Rhodies 101 Workshop
Saturday, May 23
from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
with rhododendron expert Dennis McKiver in the MCBG Farmhouse
Our cool coastal climate, acidic soils, and mild winters allow many beautiful cultivars and species to thrive. Dennis McKiver of the American Rhododendron Society’s local chapter will teach proper planting and plant medium, fertilizing, pruning, as well as disease and pest control. Expand your collection by learning to duplicate the rhododendrons in your yard and choosing the right hybrids and species for your area. Discover what to plant for colorful blooms 12 months out of the year! The workshop will wrap up with a tour of the Rhododendron Collection at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
The Details
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The class will include indoor instruction and a walk in the Gardens. Be prepared for the weather with appropriate layers.
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We recommend bringing along drinking water, a notebook, a pen, and wearing good walking shoes.
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Masks are optional during this workshop. If you are sick, please stay home.
Workshop Registration
Class size is limited! Registration for this workshop must be completed in advance online or at the MCBG Store. The registration fee is $36.00 per participant or $26.00 for MCBG Members and covers your admission for the day. All fees are non-refundable unless the workshop has been canceled or rescheduled by the Gardens. Proceeds support our nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Registration – $36.00 per participant, includes Gardens admission for the day
Member Registration – $26.00 per current MCBG Member – sign in to access your discount
Your participation in our workshops, walks, and events directly fuels our education programs, makes free school field trips possible, and helps people of all ages and backgrounds build meaningful connections with plants and the beauty of the natural world. Thanks from the MCBG Team and all who enjoy this garden by the sea!
About the Instructor
Dennis McKiver is a highly respected leader and rhododendron authority in the American Rhododendron Society’s Noyo Chapter. A dedicated collector and grower since 2001, he has cultivated over 1,000 hybrid and species rhododendrons on his property—an extraordinary personal collection nurtured with both patience and passion.
Dennis has shared his deep expertise widely. He regularly leads guided rhododendron walks and “Rhodies 101” workshops at the Gardens, teaching planting strategy, pruning, fertilization, and pest management for successful cultivation in a variety of climates.
His contributions to the rhododendron community extend beyond cultivation. Dennis has held key leadership roles in the Noyo Chapter, including President and Vice President, and has been actively involved in plant shows, tours, and educational events that advance both appreciation and knowledge of the genus.
Whether introducing newcomers to these remarkable plants or helping seasoned growers refine their practices, Dennis brings a wealth of experience and a warm, encouraging spirit to the rhododendron world.
Dennis and his wife, Valerie, are longtime participants and winners at the Rhododendron Show held at the Gardens annually.
Join the Noyo ARS!
The American Rhododendron Society (ARS) is an international organization devoted to Rhododendrons. The Noyo Chapter of the ARS has been a local non-profit organization for over 45 years on the Mendocino Coast. They are a vibrant club with over 100 members whose mission is to promote the study and culture of rhododendrons and to stimulate interest in rhododendrons by any appropriate means. They hold frequent meetings of members, provide education, and host the annual Rhododendron Show at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
Learn more and become a member:
