Workshop 🌷 Bloom by Bloom with Susan Calhoun

Workshop with Susan Calhoun — Sunday, November 16

Limited to 10 participants | $40 workshop fee + $35 materials

Design a container that transforms through the season, unfolding bloom after bloom from February into May. Join renowned landscape designer Susan Calhoun of Plantswoman Design for a hands-on workshop that reveals how to layer bulbs for evolving color and lasting visual interest.

Susan will guide you through her process of creating living, seasonal compositions—combining early, mid, and late bloomers such as snowdrops, anemone, narcissus, freesia, tulips, ranunculus, and allium for a rhythm of changing textures and tones. Participants will receive professional-grade soil and a curated bulb collection, chosen for harmony, sequence, and resilience in Northwest conditions.

Please bring your own container (7–10 gallons with good drainage). Susan recommends lightweight faux terra cotta or plastic pots that can be moved easily once filled.

This small-group session offers personal instruction, creative insight, and practical design guidance from one of the region’s most respected designers. You’ll leave with a container ready to awaken in spring—and the inspiration to carry its unfolding beauty into seasons ahead.

Due to the limited size and specialized materials for this workshop, member discounts do not apply. We appreciate your understanding and support of this unique educational experience.

👉 Registration required — only 10 spots available.

This workshop will start in the Foundation Library and then move into the greenhouse for the hands-on creation of the planting pots.

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Susan Calhoun is a landscape designer with over 25 years of experience. She trained first at Seattle Community College, earning a degree in Horticulture, and then at Harlow Carr Botanical Garden in the UK. Many clients, successful designs, and published works later she became a writer for Fine Gardening Magazine.

Susan enjoys creating incredible gardens, learning and applying new innovations of design for her clients while continuing to share her work on Fine Gardening Magazine.

Support Vista Gardens: As a nonprofit, your participation helps fund future educational programs and community events that align with our mission of sustainable gardening.

Note: Due to the limited class size and specialized materials, this workshop is not eligible for member discounts. Thank you for understanding and for supporting programs that bring exceptional guest instructors to Vista Gardens.