Do I need prior experience to participate?

No prior experience is needed; the workshop is designed for beginners with expert guidance provided.

Are materials included in the workshop fee?

Yes, soil, plants, containers, and basic accessories are included in the cost.

Can I bring my own decorations?

Absolutely—participants are encouraged to bring special items to personalize their planter.

Is parking available on-site?

Limited parking is available; carpooling or alternative nearby lots are recommended.

What age is this workshop suitable for?

Participants must be at least 14 years old to join this workshop.

What should I wear to the workshop?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for working with soil, plus gloves and warm layers during winter.

Winter Planter Workshop at Parkwood National Historic Site

Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Ontario, offers a distinctive winter workshop that blends creativity with hands-on horticulture: the Winter Planter Workshop. Set within the recently restored Greenhouse’s Potting Shed, this experience invites participants to craft a living planter using an assortment of fresh evergreen branches, pinecones, dried flowers, and seasonal decorations. It’s a chance to bring nature indoors in a way that reflects the local climate and winter flora.

Parkwood itself is a cornerstone of Oshawa’s outdoor heritage. Founded on the estate of the Austin family in the early 20th century, this historic site extends beyond traditional gardens to preserve significant architectural and landscape designs emblematic of the region. The Greenhouse restoration underscores Parkwood’s commitment to environmental stewardship, offering visitors a rare glimpse into botanical craftsmanship combined with historical ambiance.

The workshop is guided by an expert Greenhouse Grower who shares practical tips on plant care and design, making the session accessible even if you’ve never worked with living plants before. The two-hour session supplies all necessary materials, including soil, containers, and abundant plant matter sourced to reflect Ontario’s winter landscape. Come prepared with gloves — this is a tactile, immersive activity that connects you directly with the raw materials of the season.

Aside from its hands-on appeal, the workshop is a unique seasonal offering that encourages visitors to engage with Parkwood beyond traditional touring. Whether you want to create a festive centerpiece or simply enjoy working in a lush, protected greenhouse environment away from the cold, this workshop suits both local residents and seasonal visitors alike. It highlights how Parkwood continues to adapt the historic property into a vibrant, year-round destination that celebrates nature, design, and community creativity.