Cool workshops coming to The Secret Garden

Here’s a cool idea to think about when it’s 100-plus outside: Doing garden stuff indoors.

The Secret Garden in Elk Grove is now accepting reservations for its summer workshops, ranging from watercolors and mosaics to terrariums and succulent centerpieces.

Satisfy your gardening and/or creative bug while learning new skills (and escaping the heat).

Seating is limited; register now for these classes in July and August. Class fee includes instruction, materials and plants (if applicable).

2 p.m. July 13 – Summer Sunflower Watercolor Workshop: Channel your inner van Gogh in this 90-minute painting class using gouache. “Gouache, otherwise known as opaque watercolor, has a history dating back 60 years,” say the organizers. “This is a great introduction to watercolor as gouache tends to be quick-drying, cleans up easily and is perfect for beginners.” Learn by painting an 8-by-10-inch canvas of sunflowers. Fee: $45.

10:30 a.m. July 14 – Mosaic Mushroom Workshop: Make a magic mushroom for your garden in this two-hour mosaic class. Two sizes and styles to choose from; fees are $80 or $85, depending on the style.

11 a.m. Aug. 4 – Plant Lady Succulent Garden Workshop: Create a living centerpiece while learning about succulents. “We will chat all things succulent care, arrangement design tips, soil choice, watering and more,” say the organizers. “Each attendee will create a beautiful outdoor succulent arrangement using a 12-inch terracotta bowl, ceramic plant lady (three colors to choose from) and a selection of succulents and decorative rock.” Fee: $70.

11 a.m. Aug. 18 – Water Lily Mosaic Workshop: Capture a cool water lily in tile. “Discover the art of mosaic tile in our upcoming beginner mosaic workshop,” say the organizers. “Unleash your creativity as we guide you through the fundamentals of this ancient craft. Join Jasmine in the craft room for a fun introduction to the art of tile mosaic where you will create this 6-by-6-inch decorative tile using glazed ceramic mosaic pieces. Finished product is suitable for display inside or out.” Fee: $65.

11 a.m. Aug. 25 – Desert Terrarium Workshop: Envision a sandy landscape under glass. “Join us in the craft room to create a beautiful piece of living art! We will cover the history of terrariums and plant an 8-inch open terrarium with a selection of succulents and cacti.” Fee: $55.

The Secret Garden is located at 8450 W. Stockton Blvd., Elk Grove.

To register for any of these classes, go to https://www.secretgarden-online.com/.