Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Exploring Conifers
SELECTION, PLANTING & GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the beauty, structure, and surprising science of conifers in this engaging workshop for home gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Unlike most plants, conifers are ancient, non-flowering species that reproduce by cones and rely on wind pollination—adaptations that have helped them thrive for millions of years. We’ll begin with a practical overview of selecting conifers suited to our region, along with insight into the traits that make them so effective in the landscape—from needle structure to growth habit. A live planting demonstration will cover proper installation techniques and early care for long-term success, followed by a discussion of maintenance and common challenges. The class concludes with a guided exploration of the garden’s conifer collection, showcasing how these plants provide year-round structure, texture, and visual interest. Participants will take home a curated bundle of fresh conifer clippings, and a regional conifer guide.

Fees: Member $32, Non-Member $40

All programs are subject to change. Pre-registration through our website is required.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden strives to be a Garden for all and we are committed to offering diverse adult learning opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all learners. If you would like to request an accommodation to support your participation in an adult learning opportunity at the Garden, please contact [email protected] or call 804-262-9887 x328 and we will make our best effort to help.

Register Member $32

Register Non-Member $40

Date:
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time:
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Event Details

Dress for being indoors and outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes for walking as we tour the gardens collections.

Danny Cox, Vice President of Horticulture at Lewis Ginter Botanical GardenAbout the Instructor

A leader in public horticulture for more than a decade, Danny Cox oversees the Horticulture Department, setting the vision for the curation, growth, and maintenance of botanical collections. He combines lifelong passions for plants and people by creating innovative landscape displays that inspire and delight visitors and celebrate Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s diverse membership.

Danny received his Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Florida Gulf Coast University and is a graduate of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Associate Leadership Development Program, as well as the Strategic Leaders Program at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. He honed his expertise in garden construction, maintenance, layout, and design at the Naples Botanical Garden in Florida, rising through the ranks to Senior Horticulture Manager.

Danny has also served on the Board of Directors of the International Waterlily and Water Gardening Society and the Naples Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society. Most recently, Danny completed the Longwood Fellows Program, a prestigious leadership development program for public garden professionals which included a field placement with the Singapore National Parks Board.

While Danny has a strong knowledge of many aspects of horticulture and public gardens, he specializes in aquatic and tropical plants. His work with the waterlily collection at Naples Botanical Garden was featured in Better Homes and Gardens. As a new resident to the Mid-Atlantic Region, Danny is excited to explore all Richmond and its surrounding natural areas have to offer.

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