online learning community or watch after as your schedule allows. All registrants will receive a recording of the class with access to view the class for 30 days after the live session. Regular Price: $25 Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Member Price: $22.50
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9/2/2026 1:00 PM-2:15 PM
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Instructors: Mt. Cuba StaffCurious about gardening but not sure where to start? Designed for new gardeners and anyone ready to grow successfully, this beginner-friendly class will help you get started with confidence—whether you have a backyard, small terrace, or a few containers.
In this gardening introduction session, you will learn the fundamentals of preparing your space and garden techniques that work with nature. Inspired by the practices of Mt. Cuba Center, you’ll discover how to choose easy-to-grow native plants, care for them through the seasons, and create a garden that supports local wildlife.
In this class, you’ll learn how to:
- Understand common gardening terms.
- Match plants to soil, light, and water conditions.
- Use native plants in your own space.
- Start small and grow with confidence.
- Keep your garden beautiful with limited time and effort.
Take part in our flexible online learning offerings. Join live to participate in our online learning community or watch after as your schedule allows. All registrants will receive a recording of the class with access to view the class for 30 days after the live session Regular Price: $25 Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Member Price: $22.50
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9/18/2026 1:00 PM-2:30 PM
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