(West Palm Beach, FL – May 20, 2024) With Summer fast approaching,  Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will host 40 different fun, informative and healthy workshops and events throughout June and July.

 

“We will continue to offer exciting and elevated programming this summer, featuring both new and traditional events—all at our beautiful 20-acre oasis, located just minutes from downtown West Palm Beach,” invites Mounts Interim Co-Director Misty Stoller.

 

June 1

Orchids are for Everyone: Potting Workshop

Presented by Mounts Botanical Garden & Tropical Orchid Society

Saturday, 10:00 am to 11:15 am

$10 Members $25 Nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).

FREE for Members of West Palm Beach Orchid Society with proof of membership

Registration is required for everyone attending; class size is limited to 35 adults; classes are nonrefundable.

Held in the Mounts Garden Pavilion next to the Welcome Center, the interactive workshop will be conducted by board members of the Tropical Orchid Society. This month’s topic: Vanda’s. There will be a brief review of the orchid’s characteristics with specific growing advice, followed by hands-on repotting demonstrations and Q&A. Attendees may bring one orchid in need of repotting, plus their preferred media and pot or mount.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 5 & July 3

Palm Beach County Residents Day

Wednesday, 9 am to 4 pm (last entry at 3 pm)

Palm Beach County residents receive FREE admission to the Garden on the first Wednesday of every month. Visitors must show proof of residency for entry.

 

June 5, 12, 19, 26 & July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Qi Gong

with Roxanne Cumberland

Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am

$12 for members; $18 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.

Registration is required; size of “inside” classes is limited to 20 adults.

Relieve stress and increase metabolism, flexibility, and strength. Qi Gong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique. The exercises include simple, slow movements (which mimic nature), meditation, and focused breathing—similar to Tai Chi but less structured.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 7, 14, 21, 28 & July 5, 12, 19, 26

Tai Chi

with Josefina McMahon

Fridays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am

June Series of 4 classes: $80 members; $100 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).

Individual Class: $25 members; $30 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).

Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Tai chi class is an excellent class for those who want gentle, but effective exercise. This class is especially designed for those who are new to Tai Chi or who are just curious. Learn the basic Tai Chi principles and basic Tai Chi moves (called Forms). The primary goal is to improve over-all health and well-being. Emphasis is on mindfulness and balance through the beautiful Tai Chi Forms. The Forms are doors to Health and Serenity. Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 9 & July 14

Dogs’ Day in the Garden

Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry at 3 pm)

FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $20 for nonmember adults; $18 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $13 for children 6-17. Ticket includes full Garden admission.

Note: Dogs are FREE for Mounts members and $5 for nonmembers.

This dog-and-family-friendly monthly event is held throughout the Garden. Bring your favorite pooch and enjoy a relaxed garden stroll. There are many great spots to capture family photos for posting online with #mountsbotanicalgarden.

Guidelines:

+ Non-retractable leashes only; retractable leashes are not permitted.

+ No more than one dog per adult will be admitted.

+ Rabies vaccination must be current.

+ Visitors should bring their own water and treats for the puppies.

For details, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/

 

June 9, 30 & July 14, 28

Awakening Hearts:

A Cacao Ceremony & Sound Immersion Experience

with Casa Rituals

Sunday, 10:00 am to 11:30 am

$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Under the guidance of instructors Marit Tuisk and David Lepp, participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing upon arrival to release the burdens of day-to-day life and will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to take part in a sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. This will be followed by a Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which everyone will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat or blanket, and do not drink alcohol on the day of the ceremony or consume caffeine three hours before and after the event.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 15, 23 & July 20, 28

Forest Bathing:

Nature Therapy Walks and Tea Ceremony

with Kathy Andio

+ Saturday, June 15, 9:15 am to 11:30 am

+ Sunday, June 23, 9:15 am to 11:30 am

$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Forest Bathing—also known as Nature Therapy—is an immersive experience in nature that gives participants an opportunity to reset their outlook on life and have an encounter with nature in a way that they have never-before experienced. It is a sensory practice away from phones, computers, and social media and back to what the body yearns for—a connection with nature, a sense of peace, a sense of relaxation, and a sense of being in the present moment. It provides the perfect time to become a human “be-ing” instead of a human “do-ing”. During a Forest Bathing experience, attendees will be invited to slow down and reconnect with nature’s perfect balance using their senses to see the sunlight playing through the leaves, smell the flowers, and feel and hear the gentle wind whispering to return to one’s native roots and discover a deeper self. The nature encounter concludes with a tea ceremony to connect with other like-minded nature lovers. Forest Bathing has been scientifically proven to boost immune strength, lift depression, reduce stress, and improve sleep. But beyond these physiological changes, this contemplative experience demonstrates how important it is for well-being to take time in nature on a daily basis.

Note: Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before start time and bring a chair or yoga mat.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 16

Honoring the Earth Element with Cacao & Sound Healing

Sunday, 10 am to 12 pm 

$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

This is an opportunity for Mounts visitors to connect with the essence of the EARTH element by making an offering to the life of the Cacao tree, exploring the concept that Life is a Ceremony, and honoring both the sacred process and origin of this cherished medicine. Upon arrival, guests will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from day-to day life. Participating in a sacred cacao ceremony will help one relax, activate the heart, and prepare one to embrace the healing journey ahead. This journey is enriched by the transformative power of Gong sound healing, granting visitors the ability to transcend mental constraints and explore the depths of their inner world. By attuning to the ceremony and harmonious frequencies, coupled with the practice of Yoga Nidra meditation, this will promote healing for the mind, body, and soul. As they depart, participants will feel more intimately connected with intuition, aligned with the sanctuary of the heart, and receptive to the wellspring of inner wisdom.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.  

