CSU Extension Gardening Webinars
Below are free online classes available from CSU Extension. Advanced registration is required.
Extension Programs are available to all without discrimination. If you have a need for which you seek an accommodation, please notify the listed presenter and allow at least 14 days to provide the accommodations.
2026 WEBINARS
JANUARY
Indoor Plants: An Introductory Overview for New Plant Parents
Success with indoor plants is within your grasp! Join Camille Gaty of Echter’s Garden Center as we cover basics of lighting, watering, and repotting, and discuss common problems, misconceptions, and best practices.
Asian Jumping Worm in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Thursday, January 29, 2026, 11:30am – 1:00pm MT
Asian jumping worm, an invasive species of earthworm, was confirmed in Denver County in 2025. Join this webinar to learn more about Asian jumping worm and its biology, habits, control options, and if there is a concern for Colorado landscapes.
Presenters include Dr. Bruce Snyder, Associate Professor in the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department at the Georgia College & State University; Aja Bos, Colorado Department of Agriculture; and Dr. Whitney Cranshaw, Extension Entomologist and Retired Professor Emeritus at Colorado State University.
FEBRUARY
2025 “Best Of” Plants from the CSU Trial Gardens
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Join Dr. Chad Miller, from the CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, for an update on the best performing annuals and perennials from the 2025 Colorado State University flower trials.
MARCH
Get in the Zone: Do hardiness zones really matter?
Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Have you ever wondered why some plants grow better at your neighbor’s house, or why you could grow the world’s greatest tomatoes or roses when you lived back east? Or why your favorite apricot tree only fruits every few years? Explore these topics and more with Heather Houk from La Plata County Extension. She’ll explain the true meaning of the hardiness zones and how to get down and dirty with the specifics on our own properties. You will be amazed how growing the ‘right’ plant in the ‘right’ place can make all the difference.
APRIL
The Basics of Fruit Tree Production
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Jeff Pieper from Mesa County Extension will discuss production methods for apple, peaches, and cherries, including site selection, rootstock selection, scion selection, pruning and training, thinning, IPM, and harvest.
MAY
Myths, Mistakes, and Misunderstood Insects
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 12:00pm MT
This talk explores some of the most persistent insect myths we hear across Colorado (and our planet) — from misconceptions about “dangerous” species to misunderstandings about pests, pollinators, and household visitors. Melissa Schreiner, from CSU Extension in the Tri-River Area, will walk through why these myths persist, what the science actually tells us, and how simple shifts in understanding can help people make more informed, confident decisions in their homes, gardens, and communities.
June
All the Common Weeds and What They Tell You
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 12:00pm MT
It’s always fun to discuss what to plant in your garden and what is growing well, but what about when things go wrong? Cassey Anderson with CSU Extension will discuss some of the more common weeds in your landscape, what they may mean, and how to manage them.
July
Native Plants are Imaginary
Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Gardening with native plants is becoming ever more mainstream. What makes a native plant special? Join John Murgel from CSU Extension in Douglas County to learn more – the answer might surprise you.
August
Showstoppers and Habitat Heroes: Native Plants for your Home Landscape
Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Consider this a speed dating experience for choosing the next native plants for your yard. You’ll get a score card and end the class with a list of your top picks to make your decision-making process easier. Get ready for some plant anthropomorphizing as Allisa Zurbuchen from El Paso County Extension guides you through opportunities and challenges of using different native plant species in your landscape.
September
Don’t Get Hosed with Landscape Irrigation
Wednesday September 9, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Join Scott Curry, Zach Johnson, and Chris Tragakes from the CSU Department of Horticulture to learn more about the types of lawn sprinkler heads to improve efficiency, successfully using drip irrigation, and demystifying irrigation clocks.
October
Spooky Plant Pathogens: Creepy Cases from the Garden
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Join Drs. Jen Rushton and Emily Luna, from CSU, for a Halloween-themed dive into the world of plant diseases. We’ll explore fungi that resemble monsters, bacteria that ooze like slime, and other chilling plant pathology phenomena. Perfect for anyone who loves plants—and a good scare!
