Carnivorous Plant Potting Workshop at the Kids Lab

Event Overview

"Kids Lab Program: Carnivorous Plant Potting Workshop" at Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden is an interactive program that lets you experience the mysterious ecology of plants. The workshop focuses on carnivorous plants such as Venus Flytraps, Sarracenia, and Drosera, which use various methods to capture prey. Utilizing the professional environment of the botanical garden, the program delves into the charm and unique traits of these plants. The arrangement you create can be grown at home or on your balcony, allowing you to enjoy the growth of your plant in daily life.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The biggest highlight is the chance to actually try your hand at making a plant arrangement using real carnivorous plants. You will learn about the unique mechanisms plants use to catch prey, such as the Venus Flytrap, and the environments they prefer. The program features expert commentary from Ms. Ako Minami of the specialized carnivorous plant shop, Heli’s Garden, providing a deep dive into plant ecology. Beyond just making a pot, you will learn about the 'traps' and how plants adapt to their surroundings. The process of completing your own original arrangement will be a highly engaging and fascinating experience for children.

Date & Schedule

This program will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026 (Public Holiday). There are two sessions available:

• ❶ Session 1: 10:00 – 11:30
• ❷ Session 2: 14:00 – 15:30

Please note that this event requires advanced reservation and will close once capacity is reached. The registration period is from Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 9:00 to Sunday, July 19, 2026, 17:00. Same-day applications at the venue are not accepted, so please ensure you register in advance via the official website form.

Venue & Access

The venue is the "Kids Lab, 1F Plant Research Exchange Center" located within Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden.

Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden is a facility dedicated to honoring the achievements of Dr. Tomitaro Makino, the botanist born in Kochi. To access the botanical garden, please use public transportation or a car. We recommend checking the official Makino Botanical Garden website for detailed routes and parking information.

Participation Tips

This program is designed for elementary school students (all grades). While parents/guardians are welcome to accompany their children, there is a limit of one guardian per child. By working with their hands while learning about plant characteristics, children can expand their interest in nature. It is important to check the official website for the registration deadline and capacity status. Each session has a capacity of 24 participants (including guardians) and is handled on a first-come, first-served basis.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

As the workshop involves handling soil and plants, we recommend wearing clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Please also note the following:

• *Payment Methods**: An entrance fee for the botanical garden is required. While high school students and younger are admitted free of charge, others must pay the standard entrance fee. The program itself is free of charge, but please follow the garden's rules regarding entrance fees. Carrying cash is recommended for smooth transactions.
• *English Support**: This program is primarily conducted in Japanese. We recommend checking the garden's support availability in advance if you require detailed explanations in English.
• *Reservations**: Advance reservation is mandatory. You cannot sign up on the day of the event, nor can you apply via phone or FAX.
• *Etiquette**: As you will be handling soil and plants, please be mindful of your surroundings and other participants.