Now offered both online and in person
Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Online or in person at the Arboretum; choose at registration.
How to participate online: Registered attendees will receive the link needed to join in their initial purchase confirmation by email. The Arboretum will also send a reminder email with the link a few days prior to the start date. Simply click the link at the webinar start time to join!
Program location: Farm at the Arb - McVay Learning Lab (in the Bee Center) or online via Zoom
Interested in creating a lawn that supports bees and other pollinators? This workshop will provide homeowners with the knowledge and practical tips needed to establish and maintain a thriving bee lawn.
Jon Trappe from the University of Minnesota will explain what bee lawns are, how they benefit pollinators and the environment, and what more than 10 years of research has revealed about the best practices for planting and maintaining them. In-person participants will also enjoy a guided plant walk to view several bee lawns at the Arboretum and see these concepts in action.
In this class you will:
- Identify the recommended species for bee lawns in Minnesota.
- Compare and contrast maintenance practices for bee lawns with traditional lawns.
- Learn how to establish and maintain a bee lawn.
- How to control pests in your bee lawn.
- Discover where to find bee lawn mixes you can purchase.
Supplies: No supplies required.
Instructor:
Dr. Jon Trappe is the Turfgrass Extension Educator for the University of Minnesota. He has over 20 years of experience working in the turfgrass industry. He received his B.S. in Agronomy from Purdue University, M.S. in Horticulture from the University of Arkansas, and Ph.D. in Agronomy from Purdue University. Jon is passionate about helping homeowners and professionals manage their turfgrass areas using fewer resources.
We recommend that you enter the Arboretum via the back gate on 82nd St, not the main entrance on Hwy 5. This is the most direct route to access the Farm at the Arb, and avoids potential delays when driving through the Arboretum.
Directions: 3210 W 82nd St, Chanhassen, MN 55317
If you do wish to enter through the main Arboretum gate on Hwy 5, you can take 3-Mile Drive through the Arboretum and turn right on Peter Moe Drive to get to the Bee Center (this route may take an additional 15-20 minutes, so please plan accordingly).
Main Entry instructions:
You will receive a bar-code ticket for entry to the Arboretum in your email purchase confirmation. Your ticket is valid for entry on the day of your class. Present your ticket to the gate attendant as you enter the Arboretum. You may stay at the Arboretum after class as long as you want during our operating hours.