Adult Opportunities

Stop the Flop: Keeping Tall Plants Upright and Intentional

Keep tall garden plants looking their best with proper summer pruning and management.

Content Detail

Ever had a garden that looks great… until July hits and everything starts leaning, splaying, or collapsing under its own enthusiasm?

In this practical, hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to help tall, floppy plants stay upright without bulky cages and constant staking.

We’ll cover smart plant pairings that provide natural support, simple pruning techniques to control height and shape, and how to use the Chelsea Chop to encourage sturdier, bushier growth. You’ll leave with a new way of seeing plant communities—where plants help hold each other up—and the confidence to intervene at the right time, in the right way. And of course, a little compostable staking wisdom for when it’s absolutely necessary.

This workshop is perfect for gardeners who love bold, abundant plantings but want them to look intentional—not exhausted—by mid-season.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum.

Instructor: Kasey Eaves, owner, Vivant Gardening Services

Continuing education: If you are interested in continuing education units from a particular professional organization, please email education@mortonarb.org.

Age: 16 and older

Course number: H135

Instructor

Kasey Eaves, owner, Vivant Gardens, Inc.

Kasey Eaves started growing edibles and her treasured sunflowers at age two on her family’s farm property in southern Illinois. Now, as owner of Vivant Gardening Services, she spends her days making gardening approachable to area residents, restaurants, schools, and more. She encourages using edibles, natives, and pollinator plants, even in a city’s unusual spaces. She loves finding creative and low-maintenance growing solutions for city dwellers.

What to Know

This program meets indoors and outdoors. Please check the forecast and dress for the weather.

Please wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, and plan to walk around a mile over paved and gravel paths.

Please bring water, sunscreen, and materials for taking notes.

Program Schedule

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to noon

Thornhill Education Center (parking lot P-21), West Side

Become a Member

When a trip to the Arboretum inspires you to explore more, become a member to visit again and again.

Join now