The hummingbirds are making a racket! Gardens guests hear those tiny wings “humming” before they even see the birds zipping around in twos and even threes wherever the flowers are bright. These little powerhouses are stoking their furnaces for the long flight south, and because they’re so single minded about their mission, now’s the time to get a good close look.

It’s also a great time to take in the dazzling display of pumpkins, scarecrows and other fun and festive fall décor throughout the Central Gardens. Fall programs are in full swing, too.

For more information and reservations, call 207-633-4333, ext. 101; visit www.mainegardens.org; or stop by the Gardens, off Barters Island Road in Boothbay.

Wintering over: Plants thrive indoors

Many of the colorful plants we enjoy outdoors in the growing season can be transferred indoors to brighten winter days and create a “greenscape” in the home or workspace. Horticulturist Irene Brady Barber will show how in a workshop in the Education Center from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11. She’ll explain how plants can provide a cleansing, aromatic and enriching indoor environment and will discuss soil mediums, container options, sunlight requirements, terrariums and glass-bottle plantings, vertical indoor garden options, and more.

Using either a favorite 6 to 8-inch pot they bring from home or one purchased from the selection available in the class, participants will pot up a beautiful plant to take home.

The price for this program, which includes Gardens admission, as well as plant materials, is $35 for members and $42 for nonmembers.

New kitchen garden series dinner

Acclaimed chef Christopher Anderson, owner of Wings Hill Inn and Restaurant in Belgrade Lakes, will bring the flavors of fall to the multi-course meal he prepares at the Gardens on Wednesday, Oct. 16. This latest addition to the Kitchen Garden Dinner Series begins at 6 p.m. Prices, which include wine and gratuities, are $75 for members and $90 for nonmembers.

Café extends closing date

The Kitchen Garden Café usually closes on Columbus Day; however, this year the Café will remain open through the end of the month of October. After Monday, Oct. 14, the menu will be modified; but many favorite items, including soups and sandwiches, will still be available.

Children’s and Family Programs

“Little Diggers” gardening sessions for kids from 3-5 years old, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. continue on Thursdays, Oct. 3 and 17. Fees per child are $12 for members and $17 for nonmembers.

Cider Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. on October 6 and 13 are free with admission, and no reservations are necessary. They’re a great chance for children to learn and practice traditional cider pressing and enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Storytimes continue on Mondays at 10 a.m., in the Children’s Garden Story Barn until October 14 and, after that, in the Education Center.

A harrowing reminder

Diane Walden’s Harrowing Harvest Folk are so creepy they’re cute. Learn how to make these seasonal plant-based decorations in her class from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12. Fees are $35 for members and $42 for nonmembers.