Lawn to Garden with Maryanne Pittman — Oct 28 2026
Description
Replacing a lawn can feel overwhelming, but getting started is easier when you understand the process, the available resources, and the possibilities for your space.
Participants will learn the basics of lawn replacement rebate programs, including common requirements, planning considerations, and how to begin preparing a project. The class will also introduce several lawn removal methods—such as sheet mulching and solarization—and discuss the benefits and limitations of each approach.
Beyond removing turf, this class will help participants begin envisioning what comes next. Through examples and discussion, students will explore low-water California native plant alternatives.
Whether you are just beginning to explore the idea of lawn replacement or looking for guidance on how to move forward, this introductory class is designed to help beginners take the first steps toward transforming a traditional lawn into a beautiful, water-wise native plant garden.
Maryanne Purdy Pittman is the Director of Public Programs at the Theodore Payne Foundation. She enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for native plants, urban ecology, and sustainable landscapes in ways that encourage curiosity, connection, and continued learning for people of all experience levels.
Maryanne holds degrees in Biology and Fine Art and is certified as a California Naturalist (UC) and Climate Steward (UC), as well as a Certified Water Manager (CLCA), Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (SMSWP, EPA WaterSense criteria), and Certified California Native Plant Landscaper (TPF, CNPS).
▶ Live Participation & Two-Week Replay Access: This class will be held online and recorded. Registered attendees will have access to a recording of the class for 2 weeks after the live event.
📌 Save your order confirmation email & digital ticket for easy access to the class’s Virtual Hub on the day of the event. Look for the “View access link” in the registration email. Click the “Access online event” on the digital ticket.
📅 Refund Policy: Refunds are available up to seven days before the event. Within seven days, refunds and credits are no longer available, as this helps us plan responsibly and support our instructors. Thank you for your understanding.
FAQs
- What is your refund policy?
Refund Policy
Refunds are available up to seven days before the event.
Within seven days, refunds and credits are no longer available, as this helps us plan responsibly and support our instructors.Thank you for your understanding.
If the event is more than seven days away:
Open the order confirmation email you received after buying your ticket.
Click manage order.
Go to the refund/cancel tab.
Select the tickets you want to refund.
Click review > confirm to submit the refund.
You’ll receive a confirmation email. Refunds usually return to the original payment method in 2–5 business days.
🎟️ Enrollment Threshold for Classes: We require a minimum of five participants for a class to run; when enrollment falls below that number, we may need to cancel the class in order to responsibly cover program costs and maintain an engaging experience for those attending. If this happens we will refund the ticket price. We are not able to refund credit card charges.
- I'm a member. How do I find my code?
Your discount code is in the email you received when you purchased your membership.
If you cannot find the email, please contact programs@theodorepayne.org and allow 2-3 business days for a response. We receive a very high volume of email.
- I am not sure if I am a member. How do I check?
Not sure of your member status? Log in and check your status here: https://account.theodorepayne.org/profile
Not a member? Join today!
- What if it rains?
Rain or Shine Policy
Our classes generally take place rain or shine. We do not cancel classes simply because rain is forecast; however, the safety of our students, instructors, and staff comes first. In the event of severe weather or unsafe conditions, we will evaluate the situation on a case-by-case basis and may modify, relocate, postpone, or cancel a class. If TPF cancels or postpones a class due to weather, registered participants will be notified as soon as possible and offered a refund or the option to transfer their registration to a rescheduled date when available.
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