Fred Heutte Garden, Where Community Grows

Norfolk, Virginia’s Fred Heutte Garden’s mission is to honor Fred Heutte’s legacy of horticultural education by making the garden founded in his honor a living classroom for all. We maintain a free public urban garden open from dawn to dusk and are committed to building community through the shared experience of gardening, offering hands-on opportunities that inspire curiosity, creativity, and environmental stewardship. With a focus on outreach, we provide low to no-cost programs for Norfolk’s citizens of all ages—ensuring that everyone has the chance to learn, grow, and connect through the beauty and resilience of nature.

Upcoming Events

  • FREE Fred Talk, Philip Riske, Curator Ground and Gardens, Hermitage Museum

    Friday, February 06, 2026

    Philip Riske’s Fred Talk invites gardeners to step back from rigid rules and look at plants—and planting choices—with a more thoughtful, nuanced lens. In All Things in Moderation…But Sometimes Unhinged, Riske explores how the “native vs. non-native” conversation has evolved, why it matters, and where it can sometimes oversimplify the realities of real gardens.

  • FEBRUARY ONCE UPON A GARDEN

    SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026 10:30AM AT FRED HEUTTE GARDEN

    Join us for a cozy, creative morning at Once Upon A Garden as we dive into the wonderful world of acorns. We’ll begin by reading a selection of charming children’s books then it’s time to get hands-on as children create their own acorn folks, complete with wee little beds. Once Upon A Garden is always FREE to all children, but registration is required so we can be sure to have enough supplies for everyone.we can’t wait to see you there.

  • HERBAL TEAS, TINCTURES AND CORDIALS WITH VICKIE SHUFER

    Sunday, February 22, 2026, 12 Noon AT FRED HEUTTE GARDEN

    Join us on Sunday, February 22nd at noon to learn about this fascinating work and create your own special herbal blend with Vickie. Class fee is only $20. Lots more information on reservation page button below.

  • TEAM FRED VOLUNTEERS EVERY SATURDAY 9AM-12

    Team Fred meets every Saturday morning to volunteer at the gardens we all love. Join us at 9:00 AM and stay for an hour—or stay the whole morning. Every bit of help matters. No tools? No problem. We provide everything you need, including gloves. Throughout the winter months, our work continues. Volunteers may help with garden maintenance and winter prep, as well as light indoor projects. Fred Heutte Garden is 100% volunteer-maintained, and we can’t do this work without you. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or brand new, there’s a role for every skil level.

  • LEARN TO MAKE KOKEDAMA

    SATURDAY, MARCH 07, 2026 12 NOON AT FRED HEUTTE GARDEN

    Step into the serene, tactile world of kokedama, the Japanese art of growing plants in hand-formed moss balls. In this immersive, hands-on craft class, participants will learn the history, aesthetics, and practical techniques behind this elegant living art form. During the workshop, you’ll be creating two beautiful kokedama. All materials are provided. Come ready to get your hands a little dirty, learn a beautiful craft, and enjoy a calm, creative afternoon. The class fee is $55. Space is limited.

  • RAIN GARDENS FRED TALK WITH DR. LAURIE FOX, PHD

    Friday, March 13, 2026 6:30 PM

    We’re delighted to welcome Dr. Laurie Fox to the Fred for an engaging, practical talk on Rain Gardens—what they are, why they matter, and how they can transform our landscapes and neighborhoods. Dr. Fox is a passionate educator and advocate for sustainable landscapes and water stewardship. With a background that bridges science, ecology, and hands-on community education, she has spent years helping people understand how smart garden design can work with nature rather than against it. Her talks are known for being approachable, informative, and empowering—whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning to think about what happens to rain once it hits your yard.

  • March ONCE UPON A GARDEN

    Saturday, March 21st, 10 AM

    Joe us for storytime with beautifully illustrated books that introduce children to meadows—those magical in-between places full of grasses, flowers, insects, and hidden life. After reading, children will get hands-on creating their own mini meadow to take home, a playful and tactile craft that encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and curiosity about how plants grow together in nature.

    We’ll also head out into the garden for gentle exploration, giving kids space to notice textures, colors, movement, and early signs of spring. This kind of open-ended outdoor discovery is especially wonderful for young children

  • VISIT

    Explore the Fred and see what’s new as we refresh the garden, support education initiatives, host classes, workshops and symposia and promote community and sustainability. The Garden is open 365 days a year from dawn ‘til dusk.

  • VOLUNTEER

    We rely on volunteers to help maintain our vegetable and display gardens. Our volunteers help beautify our plantings and vegetable plot to ensure a good harvest to meet our contribution goals to community food banks. No experience is necessary to volunteer!

  • SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS

    Donations support gardening education, the costs of planting and maintaining our green space, programming and other operations of our beloved community garden. Donations are tax deductible and every bit of support makes a difference!

  • RENT THE FRED

    Have your next event at the Fred! The Fred is available to rent, for weddings, parties, memorials and other social happenings. Rental includes the building and grounds and tables and chairs and supports the Fred Heutte Foundation’s mission.

Nestled in the heart of Norfolk, Virginia, Fred Heutte Garden offers a serene escape for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike. This beautiful public garden is dedicated to sustainability, best gardening practices, and the cultivation of native plants. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through meticulously maintained gardens while learning about eco-friendly horticulture.

In addition to its scenic beauty, the center hosts a variety of classes, seminars, and volunteer opportunities throughout the week. These programs provide hands-on experiences for gardeners and volunteers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, and emphasize environmentally conscious methods.

Whether you're looking to expand your gardening knowledge, get involved in community efforts, or simply enjoy natural beauty in an oasis of calm in a busy urban neighborhood, the Fred Heutte Center Gardens is a must-visit destination.

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Community Partners