November
Scenes from a Cemetery: Plant Edition
Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Cemeteries often have such unique plant material – mature trees, various grasses, and long-standing perennials. Alison O’Connor from Larimer County Extension will talk about the diversity of plants found in cemeteries around the United States (including Colorado) and why you might visit these botanical wonders.
December
Reading the Market for Plant Trends
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 12:00pm MT
Ever wonder how nurseries decide which plants to grow and what ends up on garden center shelves? Join Sheila Prentice from Boulder County Extension to explore the behind-the-scenes process of selecting new plants for production, introducing them to the market, and forecasting which varieties will be in demand each season. Join us to learn how nursery professionals use market trends, customer preferences, and production timelines to plan what plants you’ll find available next year.
2025 WEBINARS
JANUARY
CSU Best Of Annuals and Perennials from 2024
Dr. Chad Miller, from the CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, gives an update on the best performing annuals and perennials from the 2024 Colorado State University flower trials.
FEBRUARY
Let’s Try Something Different: Unique Choices for the Vegetable Garden
Join Cassey Anderson from CSU Extension for an informative and interesting discussion on some of the lesser-known (and lesser-grown) vegetables for Colorado gardens.
MARCH
From the Ground Up
Karim Gharbi from CSU Extension talks about fascinating organisms that live in the various layers of a landscape – starting with soils and ending with the top of the plant canopy.
Additional Resources – Springtail acrobatics, Springtail hunting beetle, Antlions, Wasp larvae scraping jaws, Fecal Shields (5:12-6:25), Treehoppers, Larger playlist of videos
Exploring Controlled Environment Production for Home Gardeners
Join us for an exciting and informative webinar where we explore the world of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)—a growing approach to sustainable farming. From simple Dixie cups to sophisticated vertical farms, we’ll cover the full spectrum of CEA systems! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grower, this webinar will provide valuable insights into starting and optimizing your own CEA system.
APRIL
Plant Judo: Putting Your Energy to Good Garden Use
“Because I said so” and “trust me” are not the most compelling reasons to change your gardening habits. Join John Murgel from CSU Extension as he delves into the evidence behind CSU garden recommendations.
Controlled Environment Production: Growing Undercover
Join Tammy Brenner, Drew Walters and Chris Hilgert and learn strategies to extend the growing season using high tunnels, low tunnels, row covers, and hobby greenhouses.
MAY
Top Trees for Colorado
Eric Hammond from CSU Extension discusses some of the top-performing trees in Colorado. A selection of tree types, sizes, and attributes will be included in this webinar.
June
Native Plants: Potting Media, Soil, and Tips for Transplanting Success
Wednesday, June 11, 2025, 12:00pm MT
Allisa Zurbuchen, from CSU Extension, who’s doctoral research focuses on nursery container production of native plants, digs into what’s going on beneath the soil line and how to optimize transplanting success of your favorite native plants. Native plants can be a lower-maintenance, lower-water option for your landscape but only if they establish successfully.
July
Managing Lawns in a Warming Climate
As summers get hotter, home lawn care will change with regards to weed management, irrigation, and cultural practices. Dr. Tony Koski from CSU Extension and Dr. Roch Gaussion, retired turf Specialist from University of Nebraska, discuss best management practices to ensure that your lawn withstands the heat…and cold…that Colorado experiences.
August
Best of Demonstration Garden Plants from the Western Slope
The CSU Extension Office in Grand Junction has supported a thriving demonstration garden for many years. Join Mollie Freilicher as she discusses some of the challenging conditions gardeners in western Colorado face as well as top performers from the garden and beyond.
September
The Art of Insect Survival: Masters of Disguise and Flashy Warnings
Join Mel Schreiner, CSU Extension Entomologist, for a fun journey into insect camouflage and aposematism! Explore how bugs blend in with surroundings, from mimicking leaves to masquerading as twigs. Discover their clever tricks and how humans draw inspiration, creating camouflage clothing and more!
