Foliage Over Flowers: The Unsung Heroes of the Garden

On Thursday, May 7, at 7:30 pm, horticulturist John Beirne will present “Foliage Over Flowers: The Unsung Heroes of the Garden” at the May meeting of the Garden Club of Harrington Park. The meeting takes place at Community Church, 1 Spring Street in Harrington Park.

The talk will focus on the often-overlooked role of foliage in garden design. While blooms tend to draw the most attention, Beirne will explore how leaves, from ferns and hostas to Japanese maples, provide structure, texture, and lasting visual impact throughout the growing season.

During this interactive lecture, John Beirne will share practical tips on choosing and combining foliage plants to create a more balanced and visually interesting garden.

You’ll learn how different leaf shapes, sizes, and colors can add depth and structure, helping gardens stay appealing even when flowers aren’t in bloom. The discussion will also cover how to design outdoor spaces that look vibrant and cohesive throughout the seasons.

Attendees will come away with practical ideas for creating more dynamic, balanced, and sustainable outdoor spaces.

John Beirne serves as Curatorial Director of Horticulture and Facilities at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum. A Registered Horticultural Therapist, he brings extensive experience working in both public and private garden settings.

Beirne has developed a wide range of annual, perennial, and native planting designs, and is also known for his work educating volunteers and interns on best practices in horticulture and garden maintenance. He additionally teaches at the New York Botanical Garden School of Continuing Education.

A lifelong gardener, Beirne often notes that his passion for plants began when he was just four years old.

The Garden Club of Harrington Park invites everyone with an interest in gardening to attend this informative lecture. The program will be followed by a “Q & A” session and refreshments.

Visit the Garden Club of Harrington Park to find more information.