Master Horticulturist & Founder
With over 25 years of experience in botanical gardens and sustainable farm management, Elara's passion for eco-conscious cultivation is infectious. Her expertise spans soil science to advanced permaculture, guiding students through foundational principles with hands-on wisdom. A certified Master Gardener, Elara believes deeply in fostering a reciprocal relationship with nature.
Floral Design Specialist
Kasian brings a contemporary artistic flair to floristry, specializing in modern European design and event installations. Her work has been featured in numerous regional art shows and publications. With a keen eye for color theory and texture, Kasian inspires students to push creative boundaries while respecting the organic beauty of each stem.
Urban Farming Expert
Ben, an advocate for local food systems, teaches practical urban gardening techniques, from raised bed construction to hydroponics. His background in community development enriches classes with insights into food justice and sustainable city living. He champions accessible gardening solutions for every urban dweller.
Elara Vance's journey into horticulture began in her grandmother's sprawling Kansas garden. This early immersion blossomed into a lifelong pursuit, culminating in a Ph.D. in Horticultural Science from the University of Missouri and numerous accolades for her work in native plant restoration. Before founding Everlode Gardens, she managed the conservatories at the Powell Gardens, spearheading initiatives in organic pest control and water conservation. Her teaching philosophy centers on empowering students to observe, analyze, and innovate, ensuring they become stewards of the land, not just cultivators. She's particularly passionate about demystifying complex ecological principles for beginners, proving that anyone can grow a thriviing garden. When not tending to Everlode's test plots, Elara enjoys hiking the Flint Hills and experimenting with botanical dyes.
Kasian Thorne's early career as a visual artist profoundly informs her approach to floral design. After graduating from the Kansas City Art Institute, she worked for a prestigious floral studio in New York, honing her skills in large-scale event decor before returning to her roots in Missouri. She holds advanced certifications from the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) and is a frequent contributor to local lifestyle magazines. Kasian challenges her students to view flowers as a medium for artistic expression, emphasizing spatial relationships, contrasting textures, and harmonious color palettes. She is known for her innovative use of unexpected, locally sourced materials alongside traditional blooms. Outside the studio, Kasian enjoys painting and exploring Kansas City's thriving arts scene.
Ben Carter discovered his passion for urban agriculture while working with community gardens during his Master's in Social Work at the University of Kansas. He quickly realized the profound impact accessible food production could have on urban wellness and sustainability. Ben has led numerous successful community garden initiatives across Kansas City, transforming neglected spaces into vibrant food sources. His classes focus on practical, low-cost methods for growing food in limited spaces, from container gardening on balconies to vertical farms. He is adept at teaching complex ecological concepts in an approachable manner, inspiring a new generation of urban farmers. In his spare time, Ben can be found tending to his rooftop garden or volunteering at local food banks.
We believe the best way to learn is by doing. Our curriculum integrates substantial practical experience, from planting and harvesting in our gardens to crafting intricate floral designs in our studios. Theory comes alive through direct engagement with living materials.
Every course at Everlode Gardens emphasizes environmentally responsible techniques. We teach methods that respect ecological balance, conserve resources, and promote biodiversity, preparing students to be stewards of a healthier planet.
Learning flourishes in a supportive environment. We foster a vibrant community where students share ideas, collaborate on projects, and build lasting professional relationships. Our network extends beyond the classroom into Kansas City's green initiatives.
At Everlode Gardens, your learning journey takes you through meticulously designed spaces. Our expansive greenhouse provides a controlled environment for studying plant physiology and growing techniques across seasons. Adjacent outdoor garden beds teach seasonal planting, harvesting, and pest management in a natural setting.
Inside, our bright, modern floristry studios are equipped with all the professional tools and ample workspace needed for cutting-edge floral design. Dedicated theory classrooms, a comprehensive horticultural library, and a specialized tool-shed ensure every aspect of your training is supported.
Explore Our Spaces
Our commitment extends beyond our campus walls. Everlode Gardens is deeply interwoven with the fabric of Kansas City, actively fostering environmental impact and local economic growth.
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