NC State University Department of Horticultural Science and Longwood Gardens, one of the premier public gardens in the world, are partnering to provide the general public with three fully-online introductions to plants. These survey courses will introduce people to plants that can be grown throughout the nation.
Participants will have access to the course resources 24/7 for the entire six weeks of the class and for six months after each course ends. There are no required presentations or any set times to meet online. In addition to the course fee you may choose to purchase an optional print copy of the online e-book that is included with the course.
Each course is focused on a different set of plant groupings and includes some favorites 
as well as a few introductions from the research and breeding programs at Longwood Gardens and NCSU. Through photo-stories, video presentations, online plant profiles, an e-book, flash-cards, vocabulary games, mystery plants and hundreds of beautiful images students will learn the key identifying characteristics of these plants and how best to use them in the landscape.
Below is a brief overview of each course followed by a link to enroll for that course or to be sent an invitation when offer dates are announced.
Learn to Identify Annuals, Perennials, and Vines – Fee $195 – Register by March 8 !
This course begins March 4th and features 45 plants. Late registration is accepted through March 8th. To enroll: https://reporter.ncsu.edu/index.html Learn more: https://horticulture.cals.ncsu.edu/online/annuals-perennials-vines-and-groundcovers/
Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants – generally offered in March and September
Learn about the edible side of the landscape with an exploration of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and herbs. Extend your growing season with bulbs and even houseplants. https://horticulture.cals.ncsu.edu/online/edibles-bulbs-and-houseplants-online-non-credit-plant-id-course/
Trees, Shrubs, and Conifers: Identification and Use – generally offered in July and September. https://horticulture.cals.ncsu.edu/online/trees-shrubs-and-conifers/
You may request an invitation to upcoming offerings.
And more!
Everything about Orchids – Free massive online open course (MOOC) – Open through May 6, 2019
Learn more about Longwood Garden’s orchid collection and how you can grow and enjoy orchids in your own home with Greg Griffis, Orchid Grower, and Peter Zale, Associate Director of Conservation, Plant Breeding and Collections. You will learn about different types of orchids, their cultural needs, and how to use these plants in your home, in floral designs, and even in the landscape. Learn tips and techniques for repotting and propagating orchids as Greg discusses the care and culture of Longwood’s orchid collection. Discover some unique native orchids and learn about how they are breeding and conserving some species.
This course is self-paced and is open for participants to join at any time through May 6, 2019. You will have access to the course resources 24/7 for the entire six weeks of the class and for six months after the course ends.
– A. Laine