Whether you’re a newcomer to gardening or new to the unique challenges of South Carolina’s diverse climate, the Clemson Cooperative Extension Service has designed a program just for you.
Home Horticulture Foundations: Lawns and Landscapes is a six-week online course launching on Feb. 2. It offers gardeners across the Palmetto State expert guidance on creating and maintaining beautiful, resilient outdoor spaces.
Led by Clemson Extension Horticulture agents Brad Fowler, Carmen Ketron and Stephanie Turner, this self-paced course delivers nine comprehensive video presentations covering everything from soil science to climate-resilient landscape design. New videos are released at noon every Monday, allowing participants to learn on their own schedule while building a solid foundation in Southern gardening principles.
“We designed this course to address the real challenges South Carolina gardeners face,” Ketron said. “From understanding our diverse soils and climate zones to managing pests and selecting plants that thrive in our conditions, participants will gain practical, research-based knowledge they can apply immediately.”
The program offers participation options to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. Gardeners can choose the video series alone or enhance their experiences with hands-on field days at two locations: the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, South Carolina, on March 20, or Erskine College in Due West, South Carolina, on April 10. Both field days run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include interactive workshops, expert demonstrations and complimentary refreshments and lunch.
Course content progresses through essential topics. Participants begin with an overview of South Carolina’s unique soils, climate and common pests before delving into specific subjects, such as lawn maintenance, weed management, ornamental plant selection and landscape design.
The series concludes with weather-wise gardening strategies for building resilient landscapes in an era of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
All registrants receive a comprehensive learning package, including access to all nine videos, printable slide presentations, a curated reading list and a digital resource guide. Course materials remain accessible through May 4, allowing participants to revisit content as needed throughout the growing season.
For Clemson Extension Master Gardener Volunteers, attending one of the field days offers four hours of continuing education toward their annual certification requirements.
Registration information and pricing details are available on the Home Horticulture Foundations: Lawns and Landscapes Eventbrite page. For more information, contact Carmen Ketron, Clemson Extension urban horticulture agent.
With South Carolina’s gardening season approaching, organizers encourage early registration to secure spots, particularly for the limited-capacity field day events.
