Group Tours

The close proximity of the Seminole Springs Antique Rose and Herb Farm to Central Florida makes us an easy choice for a field trip. We offer programs to special interest and civic organizations such as garden clubs, church groups or any group of interested individuals. Programs are conducted in our open-air pavilion for groups as few as 20 or as large as 80. Arrangements can be made in advance for picnic style boxed lunches to be brought in from a local restaurant. Herb tea is complimentary. The best months for group tours are generally March, April, May, June, October, November and December. It is during these months that the grounds are in bloom and the weather is best. Please keep in mind that reservations must be made by phone (352)357-2643 or email for group tours.

The farm owner, Traci Anderson conducts most of our programs. Qualified by twelve years as a grower her experience and a love for roses and herbs Traci is an expert on these and sharing her knowledge with others. Her nursery has supplied herb plants by shipping them to various locations throughout the United States for famed Victory Garden host Jim Wilson. She has conducted programs for many civic and social organizations, including being a featured speaker in 2000 for the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs Spring Symposium, and a guest speaker in 2001 and 2003 for the Home and Garden Expo in Orlando. For several years she has had the honor of being asked to conduct a program for Master Gardeners in training for the Lake County Cooperative Extension Service. More recently she and her nursery were featured on the Garden Rebel's Summer Special aired on prime time local television in June 2002. She is regular guest of Robert Vincent Sims on The Garden Rebel nationally syndicated radio broadcast. Individuals visiting the Seminole Springs Antique Rose and Herb Farm may find Traci sharing her knowledge personally with them as she works in the nursery most every day.

Group members can decide in advance on a topic of their choice. Program topics include "Growing Herbs in Florida", "Container Gardening with Herbs", "Herbal Remedies", "Introduction to Antique Roses", and " Butterfly Gardening in Florida". Groups numbering fewer than 30 may be interested in a hands on workshop, qualifying for a discount rate. Workshops that we offer include "Herbal Vinegar", "Herb Wreaths", "Hypertuffa Containers", "Soap Making", and "Herb Topiaries". 

Following the program, your group may participate in a short walking tour of the farm focusing on areas pertaining to the topic of the day. During this time those who wish to purchase items from the gift shop or nursery are free to do so. The group program and tour usually run 1 ½ - 2 hours. Should you be thinking of joining us for lunch as well we usually recommend spending about 3 hours with us. 

We very much enjoy sharing our farm and knowledge with others. Whatever topic you choose, or if you have something else in mind, we will always try to make it a most informative and memorable experience.


TOPICS

· Growing Herbs in Florida 
This is a basic introduction to herbs and how best to grow them in our unique climate. Expect to learn which herbs perform best in where and are well suited companions for one another. Planting, fertilizing, watering and harvesting will be covered. 

· Container Gardening with Herbs
Creating an attractive and functional container of herbs. Whether it be a large pot loaded with different varieties, classic strawberry jar, individual pots of herbs or a living wreath we will learn which herbs are suitable where. Get the most from your containers by learning how to fertilize and water properly.

· Herbal Remedies
Historically herbs were used in ritual and medicinally. It was not until more recently that they were used for culinary delight. Explore the romantic history of herbs and their medicinal uses. This class includes a handout of common herbal home remedies. (Please note: The Seminole Springs Antique Rose & Herb Farm provides this information for educational purposes and that it is not our intent to diagnose or prescribe.) 

· Introduction to Antique Roses
Let us share some of our Old Garden Roses with you. We will highlight different varieties of roses, emphasizing history, growth habit and culture. We will also walk the grounds, which is enlightening, as one may not realize just how big some of these old roses may grow. If you can't make up your mind about which roses are best suited for you sit in on this one!

· Butterfly Gardening in Florida
If you are ready to begin your butterfly garden this is a great place to start. This class is a favorite among our customers. Discover which butterfly species that your area may be home to so that you can better suit their needs. Learn the difference between host and nectar plants and which attract whom. 

Workshops

· Herbal Vinegar
One of our most popular workshops! We begin with fresh cut herbs to create several different vinegar flavors. We provide all of the ingredients, such as the herbs, garlic, peppercorns, and vinegar. Handouts with recipes and instructions are distributed as well as hands on instruction. Each participant receives the vinegar that they have made as well as six herb plants used in those vinegar recipes. The only things required for participants to bring are several 2-quart juice jars.

· Herb Wreaths
Let your creative juices flow, come and learn how to make an herbal wreath. We have many different dried herbs and flowers as well as some preserved products to create beautiful wreaths. The old method of wiring herbs and flowers in place is taught in this workshop.

· Hypertuffa Containers
If you like the looks of those old English containers but can't afford them then you need to take this class. Learn how to create Antiques for your garden with hypertuffa. Although quite time consuming these containers are relatively easy to make with the right stuff. We provide everything to make a container that can go home with you. This one is sure to be one of our most popular workshops.

· Herb Topiaries
Get out your nippers and let's get creative. The ancient art of topiary is so beautiful, now you can learn how to create topiaries for yourself. This workshop teaches you how to go about making an herb topiary. We will make an herb standard topiary to take home. (Note: Because we grow herbs specifically started in a topiary form this class must be booked in considerable advance, so don't delay.)