Register soon because classes fill quickly. Call 602.279.9510 to reserve a spot. Prepayment is required and we accept Visa, Master Card, American Express and Discover. All class materials are included in price. No refunds available.

Crazy about Tomatoes! - Saturday, February 20, 10:30 a.m. Last spring we offered our first class on tomatoes and it was so well received we’re making it an annual event. Local grower Gregory Ware will share his wealth of tomato knowledge: planting strategies, keys to fertilizing, finding the best location, rules for containers. You’ll also learn why Gregory chooses certain varieties to grow (the one in this photo is a "peach tomato" from last year's class). Plus, you will select two tomato plants to take home. Class will be about two hours. Cost $35.

Mixed-Media Wall Clock - Sunday, February 21, 12 p.m. We get lots of requests for non-typical clocks. Here’s your chance to make a one-of-a-kind gem. Artist Yvonne Allen will help you design this cool timepiece using beads, shells, vintage jewelry and funky hardware. The clock can go on a covered patio or inside and measures about 10 inches across. All materials are provided. You’re also welcome to bring any fun goodies you have at home. This project takes about five hours to complete. Cost: $90.


Savvy Frame - Saturday, February 27, 10:30 a.m. Artist Josie Cirincione uses unusual materials with beautiful results. She’s going to teach you to fashion metal repair tape into a vintage photo frame. By day, this tape is used to fix air-conditioning ducts but you will see it is pliable and can be textured, painted, and distressed. You will use tools, sand paper, a sewing wheel, inks and found objects to create your finished 8 by 8-inch square frame that you’ll also adorn with a winged heart and rustic twig. This project takes about four hours. Cost $65.

Fanciful Felt Flower Pin - Saturday, March 6, 10:30 a.m. A sunny flower pin on your blouse adds a burst of springtime happiness to any outfit. Artist Olivia Thomas creates beautiful flower pins using simple hand stitching and felt. She will take you through all of the steps needed to complete one flower and you’ll take home the instructions so you can make a bloom for all your outfits. This is a great way to spruce up your wardrobe and to make special gifts for friends. The class lasts about two hours. Cost: $48.


Fused Glass Cross or Glass Pendant & Earrings - Sunday, March 7, 12 p.m. Betsy can only be with us for one day this spring so she's offering a choice of projects. Cross collectors will delight in this chance to make their own fused-glass cross that can be hung on a wall or in a window, to cast a beautiful light. Jewelry lovers can use the same materials to create a pendant and earrings. Betsy Hagerty will teach you the basics of creating fused glass art - you choose the project when you register. Your cross will measure approximately 4 inches wide and 8 inches tall. All projects go home with Betsy for firing and you can pick them up at Southwest Gardener about two weeks later. The class will take about two and a half hours. Cost: $65 for the cross, $60 for the pendant/earring set.

Mosaic Tower - Saturday, March 13, 9 a.m. Back by popular demand! Artist Dave Jarvinen will teach you every skill needed to complete this mosaic sculpture. The tower stands 3 feet tall by 9 inches wide. You’ll mosaic the front and sides, and the back will be covered in copper sheeting. The tower stands in a custom made iron base included with your class. This will take about seven hours to complete. Cost $145.

Herb Gardening - Sunday, March 14, 12 p.m. Growing your own herbs is an easy and economical way to make home cooked meals spectacular. Farmer Gregory Ware will be back to share his tips for creating the perfect herb garden. You’ll learn all about growing and maintaining herbs and will select three of Gregory’s locally grown plants to help you get your herb garden started. In no time you’ll be stepping out your back door to snip fresh herbs for your next meal. Please plan on a two-hour class. Cost $40.

Composting Basics - Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m. We all know how important it is to amend our desert soil on a regular basis. Making your own compost is easy, environmentally friendly and free! Master Gardener Pam Perry will provide you with all of the information you need for successful composting. Find out how to recycle your kitchen and yard waste into gardening gold! Please plan on a two-hour class. Cost $20.