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 23 & July 21

Full Moon Release Ceremony with Sacred Cacao and Sound Bath

Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm 

$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) 

Registration is required; class size is limited to30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being as we explore the healing power of the sound and your own intention and immerse yourself in the transformative power of nature during the Full Moon Flower Release Ceremony. This awe-inspiring gathering takes place in a tranquil garden, carefully adorned with aromatic flowers and lush greenery. The Casa Rituals philosophy is deeply rooted in helping to bring everyday mindful intention to the busy modern-day person. This is achieved by creating a deeper and more aligned space, working with the vibration of sound healing and sacred rituals for internal peace and harmony. Upon arrival attendees will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from day-to day life. Then they will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to take part in a sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax, open the heart chakra, and help be receptive to the healing one will experience.

We will continue with Release Ritual and learn how to release that no longer serves you with Intention and Grace and with power of Full Moon. Finally, participant will relax into Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which you will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.  

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

June 29

Troubleshooting Your Orchid

with Bridget Uzar from Carter & Holmes Orchids

Saturday, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

$10 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

FREE for members of West Palm Beach Orchid Society with proof of membership (shown on day of class). 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 100 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Learn the basics of growing orchids, including common issues like why a plant won’t flower, how to deal with an overgrown or dehydrated plant, how to control insects, and the common diseases and viruses that can affect n orchid. Bridget Uzar is a fourth-generation green thumb, and a second-generation orchid grower, who has been at Carter & Holmes Orchids for over 20 years. Carter & Holmes is a family-run business with one of the world's longest-running orchid hybridizing programs. Uzar will have a limited supply of plants for sale at this event. Refreshments will be available.

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-06/

 

July 7

New Moon Cacao Ceremony and Sound Immersion Experience

Sunday, 10 am to 12:00 pm 

$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) 

Registration is required; class size is limited. 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being and explore the healing power of the cacao under the shade of the Garden’s cacao tree. Upon arrival, a ceremonial smudging and blessing will be offered, creating a space to release the daily burdens that weigh upon you. Following this, attendees will be presented with a cup of the finest Ceremonial Cacao, taking part in our sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony while aligning with the new moon's energies to set an intention for opening your heart to receive. The Cacao serves to relax, unlock your heart chakra, and make one more receptive to the forthcoming healing experience. Finally, gently transition into a Yoga Nidra meditation and a deep sound healing session. During this time, become fully immersed in the soothing and restorative energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.  

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-07/

 

July 13, 20, 27

Orchid Trilogy

Presented by Sandi Jones, Broward Orchid Supply

Saturdays, 10:30 am to 12:30 am (includes full Garden admission)

Trilogy Series: $120 members; $135 for nonmembers

Individual Class: $45 members; $50 nonmembers

Registration is required; Class size limited to 45 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

The popular Orchid Trilogy workshops are back in July.These are comprehensive guides and perfect classes to take for anyone growing orchids in South Florida.

++ July 13

Orchid Basics

Newcomers to orchids will learn how to choose the correct plants for their growing area and what orchids need to grow and flower. Sign up and start your orchid journey here! Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class.

  ++ July 20

Orchid Repotting and Orchid Mounting techniques

Learn how to repot your orchid and how often your orchid should be repotted, learn about different kinds of potting media to use and the proper pot or basket to use. Also learn how orchids can be mounted on items such as cork, a tree fern or a branch. Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class

  ++ July 27

Training Your Eye – Orchid Pests, Disease & Cures

Learn about pests and diseases that can affect your orchids. Bacteria, fungus and insects can all damage your orchids, discover how to spot them early and what to do if you find them. Students will be taught how to identify the culprits, what products to use to get rid of them and how to avoid them in the future. Orchids and Orchid leaves can be brought in for diagnosis but must be placed inside a sealed plastic bag to prevent contamination of other plants. Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-07/

 

July 15 – 19 | July 22 - 26

Garden Explorers Summer Camp

Children ages 7 to 11can explore the amazing and science-based wonders of Mounts Botanical Garden. Camp activities take place both outside and inside. Campers will have access to a cool, safe, indoor space when needed due to excessive heat or the likeliness of rain. Attend one or both summer camp sessions. Each week will feature something new and different for the Garden Explorers to enjoy. Camp registration is limited to 30 participants each week.

++ CAMP HOURS: Monday through Friday; 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

++ CAMP FEES: $250 per week for Mounts members; $290 per week for non-members; $50 for optional extended care (covers 8:00 am to 9:00 am and 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm).

To register, please visit:

https://114251.blackbaudhosting.com/114251/Garden-Explorers-Summer-Camp-15Jul2024 

 

Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects

Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide

Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org]. 

 

About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:

With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.

 

Attached Images:

(Photo Credit: Mounts Botanical Garden)

1.   Dogs’ Day in the Garden – June 9, July 11

2.   Forest Bathing with Kathy Andio – June 15, 23 & July 20, 28

3.   Garden Explorers Summer Camp – May 18

 

Available for Interview:

Misty Stoller, Interim Co-Director

Mounts Botanical Garden

954.292.8169 / [email protected]

 

Media Contact:

Gary Schweikhart, PR-BS

561.756.4298 / [email protected]