With a variety of topic discussions, Jon Carloftis has spoken to more than 200 audiences of garden and landscape enthusiasts from coast to coast. With elegant down-home manners, a soft Kentucky accent, and good humor, Jon has charmed audiences in over 55 cities and 17 states while sharing his expertise in gardening. His spirited presentation leaves guests of all ages with a can-do spirit. Jon has spoken at the following notable venues and events:

Lecture Themes

Jon Carloftis speaks on a variety of garden-themed subjects.  Past presentations include the following:

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS OF KENTUCKY (60 – 75 minutes):  Jon Carloftis prides himself on his Kentucky roots and believes that the Bluegrass state is home to some of the most enchanting and inspired gardens in the world.  His new book by the same name is an indelible portrait of twenty-one private and public outdoor spaces in Kentucky.  Some are urban, others suburban or rural, and the designs – some of which are Carloftis’ own – are as distinguished as they are seductive.  Jon vividly tells the story of each garden and introduces you to the people who brought them to life.  While building their gardens, each have come up with scores of ideas and solutions that can be helpful to other gardeners.  And in showcasing these remarkable properties, Carloftis hopes that lecture attendees will be inspired to create their own wonderful and highly personal outdoor spaces.

PUTTING STYLE IN YOUR GARDEN (60 – 75 minutes):  Whether your garden is a place of tranquility, a place for friends & family to gather, a place to pamper a host of plants and flowers, or simply a place to surround your home, the appropriate adornments can bring a sense of style to your garden.   In his presentation, Jon outlines the steps he takes to create gardens with various theme and intentions.  Hardscape materials, plant material, furniture, lighting, decorations, water features, outbuildings, garden decorations – these items must be selected carefully and placed appropriately so as to complement your garden, not overpower it.  Having a unique style is important for bringing out the personality of every garden and gardener.  During his presentation, Jon shares with his audience his every growing line of sustainable, earth-friendly garden products dedicated to beautiful and functional outdoor living.

SMALL SPACE GARDENING (60 – 75 minutes): “Whether you have a rooftop or balcony in the city, a small backyard in the suburbs, or 100 acres in the country,” Jon explains, “its that small space right outside the back door that everyone uses most.”   For more than twenty years, Jon Carloftis has designed and installed more than 150 gardens for his New York clientele, where outdoor living space is rare, and the demand for year-round beauty and functionality is intense.  He shares with his audience before and after photos of a dozen of his designs and installations, as well the lessons learned that are applicable to other small spaces, the common backyard, courtyards, decks, driveways, walkways, outbuildings, and many more.   Audiences soon discover why Jon’s work is so often featured in dozens of national monthly garden publications.

ENHANCING THE HOME, A GARDENER’S TOUCH (60 – 75 minutes):  When the garden season is over, Jon focuses his attention indoors to ensure he’s never without plants.  Indoor plants can enhance your home as much as comfortable furniture or your favorite paint color.  The choices are more varied, beautiful, and easy to grow than ever.  During his presentation, he celebrates the versatility and beauty of indoor plants and their ability to style a home in ways that are unexpected and wonderful.  He provides a unique perspective on plants as decorative accessories.  Whether your style is classic or modern, your furnishings traditional or contemporary, indoor plants will enhance your home and breathe new life into any space.  He shares with attendees his six steps to a beautiful room utilizing one or more of his sixty favorite indoor plants. And to keep them looking great all year long, he shares his easy care and maintenance secrets.