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Gardening Literacy for
Southern Californians. 

Learn how to read, respond, and care for your unique garden, from expert Nan Sterman

If you're frustrated by putting effort into plants that struggle, methods that don't work, or gardening advice that takes you in the wrong direction, you've come to the right place. 

STOP GUESSING. START GROWING. 

  • - New to gardening? We'll build the foundation.

  • - Unfamiliar with our climate? We'll show you how to adapt and thrive. 

  • - Looking for reliable info that actually works? We'll teach you time-tested techniques.

  • - Seeking a community of like-minded gardeners? We can't wait to meet you! 

BROWSE ON-DEMAND CLASSES

Ways We Help You Grow

Gardenwise Monthly Garden Guide

Grow the garden of your dreams. Get my monthly gardening guide designed for Southern California gardeners. Learn exactly what to do in your garden each month and discover new plants you'll love. 

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Fundamentals of Southern California Gardening

This year-long  course teaches you exactly how to garden in our unique climate. With these lessons, you'll do so much more than get through the next year of gardening. You'll become a gardener for life.

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Mastering Southern California Gardening

Fundamentals teaches you the basics, now it's time to dig deeper. In this course, you'll build expertise, grow confidence, and learn to create a garden that’s beautiful, resilient, and deeply rooted in environmental wisdom.

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See All Courses →

Learn How We Help Gardeners Thrive 

I’ve never had much success starting plants from seeds...but when I took Nan’s class it opened my eyes to all the things you could do to better the odds. 100% of my seeds sprouted from her class. 

- David

I'm a gardener, but recently moved here and wanted to learn more about gardening in this climate. I learned a lot of new things and I know I can go home and continue doing this on my own! 

- Niki

How very well designed, planned, organized and executed your class was! I have a teaching background, and as a student, found it very easy to follow, from start to finish. I thought it was a brilliant way to do this, with an almost foolproof, step by step plan.

- Risa

I've enjoyed my best garden ever in large part thanks to Nan Sterman's great classes.

- Paul

Meet Your Southern California Garden Expert 

I'm Nan Sterman—botanist, horticulturist, garden designer, teacher, and lifelong plant lover. For decades, I've dedicated myself to helping gardeners succeed in Southern California's unique climate.

Now, I’m bringing those lessons to you with Nan Sterman’s Garden School. Whether you're picking up your first trowel, are new to Southern California, or are a seasoned gardener ready to level up, I'm here to guide you. 

Ready to become the confident, successful gardener of your dreams? Welcome to Garden School!

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Struggling with potted plants? 

You're probably watering wrong. I'll teach you the correct way to water, so you can help your potted plants thrive.

You'll also be subscribed to GardenWise Free with weekly gardening tips, a monthly note from Nan, and Garden School updates. Unsubscribe anytime!

"I learned SO many things I was doing wrong I think I'll have a lot more success in the future using the techniques I learned today. Plus, I'm walking away with everything ready to sprout!"

– Kim

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