Chaos Gardening – A Playful Path to Sustainable Gardening
Explore chaos gardening — a trendy, low-pressure, creative approach to growing that blends beauty with sustainability. In this free webinar, you’ll learn how chaos gardening differs from traditional methods, explore its benefits for beginners and busy gardeners, and uncover the site conditions and plant choices that set it up for success. We’ll also discuss common pitfalls, like invasive species, and share practical strategies to design a thriving, pollinator-friendly chaos garden. Perfect for anyone ready to embrace a more playful, resilient style of gardening! Led by Colorado State University Extension Faculty located across the state.
October
Space Invaders: Garden variety monsters
We’ve likely made the mistake of planting garden “thugs” – the plants that take over your landscapes. Join Alison O’Connor from CSU Extension to identify a few of these plants and alternatives that are better behaved.
We’d like ideas for next year’s webinars: https://col.st/7kf6q
November
Basics of Tree Pruning: Keeping Your Urban Trees Healthy!
The Basics of Tree Pruning with Freddie Haberect, Senior Forester with the City of Fort Collins. Recorded November 12, 2025. This presentation covers the basics of urban tree pruning, types of pruning cuts, and tree assessment to keep trees healthy and structurally sound.
We’d like ideas for next year’s webinars: https://col.st/7kf6q
December
Mindfulness in Nature: A Garden and Nature-Based Pilot Project
Recording (Note: This recording has audio issues during the first 10 minutes.)
Jennifer Cook from Gilpin County Extension will teach mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and create a sense of peace in nature and in the garden. She will describe and summarize the Mindfulness in Nature pilot workshop held in Gilpin County, and discuss how you can host a similar activity with friends, youth, or the public.
We’d like ideas for next year’s webinars: https://col.st/7kf6q
2024 WEBINARS
JANUARY
Best of CSU Annuals and Perennials
Instructor: Dr. Chad Miller, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
Please take our survey and provide us with your valuable input!
FEBRUARY
Our Favorite Perennials
Instructors: Cassey Anderson and Alison O’Connor, CSU Extension
MARCH
Waterwise Updates for Lawns and Landscapes
Instructor: Deryn Davidson, CSU Extension Sustainable Landscapes Specialist
APRIL
Clover Lawns and Organic Lawn Care
Instructor: Dr. Tony Koski, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
Seed Starting
Instructor: Cassey Anderson, CSU Extension in Adams County
Gardening is Good!
Instructor: Alison O’Connor, CSU Extension in Larimer County
MAY
Terrific Trees for the Front Range
Instructor: Eric Hammond, CSU Extension in Adams County
Superior Shrubs for the Colorado Landscape
Instructor: Dr. Jim Klett, Professor Emeritus, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
How to Buy a Plant
Instructor: John Murgel, CSU Extension in Douglas County
The Insect Eras Tour
Instructor: Lisa Mason, CSU Extension in Arapahoe County
Unique Annuals for Pots!
Instructor: Rachel Durkan, CSU Extension in Jefferson County
JUNE
Waterwise Turf Species: Pros and Cons
Instructor: Dr. Tony Koski, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
JULY
Urban Arthropod Pests
Instructor: Karim Gharbi, Horticulture Specialist, Denver County Extension
AUGUST
Fire-Resilient Landscapes
Instructor: Micaela Truslove, Commercial Horticulture Specialist, Boulder County Extension
SEPTEMBER
Extending Your Garden Season
Instructor: Eric Hammond, County Director and Hort Specialist, Adams County Extension
OCTOBER
Plant Happiness: Seven Things Everyone Needs to Know
Instructor: John Murgel, Horticulture Specialist, Douglas County Extension
NOVEMBER
Starting Native Plants from Seed
Instructor: Allisa Zurbuchen, Horticulture Specialist, El Paso County Extension
DECEMBER
New! Fresh Gardening Myths
Instructor: Alison O’Connor, Horticulture Specialist, Larimer County Extension
Please take our survey and provide us with your valuable input!
