As the warmer months approach, Oregon offers a plethora of gardening and nature-related events for enthusiasts and families alike. From hands-on workshops to community gatherings, these events aim to connect people with nature and foster a love for gardening.
Starting with ongoing offerings, the Metro Parks and Nature is hosting various activities until June 19. Individuals, families, and groups can participate in guided classes, walks, stewardship activities, and hands-on experiences across Metro parks and natural areas. Registration is available for free or up to $6 at oregonmetro.gov/calendar.
A daily exhibition titled ‘Art in the Garden’ is open through September 2 at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted artwork, including glass art and metal installations, with admission included in the $14 garden entry fee.
For architecture and historical enthusiasts, the Pittock Mansion is offering behind-the-scenes tours through November 9. Participants can delve into areas usually closed to the public or learn about the mansion’s architectural history, with tours costing $23.
The East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District is also conducting free webinars focused on land care, effective stormwater management, biochar usage, and more at emswcd.org/workshops-and-events.
Local gardening clubs are holding regular meetings for enthusiasts to gather and discuss their interests. The Greater Portland Iris Society hosts meetings at Ainsworth House on the first Tuesday of the month, while the Happy Valley Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday mornings at Happy Valley Baptist Church. Similarly, the Canby Garden Club meets at Canby Public Library at 1 p.m. on the same day.
On the educational front, a specialized Introduction to Ikebana class occurs from 1-3 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month, teaching the art of Japanese flower arrangement for $50. Additionally, the Art of Bonsai workshops are held on third Thursdays and Saturdays, where participants can create their bonsai trees for $45.
Gardening season kicks off with a variety of events starting June 5. The Portland Rose Society will host its 135th Annual Spring Rose Show at the Lloyd Center, welcoming rose growers from across the Pacific Northwest over two days.
On June 6, the Emerald Ash Borer Workshop will provide critical information about the identification and management of this pest. Registration is required for this educational event at the Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District.
For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach, a self-guided Raleigh Park Garden Tour is scheduled for June 7, taking attendees through six private gardens and two public spaces. Early registrants can enjoy a reduced fee of $25.
On the same day, participants can gain practical experience in vine control during the ‘Tame the Grape!’ workshop, which costs $15 and emphasizes healthy vine management.
Following on June 8, the McMinnville Garden Tour and Faire will feature over 70 garden-themed vendors and several gardens open for viewing, with tickets priced at $15 for the tour portion.
A special event, titled Rogerson Clematis Garden Inviting Vines, is on June 14, celebrating the garden’s 20th anniversary with tours, workshops, and more. Attendees can register for all three workshops and enjoy lunch for $150.
The Washington County Master Gardener Association will demonstrate how to cultivate vegetables in the Willamette Valley on June 14, emphasizing techniques suitable for home gardens.
Moreover, the WCMGA Education Garden at PCC Rock Creek will host an Open Garden Family Event focusing on invertebrates and vertebrates, providing fun activities and expert advice.
Canby Gators Swim Club is also hosting a Plant Sale on June 14, providing an opportunity for community members to support the local swim club while purchasing plants.
For those interested in little-known gardening techniques, ‘Spring Espalier’ will showcase methods to maintain structured trellising and maximize harvests on the same date. Registration for this workshop is also required.
Shifting to June 18, the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program will offer a unique On the Road Tour, taking participants to various notable gardens and nurseries in the area. Pre-registration is needed, and lunch will be available for purchase at a nearby food cart pod.
Another exciting workshop on hydroponic gardening will take place on June 28, offering hands-on lessons on the Kratky Method—a space-saving and water-efficient gardening technique.
The Learning Garden Fair, also on June 28, will serve as an educational opportunity for attendees to learn about composting, the importance of pollinators, and more at the WCMGA Learning Garden.
Additionally, the Fort Vancouver Rose Society’s 70th Annual Rose Show on the same day will present juried exhibits of roses, showcasing the best of Pacific Northwest floriculture.
Later in the summer, the Oregon Fuchsia Society will host its Annual Show from August 22-24 at the Portland Nursery, allowing attendees to appreciate the artistry of fuchsia growing.
Lastly, Hedgerow Herb Co. will be conducting Plant Spirit Journey sessions where participants can engage with seasonal plants and uncover their practical uses. The first session is scheduled for July 25, focusing on Linden, and the second for August 22, focusing on Comfrey.
With such a diverse array of events, Oregonians and visitors have ample opportunities to engage with gardening, explore nature, and deepen their appreciation for local flora through hands-on experiences and community interactions.
image source from:https://www.oregonlive.com/hg/2025/06/prep-for-summer-with-inviting-vines-portland-rose-society-show-and-these-workshops-and-tours.html