At Chatfield Farms

Certificate Programs at the Gardens

Our educational programs offer certificates in Beginning Farmers, Botanical Illustration, Herbalism and Rocky Mountain Gardening. Multi-session classes in person at our Freyer – Newman Center for Science, Art & Education or online offer multiple avenues for experiential learning and expertise building. Certificate programs can benefit everyone from the hobbyist to anyone looking for a career shift, continuing education or employment advancement in science, art or horticulture.

Registration for winter and spring certificate programs classes opens Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 10 a.m.

Beginning Farmers Core Curriculum

Beginning Farmers Core Curriculum & Hands-on Workshops 

Denver Botanic Gardens and Colorado State University Extension partner to deliver a certificate program that introduces the ins and outs of becoming a successful small-scale market farmer.

Carol Woodin, First Spring Flowers (Crocus minimus), detail, watercolor on vellum over panel, 2024.

Botanical Illustration

A fusion of art and science, this certificate program offers multiple pathways to introduce and hone skills portraying plants for scientific purposes or simply documenting the beauty around us. Beginner and advanced art classes, botany and lecture programs offer variety. Classes are offered both online and in-person with options for weekdays, weekends, mornings, afternoons and evenings. 

Plant Select Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens

Rocky Mountain Gardening Certificate Series

Join us for a comprehensive study of specific gardening practices for the Front Range. Learn how to be a successful gardener in this region by choosing and caring successfully for plants and trees best suited to our climate and ecosystem.

Plant Select Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens

Rocky Mountain Gardening Short Certificate Course  

This hybrid course, offered either onsite or online, focuses on gaining an understanding of Colorado ecology and how to have a successful garden, with an emphasis on native plants, despite Colorado's short growing season and extreme weather.

Herbs

Spring Herbal Certificate Program – Herbs in the Body

What is the relationship between our body systems and the use of herbs? This certificate offers a unique learning experience to transform each student into a confident, knowledgeable and resourceful steward of plants with a focus on health and wellness.

Seeds and herbs

Summer Herbal Certificate Program – Seed to Remedy

With a hands-on teaching approach and seed-to-product goal, our instructors guide students through every step from growing to creating herbal products using plants for health and wellness. 

FAQ

I’m a member. How do I access member pricing?

We recommend logging into your account prior to the on-sale date to ensure you know your log-in credentials. You can reset your password online, however the reset email may be delayed during high-volume times. You can email info@botanicgardens.org or call us at 720-865-3500 for further assistance.

I’m new to gardening or art. Can I still pursue a certificate?

Novices, professionals and hobbyists alike are welcome to take our certificate programs. No experience is required—just the desire to learn.

Where do classes take place?

Some classes and programs are available online to support our global community of learners, while other programs take place in person in our state-of-the-art classrooms at the Freyer – Newman Center.

Does the price include all supplies and materials?

Please refer to the individual certificate program registration page for more information about supplies and materials.

Can I complete a certificate program if I don’t live in the Denver metro area?

Yes! Online courses are available in School of Botanical Art & Illustration, Rocky Mountain Gardening Certificate and Rocky Mountain Gardening Short Certificate Course.

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